Out of your list, I've visited Sens, Troyes, Bourges, and Chartres. Out of the four, I'd recommend Troyes. There's a lovely small art museum next to the cathedral, several beautiful churches and a market. If you visit on a Sunday, attend a service so you can listen to the wonderful organ.

Cathédrale Saint Etienne in Metz.

To the above, be sure to add the cathedral in Autun, Burgundy. It is famous for the magnificent stone carvings above the main doors and well worth a visit, as is the rest of the town.

Good thread, thanks!

Have you read The Pillars of the Earth by Follett? Gothic cathedral novel

I know many who are interested in seeking out cathedrals
I vote for Portiers.

http://www.france-voyage.com/en/
here's look at some of them.