Moet et Chandon Veuve Clicquot Pommery Private Champagne Day trip

Exploring the Champagne Region with a Private Day Trip from Paris

If you’re dreaming of a day dedicated to sparkling wines and scenic vineyards, this private Champagne tour from Paris might catch your eye. It promises visits to some of the most prestigious champagne houses, scenic drives through the picturesque countryside, and plenty of tasting opportunities. For anyone wanting a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning, this kind of trip can be quite appealing.

What we like about this tour is the comfort of traveling in a Mercedes, and the opportunity for guided visits to top champagne houses like Moët et Chandon and Veuve Clicquot. Plus, the inclusion of UNESCO-listed caves at Pommery adds a special touch of history and depth to the experience. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the chauffeur isn’t a guide—so if you want in-depth commentary at every stop, you’ll need to add a guide for an extra fee. This tour is probably best suited for those who enjoy structured visits, premium tastings, and a bit of luxury.

Key Points

• Private experience means you’ll have a more personalized day with your own group.
• Multiple tour options allow you to choose between different levels of champagne tastings and experiences.
• Comfortable transportation in a Mercedes makes the long day easier.
• Timely pickups and a well-planned itinerary help maximize your visits without feeling rushed.
• Includes visits to top champagne houses and a scenic drive through the French countryside.
• Not ideal for those on a strict budget since the price is around $735 per person, but it offers a premium experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Departure from Paris and the Scenic Drive

Your day begins bright and early at 7:30 am with pickup from your hotel. The drive to Champagne covers approximately 140 km—about 2 hours on the highway—so you’ll spend part of your morning on the road. The route passes through beautiful vineyard landscapes, which set the perfect mood for the day ahead. One rest stop is included, giving everyone a chance to stretch and take in the views.

First Stop: Moët et Chandon in Épernay

Arriving around 10 am, you’ll dive into the world’s largest champagne house, Moët et Chandon. Depending on the option you choose—BASIC, MOST POPULAR, or ADVANCED—you’ll experience a different level of tasting and tour depth.

• The BASIC option offers a 1.5-hour experience called “L’Impérial,” which includes a visit to the underground cellars and tasting of 2 glasses of Champagne—Moët Impérial and Rosé Impérial. This is a good quick overview, especially if you’re short on time or budget.

• The MOST POPULAR package extends this to the “SIGNATURE” experience, with a tasting of Moët Impérial and Moët Vintage, perfect for those wanting a bit more depth.

• The ADVANCED option gives you the “GRAND VINTAGE” experience, featuring two glasses—Grand Vintage Blanc and Rose—ideal for champagne aficionados.

As Moët et Chandon is the biggest producer globally, with every second bottle opening worldwide, this stop offers a solid glimpse into the production process and the chance to taste some quality Champagne. Many reviews mention the clarity and helpfulness of the guides, making this part of the trip both informative and enjoyable.

Lunch in Épernay

By noon, you’ll head into Épernay itself, often called the Champagne capital of France. The town’s famous Avenue of Champagne is lined with historic Champagne houses and chic shops. This is a prime spot for a leisurely lunch and some exploration. Many travelers enjoy wandering the streets, soaking in the atmosphere, and snapping photos of the elegant champagne houses.

Visit to Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon

Post-lunch, you’ll drive just 10 minutes to the quaint village of Hautvillers, home to the Abbey of Saint-Pierre. Founded in 665, this Benedictine monastery played a crucial role in developing Champagne-making techniques—most famously through Dom Pérignon, the monk often credited with perfecting the method of sparkling wine production. Today, the village hosts 26 local Champagne producers, and the visit to the abbey includes a stroll through its historic church and a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of vineyards and the Marne River.

Champagne Pommery: UNESCO-listed Cellars

Next, your journey takes you 30 minutes to Reims, where the Pommery Champagne house awaits. Audio-guided tours of the cellars, which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, are included, along with a tasting of one glass of Champagne. You’ll learn about the history of Pommery and enjoy a subterranean walk through its impressive caves. The visit at Pommery adds a sense of history and grandeur to the day, and many visitors appreciate the audio guide that explains the significance of the caves and the Champagne-making process.

Veuve Clicquot: One of the Most Recognizable Names in Champagne

After Pommery, it’s just a short 5-minute drive to Veuve Clicquot, established in 1772. This is a highlight for many—producing over 22 million bottles annually, Veuve Clicquot’s guided tour of its cellars offers insight into its longstanding history and innovative techniques.

The tour’s nature depends on your chosen package:

• The BASIC gives you a tasting of the “Carte Jaune” Brut, ideal for a quick sip.

• The MOST POPULAR option includes two glasses—Rosé and Yellow Label—served with cheese and charcuterie, making it more of a tasting experience.

• The ADVANCED broadens this to four cuvées, including vintage and extra-old options, for those wanting an in-depth tasting.

Reviews frequently mention that the Veuve Clicquot tour is both informative and tasting-rich, with guides sharing engaging stories about the house’s history.

End of the Day: Reims Cathedral and Return to Paris

Your final stop is the stunning Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, where many French kings were crowned. It’s a fitting historical site to wrap up the day before heading back to Paris around 8:30 pm. The drive back is roughly two hours, ensuring you’ll be dropped off at your hotel late evening.

What Travelers Are Saying

The majority of reviews are positive, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenic drives. A few comments highlight the good value, especially considering the included visits and tastings, which can otherwise add up quickly if booked individually.

One reviewer shared, “This was a great trip. The driver picked us up at the hotel right on time. We were able to enjoy four champagne stops and had an amazing lunch. We would highly recommend this tour.” Conversely, a less favorable review pointed out that the tour felt rushed and that the driver was not a guide, so if you’re craving detailed commentary, you might want to pay extra for a live guide.

Some reviews mention the price of around $735 per person as being steep, but many felt the experience justified the cost given the exclusivity, transportation comfort, and variety of visits.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Transportation: Traveling in a private Mercedes makes for a smooth, comfortable day. The vehicle is suited for small groups, ensuring a relaxed experience.

• Timing: The full day lasts about 13 hours, from early morning pickup to late evening drop-off. This means you’ll need to be prepared for a long, but often rewarding, day.

• Group Size & Options: The tour’s flexibility with different experience levels allows you to tailor the day to your interests—whether you’re after a quick overview or an in-depth tasting.

• Price and Value: While the cost is significant, it covers transportation, entrance fees, tastings, and a carefully curated itinerary. If you’re a champagne enthusiast or looking for a seamless, guided experience, that can be worth it.

• Accessibility & Suitability: The tour is designed for most travelers, but note that the minimum age for tastings is 18. It’s ideal for those who want a hassle-free day with structured visits.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after a luxurious, all-inclusive day exploring top Champagne houses, this trip delivers on that promise. The private nature means fewer crowds, and the carefully selected visits ensure you see some of the most iconic houses and historical sites in the region. The options for tastings allow you to customize your experience, whether you’re just dipping your toes or wanting a more comprehensive tasting.

However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly or highly flexible local-style tour, this might feel a bit pricey and somewhat rigid in structure. Also, keep in mind that the chauffeur isn’t a guide; if you want detailed commentary at each stop, plan to add a guide in advance.

Overall, for champagne lovers craving a smooth, luxurious day with fine wines and beautiful scenery, this trip can be an excellent choice. It balances comfort, education, and indulgence, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Paris.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tastings are only for travelers over 18, so it’s best for adults without young children.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers transportation in a Mercedes, guided visits at Moët et Chandon and Veuve Clicquot (depending on your option), an audio-guided Pommery visit, tastings, and all taxes and fees.

Can I upgrade my tasting experience?
Yes, the tour offers different levels—BASIC, MOST POPULAR, and ADVANCED—so you can choose how many and which types of champagne you’d like to sample.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, but the tour can help you make reservations at a restaurant in Épernay, and many travelers opt to enjoy a local meal during the break.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 13 hours, from pickup in Paris at 7:30 am to drop-off around 8:30 pm.

Will I have a guide at the champagne houses?
Guided tours are provided, but the driver only acts as a chauffeur. For detailed commentary, you can book a guide separately for an extra fee.

What if some venues are unavailable?
Occasionally, Moët et Chandon may not be available for the BASIC option. In that case, you’ll be offered a higher-level experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 40 days ahead, but availability can vary.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The info doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to inquire directly with the provider if needed.

All in all, this private Champagne day trip from Paris offers a well-rounded, luxurious way to experience some of the best Champagne houses and scenic vineyards. With careful planning and the right expectations, it can be a highlight of your trip to France.