Champagne Day Trip from Reims including 7 Champagne Tastings

If you’re thinking about exploring the Champagne region without the hassle of organizing everything yourself, this small-group Champagne day trip from Reims might just be what you’re after. It’s a well-liked experience, racking up a 4.5/5 rating from over 250 reviews, and seems to appeal largely because of its intimate setting, engaging guides, and the chance to taste some of the finest artisan Champagnes.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the focus on small Champagne houses—these often hold much more personality and tradition—and the expert guidance that helps you understand what makes each bubbly unique. Plus, a delicious French lunch included in the itinerary adds a real touch of indulgence. The potential downside? The tour lasts about 8 hours, so it’s a full day out, which might feel long if you’re not used to that much activity. Still, if you love wine, history, and scenic drives, this one’s likely to suit you just fine.

It’s especially suited for those who want a more personalized experience rather than a big, rushed tour. If you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about Champagne-making, this trip offers a good balance of education and tasting. It also works well for visitors who value small groups—with only up to 8 travelers, you’ll get more attention from your guide and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Key Points

• Intimate group size means more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Visits to small, family-run Champagne houses provide authentic tasting experiences.
• Guided tours and expert commentary enrich your understanding of champagne-making.
• Includes a traditional French lunch for a genuine local flavor.
• Visiting the Avenue de Champagne offers iconic sights and opulent Champagne houses.
• All-weather operation means you can enjoy the tour regardless of the weather conditions.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting in Reims

The day kicks off at the Reims train station, where you meet your guide and small group. From there, you hop into a cozy, air-conditioned minivan—perfect for a comfortable ride through the scenic Champagne countryside. The first part of the journey includes a sightseeing tour of Reims, where you’ll see key sights like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Roman ruins. Plus, you’ll pass by the big Champagne houses such as Veuve Clicquot and Mumm. While these giants are impressive, the real charm lies in the visits to smaller, family-run estates.

Visit to Rilly-la-Montagne

The first stop is at a family Champagne grower in Rilly-la-Montagne, where you get to explore their cellars and sample some artisan Champagne. This is often highlighted as a genuine and personal experience—reviews mention how the owner’s warmth and passion make it special. One reviewer noted, “Our tour and tasting at a family grower was fantastic,” emphasizing how these visits often feel more authentic than big commercial tours.

Exploring Dom Pérignon’s Burial Site

Next, the tour drives to the village where Dom Pérignon is buried—a chance to connect with the monastic origins of Champagne. The church where Dom Pérignon is buried is a key highlight that adds a historical layer to your day. Visitors appreciate the blend of culture and wine, noting how this stop enriches their understanding of Champagne’s roots.

Lunch in Épernay

By midday, it’s time for a lunch break in Épernay, at a local restaurant (included in the tour). The meal typically involves a main course, dessert, and a glass of Champagne—so you get a true taste of local cuisine paired with bubbly. Reviewers have called the lunch “delicious,” with some saying it’s a perfect way to recharge before more tastings.

Strolling Down Avenue de Champagne

Post-lunch, your guide leads a walk along Avenue de Champagne, a legendary street lined with luxurious Champagne houses such as Perrier-Jouët and Mercier. The grandeur of the cellars and the architecture make this a visual feast, and your guide will point out interesting facts about each house’s history and collection. Visitors love the opportunity to see iconic brands in their impressive settings.

Visits to Local Family Wineries

The afternoon continues with a visit to another small family winery, where you’ll taste their artisan Champagnes. This is often described as a highlight—reviewers mention the personalized attention and the exceptional quality of the wines. One reviewer said, “The tasting at LeMaire was everything you could want,” highlighting the value of these intimate visits.

End of Tour and Return to Reims

After a full day of sightseeing and tasting, the group heads back to the starting point. The tour wraps up around 5:30 pm, leaving plenty of time for you to relax afterward or explore more of Reims.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Small Group Experience

Most reviews agree that the small group size (max 8 travelers) creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It’s easier for the guide to give personalized attention and answer your questions, making the experience more memorable. Several guests mentioned how much they appreciated the informative and engaging guides like Radames and Pierre.

Authentic Visits to Family Wineries

Unlike large commercial tours, this one emphasizes small, family-run Champagne houses. These are the real treasures—places where traditions are kept alive, and you can taste artisan champagnes that aren’t mass-produced. Guests frequently comment on how welcoming and knowledgeable the owners are, which makes tasting more meaningful.

Eyewitness to Champagne’s Heritage

From the Abbey where Dom Pérignon is buried to the stroll along Avenue de Champagne, the tour weaves a historical narrative that deepens your appreciation of the region. It’s not just about drinking bubbly but understanding the craft and history behind it.

Quality and Value for Money

At $289.64 per person, this tour offers a full day of activity that includes multiple tastings, a guided tour, lunch, and transport. Many reviews mention that the generous tastings and personalized visits make it feel like good value—especially considering the small-group setting and the depth of experience.

The Review Speaks Volumes

The most common praise? The knowledgeable guides who make the day both fun and informative. Reviewers like Margaret, who said Radames was “very knowledgeable,” or Bryan, who called Pierre “engaging and well received,” indicate that the guides genuinely enhance the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves wine or bubbly, appreciates a personalized experience, and wants to see small-scale Champagne production, this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, historical sites, and a leisurely pace with plenty of tastings.

However, if you’re after a quick overview or don’t want a full-day commitment, this might feel a bit long. Also, keep in mind that transportation doesn’t pick you up or drop you off in Paris—so you’ll need to arrange your own travel to Reims.

FAQ

Is transportation provided from Paris?
No, this tour departs from Reims, so you need to organize your own transport there. The tour starts at the Reims train station, with recommendations for TGV trains from Paris.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transport in a comfortable minivan, guided visits to two family wineries, several Champagne tastings, and a French lunch. Personal expenses and other tastings outside the schedule are not included.

How many stops are there?
You’ll visit two small Champagne houses—one at Rilly-la-Montagne and another at LeMaire—plus a stop at Dom Pérignon’s burial site and a stroll along Avenue de Champagne.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The experience is designed for adults interested in wine and history. Children might find the tastings and full-day schedule too long, but it’s best to check with the provider directly if traveling with younger guests.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending around 5:30 pm, making it a full but comfortable day out.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Champagne day trip from Reims offers a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and tastings. It’s a tour that prioritizes small-scale, authentic experiences—perfect for wine lovers who want more than just a tasting but an insight into the tradition and craft behind Champagne.

The knowledgeable guides, cozy group sizes, and visits to family-run estates help make it stand out. While it’s a full day and not suitable if you’re just after a quick sip, the depth of the experience and the warm atmosphere make it worth considering.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply eager to learn about France’s most famous bubbly, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Champagne—literally and figuratively. And with its high ratings and glowing reviews, it’s likely to be a highlight of your trip.