Chartres, France

Capital City

With a population of just 38,324, Chartres is a sleepy provincial town, far from the hustle and bustle of Paris. While the famous Gothic cathedral and medieval architecture may draw tourists, the reality for residents is a persistent bureaucratic headache. The city suffered heavy wartime damage, and rebuilding efforts have left an uneven urban landscape. On the plus side, Chartres enjoys a mild climate and serves as the commercial center of the fertile Beauce region. Overall, this historic city caters best to those seeking a quiet, old-world European experience, rather than the excitement of a major metropolitan area.