Champagne Private Day Trip: Epernay & Reims 9 glasses

A Friendly Take on the Champagne Private Day Trip: Epernay & Reims with 9 Glasses

If you’re dreaming of a day soaking in the sights, sounds, and bubbles of France’s famous Champagne region, this private tour promises an experience packed with history, stunning scenery, and, of course, plenty of sparkling. Designed for those who want a relaxed yet comprehensive immersion into Champagne’s heritage, this trip offers a chance to visit renowned houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, explore historic sites, and taste some of the best bubbly in the world.

What really caught our eye about this tour are two things: first, the focus on small, family-run Champagne producers where you get a more personal feel of the craft, and second, the well-crafted itinerary that balances big-name visits with local charm. The possibility of enjoying breathtaking panoramic views from Hautvillers and Reims adds that extra visual wow factor. A potential downside? The day is quite full — with about 12 hours of travel and sightseeing, so it’s best suited for those who love a busy, well-paced day.

If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of culture, tradition, and a good splash of fun, this tour could be just right. It’s particularly ideal for first-time visitors wanting a curated, hassle-free way to experience the essence of Champagne without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience with knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers
• Visit top Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon, Pommery, and Veuve Clicquot, often with guaranteed tastings
• Enjoy scenic views of vineyards and the historic site of Hautvillers and Reims Cathedral
• Hands-on experience at family-run producers offering a more authentic, personal touch
• Includes all entrance fees and transportation, providing a seamless day
• Flexible pickup and drop-off locations in Paris, Épernay, or Reims

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Champagne Region: What You Can Expect

This tour sets out early, with pickup options in Paris, Épernay, or Reims — a thoughtful touch that adds convenience. After about two hours on a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you arrive in the rolling vineyards of Champagne, ready for an engaging and relaxed day.

Visiting a Family-Run Champagne Producer

We loved how this part of the tour emphasizes small, family-owned estates. You get a behind-the-scenes peek into the Champagne-making process and a guided tour of the cellars, often led by a family member or a knowledgeable team. These visits typically include tastings of three glasses of Champagne, giving you a real sense of the craft involved. One reviewer described this as “very recommendable,” emphasizing the authenticity and intimacy of these visits.

The highlight here is the breathtaking panoramic view from the hillside estate, where you can soak in the green vineyards stretching out in every direction. It’s a peaceful, picturesque setting that makes the tasting all the more enjoyable.

Visiting Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon’s Grave

Next, you’ll stop at Hautvillers, a charming village famously associated with Dom Pérignon — the monk credited with much of Champagne’s development. Visiting his grave may seem a small detail, but it adds a layer of historical context to your day. The village itself is worth strolling around, with narrow streets and traditional houses, making it a perfect spot for photos and a quick window into the past.

Champagne Houses in Épernay

Arriving in Épernay, the tour takes you inside a prestige Champagne house, most often Moët & Chandon, but sometimes another renowned producer if Moët is unavailable. The guided tour of their underground cellars is a real highlight — the vast tunnels, the centuries-old barrels, and the meticulous process all contribute to an awe-inspiring experience. You’ll get to taste two different types of Champagne like Moët Impérial and Rosé Impérial, which gives you a taste of the house’s signature styles.

A reviewer mentioned that “every second bottle of Moët & Chandon is being opened,” emphasizing just how prolific and iconic this brand is. It’s a chance to learn about the scale of Champagne production and see how tradition meets modern technology.

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Lunch Break in Épernay

Midday, you’ll break for lunch at a well-chosen local restaurant, just a short drive from Reims. The included time is about an hour, but depending on your group, you might find it’s enough to relax and enjoy regional specialties or just recharge before more sightseeing.

Visiting Reims and the Cathedral

Your afternoon is crowned with a visit to the historic Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned for more than a thousand years. The architecture and stained glass windows are stunning, and the fact that 33 sovereigns were crowned here adds a regal touch to your day.

Discovering Veuve Clicquot or Pommery

Finally, the tour visits either the Veuve Clicquot or Pommery house — both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Here, you’ll learn about the “Widow” houses, and explore their famous cellars. These iconic brands offer a different flavor and style, giving you a well-rounded perspective on Champagne’s diversity.

The Logistics: How Everything Comes Together

The day is well-structured with clear timing — from early pickup to the late return to Paris. The tour lasts about 12 hours, covering roughly 140 km on the road, with plenty of stops for sightseeing and tastings.

The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi, making the long drives more comfortable. Plus, the private group setting means you get a more personalized experience, away from noisy crowds.

Reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and driver — “arrived on time,” “polite and informative,” were common praises. The tour also includes all fees and taxes plus bottled water and soda, so no surprise costs along the way.

What’s Not Included?

Lunch isn’t included, but they can help reserve a good local restaurant, which is a thoughtful touch. Keep in mind that the main focus is on the Champagne visits and sightseeing, so you should budget for a meal or snacks.

The Value: Is It Worth the Cost?

At $1,510 for a private group of up to two, this tour is definitely on the pricier side, but it covers a lot of ground. You’re paying for the convenience of a curated experience, private transportation, expert guides, and access to some of the best Champagne houses in the region.

Reviews suggest the experience is “very recommendable,” and the fact that you’re visiting both big-name brands and smaller estates means you get a balanced view of Champagne’s production. The included tastings and the historic sites are icing on the cake — making it a comprehensive day for champagne lovers or those wanting a special, hassle-free introduction to the region.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value comfort, expert guidance, and a mix of famous and local experiences. It’s ideal for those interested in history, wine-making, or simply enjoying a day away from the busy city. The private aspect makes it perfect for couples, small groups, or couples wanting a more tailored day.

If you’re curious about Champagne’s heritage, want to visit iconic houses, and enjoy beautiful scenery, this tour ticks those boxes. Just keep in mind that the full day is quite full — so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or shorter outings, other options might be better.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, you can be picked up from your accommodation in Epernay, making the start of your day simple and stress-free.

Are all the Champagne houses guaranteed?
While the tour aims to visit prominent houses like Moët & Chandon, sometimes it isn’t possible to confirm a visit, and an alternative house of the same level will be arranged.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 12 hours, covering many sights and tastings, so it’s a full but rewarding day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is it suitable for children?
While the tour is private and generally adult-focused, the all-senses Champagne museum might be interesting for kids, but the main focus is on tastings and historical sites.

What is included in the price?
All entrance fees, transportation, bottled water, soda, and taxes are included. Lunch is not included but can be arranged separately.

In essence, this private Champagne day trip from Paris offers a well-rounded, immersive experience for those eager to see, learn, and taste their way through the land of bubbly. It’s a good pick if you want the convenience of guided visits, access to top maisons, and a touch of history in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: