Did you know that the Champagne region in France is the closest wine region to Paris? Accessible in just a short 45-minute train trip (or an hour and a half by car), planning a trip to Champagne while staying in France is a fantastic idea, even for just a day!
The Champagne region of France has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a real must-see for anyone wanting to learn more about it. As Winalist’s headquarters are located in Champagne, a part of our team calls this region home. Together, we’ve crafted the ultimate travel guide, complete with insider tips for you to discover the region in the best possible way, from large brands to small boutique wineries, along with perfect hotels and incredible restaurants!
Map of Champagne region
The Champagne region can be categorized into three primary areas, each centered around a main city:
- Vineyards surrounding Reims
- Vineyards surrounding Epernay (situated 30 minutes south of Reims by car)
- Vineyards surrounding Troyes (the southernmost city in the region, a one-hour drive from Epernay, en route to Burgundy).
Given the expansive nature of the region, this travel guide aims to furnish you with a comprehensive itinerary for an unforgettable adventure in the Champagne wine region of France. It will enable you to explore the best Champagne houses tours and tastings, ensuring a memorable experience.
Download our interactive map to your phone for easy access to all the information you’ll need during your trip. However, keep in mind that it might be better to book your tours and tastings in advance to ensure you can visit the most renowned spots!
Where to stay in Champagne?
Selecting the ideal area for booking accommodations while traveling can be challenging. Depending on the duration of your stay, your mode of transportation (whether by car, with a driver, or without any transportation), and the attractions you plan to visit, you may prefer different types of accommodations.
If you plan to come by train
If it’s your first visit to the region or if you plan to travel to the area by train from Paris, we recommend staying in major cities like Reims and Epernay. From these locations, you’ll have easy access to champagne houses and can arrange guided tours in the vineyards.
If you’re seeking a vibrant city with numerous restaurants, bars, and activities, here are some of the best hotels to consider in Reims:
- La Caserne Chanzy Hôtel & Spa (Autograph Collection), offers a serene retreat in the heart of the city, situated just opposite the cathedral.
- L’Assiette Champenoise, located a mere 10-minute taxi ride from the center of Reims, boasts a modern 5-star hotel experience complete with a swimming pool. It also features a renowned 3-Michelin-star restaurant helmed by Chef Arnaud Lallement, ranked among the top 3 best restaurants in the world.
- Château Les Crayères, also just a 10-minute taxi journey from the city center of Reims and nestled amidst renowned Champagne houses, presents a splendid French château experience. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, stroll through the expansive park, and savor exquisite cuisine at the 2-Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Hôtel de la Paix, a 4-star accommodation, offers a perfect base to explore all the attractions of the city.
For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, Epernay is the ideal city to stay in. Here are some of the best hotels:
- Suites of Champagne De Venoge, offers a charming bed and breakfast experience within a Champagne house, conveniently located on the main street of the city, providing an excellent starting point for exploring.
- La villa Eugêne, a luxurious 5-star hotel situated near the city center, features a delightful swimming pool, perfect for enjoying sunny days with a glass of Champagne in hand.
If you plan on renting a car or hiring a chauffeur
Renting a car is an excellent solution for thoroughly exploring the region, allowing you the freedom to venture to hidden gems. If you opt for this option, we recommend staying in hotels nestled amidst the vineyards for a truly immersive experience. Here are our top picks:
- Château de Sacy, situated just 15 minutes from Reims, offers beautifully appointed rooms with panoramic views of the vineyards.
- Le Royal hôtel & Spa, located a mere 10 minutes from Epernay, is a luxury hotel boasting an extraordinary spa with stunning vistas overlooking the Champagne vineyards.
- Loisium Wine & Spa Hotel, a 20-minute drive from Epernay, also features a spa amidst the vineyards, providing a more relaxed ambiance.
Best itinerary to visit Champagne
Feel free to modify our itinerary according to your preferences or draw inspiration from it!
Day 1 : Discovering Reims
Reims is a must-visit destination in Champagne due to its status as the heart and soul of the region. Renowned for its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and, of course, its globally acclaimed champagne houses, the city holds immense appeal. Among its notable landmarks is the magnificent Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, historically significant as the site of French coronations for centuries and conveniently accessible by train from Paris.
Begin your journey by wandering through the enchanting streets adorned with shops, cafes, and restaurants, where you can indulge in sampling some of the finest champagne in the world. With its rich cultural heritage, lively ambiance, and exquisite bubbly, Reims promises an unforgettable experience. For more detailed insights, delve into our dedicated travel guide highlighting the best things to do in Reims!
Make the most of your time in the city by embarking on one or several champagne tours in Reims :
Champagne Ruinart
Ruinart Champagne House stands as a quintessential gem of the French way of life. For over two centuries, the family has nurtured the Ruinart spirit and eagerly welcomes you to join them for a memorable experience exploring their renowned chalk caves. Secure your visit now, as spots tend to fill up quickly!
Champagne Mumm
This splendid Champagne House presents a variety of tours and champagne tastings. Since its establishment in 1827, the Mumm Champagne House has seamlessly melded ancestral traditions with avant-garde techniques to meet the standards of the finest tables worldwide.
Champagne Veuve Clicquot
Immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Champagne Veuve Clicquot, one of the most iconic Champagne houses globally. Delight in their exceptional range of sparkling wines and savor a luxurious tasting experience nestled in the heart of the Champagne region.
Other Champagne houses to visit in Reims
The picturesque city of Reims presents a wide array of wine-related activities, ranging from visits to prestigious Champagne Maisons and renowned brands to intimate encounters with smaller Champagne producers. These experiences offer a deeper insight into the comprehensive winemaking process, making them all the more captivating.
Guided tours to Reims from Epernay
If you’re staying in Epernay but wish to explore Reims and its environs, we recommend booking guided tours through the vineyards. This allows you to discover the area’s must-see attractions. Book your guided tour now to make the most of your visit!
Day 2 : Discovering Epernay and its surroundings
Epernay, a quaint and relaxed town situated in the heart of the Champagne region, offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to its larger counterparts.
Epernay Champagne houses, which include renowned international brands, are renowned and well worth visiting while exploring the region.
Conveniently accessible from Paris or Reims by train, Epernay is located approximately 30 km (15 miles) south of Reims.
The highlight of this charming French town is undoubtedly the Avenue de Champagne, a uniquely captivating street lined with some of the most prestigious Champagne Houses. Discover more about Epernay’s attractions in our dedicated guide to the best things to do in Epernay.
En route to Epernay from Reims, we recommend making a stop in Hautvillers, the hometown of the famous Dom Perignon, which offers a picturesque setting for exploration. On your return journey, consider taking an alternative route that allows you to drive through some of the region’s most iconic Champagne villages.
Champagne Mercier
The Champagne Mercier cellars tour ranks among the most popular in France. Spanning 11 miles of underground galleries dedicated to crafting this precious beverage, visitors can embark on audio-guided tours aboard a small train, culminating, of course, in a tasting session. It stands out as one of the few Champagne cellar experiences in the region that cannot be explored on foot, making it particularly appealing for newcomers to the world of Champagne.
Champagne Moët and Chandon & Dom Perignon
Moët Chandon Champagne House stands as one of the largest wine estates in Champagne, spanning 150 hectares. Perfect for enriching your wine journey, the entire team at Champagne Moët & Chandon warmly welcomes you for guided tours, followed by the opportunity to taste the renowned Imperial Brut.
Additionally, special Dom Perignon tours are available (as the parent company is the same). Do not hesitate to contact us for these exclusive VIP experiences.
Where to have lunch near Epernay?
One option is to enjoy lunch or dinner at a restaurant in Epernay, such as the traditional Chez Max. Located just a 10-minute walk from the city center, this establishment will delight you with its homemade and locally inspired cuisine. Frank, the owner, even prepares the steak tartare right in front of you!
In the heart of Epernay, you can explore the gourmet offerings of Les Berceaux, which boasts an elegant and inviting ambiance. Alternatively, consider La Grillade, renowned for its exceptional meats, or Table Kobus, offering a bistronomic lunch experience close to the town center.
Another option is to indulge in a “Champagne meal” featuring special food and wine pairings directly at a winery. One of our favorites is the dining experience at Champagne Henri Giraud, a leading winegrower known for Claude Giraud’s dedication to producing Champagne as organically as possible. Located in the charming town of Aÿ, it’s definitely worth a visit while you’re in this part of the region!
Either way, let those places know you’re coming on our behalf, you’ll get the best treatment!
If the weather is sunny and you’re in the mood for a picnic, head to Champagne Vollereaux to enjoy a meal amidst their vineyards. In case of inclement weather, a picnic can be arranged at the old presses, ensuring an equally delightful experience. Afterwards, you can explore the cellars and learn about the Champagne-making process in their company!
Guided tours to Epernay from Reims
If you aren’t considering renting a car or hiring a driver for your trip, guided tours offer an excellent alternative. These tours will pick you up in Reims, either at the train station or specific points of interest, and take you on a half-day or full-day excursion through the vineyards. This allows you to visit smaller wine producers and enjoy a personalized experience. Book your next champagne tour with Winalist today!
Day 3 : Explore Deeper into the Vineyards
If you’re not finished exploring the Champagne region, we still have plenty of suggestions for you!
If you’re heading back to Paris, we recommend making a final stop for a Champagne tour in Château Thierry. Located at the far east of the region, you’ll be able to explore the iconic cellars of Champagne Pannier.
Alternatively, if you’re continuing towards the Burgundy wine region, consider stopping by Troyes, one of Champagne’s historic towns. Its half-timbered houses and Gothic cathedral will transport you to another era! Just an hour’s drive from Epernay, the city is surrounded by magnificent vineyards.
Discover our dedicated travel guide on the best things to do in Troyes and book your next champagne tour near Troyes now!
FAQ about visiting Champagne
What’s the best time to visit Champagne, France?
It is your choice to make according to personal preferences. Our suggestion is to come between May and October, knowing the summer is a particularly good time to visit the region. Late September is particularly busy as the fall harvest begins, but it’s also nice to witness this wine-making key-step.
How many days are needed to visit Champagne region of France?
If you wish to have a true immersive experience in Champagne, our suggestion is to at least plan a 3-day stay. If however your schedule cannot allow it, 2 days can suffice to already have an enchanted experience in one of the most iconic wine regions of the world, and the only place on earth that produces true Champagne.
Is it better to rent a car to visit Champagne, France?
In case you have a choice: do rent a car. Even if Reims, Epernay and Troyes are easily accessible by train from Paris, being able to drive through vineyards according to what you feel like seeing is a true privilege.
If however you are rather planning a one-day detour in Champagne, than settling in Reims and doing it all by foot and public transportation is already pretty fun and interesting!
Is knowledge of Champagne necessary to visit a Champagne house?
Speaking fluently the wine language is not a requirement to enter Champagne cellar – or any wine-cellar at all! Most wineries speak English in France, along with a variety of other languages.
