The Champagne region, located in northeastern France, is world-famous for producing the sparkling wine that shares its name, Champagne. This area is just a short trip from Paris, making it a popular destination for day trips. The region’s history dates back centuries, and it has long been associated with luxury and celebration.
The main cities in Champagne are Reims and Épernay, both of which are central to the Champagne industry. Reims is known for its stunning cathedral, where many French kings were crowned, while Épernay is famous for its Avenue de Champagne, lined with prestigious Champagne houses. The unique chalky soil and cool climate of the region create the perfect conditions for growing the grapes used in Champagne, making it a truly special place to visit.
This guide will show you how to make the most of your day trip to Champagne from Paris, from visiting top Champagne houses to exploring charming local attractions. Whether you love wine or want a special experience, a trip to Champagne will be unforgettable.
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Top Destinations to Visit On a Day Trip to Champagne from Paris
1. Reims – Day Trip to Champagne from Paris
Reims is the largest city in the Champagne region and serves as a gateway for many visitors. Known for its historical significance and prestigious champagne houses, it’s a must-see for anyone interested in both French history and champagne culture.
How to Get There
- By Train: The easiest way to get to Reims is by train. From Paris, you can take a high-speed TGV train from Gare de l’Est, which takes about 45 minutes. Ticket Prices range from €30 to €70 depending on how early you book and the class of service.
- By Bus: Union Ivkoni and FlixBus depart from Paris, Quai de Bercy (Bercy Seine) and arrive at Reims Central Train Station. The journey takes about 1h 50min. Ticket Prices range from €6 to €11. Union Ivkoni runs only once a week.
- By Car: If you prefer driving, Reims is about 145 km (90 miles) from Paris, and the drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via the A4 motorway. Car Rentals are available at various locations in Paris, including airports and city centers. Car petrol costs can be around €24–34.
- By Rideshare: BlaBlaCar is a popular option for ridesharing. The journey takes about 1 hour and 56 minutes and costs around €9 to €11.
Top Attractions
- Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit. It’s famous for its stunning Gothic architecture and vibrant stained glass windows.
- Palais du Tau: Located next to the cathedral, this former archbishop’s palace is now a museum showcasing treasures from the cathedral.
- Basilique Saint-Rémi: Another UNESCO site, this basilica is known for its Romanesque architecture and historical significance.
Best Champagne Houses in Reims
- Veuve Clicquot: Famous for its rich history and iconic yellow label
- Taittinger: Known for its elegant champagnes and impressive cellars
- Pommery: Offers a unique experience with its Elizabethan-style estate and art exhibitions
- Ruinart: The oldest champagne house, renowned for its exquisite champagnes and historic cellars
- G. H. Mumm: Celebrated for its bold and full-bodied champagnes
2. Épernay – Day Trip to Champagne from Paris
Épernay is considered the true capital of the Champagne region. It’s smaller than Reims but famous for its Avenue de Champagne, home to some of the most prestigious champagne producers.
Getting to Épernay
- By Train: You can catch a direct train from Paris Gare de l’Est, which takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Ticket prices range from €25 to €55. The first train typically departs around 05:49, and the last train leaves around 21:36 on weekdays.
- By Car: The drive covers about 142.9 km and takes approximately 1.5 hours. Car rentals are readily available in Paris, including at major train stations and airports. The route involves taking the A4 motorway towards Reims and then the D951 road to Épernay.
- By Bus: A bus ticket from Paris to Épernay can cost between €5–€16 depending on the time of day, class, and day of the week. The average bus ticket price is $19 (€16) and the average travel time is 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Things to Do in Épernay
- Avenue de Champagne: Stroll along this famous street lined with grand Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët.
- Champagne Tastings and Tours: Visit the cellars of renowned Champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon, Mercier, and De Castellane.
- Château Perrier Museum: Explore the history of Champagne at this museum located in a beautiful 19th-century mansion.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: Enjoy a breathtaking view of the vineyards and the town from a hot air balloon.
- Local Markets and Shops: Discover local produce and Champagne-related souvenirs at the town’s markets and specialty shops.
Best Champagne Houses in Épernay
- Moët & Chandon: Famous for its extensive cellars and prestigious Champagne.
- Mercier: Known for its innovative cellars and unique tours.
- De Castellane: Offers a Champagne bar and a majestic tower with panoramic views.
- Boizel: A family-run house with personalized tours and tastings.
- Alfred Gratien: Renowned for its artisanal know-how and elegant Champagnes.
- Leclerc Briant: A pioneer in biodynamic Champagne production.
3. Hautvillers: The Birthplace of Champagne
Hautvillers is a picturesque village perched on a hill above Épernay. This charming village is known as the birthplace of champagne, thanks to the work of Dom Pérignon, the monk credited with pioneering the method of making champagne.
How to Get There
- By Train: From Paris, you can take a train from Paris Gare de l’Est to Épernay, then a short taxi ride or local bus to Hautvillers. The total journey takes about 1h 27min. The total cost can be around €41–71.
- By Bus: Buses depart from Paris, Quai de Bercy (Bercy Seine) and arrive at Reims Central Train Station then a short taxi ride to Hautvillers. The journey takes about 2h 12min. Total cost ranges from €73 to €95.
- By Car: From Paris, you can drive via the A4 motorway towards Reims, then take the D951 road to Épernay and follow signs to Hautvillers. The drive takes about 1.5 hours. Similarly from Reims, you can do a quick 30-minute drive along the D951. Car petrol cost can be around €24 to €34.
Things to Do
- Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers: Visit the historic abbey where Dom Pérignon, the monk credited with pioneering Champagne, lived and worked. The abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a serene atmosphere and historical insights.
- Champagne Tastings: Hautvillers is home to several family-run Champagne houses. Notable ones include Champagne G. Tribaut, Champagne J. M. Gobillard et Fils, and Champagne Joseph Desruets.
- Wander the Village: Stroll through the picturesque streets of Hautvillers, admiring the traditional Champagne houses with their unique architecture and charming details.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and the Marne Valley.
- Parc Naturel Régional de la Montagne de Reims: Explore this regional natural park, which is home to diverse flora and fauna, and offers numerous hiking and cycling trails.
Must-Visit Champagne Houses On a Day Trip to Champagne from Paris
1. Ruinart (Reims)
Location: 4 Rue des Crayères, Reims, France
Visit Cost: Tours cost €85 for adults and €45 for children aged 7-17.
Ruinart, established in 1729, holds the distinction of being the oldest champagne house. Located in Reims, Ruinart is renowned for its Blanc de Blancs and rosé champagnes. The house’s cellars, known as crayères, are ancient chalk quarries that provide the perfect environment for aging champagne.
These cellars are also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ruinart’s commitment to art and culture is evident in its collaborations with contemporary artists.
2. Taittinger (Reims)
Location: 9 Place Saint Nicaise, Reims, France
Visit Cost: Tours start at €37, with various options available depending on the tasting experience chosen.
Founded in 1734, Taittinger is one of the oldest and most prestigious champagne houses, based in Reims, France. Known for its Chardonnay-dominant cuvées, Taittinger produces elegant and refined champagnes, with the Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs being its flagship wine.
The house is renowned for its extensive underground cellars, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Taittinger remains family-owned, with a strong commitment to quality and tradition.
3. Moët & Chandon (Épernay)
Location: 20 Avenue de Champagne, Épernay, France
Visit Cost: Tours start at €40, with various options available depending on the tasting experience chosen.
Moët et Chandon, established in 1743, is one of the world’s largest and most famous champagne houses. Located in Épernay, the house is known for its luxurious and celebratory champagnes, including the iconic Moët Impérial and Dom Pérignon.
Moët et Chandon’s vast cellars span 28 kilometers and are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. The house has a long history of association with celebrities and royalty, making it a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
4. Mercier (Épernay)
Location: 68 Avenue de Champagne, Épernay, France
Visit Cost: Tours start at €11.50, with various options available depending on the tasting experience chosen.
Champagne Mercier, founded in 1858 by Eugène Mercier, is located in Épernay. Mercier aimed to make champagne accessible to a broader audience without compromising on quality. The house is known for its innovative marketing strategies, including a giant blending vat showcased at the 1889 World’s Fair.
Visitors can explore Mercier’s extensive cellars via a unique mini-train tour, making it a popular destination for champagne enthusiasts.
5. Veuve Clicquot (Reims)
Location: 1 Rue Albert Thomas, Reims, France
Visit Cost: Tours range from €35 to €250, depending on the experience and tasting options.
Veuve Clicquot, established in 1772, is famous for its pioneering spirit and innovative approach to champagne production. The house owes much of its success to Madame Clicquot, who took over the business after her husband’s death and became known as the “Grande Dame of Champagne.”
Veuve Clicquot is celebrated for its Brut Yellow Label and the invention of the first blended rosé champagne. The house’s historic cellars in Reims are a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich heritage.
6. Mumm (Reims)
Location: 34 Rue de Champ de Mars, Reims, France
Visit Cost: Tours range from €28 to €50, depending on the tasting experience chosen.
Founded in 1827, G.H. Mumm is one of the largest champagne houses, known for its iconic red ribbon symbol. Based in Reims, Mumm specializes in Pinot Noir-dominant champagnes, which are celebrated for their structure and complexity.
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The house’s motto, “Only the Best,” reflects its dedication to quality and innovation. Mumm’s extensive cellars and rich history make it a significant player in the champagne industry.
7. Pommery (Reims)
Location: 5 Place General Gouraud, Reims, France
Visit Cost: Tours range from €27 to €150, depending on the experience and tasting options.
Champagne Pommery, founded in 1858 by Alexandre Louis Pommery and Narcisse Greno, is based in Reims. The house is renowned for its innovative approach, particularly the creation of the first brut champagne in 1874.
Madame Pommery, who took over the business after her husband’s death, played a crucial role in its success. The estate’s Elizabethan-style architecture and extensive cellars, which include Gallo-Roman chalk quarries, are major attractions.
8. De Castellane (Épernay)
Location: 46 Rue de Verdun, Épernay, France
Visit Cost: Tours range from €15 to €35, depending on the experience and tasting options.
De Castellane, established in 1895, is located in Épernay and is part of the Laurent-Perrier group. The house is known for its distinctive red cross emblem and produces both vintage and non-vintage cuvées.
De Castellane’s cellars, which stretch for 6 kilometers, offer visitors a fascinating journey through the history and production of champagne. The house’s commitment to quality and tradition has made it a respected name in the champagne industry.
Dining in Champagne – Day Trip to Champagne from Paris
Champagne offers a variety of delightful dining options where visitors can enjoy a meal or a snack. Here are some recommendations:
1. L’Assiette Champenoise (Reims)
- Location: 40 Avenue Paul Vaillant-Couturier, 51430 Tinqueux, Reims
- Cuisine Type: French, Haute Cuisine
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Phone Number: +33 3 26 84 64 64
2. Café du Palais (Reims)
- Location: 14 Place Myron Herrick, 51100 Reims
- Cuisine Type: French, Bistro
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Phone Number: +33 3 26 47 52 54
3. Le Parc Les Crayères (Reims)
- Location: 64 Boulevard Henry Vasnier, 51100 Reims
- Cuisine Type: French, Gastronomic
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Phone Number: +33 3 26 24 90 00
4. Sacré Bistro (Épernay)
- Location: 2 Place Auban Moët, 51200 Épernay
- Cuisine Type: French, Bistro
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Phone Number: +33 9 52 78 27 37
5. La Table Kobus (Épernay)
- Location: 3 Rue Dr Rousseau, 51200 Épernay
- Cuisine Type: French, Traditional
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Phone Number: +33 3 26 51 53 53
These restaurants offer a variety of dining experiences, from haute cuisine to traditional French and Italian dishes, ensuring that you have a memorable culinary experience in the Champagne region.
About the Champagne Wine Region
The Champagne wine region, located in northeastern France, is world-renowned for producing the sparkling wine that bears its name. Situated about 160 kilometers (100 miles) east of Paris, this region is characterized by its unique chalky soil and cool climate, which create ideal conditions for growing the grapes used in Champagne.
The principal grape varieties are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. The region is divided into five main wine-producing districts: Aube, Côte des Blancs, Côte de Sézanne, Montagne de Reims, and Vallée de la Marne.
The cities of Reims and Épernay serve as the commercial centers of the area, with Reims being famous for its grand cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Champagne region’s history of wine production dates back to the early Middle Ages, and it has developed a reputation for quality sparkling wine since the 17th century. Today, it remains a symbol of luxury and celebration, attracting visitors from around the world.
Best Time to Visit the Champagne Region
The best time to visit the Champagne region is from May to October, when the weather is warm and the vineyards are lush and green. During these months, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for exploring the picturesque towns and vineyards.
The summer months of July and August are particularly popular, offering the warmest weather, but they can also be the busiest with tourists. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting in May, June, or September, when the weather is still lovely but the crowds are smaller.
The fall harvest season in late September and early October is also a fantastic time to visit, as you can witness the grape picking and enjoy the vibrant autumn colors in the vineyards.
FAQs
Q 1. What is the best way to travel from Paris to the Champagne region?
Ans. The high-speed train (TGV) is the fastest and most convenient option, taking about 45 minutes to Reims and 1 hour and 20 minutes to Épernay. Alternatively, you can rent a car for more flexibility, especially if you plan to visit multiple locations like Hautvillers.
Q 2. Do I need to book Champagne house tours in advance?
Ans. Yes, it is highly recommended to book tours and tastings in advance, as many Champagne houses require reservations and can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Q 3. What should I wear for a day trip to the Champagne region?
Ans. Dress comfortably yet stylishly. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to tour vineyards or cellars. Layers are a good idea as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
Q 4. Are there any local festivals or events in the Champagne region?
Ans. Yes, the Champagne region hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Champagne Harvest Festival in September and the Habits de Lumière festival in Épernay in December. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience local culture and traditions.
Q 5. What are some unique souvenirs to bring back from the Champagne region?
Ans. Besides bottles of Champagne, consider bringing back local delicacies like Reims biscuits (biscuits roses), mustard from Reims, or handmade chocolates. Many Champagne houses also sell branded merchandise.
Conclusion – Is One Day Enough to Explore Champagne
While one day is enough to get a taste of the Champagne region, it can be quite packed if you want to visit multiple places like Reims, Épernay, and Hautvillers. In a single day, you can explore some key attractions, such as the Reims Cathedral, a couple of Champagne houses, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in Épernay. However, a longer stay would be ideal to fully appreciate the beauty and history of the region and visit more Champagne houses and vineyards. Spending at least two to three days allows you to explore at a more relaxed pace, enjoy more tastings, and soak in the charming atmosphere of the region.
Welcome to my Paris travel blog! I’m Shubham, a passionate traveler, foodie, and culture enthusiast with a deep love for the City of Lights. Over the years, I’ve explored every corner of Paris, uncovering its hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and culinary delights. Through this blog, I aim to share insider tips, detailed guides, and personal stories to help you experience Paris like a true local.
