Reims: Day Trip from Paris with Champagne Tasting

Reims: Day Trip from Paris with Champagne Tasting — A Down-to-Earth Review

If you’re looking for an easy, memorable way to get out of Paris and really dive into France’s world-famous champagne scene, this day trip to Reims might be just what you need. We’ve come across plenty of tour options, but this one really caught our eye for a few reasons: it offers a taste of history, beautiful scenery, and some seriously good champagne—all in one day.

What we love about this experience is the chance to visit Notre-Dame de Reims, a monument packed with history, and to compare it to the relaxed, scenic strolls through the picturesque streets of Reims itself. Plus, the champagne tasting at a prestigious house is a real highlight. On the flip side, the tour involves descending stairs during the cellar visit, which might be worth considering if you’re not comfortable with that.

This trip is well suited for those who want a balanced mix of culture, wine, and scenic views without the hassle of planning it all themselves. It’s perfect for anyone curious about French history, architecture, or bubbly, and it’s especially good if you’re a smaller group looking for a more intimate experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable small-group experience with a maximum of 6 participants for a more personalized feel.
• Visit the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral with its impressive facade and historical significance.
• Enjoy exclusive tours of prestigious Champagne cellars, including descents into chalk caves.
• Savor a top-tier Champagne tasting, known for its excellent selection and quality.
• Scenic drive through the Champagne region, with views of rolling vineyards and charming villages.
• Flexible booking options: cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at Reims Day Trip from Paris

When we think of France, we often imagine Parisian streets or the grandeur of Versailles. But a day trip to Reims offers an entirely different but equally captivating experience—one rooted in history, culture, and, of course, champagne. If you’re a lover of bubbly, or just want to understand why Champagne’s sparkling wines are world-famous, this tour provides a fantastic overview.

The experience, offered by Tours Eiffel with a solid 4.1 rating, combines several key highlights. It’s designed to give you a taste of the best—without rushing—making it ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace with lots of meaningful stops.

What’s the Schedule Like?

The day kicks off with a comfortable pickup, usually from your hotel, airport, or port. From there, you’ll head out of Paris, traveling through the rolling landscape of the Champagne region, which is just as scenic as you’d hope. Your guide will share stories about the area’s legendary wines and history, which helps bring the experience to life.

Your first stop is Notre-Dame de Reims, a monument that once hosted the coronations of French kings. The cathedral’s stunning architecture and historical relevance make it a must-see. We loved the way the guide contextualized its importance—it’s more than just a pretty building; it’s a symbol of French sovereignty.

Next, you’ll explore the charming streets of Reims itself. The Place Royale, with its elegant 18th-century architecture and the statue of Louis XV, offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to soak in local vibe. Free time for lunch gives you the flexibility to pick a restaurant that suits your taste and budget; note that lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

In the afternoon, things get bubbly. You’ll descend into the chalk cellars of a well-known Champagne house, which might involve stairs, so keep that in mind if stairs are a concern. These cellars, carved into the chalk beneath the vineyards, are where the magic of Champagne aging happens. The guide explains the production process and shares insider tidbits—something that many reviews highlight as a real plus.

The Champagne Tasting

The tasting, often described as excellent, is a true highlight. You get to sample a selection of Champagnes that showcase the house’s best offerings. The fact that this tour is known for its excellent wine selection means you’re likely to taste some high-quality, well-curated options. Many reviewers have specifically praised the tastings, noting they are both generous and informative.

The Scenic Drive and Vineyards

The drive through the region offers stunning views of vineyards and rolling fields. These moments give you a sense of the vastness and beauty of the Champagne landscape, which is sometimes overlooked but is a big part of what makes this region special.

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How Does It All Add Up?

In terms of value, the tour’s length—about 12 hours—may seem long, but it’s packed with meaningful stops. The small group size is a big plus, fostering a more intimate atmosphere and allowing for personalized attention from your guide. With the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and the “reserve now, pay later” feature, it’s flexible enough for spontaneous travelers.

That said, it’s worth noting that the cost doesn’t include lunch. While this gives you the freedom to choose where and what to eat, it’s an added expense to consider. Also, be aware that the cellar visit involves stairs, which might not be suitable for everyone.

What Do Travelers Say?

Many reviews mention how well-organized and informative the tour is. One reviewer pointed out the “excellent wine selection” as a highlight, emphasizing the quality of the tastings. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guide, who shared interesting stories about both the region’s history and Champagne production.

Some reviewers did mention that the timing felt a bit tight, especially if you want to spend more time exploring Reims on your own, but overall, most find the experience engaging and worthwhile.

Who Should Consider this Tour?

This trip works best for history buffs, wine lovers, and curious travelers looking for a well-rounded, small-group experience. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a mix of culture, scenic views, and tasting high-quality Champagne.

If you prefer a more leisurely pace with ample free time or are traveling with young children who might struggle with stairs, you might want to plan additional time or look for a different option. But for most adult travelers, this tour offers a comfortable balance of guided insights and free exploration.

Final Thoughts

This Reims day trip from Paris offers a fantastic glimpse into the Champagne region’s treasures—both the historic and the sparkling. The combination of visiting Notre-Dame, wandering charming streets, and tasting some of the best Champagne makes for a memorable day. And the fact that it’s a small group means you’re more likely to get personalized attention and better access to the highlights.

If you’re a fan of wine or history, or simply want a break from Paris’s hustle, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s not the cheapest Champagne experience out there, but considering the quality of the tastings and the depth of what you see and learn, it’s a solid value for a full day out.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The cellar visit involves descending stairs, so if stairs are an issue, this might not be the best fit.

How long is the drive from Paris to Reims?
The total tour duration is 12 hours, including travel time, so expect about 1.5 to 2 hours each way.

Are the Champagne tastings included in the price?
Yes, the tastings are part of the tour, and many reviews highlight the “excellent wine selection.”

Can I have free time in Reims?
Yes, there’s free time for lunch and exploring the city, but it’s not included in the tour price.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides are available in English, French, Russian, Georgian, Greek, and German.

Is this tour good for families?
It’s primarily suited for adults interested in history and wine. If traveling with children, consider their comfort with stairs and walking.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

What is the group size?
Limited to 6 participants, making for a more intimate experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are options available in Reims.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just seeking a meaningful day outside Paris, this trip to Reims offers a nice mix of culture, scenic beauty, and, of course, champagne. It’s straightforward, well-organized, and gives you a genuine taste of France’s sparkling jewel—perfect for a day’s escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: