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Reims Itineraries

Reims Itineraries

Reims Champagne, France Travel Guide

-hour Layover Highlights

For a very limited time in Reims, focus on the must-sees closest to the train station.

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrive at Reims Centre station. Walk to Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, explore its exterior and interior. Visit the adjacent Palais du Tau.

Afternoon & Evening

  • Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Traditional French lunch near the Cathedral.
  • Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:30 PM): Taxi or public transport to a major Champagne House (e.g., Mumm or Taittinger) for a cellar tour and tasting. Book in advance.
  • Late Afternoon/Evening (4:30 PM onwards): Return to city center. Enjoy a final glass of Champagne, have dinner, then depart.

Extended Stays

A weekend provides a balanced taste of Reims' history and Champagne. A week allows a deep dive into Reims' history, more Champagne house visits (including smaller producers), and day trips.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

Day 1: Arrival & Reims City Exploration. Immerse yourself in Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral and Palais du Tau. Walk along Rue de Vesle and explore the city center. Dinner at a traditional brasserie. Enjoy a relaxed evening walk around Place Drouet d'Erlon.

Day 2 & 3 Activities

  • Day 2: Champagne Immersion. Morning tour and tasting at a major Champagne house (e.g., Veuve Clicquot, Ruinart). Book in advance.
  • Lunch: Picnic from Les Halles du Boulingrin market or a casual cafe lunch.
  • Afternoon: Visit a second Champagne house or explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
  • Day 3: Optional Day Trip to Épernay by train for more Champagne experiences, or explore Montagne de Reims vineyards.
GetYourGuide has bookable experiences.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

Days 1-3: Follow the weekend itinerary, allowing more time for each site. Add visits to Musée de la Reddition, the Porte de Mars, and the Cryptoportique.

Mid-Week and Departure Days

  • Day 4: Day trip to Épernay and Hautvillers. Consider an organized tour or car rental.
  • Day 5: Explore the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park. Hike, cycle, or visit Les Faux de Verzy.
  • Day 6: Explore WWI history with a visit to Fort de la Pompelle. Afternoon for shopping or a cooking class.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

This length of time enables comprehensive exploration of Reims and the entire Champagne region. Opportunities include multi-day cycling tours, visits to numerous Champagne producers (large and small), exploration of smaller charming villages, and extended day trips to other regions of France or neighboring countries.

Expansive Activities

  • Undertake multi-day cycling tours through the region.
  • Visit a diverse array of Champagne producers.
  • Explore charming, less-visited villages.
  • Take extended day trips to other parts of France or nearby countries.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For extended stays (over two weeks), consider renting an apartment or gîte. This setup allows a slower pace, immersion in local life, and the chance to participate in local events, take language classes, or explore the region more thoroughly at your leisure.

Benefits of Longer Stays

  • Engage more deeply with the local community.
  • Participate in local events and festivals.
  • Opportunity to take French language classes.

Itinerary Tip:

For a comprehensive itinerary, consider combining your Reims visit with a multi-day trip to explore more of the Champagne region.

Interest-Based Routes

These routes prioritize specific interests, from history to culinary delights and outdoor activities.

Historical and Heritage Focus

This route centers on Reims' rich past, from Roman times to royal coronations and the World Wars.

Historical Sites

  • Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, Palais du Tau, Musée Saint-Remi.
  • Porte de Mars, Cryptoportique, Musée de la Reddition.
  • Day Trip: A full-day excursion to Verdun battlefields or Chemin des Dames.
  • Cultural Immersion: Explore the history of specific Champagne houses.
Consider a guided historical tour for insight.

Food and Culinary Experiences

This itinerary revolves around the gastronomic delights of Reims and the Champagne region.

Culinary Activities

  • Champagne house tours and tastings, exploring different styles.
  • Visit Les Halles du Boulingrin market for local produce, cheeses, and charcuterie.
  • Dine at various restaurants, from brasseries to fine dining.
  • Try regional specialties: Biscuits Roses, Jambon de Reims, Coq au Champagne.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

This route centers on enjoying the natural landscapes around Reims.

Outdoor Explorations

  • Cycling through Montagne de Reims vineyards and the Véloroute de la Champagne.
  • Hiking or trekking in Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, including Les Faux de Verzy.
  • Leisurely walks or cycling along the Canal de l'Aisne à la Marne.
  • Day Trip: A full day at Lac du Der-Chantecoq for water sports or birdwatching (car required).

Family-Friendly Itinerary

This plan balances historical sites with engaging activities suitable for all ages.

Activities for All Ages

  • Sites: Notre-Dame Cathedral, Parc de Champagne (green space).
  • Foujita Chapel (unique art for older children).
  • Activities: Family-friendly Champagne house tour (inquire in advance).
  • Picnic in a park, self-guided city scavenger hunt.

Other Interest-Based Itineraries

Art and Architecture Emphasis

Sites: Notre-Dame Cathedral (Gothic), Palais du Tau, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Villa Demoiselle (Art Nouveau/Deco), Art Deco architecture.

Spiritual and Wellness Journey

Activities: Mass or quiet time in Notre-Dame Cathedral. Peaceful walks in Montagne de Reims. Visit smaller chapels. Spa treatments.

Photography Enthusiast Route

Focus on scenic vineyard landscapes, architectural details, and capturing the local life (with permission).

Recommendation:

Tailor your visit to Reims based on your main interests for a more fulfilling journey.

Budget-Based Plans

Reims caters to various budgets, from frugal backpackers to luxury travelers. These plans manage costs while still discovering the best of the city.

Backpacker's Guide

This plan maximizes experiences while minimizing expenses.

Cost-Saving Strategies

  • Accommodation: Hostels or budget hotels (e.g., Ibis Budget, B&B Hotel).
  • Transportation: Rely mainly on walking in the city center.
  • Meals: Self-catering from supermarkets or inexpensive boulangerie items.
  • Attractions: Prioritize free sites like Notre-Dame Cathedral nave; select one basic Champagne tour.
Book TGV train tickets from Paris well in advance for the cheapest fares.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

This plan provides comfort and convenience without excess.

Balanced Travel Options

  • Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star hotels or charming B&Bs.
  • Meals: Mix of casual restaurants, traditional brasseries, and fixed-price lunch menus ("formule").
  • Transportation: Public transport for city exploration, occasional taxi rides or train tickets for day trips.
  • Attractions: Visit museums and partake in 1-2 standard Champagne house tours with tastings.

Luxury Experience Plan

This plan centers on indulgence, exclusive experiences, and premium services.

Premium Accommodations & Dining

  • Accommodation: 4-5 star hotels (e.g., La Caserne Chanzy) or exclusive Champagne house accommodations.
  • Meals: Indulge in fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • Enjoy multiple-course meals paired with premium Champagne cuvées.

Exclusive Tours & Activities

  • Transportation: Taxis, private transfers, or a rental car. Consider a private driver for vineyard tours.
  • Attractions: Exclusive Champagne tours, private cellar visits, personalized tastings.
  • Activities: Spa treatments, private cooking classes, bespoke Champagne blending workshops.

Value-Focused Recommendations

These tips fit any budget level and help you stretch your money further.

Smart Travel Choices

  • Travel during Shoulder or Low Season: Lower prices for accommodation and flights.
  • Book in Advance: Secure better rates for accommodation and TGV train tickets.
  • Utilize Public Transport Day Passes: A cost-effective way to move around Reims.
  • Look for "Formule" Menus: Fixed-price lunch menus generally give better value.

Seasonal Specialties

Each season brings unique charm and activities to the city and region.

Year-Round Appeal

  • Summer (June-August): Warmest months, ideal for outdoor cafes, vineyard walks, and outdoor concerts.
  • Autumn (September-October): Mild weather, grape harvest season (Vendanges), stunning autumn foliage.
  • Winter (November-March): Fewer crowds, cozy dining, Christmas markets in December, focus on indoor attractions.
  • Festival or event-centered visits: Fêtes Johanniques (early June), Reims Jazz Festival (autumn).

Budgeting Tip:

Balance your itinerary with free sites alongside paid ones for a balanced budget.

Seasonal Exploration Strategies

Strategies for off-season travel, aiming for a tranquil and cost-effective journey.

Off-Season Exploration

Off-season exploration has unique advantages for travelers looking for a quieter experience and better value. Consider visiting outside the peak summer months and the grape harvest season for these benefits.

Advantages & Planning

  • Lower Prices: Enjoy reduced prices for accommodation and flights.
  • Fewer Crowds: Experience popular attractions with greater tranquility.
  • Focus on Indoors: Plan around extensive Champagne cellar tours, museum visits, and cozy dining.
  • Dress Warmly: Pack appropriate layers for colder weather.
Some smaller Champagne houses or rural establishments may close for annual holidays in January/February. Check in advance.

Annual Events & Festivals

Reims hosts several annual events and festivals that might align with your interests, offering a cultural dimension to your visit.

Event Highlights

  • Fêtes Johanniques (Joan of Arc Festival): Early June, for history and medieval festivities.
  • Vendanges (Grape Harvest Season): Late August/early September, for an unique agricultural and winemaking experience.
  • Reims Jazz Festival: Annual festival in autumn for jazz enthusiasts.
  • Christmas Market: December, for a festive winter experience with local crafts and food.

Local Experiences

Beyond major attractions, engage with Reims' local life through its daily rhythms and hidden gems. These experiences offer a true taste of the city's character.

Daily Life & Markets

  • Visit a local boulangerie for fresh bread and pastries.
  • Explore Les Halles du Boulingrin market for local produce.
  • Enjoy people-watching at a cafe on Place Drouet d'Erlon.

Hidden Gems

  • Discover the charm of the Foujita Chapel.
  • Find tranquility in smaller, less-known churches.
  • Wander through quiet side streets for unexpected discoveries.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Reims offers varied options for evening entertainment, from elegant Champagne bars to lively pubs and cultural performances. Enjoy the city's ambiance after dark.

Evening Venues

  • Champagne bars: Taste different cuvées in a sophisticated setting.
  • Pubs and cafes: Enjoy a more casual atmosphere with local drinks.
  • Concerts and live music: Check local listings for performances.
  • Theater: Experience local productions or visiting shows.

Shopping Opportunities

Reims has varied shopping experiences, from luxury brands to local specialties and artisan crafts. Find unique souvenirs or treats to take home.

Retail Therapy

  • Luxury boutiques: Discover high-end fashion and accessories.
  • Champagne shops: Purchase bottles directly from producers or specialized stores.
  • Local delicacies: Buy Biscuits Roses de Reims and other regional foods.
  • Artisan crafts: Find handmade souvenirs and unique gifts.

Safety Considerations

General Safety

Reims is a safe city. However, remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transport, for pickpocketing.

Emergency Contacts

In emergencies, dial 112 (European emergency number), 15 (ambulance/medical), 17 (police), or 18 (firefighters).

Seasonal Tip:

The grape harvest season in late August/early September provides an unique atmosphere. Special harvest-related experiences may be offered by some Champagne houses.