Place des Épars - Image 1
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Place des Épars

4.6
·491k reviews·Chartres, France

A lively central square in Chartres, known for hosting events, offering diverse dining, and serving as a gateway to the city's attractions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Place des Épars - Image 1

Place des Épars

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A lively central square in Chartres, known for hosting events, offering diverse dining, and serving as a gateway to the city's attractions.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A central hub for events and dining, Place des Épars is a lively spot in Chartres."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Schedules

Look for festivals like Skate Cross or Les Vieilles Pédales for lively events. :calendar:

Explore Local Eateries

Discover regional food, like the famous pâté de Chartres, near the square. :forkandknife:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Skate Cross Championships

Skate Cross Championships

Place des Épars

Witness thrilling European Skate Cross championships, a dynamic event for sports enthusiasts.

Vintage Market Vibes

Vintage Market Vibes

Place des Épars

Explore unique finds at the brocante stand during festivals like Les Vieilles Pédales.

Local Culinary Delights

Local Culinary Delights

Near Place des Épars

Sample regional specialties like the 'pâté de Chartres' at local eateries.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While Place des Épars is a central hub, events can draw crowds. Check local listings for festivals or markets to plan your visit accordingly. Weekday mornings are generally quieter for a more relaxed experience.

Navigating Chartres

Place des Épars is a key intersection in Chartres, offering access to various amenities. Consider its proximity to other attractions when planning your itinerary. Public transport and walking are great ways to explore the area.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
During local festivals
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, unique events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fort de Chartres, Illinois 🇫🇷⚜️ First built around 1720 along the Mississippi River, this #18thcentury fort is a living example of French #colonial history in Illinois. Fort de Chartres played a pivotal role in the Illinois Country, home to #NativeAmerican tribes like the Illinois Confederation and Fox Nation, until it was transferred to British rule after the French and Indian War. The fort fell ...
@dylantheanthropologist
11.3K likes • 140K views

Check Event Schedules

Look for festivals like Skate Cross or Les Vieilles Pédales for lively events. :calendar:

Explore Local Eateries

Discover regional food, like the famous pâté de Chartres, near the square. :forkandknife:

🛼 Rendez-vous place des Épars pour assister aux tout premiers championnats d’Europe de skate cross, jusqu’au 31 août ! 😮 📣 Infos et horaires dans notre bio ► @villedechartres Pour vous remettre de vos émotions, un roller dance sera organisé le 30 août de 19h à 23h. 🛼🕺 Organisés par le @chartres_roller , la @ffrollerskateboard / @ffrs.roller.inline.freestyle et la WSE @euroskatecross2025 avec l...
villedechartres
729 likes • 39K views
🥰🥰🥰 Simple et efficace ❤️ Times square Chartres 📍11 place des épars 28000 Chartres #chartres #chartrescathedral #chartrestourisme #chartresenlumieres #chartresmaville
times_square_chartres
10.3K likes • 239.8K views

Historic Building Sightings

The building behind the WWII photo is still standing! :camerawithflash:

Convenient Location

Close to amenities and a hub for exploring Chartres. :round_pushpin:

Venez découvrir notre Stand sur la place des Épars à Chartres au festival @les.vieilles.pedales jusqu’à dimanche soir ! Nombreuses animations sur place, concerts,…. #standvintage #brocante #brocanterie #brocantestyle #chezpepeetmemebrocanterie #lesvieillespedales #eureetloir #chartres #placedesepars
chez_pepe_et_meme_brocanterie
82 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedules

Look for festivals like Skate Cross or Les Vieilles Pédales for lively events. :calendar:

Explore Local Eateries

Discover regional food, like the famous pâté de Chartres, near the square. :forkandknife:

Historic Building Sightings

The building behind the WWII photo is still standing! :camerawithflash:

Convenient Location

Close to amenities and a hub for exploring Chartres. :round_pushpin:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Place des Épars is a vibrant central square in Chartres, appreciated for its role as a hub for events, dining, and exploration. Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere during festivals and the convenience of its location for accessing other city attractions. Some historical context adds an interesting layer to the modern-day experience.

What People Like

Central location
Event hub
Dining options

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Place des Épars is a central square in Chartres, easily accessible by foot from many parts of the city. Public transport options also serve the area, making it a convenient starting point for exploring Chartres. Instagram+2

While the square itself might have limited parking, nearby streets and parking garages are available. Some accommodations, like the studio ATHENA, offer underground parking. Instagram

Yes, Place des Épars is within walking distance of Chartres Cathedral, making it easy to combine visits to both landmarks. Instagram+1

Local bus routes often stop near Place des Épars, serving as a convenient hub for navigating Chartres and its surroundings. Check local transit schedules for specific routes. Instagram

As a central public square, Place des Épars is generally accessible. However, specific event setups might temporarily affect accessibility, so it's advisable to check event details if planning around a specific occasion. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Place des Épars is a public square, so there are no tickets required for general access. However, specific events held there, such as the Skate Cross Championships, may require admission fees. Instagram

As an open public space, Place des Épars does not have set opening hours. It is accessible at all times. However, individual businesses or event venues located around the square will have their own operating hours. Instagram+1

Information regarding ticket prices and availability for the European Skate Cross Championships should be checked directly with the event organizers or through the Chartres tourism website. Instagram

Entry to brocante markets or festivals like Les Vieilles Pédales is typically free, though you'll need to pay for any purchases you make. Instagram

Yes, Place des Épars is a public area and is generally accessible at night. However, be mindful of local safety guidelines and the operating hours of surrounding businesses. Instagram

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Place des Épars hosts a variety of events, including sporting competitions like the European Skate Cross Championships and markets such as brocantes during festivals like Les Vieilles Pédales. Instagram+1

Beyond events, Place des Épars is a lively hub with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It's also a good starting point for exploring Chartres' historic center and attractions like the cathedral. Instagram+2

Yes, the area around Place des Épars is dotted with dining options, from fast food like O'Tacos to brasseries and restaurants offering local specialties. Instagram+2

While Place des Épars itself is a public square, there are accommodations available in the vicinity, including apartments for rent. Instagram

Historically, the area around Place des Épars has been a significant point in Chartres. A notable mention is a building still standing from a WWII liberation scene. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant atmosphere during events like skate competitions or markets. The architecture around the square and its role as a central meeting point also offer great photo ops. Instagram+1

The square itself, especially during events, is a focal point. The historical building mentioned in WWII accounts is also a unique spot for photography. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the square and surrounding buildings. Event days provide dynamic action shots. Instagram

Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the businesses around Place des Épars, respecting any private property signs or asking permission where appropriate. Instagram+1

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted in public spaces like Place des Épars. However, professional photography or filming may require permits. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Place des Épars can be a lively spot for families, especially when events like festivals or markets are taking place. The open space allows children to move around, and the variety of food options can cater to different tastes. Instagram+2 Keep an eye on the event schedule for family-friendly activities.

When visiting with children, consider the timing to avoid peak crowds, perhaps opting for weekday mornings. The proximity to other attractions in Chartres also makes it a convenient stop during a family day out. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes, as exploring the area often involves a good amount of walking. :athletic_shoe:

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers

For day-trippers, Place des Épars is an ideal starting or ending point in Chartres. Its central location makes it easy to access from public transport and serves as a gateway to the city's main attractions, including the famous cathedral. Instagram+1 Grab a quick bite at one of the eateries Instagram+1 or browse local shops before or after exploring further afield.

Check for any special events happening on your visit day to add an extra layer of excitement to your trip. The square's accessibility and its role as a hub mean you can easily orient yourself and plan the rest of your day's itinerary from here. :round_pushpin:

🍽️ Food Enthusiasts

Food lovers will find Place des Épars and its surroundings a delightful area to explore. Seek out the regional specialty, the 'pâté de Chartres', for an authentic taste of local cuisine. Instagram The area offers a range of dining options, from casual fast food to more traditional French fare. Instagram+1

Engage with local restaurants and brasseries to discover other regional delicacies. The 'Tour de France à vélo' culinary journey highlights the importance of local food specialties, making it a great area to sample unique flavors. Instagram Don't miss the chance to try these local gastronomic gems.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Events and Festivals at Place des Épars

Place des Épars serves as a dynamic venue for a variety of events that bring life to Chartres. From high-energy sporting competitions like the European Skate Cross Championships to charming vintage markets during festivals such as Les Vieilles Pédales, there's always something happening. These events transform the square into a vibrant hub, attracting locals and visitors alike. Planning your visit around these dates can offer a unique and lively experience of the city. Instagram+1

When attending events, be prepared for larger crowds and potential temporary changes to the square's layout. Checking the official Chartres tourism website or local event listings in advance is highly recommended to get the most up-to-date information on schedules, activities, and any associated ticketing. Instagram

Beyond organized events, the square often hosts spontaneous gatherings or serves as a meeting point, reflecting its role as a central plaza in Chartres. The atmosphere can shift from a bustling marketplace to a relaxed gathering spot depending on the time and day. Embrace the local vibe and see what unfolds during your visit.

Culinary Scene Around Place des Épars

The area surrounding Place des Épars is a treat for food lovers, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. You can find quick and casual bites at places like O'Tacos, perfect for a fast meal, or explore more traditional options. Instagram+1 A notable local specialty to seek out is the 'pâté de Chartres', a regional delicacy that offers a taste of authentic French cuisine. Instagram

Several brasseries and restaurants are located within easy reach of the square, providing opportunities to sample local produce and dishes. Engaging with local eateries is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the culture of Chartres. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from locals or restaurant staff for the best regional flavors. Instagram

For those interested in the gastronomic journey of France, the 'pâté de Chartres' has even been recognized as a culinary specialty, highlighting its importance in the region's food heritage. Exploring these local flavors is an essential part of the Chartres experience. Instagram

Historical Echoes at Place des Épars

Place des Épars holds subtle historical significance, with echoes of the past visible even today. A poignant reminder of history is a building that remains standing from a scene during the liberation of Chartres in August 1944, where Allied forces assisted a French woman amidst sniper fire. Reddit This connection to World War II adds a layer of depth to the modern-day square. Imagine the stories these walls could tell.

While the square is now a bustling center with shops and eateries, this historical context invites reflection. The presence of a former McDonald's at this location when visitors were present also speaks to the evolving nature of the area over time. Reddit

Exploring the vicinity of Place des Épars can lead to discovering these hidden historical narratives, offering a more profound understanding of Chartres' journey through time. It’s a place where the present meets the past, creating a unique atmosphere for visitors.

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