- Reims is located in France, just 45 minutes from Paris. It’s home to some of the most renowned Champagne houses. Ruinart, the oldest champagne house in the World, is one of them.
- There are also other notable landmarks in the city, such as a UNESCO-listed Cathedral and Michelin-starred Restaurants.
- Other nearby French towns include Hautvillers and Épernay, home to the iconic Avenue de Champagne.
Less than an hour from Paris by high-speed train, you’ll find one of France’s premier destinations for Champagne lovers, and it offers far more than just tastings—though those are reason enough to visit.
Often called the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, Reims, France, is home to some of the world’s most storied houses, with cool cellars stretching for miles beneath its charming cobblestone streets and Belle Époque façades.
The most iconic of all is RuinartIt is considered the oldest Champagne house on the planet. The house has been making bubbly since 1729 and you can visit their large operation. “Their cellars, named ‘Crayères,’ are some of the most impressive of the region,” says Philippe Marques, head sommelier at Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa Champillon is a nearby French town. The tour is immersive and artistic.
For a more unconventional experience—which Marques describes as “great for those who like their Champagne with a twist of creativity”—look no further than Champagne Pommery. He says, “The estate has modern art installations in historic cellars as well as bold visual storytelling.”
Reims is equally captivating above ground as it is below. its soaring namesake cathedral. UNESCO World Heritage Site The Gothic monument where French Kings were crowned over a period of nearly 1,000 years. This tradition dates to the 9th Century, adding an extra layer of royalty to the rich history of the city. “Don’t miss the Chagall-stained glass windows and the ethereal light in the late afternoon,” says Anaïs Collinet, Royal Champagne’s guest experience makers manager.
Collinet says that you should immerse yourself in the local culture, as well as taking in the architecture. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the markets with a cup of coffee. Le Marché Explore Les Halles du Boulingrin Discover the Boulingrin Market Halls on Saturday morning local products from the Champagne region“, she says. “Take a stroll down the Rue de Mars The Rue du Tambour will take you to the beautiful Place du Forum, and its emblematic Place Royale.”
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Reims is also a delight for gourmands—no surprise, given its location in the heart of the Champagne region. Collinet says that the following restaurants are must-trys: Le Coq Rouge Newly opened tapas and wine bar. PolychromeA concept backed by Champagne Taittinger that focuses on sparkling combinations; Glue PotA French version of a British pub classic Le BoulingrinThe classic brasserie.
The two-Michelin starred restaurant is a must for those who want to splash out. Le Parc at Domaine Les Crayère Reims, a town known for its beautiful setting. refined takes on French classics. Also in the City Arbane The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin Star for its innovative tasting menus that are based on terroir. You can find a great restaurant just outside of the city. Le Royal, the Michelin-starred fine-dining centerpiece of the aforementioned Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, where vineyard views pair with a seasonal menu focused on local ingredients and Champagne-friendly flavors.
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It’s easy to get there, too. Collinet says, “It takes 45 minutes by train to get from Paris’ Gare de l’Est station to Reims’ central station. It’s conveniently located in the middle of the city.”
She has two last tips for you once you’re there: “Book tastings and tours well in advance, particularly with the major Champagne houses.” Additionally, she recommends a day trip to the vineyards of Hautvillers, France, and Épernay, France, followed, of course, by a leisurely lunch on the terrace at Royal Champagne.
While in Épernay, carve out some time to stroll along the iconic Avenue de Champagne. This boulevard, which is often called “Champagne Row,” features historic maisons such as Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët. Pol RogerMany of them are built on top of chalk caves that are carved deep into the hillsides.
Finalize your journey with a trip to the fairytale-worthy village of Hautvillers to see the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, where Dom Pérignon—yes, that Dom Pérignon—is buried. The abbey is not open to the public but the adjacent church is. It offers a glimpse of the Benedictine Monk’s life and legacy who played an important role in developing this popular libation.
