Ay Champagne is a fantastic place for wine lovers who want more than just a quick tasting. Its small villages, family-run vineyards, and scenic surroundings make for authentic and memorable experiences. We particularly like that many tours include not just tastings but also behind-the-scenes visits to cellars and even boat cruises through the vineyards. For example, the Semi Private Solar Boat Cruise in Champagne offers a rare chance to sail through the heart of UNESCO-listed vineyards in comfort and style, with the added perk of a solar-powered boat.
From immersive tasting classes to luxurious private cruises, Ay Champagne offers a variety of ways to enjoy the region’s famous bubbles. Whether you want a quick introduction or a full-day gourmet experience, there’s something to match different interests and budgets. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at the five best wine tours in Ay Champagne, each with its own unique appeal.
1. Champagne: Champagne Tasting Class with Lunch
At number one, this Champagne Tasting Class with Lunch combines education, tasting, and regional cuisine seamlessly. For just $105 per person, you spend about three hours learning the art of tasting Champagne, engaging in workshops that train your nose and palate, and comparing three different champagnes. The experience takes place at a family domain, Le Clos Corbier, where you can see the cellar firsthand.
What stands out is the combination of fun and learning—this isn’t just a tasting, but a playful session where you discover the secrets of Champagne, from bubbling to bottle. After the tasting, enjoy a traditional regional lunch at the estate, making this an excellent choice for those who want an immersive experience without a full day commitment. The reviews are stellar—rated 4.9 out of 5 from 365 reviews—highlighting its friendly atmosphere and informative guides.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those new to Champagne or anyone wanting a comprehensive, yet relaxed, introduction that ends with a delicious meal. Great value for a well-rounded experience.
2. Aÿ-Champagne: Champagne House Tour and Tasting Class
Coming in at number two, this Champagne House Tour and Tasting in Aÿ-Champagne offers a shorter, more focused experience at just 1.5 hours for $47. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the region’s charm. This tour includes a visit to Le Clos Corbier’s family-owned cellars, where you’ll learn about traditional Champagne-making methods and enjoy three tastings—one of which is a Grand Cru Vintage.
What makes this tour stand out is the intimate setting and the chance to discover the press and cellar processes firsthand. The reviews are strong—4.8 out of 5 from 189 people—highlighting its informative approach and friendly guides. It’s a good option for travelers who want a quick deep dive into Champagne production, complemented by tasty samples.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who value quality over quantity, or travelers with limited time looking for a meaningful introduction to Champagne craftsmanship.
3. Semi Private Solar Boat Cruise in Champagne
For a truly special experience, the Semi Private Solar Boat Cruise offers a chance to sail through the vineyards aboard the only solar-powered house boat in the region. Priced at $99 per person, this 85-minute cruise is a highlight for those who want a scenic, relaxing, and eco-friendly adventure. You’ll glide through the UNESCO-listed vineyards, enjoying views that are hard to beat while relaxing on a boat equipped with a solarium, sofa, and toilet.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on sustainability and comfort. The itinerary includes sightseeing, a champagne tasting, and multiple drop-off points, making it flexible for your plans. Many reviewers praise the boat’s comfort and the peaceful ambiance, with a 4.9-star rating from 28 reviews. This is perfect if you prefer a leisurely, scenic experience over traditional wine tastings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, eco-conscious journey through Champagne’s vineyards, especially if they enjoy scenic cruising and comfort.
4. From Reims/Epernay: Food & Champagne Experience
This full-day Food & Champagne Experience takes you through three family estates of Champagne Grand Cru/Premier Cru producers, with 15 tastings paired with local dishes. At $819 per person, it’s a hefty investment but offers a deep dive into the region’s gastronomic and vinicultural treasures over 7-8 hours.
Highlights include tasting 9 Grand Cru/1st Cru Champagnes, participating in a fun aroma discovery workshop, and passing through the famous Avenue of Champagne in Epernay. The itinerary includes visits to vineyards, a scenic lunch, and detailed commentary on the wine-making process. Rated highly for the richness and variety of tastings, it’s best suited for serious wine enthusiasts wanting a full-day indulgence.
Bottom Line: For those ready to enjoy Champagne’s culinary and vinicultural finer points, this tour offers a comprehensive and luxurious adventure.
5. Private day – Cruise through the Champagne vineyards
Number five is a private, all-day Champagne vineyard cruise, ideal for small groups or couples seeking exclusivity. At $2,105 for up to four people, it’s an upscale choice that promises 6 hours of electric navigation aboard the solar House Boat named Ay-Champagne.
This tour is all about personalized luxury, sailing through classified vineyards, with stops at key locations like Hautvillers and Epernay. The itinerary includes multiple boat cruises, a gourmet lunch, and a complimentary bottle of Champagne. Reviewers appreciate the privacy and the opportunity to customize the experience, making it perfect for celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a quiet, intimate day.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who value privacy, luxury, and a tailored experience, and are willing to splurge for a memorable day on the water.
How to Choose the Best Champagne Tour in Ay
Selecting the right tour depends on your priorities. If you’re new to Champagne and want a relaxed, educational experience that includes a regional lunch, the Champagne: Champagne Tasting Class with Lunch is perfect. For a quick, focused introduction to Champagne-making, the Champagne House Tour and Tasting offers a concise visit.
Those seeking something more scenic and eco-friendly should consider the Semi Private Solar Boat Cruise, especially if you enjoy relaxing on the water. Food and wine enthusiasts will appreciate the full-day Food & Champagne Experience, with its extensive tastings and gastronomic pairings. For a luxurious private outing, the Private day – Cruise through the Champagne vineyards offers privacy and indulgence.
Practical considerations include budget, time, and your level of interest. For example, the half-hour boat cruise offers a quick scenic escape, while the full-day food tour provides a deep dive into regional flavors. Booking early is recommended, especially for private and full-day tours, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Ay Champagne offers a rich selection of wine-related activities—whether you want a light tasting, a scenic boat cruise, or an immersive gastronomic journey. If you’re looking for a well-rounded introduction, the Champagne Tasting Class with Lunch is hard to beat. For something unique and luxurious, the private boat cruise will leave you with lasting memories. And for true connoisseurs, the full-day food and Champagne experience offers an in-depth exploration of the region’s finest offerings.
No matter your budget or interest level, booking early ensures you’ll secure your preferred date. With such a variety of options, your visit to Ay Champagne can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you like—just be sure to carve out enough time to savor this sparkling region.
