There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Chalons into a quick city adventure. From XCR, the Taxi/Shuttle can get you into town in around 120 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of XCR:
- Can you legally enter France? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 120-minute journey each way by Taxi/Shuttle, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What’s Worth Seeing in Chalons
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Chalons, two standouts are:
- Collégiale Notre-Dame-en-Vaux — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Cathédrale Saint-Ãtienne de Châlons — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Chalons.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside XCR — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- XCR Boutique & Duty-Free
- Terminal Relaxation Area
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Chalons: La Capitainerie and Restaurant Les Temps Changent. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Bar-Restaurant Le Vatry (Meals) or Bar-Restaurant Le Vatry (Café & Drinks). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Getting to Chalons from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Chalons is the Taxi/Shuttle, which takes about 120 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 140 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Shuttle is usually the smarter call.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Chalons might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at XCR aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Chalons itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at XCR for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Chalons or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at XCR
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at XCR.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Chalons doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 120 minutes from XCR, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.