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Luxury travel guide

Reims & Champagne

Explore Reims, the city of coronations and Champagne capital, blending historical heritage, prestigious cellars, and refined art de vivre.

Article reviewed on 14 May 2026.

Introduction to Reims and Champagne

Reims and Champagne, where royal history meets the effervescent heritage of winemaking.

History of Reims: City of Coronations

Reims, a city of coronations and Champagne, boasts over two millennia of history.

Questions about this section

What is the history of Reims Cathedral?

Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO site, hosted the coronation of French kings for centuries.

When to Visit Reims and Champagne

Reims and Champagne shine year-round, with highlights like autumn harvests and summer cultural events.

Heritage and Must-See Monuments

Explore Reims' rich heritage, from Notre-Dame Cathedral to Roman relics and the historic Palais du Tau.

Questions about this section

What can you see at the Palais du Tau?

The Palais du Tau, former archbishops' residence, houses treasures from royal coronations.

Which UNESCO World Heritage sites are in Reims?

Notre-Dame Cathedral, Palais du Tau, and historic Champagne cellars are UNESCO-listed.

The Great Champagne Houses

Discover the iconic Champagne houses and their historic cellars in Reims and Épernay.

Questions about this section

Which Champagne houses to visit in Reims?

Iconic houses like Pommery, Veuve Clicquot, and Ruinart offer tours of their historic cellars.

Are Champagne cellars open year-round?

Yes, but some cellars may limit visits during harvest or winter.

Champenoise Gastronomy

Champagne cuisine is a refined celebration of local traditions and wine pairings.

Questions about this section

What is Champagne cuisine?

Champagne cuisine highlights local specialities like the pink biscuit, often paired with Champagne.

The Art of Living in Champagne

In Champagne, art de vivre blends elegance, tradition, and conviviality, with Reims as its cultural heart.

Palaces and Exceptional Accommodations

Discover refined hospitality at Domaine Les Crayères in Reims or Royal Champagne in Champillon, celebrating the region's heritage and gastronomy.

Questions about this section

Which are the must-visit palaces in Champagne?

Domaine Les Crayères and Royal Champagne epitomise hospitality excellence in the region.

Shopping and Local Craftsmanship

Reims and the Champagne region offer much more than flutes of Champagne. For shopping enthusiasts and local products, the city is full of addresses. Craftsmanship and know-how blend with tradition. Whether you are looking for a refined souvenir or an authentic gift, several options are available.

The cellars of major Champagne houses, such as Pommery or Ruinart, are not just tasting venues. They also offer elegant boutiques. Here, you can acquire iconic cuvées, limited editions, or tableware accessories. These spaces often showcase collaborations with artists. You will find unique items, bridging oenology and contemporary art.

For a more artisanal approach, the covered market of Reims is an excellent starting point. Here, local producers offer regional specialties. The biscuit rose de Reims is ideal for accompanying a glass of Champagne. You will also discover fragrant honeys sourced from the flowers of the surrounding vineyards. The stalls are brimming with fresh products, perfect for a Champagne picnic.

In the historic centre of Reims, several artisan shops highlight local heritage. Creations in chalk, the emblematic material of the Champagne subsoils, come to life in the form of sculptures or decorative objects. Textile enthusiasts can discover workshops offering pieces in linen or hemp, traditional fibres of the region.

Finally, for a truly personalised souvenir, some Champagne houses and local workshops offer bespoke experiences. You can customise labels or create gift boxes on demand. These options allow you to leave with a unique item or bottle, reflecting your visit to this subtly elegant region.

Whether you are seeking exceptional Champagne, a gastronomic product, or an artisanal object, shopping in Reims and Champagne is an immersion in the French art of living.

Questions about this section

What souvenirs to bring back from Reims?

Local Champagnes, Reims pink biscuits, and oenology accessories are popular choices.

Events and Festivities

Reims and Champagne host year-round events celebrating history, culture, and sparkling wine heritage.

Questions about this section

What events mark the harvest season?

Harvest season features special tours, tastings, and sometimes local festivities.

Getting to and Around Reims

Reims is just 45 minutes from Paris by high-speed train (TGV), making it easily accessible.

Questions about this section

How to get around in Reims?

Reims has an efficient tram and bus network. Taxis and walking are also practical options.

Conclusion: Reims and Champagne, a Timeless Journey

Reims and Champagne offer a timeless journey blending history, gastronomy, and cultural effervescence.

Comparison tables

Seasons and Climate in Champagne
SeasonMonthsClimateCrowdsAdvice
PrintempsMars à MaiDoux, parfois pluvieuxModéréeIdéal pour les visites de caves et randonnées.
ÉtéJuin à AoûtChaud et ensoleilléÉlevéeRéservez les dégustations à l'avance.
AutomneSeptembre à NovembreFrais, vendangesVariableAssistez aux vendanges pour une expérience unique.
HiverDécembre à FévrierFroid, parfois neigeuxFaibleParfait pour des séjours cosy dans les palaces.

Climate and attendance data are based on historical averages.

Comparison of Palaces in Champagne
NameStatusAmbianceHighlightsIndicative Budget
Domaine Les CrayèresPalaceClassique et raffinéParc verdoyant, gastronomie étoiléeÀ partir de 1000€/nuit
Royal ChampagnePalaceContemporain et spaVue panoramique, bien-êtreÀ partir de 1500€/nuit

Information is based on general criteria of experience and comfort.

Distances to Reims and Champagne
OriginDistanceDrive TimeTrain TimePrivate Transfer
Paris130 kmEnviron 1h3045 minutesDisponible
Aéroport CDG140 kmEnviron 1h451 heureDisponible
Lille200 kmEnviron 2 heures1h30Disponible

Travel times estimated under normal conditions.

Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Champagne
RestaurantStarsChefCuisine TypeIndicative Budget
L'Assiette Champenoise3Non spécifiéGastronomique250-400€
Le Parc Les Crayères2Non spécifiéCuisine française200-300€
Les Berceaux1Non spécifiéCuisine régionale150-200€

Source: Michelin Guide, information subject to change.

Glossary

Cellar
Place for storing and ageing wines, often open to visitors.
Golden Keys
Distinction for concierges providing exceptional service.
Harvest
The grape harvest period, often in September, crucial for champagne production.
MICHELIN Star
Award given by the Michelin Guide to exceptional restaurants.
Palace (Atout France distinction)
A label awarded to hotels offering exceptional service and a unique setting.
Presidential Suite
The most prestigious suite in a hotel, often with exclusive services.
Vintage
Champagne made from grapes of a single exceptional year.
Wine Tourism
Tourism focused on exploring vineyards and winemaking techniques.

What to see and do

  • church

    Notre-Dame Cathedral of Reims

    A UNESCO-listed Gothic masterpiece and the coronation site of French kings.

    Read more →
  • museum

    Palace of Tau

    Former residence of Reims' archbishops, now a museum dedicated to the cathedral.

    Read more →
  • experience

    Veuve Clicquot House

    One of the most famous Champagne houses, renowned for its historic cellars and prestigious vintages.

  • experience

    Ruinart House

    The oldest Champagne house, offering tours of its exceptional chalk cellars.

  • landmark

    Domaine Les Crayères

    An iconic luxury hotel in Reims, set in lush gardens, ideal for refined stays.

  • landmark

    Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa

    A modern palace overlooking Champagne vineyards, offering relaxation and gastronomy.

  • experience

    Pommery House

    Famous for its chalk cellars and contemporary art exhibitions.

  • experience

    Moët & Chandon House

    An iconic house in Épernay, known for its Dom Pérignon Champagne.

Practical information

Best time to visit
The best time to visit Reims and Champagne is between May and October, with peak activity during September's grape harvest. Winter offers a quieter atmosphere, perfect for cellar tours.
Currency
EUR
Languages
French (official language), English spoken in tourist areas
Airports
  • Aéroport de Paris-Charles de Gaulle(CDG)Approximately 45 minutes by train from Reims
  • Aéroport de Paris-Orly(ORY)Around 1h30 by car from Reims
Train stations
  • Gare de ReimsFast TGV connection with Paris (approximately 45 minutes).
  • Gare Champagne-Ardenne TGVLocated on the outskirts of Reims, served by high-speed trains.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Reims and Champagne?

The best time to visit is May to October, with harvest season in September being unique.

How to get to Reims from Paris?

Reims is reachable by TGV from Paris in about 45 minutes.

Where to stay in Reims and Champagne?

Stay at Domaine Les Crayères in Reims or Royal Champagne in Champillon for refined luxury.

What budget should I plan for a trip to Champagne?

Budget varies; premium stays include palaces, tastings, and gourmet dining.

Is Reims a safe destination?

Reims is generally safe; stay vigilant in tourist areas as in any city.

What language is spoken in Reims?

French is the main language, but English is widely understood in tourist spots and Champagne houses.

What local dishes should I try in Champagne?

Try Reims ham, white pudding, paired with local Champagnes for an authentic experience.

Are there cultural events in Reims?

Reims hosts festivals, concerts, and Champagne-related events, especially during harvest season.

Is Reims suitable for family travel?

Yes, with child-friendly cellar tours and cultural activities like the cathedral.

Is Reims accessible for people with reduced mobility?

Many sites, like the cathedral and some Champagne houses, are partially accessible.

What is the climate like in Reims?

The climate is temperate, with mild summers and cool winters. Rain is spread throughout the year.

Can credit cards be used in Reims?

Credit cards are widely accepted; carry cash for small shops or markets.

Are tips mandatory in Champagne?

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, often rounding up in restaurants.

Is there good internet connectivity in Reims?

Connectivity is good, with reliable mobile networks and Wi-Fi in hotels and cafes.

Do I need a visa to visit Reims and Champagne?

Schengen travellers don't need a visa. Check your nationality's requirements before departure.

Palaces from our selection in Reims & Champagne

1 five-star address curated by our concierge desk.

Sources & references

This editorial article is based on the following authoritative sources, listed here for transparency and reader verification.