Escalier de la Reine Berthe
A picturesque 16th-century turreted staircase with intricate half-timbered details in Chartres' medieval quarter.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Escalier de la Reine Berthe
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque 16th-century turreted staircase with intricate half-timbered details in Chartres' medieval quarter.
"Beautiful staircase turret with sculpted half-timbering (16th century)."
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate half-timbering and architectural details for stunning photos.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Cobblestone streets are charming but uneven; wear comfy shoes for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Queen Berthe's Staircase
Rue des Écuyers
A picturesque 16th-century turreted staircase with intricate half-timbered details.
Medieval Quarter Charm
Rue des Écuyers
Wander through charming cobblestone streets lined with historic half-timbered houses.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Exploring the Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate half-timbering and architectural details for stunning photos. 
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Cobblestone streets are charming but uneven; wear comfy shoes for exploring.
☕ Enjoy a Drink
A lovely spot to pause and enjoy a drink in the historical center.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Streets
Don't miss the surrounding Rue des Écuyers for more medieval charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate half-timbering and architectural details for stunning photos.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Cobblestone streets are charming but uneven; wear comfy shoes for exploring.
☕ Enjoy a Drink
A lovely spot to pause and enjoy a drink in the historical center.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Streets
Don't miss the surrounding Rue des Écuyers for more medieval charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Escalier de la Reine Berthe a beautiful and well-preserved example of 16th-century Chartres architecture, particularly appreciating its half-timbered turret. While some feel renovations could be improved, most agree it's a charming spot that adds to the historic appeal of the medieval quarter.
"Beautiful staircase turret with sculpted half-timbering (16th century)."
Bernard T
"Interestingly, they preserved well!"
Lenuta Popa
"It is a building from the beginning of the 16th century (just like the Maison du Saumon, which houses the tourist office) which was assigned to the Hôtel des Consuls, ancestor of the Commercial Court."
Pierre-Alain Besnard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Escalier de la Reine Berthe is located in the heart of Chartres' medieval quarter, specifically on the Rue des Écuyers. It's easily accessible on foot from the city center and Chartres Cathedral. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk from the Chartres train station through the historic streets.
Parking in the historic center of Chartres can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages like the one near the Cathedral or the Hôtel de Ville, and then walk to the Escalier de la Reine Berthe.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Escalier de la Reine Berthe is a public architectural feature on a street, so there is no admission fee. You can admire it and take photos freely.
For the best photographic opportunities and fewer crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The soft light enhances the beauty of the half-timbered architecture.
📸 📸 Photography
The best vantage points are directly in front of the staircase to capture its full turreted glory and the surrounding half-timbered buildings on Rue des Écuyers. Experiment with different angles to highlight the architectural details.
While the staircase is visible at night, lighting can be challenging for photography. The charm of the Escalier de la Reine Berthe is best captured in natural daylight, especially during the golden hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around the Escalier de la Reine Berthe in Chartres' historic center has several charming cafes and restaurants. It's a lovely spot to enjoy a drink or a meal while soaking in the medieval atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific play areas, the entire medieval quarter acts as an open-air museum. It's a great opportunity to talk about history and architecture in a tangible way. Consider bringing a small notebook for kids to sketch what they see, turning the visit into an interactive adventure.
📸 Photographers
+1Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the grand scale of the staircase and its delicate decorative elements. Don't forget to include the surrounding Rue des Écuyers in your shots to provide context and enhance the medieval atmosphere.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
While some reviews mention the renovation might not appeal to everyone, the structure itself remains a significant historical landmark. The intricate details of the woodwork and the overall design offer a glimpse into the past, making it a popular subject for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
Visiting this staircase is like stepping back in time. It’s a key element of the picturesque streetscape that draws visitors to Chartres' old town, offering a tangible connection to the city's rich heritage.
+1Exploring the Medieval Quarter
+1Visitors often combine a stop at the Escalier de la Reine Berthe with a visit to the Chartres Cathedral, one of France's most iconic Gothic cathedrals, which is just a short walk away. The contrast between the grand cathedral and the intimate scale of the medieval streets provides a comprehensive historical and architectural journey.
Embrace the slow pace and allow yourself to get lost in the charming alleyways. You might stumble upon hidden courtyards, quaint shops, and other architectural curiosities that make Chartres so special.
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