Train Tickets from Paris to Chartres

It is not cheaper to buy ahead but I would buy them a day ahead so you don't end up missing your train due to a line on the day of the trip. We always get such tickets in advance so we just show up at the station the day we have chosen. They are usable any day and time and need to be composted (validated) before boarding or you face a heavy fine. The machines for this are at the head of the tracks. Because tickets are not always checked without the system of fines for unvalidated tickets you could ride with the same tickets for days before being 'caught'.

Be sure to take the Malcolm Miller tour (really a lecture) if it is available when you are at Chartres.

1) Buy tickets at station
2) Buy for a specific time
Have an enjoyable trip! JRob

I stand corrected, you may not have to purchase for a specific time. However, when in Paris and going to Chartres, I always buy my ticket at the station and have never encountered a line.
Yes, Malcom Miller is an icon and if he is available take his lecture.
Note** Chartres Train Station is all stairs, no luggage ramps if needed.........JR in Orange

Hi Amy, I don't think there's any advantage to buying these tickets in advance. It's a local train and they run frequently. Just arrive at the station a bit early and you're good to go. Chartres Cathedral is amazng, I'm sure you'll enjoy your visit!

I went there last Feb. from Paris.
There were no lineups to buy my ticket on the day of my trip , perhaps because it was winter.
Buy a return, as coming back the Chartres Station was very busy.
As far as I remember, there were NO stairs at the Chartres train station; unless the poster who wrote that had to walk down, under the track and up again.
I have a bad knee, so I'm sure I would have remembered a lot of steps.
There are a couple of small restaurants just along the left hand side of the cathedral for lunch.
The cathedral is NOT heated, so be prepared to be colder inside than out!
It was flipping Arctic in there; but well worth the trip.
You can see Versailles in the distance from the right hand side of the train going towards Chartres.
And the trains are cosy warm!
There is also a nice shopping area in Chartres, with a mix of old and new shops on pedestrianised streets.
Enjoy your trip!

Thank you everyone for your responses. Also thanks for the other information about the restaurants and cathedral tours. We are both excited for our upcoming trip!