Private Champagne Day Trip to Vineyards of Reims with French Lunch from Paris

Exploring Champagne in Style: A Deep Dive into the Private Reims Vineyard Tour from Paris

If you’re dreaming of tasting some of France’s finest bubbly while soaking in a beautiful city and charming countryside, this private Champagne day trip from Paris might catch your eye. It promises a well-rounded experience, combining train travel, vineyard visits, and cultural highlights, all wrapped into one day. We’ve looked into it closely, and here’s what we think you should know before booking.

What really stands out about this tour is the effortless transportation—starting with all-inclusive high-speed train tickets that whisk you from Paris to Reims—and the intimate, private vineyard visits that allow for personalized tastings and insights. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional French lunch adds that perfect touch of local flavor, making the day both delicious and culturally enriching.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a “VIP” or exclusive tasting experience. Some reviews mention that the tastings are with other travelers, and the wines offered are the more basic options unless you’re willing to pay extra. For those seeking a more exclusive, behind-the-scenes champagne experience, this might feel a bit standard.

All in all, if you’re a fan of wine, history, and a bit of sightseeing, this tour is likely a good fit. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a well-structured day that combines learning and tasting without the hassle of organizing transport or meals on your own.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Transport: High-speed train tickets from Paris make travel quick and comfortable.
• Personalized Vineyard Visits: Two guided tours provide detailed insight into champagne-making, with six glasses sampled.
• Cultural Highlights: A walk through Reims and a visit to its stunning Gothic cathedral add depth to the experience.
• Local Cuisine: A traditional French lunch paired with local champagne offers a true taste of the region.
• Time Management: The itinerary balances sightseeing, tasting, and leisure, but some steps involve climbing stairs or walking through historic sites.
• Price Point: At around $720 per person, it’s on the higher side, but the inclusive nature and quality of experiences can justify the cost for many.

A Complete Look at the Experience

Starting Out: From Paris to Reims in Style

The day kicks off early at Gare de l’Est in Paris, with your private guide meeting you there. From your arrival point, you hop onto the high-speed TVG train, which speeds you through the scenic French countryside straight to Reims in roughly an hour. This isn’t just about saving time; it sets a relaxed, upscale tone for your day. You’ll appreciate the air-conditioned comfort and the anticipation of a day dedicated to champagne and culture.

Once in Reims, your guide greets you and immediately starts weaving in local history and background about the region’s importance to France’s wine and cultural scene. This initial chat helps set the context for what’s ahead and makes the tour feel personalized rather than just a generic group experience.

Winery Visits: Inside Look at Champagne Production

Your first stop is at 1 Rue de Chigny, where you’ll explore the cellars of an old castle and its vineyards. Here, the guide explains the champagne-making process, giving you an “insiders” perspective you won’t get just by visiting a shop. The setting is historic and atmospheric—imagine walking through centuries-old tunnels while sampling high-quality champagne. According to reviews, this part is especially engaging because the guides share a lot of information, making the tastings more meaningful.

Your second vineyard stop, at 1 Rue des Vignes, takes you to a family-owned winery. This setting is charming, often described as a more intimate experience compared to commercial wineries. During this visit, you’ll taste some of the finest French champagnes, with five glasses offered over the course of the tasting session. Reviewers mention that guides here help explain the differences between styles and flavors, which enhances the appreciation.

Lunch in Ludes: A French Culinary Touch

After the winery visits, you’ll head to 5 Rue Gambetta for a well-deserved break and a traditional French lunch in a family-run restaurant. The meal is paired with local champagne, so you’re getting a true regional flavor. Many comments emphasize how authentic and delicious the lunch is—think hearty, flavorful dishes served in a cozy setting. Since it’s in a small village, the atmosphere feels intimate and relaxed, making it a perfect pause before the afternoon.

Reims City Tour & Cathedral

Post-lunch, you’ll explore the city of Reims itself. The guide takes you around its main sights, including a detailed visit to the Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Reims. This Gothic masterpiece is awe-inspiring—the reviews often mention how impressive its architecture and history are. Expect to learn about its significance and the role it played through France’s past, especially during the medieval times and WWII.

Your walk through Reims includes other landmarks, giving the tour a nice balance between rural champagne culture and urban history. The city, with its beautiful architecture and WWII stories, adds depth to the day.

Return to Paris

After a full day of sightseeing, tastings, and learning, you’ll return to Reims station for the high-speed train back to Paris. The return journey is about an hour, giving you time to relax and reflect on your day. Some reviewers mention that the guide keeps the conversation lively and informative, making the trip back just as enjoyable as the day’s highlights.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from past participants is overwhelmingly positive. Many praise the knowledgeable guides; one reviewer especially appreciated Pablo’s storytelling and thorough explanations. Guests also love the scenery and city tour, with comments about how beautiful Reims is and how impactful the cathedral visit was.

Taste-wise, the champagne samples received high marks. Several reviews mention the quality of the tastings, with some noting that additional, more exclusive tastings are available for a fee—something to consider if you’re looking for a VIP experience.

A few guests pointed out that the tour isn’t strictly private at the tastings, and sometimes you share with others, but overall, most find the experience balanced and intimate enough.

Some reviewers also appreciated that the tour was well-organized, with the guide proactively coordinating logistics and making sure everyone was comfortable. The fact that transportation and tickets are all included is a major plus, removing the usual travel headaches.

Considerations Based on Feedback

• The price may seem high but includes train tickets, multiple guided tastings, lunch, and city visits—so it offers good value for those who want an all-in package.
• For those seeking a VIP, private-only champagne experience, this tour might feel a bit mainstream, but the quality of the wineries and guides compensates.
• Be prepared for some walking and stairs, especially during the cellar visit.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves champagne, history, and good food, this trip hits all those notes beautifully. The combination of fast train travel, guided visits to two vineyards, and a stroll through the beautiful city of Reims makes it a well-balanced day. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of champagne production and the region’s cultural significance, all while enjoying some delicious glasses along the way.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comfortable, organized experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a first-timer or a champagne enthusiast, the knowledgeable guides and scenic surroundings will likely leave you satisfied.

However, if you’re a champagne connoisseur looking for an ultra-exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience, or prefer to avoid group settings, you might find this experience a bit more mainstream than you’d like. But for most travelers, the value here is quite good—especially when considering the inclusions and the quality of the sights and tastings.

This tour offers a satisfying blend of education, scenery, and indulgence, making it a memorable day for anyone eager to sample France’s bubbly heart.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all transportation from Paris, including the high-speed train tickets and private transfers to vineyards, is included.

How long is the train ride from Paris to Reims?
The train ride takes about an hour on the high-speed TVG train, making it quick and comfortable.

What should I expect at the vineyard visits?
You’ll visit two wineries—one in an old castle cellar and another family-owned vineyard. Expect guided tours explaining champagne-making, with tastings of six glasses total.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional French lunch in a family restaurant in Ludes is part of the tour, paired with local champagne.

Are the tastings private?
While the tour is private, some tastings are shared with other travelers unless you upgrade or pay extra for a VIP experience. Most reviews note the tastings are with other guests.

What city highlights are included?
You’ll visit Reims’ main monuments and the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, learning about their historical and architectural significance.

How physically demanding is the tour?
There’s some walking, and one cellar visit involves going down about 130 steps without an elevator. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

This detailed look hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect. If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and delicious way to experience Champagne and Reims, this tour ticks many boxes—and does so with a good level of organization and comfort.