Reims/Epernay: Champagne Day Tour with Tastings

Planning a trip to France and dreaming of popping open a perfectly chilled flute of Champagne? If you’re like most wine lovers, a dedicated day exploring the Champagne region might be on your list. This full-day guided tour in Épernay promises a balanced mix of vineyard views, expert tastings, and a taste of local history—all packed into roughly 8.5 hours. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and here’s the honest rundown to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.

We’re especially drawn to the personalized guidance from a knowledgeable local and the chance to enjoy the region’s lush vineyards at a relaxed pace. Plus, the tastings at both a Champagne house and an independent winery provide a nice variety, giving you more than just a quick peek into the sparkling wine world. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, which means you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting points. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing transport themselves, especially if you’re a fan of wine, history, and beautiful scenery.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 8.5-hour experience in Épernay, ideal for those wanting an in-depth look at Champagne production
• Includes visits to a Champagne house and an independent winery, offering diverse tasting opportunities
• Expert guide provides insights into wine-making and regional history, enriching the visit
• Delicious French lunch served in a local restaurant, adding to the authentic vibe
• Vineyard walk and soil talk give a real sense of what makes Champagne so special
• Small group size (up to 8 people) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This Champagne day tour takes you beyond simple tastings; it’s designed to give a genuine feel for the region. You’ll meet in Épernay, outside the Tourist Office, and then hop into a comfortable private van for the day. What we especially like is how the itinerary balances structured visits with free time—so you’re engaged without feeling rushed.

The highlight is probably the visit to an underground Champagne cellar. Exploring these labyrinths, carved into the hillside, gives you a real sense of tradition and craftsmanship. Walking through the vines, you’ll learn about how soil, climate, and manual labor shape the grapes that end up in your glass—something that’s often overlooked but makes all the difference.

The guided tastings are a real treat. You’ll be surprised by the variety of flavors, and with a knowledgeable guide explaining what makes each Champagne unique, you’ll gain a new appreciation for what’s in your flute. As one reviewer put it, Angelique’s expertise and friendly attitude made the whole experience “a good time,” and her passion really shines through.

The Itinerary: What to Expect Day-By-Day

Starting point: You meet outside the Épernay Office of Tourism at 10:00 AM, ready for a full day. This is convenient if you’re already in Épernay or nearby, but keep in mind that if you’re staying in Reims, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting spot.

First stop: Epernay – You’ll spend about 1.5 hours here, visiting a Champagne house where you can witness the production process firsthand and enjoy a tasting. These visits are usually well-organized, and you’ll learn how Champagne is crafted from the grape to your glass. One reviewer mentioned that the winery visit was “special with the owner and the view,” making it a memorable part of their day.

Vineyard walk & soil talk – A short stroll in the vineyards allows you to see the landscape and understand how the terroir influences flavor. It’s a good opportunity for photos and absorbing the scenery that makes Champagne so iconic. The guide will explain why good soil is crucial for quality grapes, and you might find the manual effort involved quite impressive.

Lunch at a local restaurant – Expect a traditional French meal, with some reviews highlighting the delicious local cuisine and good value. It’s a nice break to relax and fuel up for the afternoon.

Hautvillers visit – This hillside village offers one of the prettiest views in the region. The Benedictine abbey here is associated with Dom Pérignon, adding a touch of historical significance. You’ll spend about 45 minutes exploring, soaking in the landscape, and learning about the area’s connection to Champagne’s history.

Visit to an independent winery – You’ll tour a cellar and taste more Champagne—this time from a smaller, family-run operation. Many reviews praise this part for its authenticity and the chance to taste a broader range of bubbly styles. One traveler mentioned the “owner and view” made the visit particularly memorable.

Final tasting in Reims – Before wrapping up, you’ll visit another Champagne house or winery for a concluding tasting experience, wrapping up the day with some sparkling wine education and a final sip to remember.

Return to Épernay: The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point around 6:30 PM, ending a day full of sights, sips, and stories.

Pricing and Value

At $334 per person, this tour might seem on the higher end for a day trip, but it’s important to consider what’s included. Transport, a private guide, multiple tastings, and lunch are all covered, which adds up if you tried to piece together this experience independently. While there’s no hotel pickup, the convenience of guided visits and expert commentary can make the cost worthwhile—especially if you’re keen on learning and tasting without any stress.

Guests have described it as “great value,” noting the diversity of visits and the quality of the guide. One reviewer emphasized that the winery visit was “special” and the lunch “delicious,” reinforcing the idea that this isn’t just about quantity but quality.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love Champagne, wine, or French culture, this experience offers a well-rounded day with plenty to learn and enjoy. It’s especially good for those who appreciate small-group tours, providing personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Travelers looking for a semi-structured day with a balance of guided insight and free exploration** will find this a great fit.

However, keep in mind the lack of hotel pickup and drop-off, so if you’re staying outside Épernay or Reims, you’ll need to plan your transportation accordingly. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, given the walking involved and the nature of some visits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Is hotel pickup included? No, you need to meet outside the Épernay Tourist Office or arrange your own transport.
• What’s the tour duration? Approximately 8.5 hours, including visits, tastings, lunch, and travel time.
• How many people are in the group? The tour is designed for small groups, limited to 8 participants.
• What languages are available? The tour is conducted in English and French.
• Are the tastings included? Yes, all tastings at the Champagne house and independent winery are included.
• What is the starting point? Outside the Office de Tourisme d’Epernay en Champagne at 10:00 AM.
• Can I cancel? Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
• Is lunch included? Yes, a traditional French meal is part of the package.
• Is this suitable for children? The tour focuses on wine and involves walking and visits that may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.
• Can I book and pay later? Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to see and taste the best of the Champagne region without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour offers a thoughtful mix of sights, stories, and sips. The expert guidance, beautiful scenery, and diverse tastings make it stand out as a well-rounded option. While it’s not perfect for those with mobility issues or staying outside Épernay, it’s an excellent pick for wine lovers wanting an authentic, relaxed experience in a gorgeous part of France.

If you’re after a day filled with learning, beautiful views, and plenty of bubbly, this tour strikes a good balance of value and quality. Just make sure to plan your transport to and from the meeting point, and you’ll be set for a memorable Champagne adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: