Epernay and Reims Champagne Private Day Trip from Paris

A Private Day in Champagne: Visiting Épernay and Reims from Paris

This private day trip from Paris takes you about 140 kilometers east into the heart of France’s most renowned sparkling wine region. For around 8 to 10 hours, you’ll explore two charming towns—Épernay and Reims—and enjoy guided visits to top Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot. Expect scenic drives, historical sites, and memorable tastings, all wrapped in a comfortable, private vehicle with a knowledgeable guide.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it combines authentic Champagne culture with manageable sightseeing stops, avoiding the overwhelm of larger tours. The fact that the tour includes private transportation and skip-the-line access to some of the most famous houses means you get a personalized, relaxed experience.

One potential consideration is that availability at the Champagne houses can be limited, especially during peak seasons. If you’re set on a specific house, it’s wise to book early. Also, since the tour ends back in Paris, it’s ideal for those wanting a full day sampling France’s bubbly without the hassle of planning transportation. This trip suits lovers of wine, history buffs, and travelers craving a taste of authentic French craftsmanship.

Key Points

• Comfortable and Private: Exclusive transportation with a knowledgeable guide makes for a relaxed day.
• Variety of Experiences: From historic sites like Hautvillers to world-famous Champagne houses, there’s a good balance of sights.
• Tasting Opportunities: Enjoy two glasses of Champagne at Moët & Chandon plus a guided cellar tour — perfect for wine lovers.
• Cultural Highlights: The Reims Cathedral is a stunning stop that adds a regal touch to the day.
• Limited Availability: Champagne house visits depend on booking, especially in off-peak months.
• Ideal for Enthusiasts: Best suited for those who want to learn about Champagne production in depth while enjoying some excellent tasting moments.

Exploring the Champagne Region: A Deeper Look

This tour offers a well-rounded slice of what makes Champagne so special — its heritage, landscapes, and craftsmanship. We loved the way the day starts early, with a 7:00 am pickup from your Paris hotel, ensuring you maximize your time in the region. The drive itself, about two hours on the highway, gives you a chance to settle in and listen to your guide share fascinating insights about the area’s history and winemaking traditions.

Hautvillers: The Birthplace of Champagne

Your first stop is Hautvillers, a picturesque village famous for its monastic roots and connection to Dom Pérignon, the monk often credited with pioneering Champagne production. You’ll visit his grave and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the vineyards. The 45-minute visit here is free of charge, but the significance lies in the story of Dom Pérignon—a figure who, whether fully accurate or not, symbolizes the innovation behind Champagne itself.

Reviewers like Marjorie say, “Anna our guide was delightful and knowledgeable on a variety of subjects. She made the ride to and from interesting,” emphasizing how much the guide’s storytelling enhances this stop. Expect a gentle introduction to the region’s history and a chance to stretch your legs.

Champagne Tasting at Moët & Chandon

Once in Épernay, the tour shifts to the world’s largest Champagne house—Moët & Chandon. Here, you’ll go underground into their famous cellars, which stretch for miles beneath the town. The guided tour of the cellars reveals the ages-old techniques of aging and storing Champagne, offering a tangible sense of tradition.

You’ll sample two glasses—Moët Impérial and Rosé Impérial—which gives you a genuine taste of the house’s signature styles. As Humberto notes, “Our driver and guide was informative, kind, considerate, and professional,” making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Since visiting Champagne houses can be limited due to capacity constraints, the tour company emphasizes booking early to secure your spot.

Lunch in Épernay

Midday, you’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant, giving you time to discuss the morning’s impressions while sampling some regional cuisine. This break is a good opportunity to recharge before heading to Reims.

Champagne House Visits in Reims

The afternoon features visits to either Veuve Clicquot or Pommery, both designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These historic cellars are treasures of architecture and heritage, offering a deeper understanding of Champagne’s prestigious past. Both houses have limited visitor slots, so early booking is essential.

Hearing about the heritage of Veuve Clicquot or Pommery adds a layer of cultural richness to the experience, illustrating how Champagne evolved into a symbol of celebration and luxury. Your guide will navigate the logistics, ensuring you get the most out of your time here.

The Reims Cathedral: A Regal Finale

No trip to Reims would be complete without seeing the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, famous for hosting the coronation of French kings. The 30-minute stop allows you to marvel at its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows—a fitting reminder of the region’s royal history and its enduring significance.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

This tour is priced at approximately $665.62 per person, which includes all fees, taxes, private transportation, guided visits, tastings for 18+ (juice or non-alcoholic drinks for minors), bottled water, and WiFi on board. Considering the private nature of the experience, personal guide, and access to world-class Champagne houses, it offers good value for wine enthusiasts eager to learn and taste.

Lunch is not included, but the designated stopping points have options for a leisurely meal. The tour begins at 7:00 am, allowing ample time to explore without feeling rushed.

Transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, and the guide/driver’s insights make the journey both informative and engaging. The small-group or private format means you can tailor some aspects of the experience to your interests—whether that’s more time at a particular house or taking in additional sights.

Limitations and Considerations

• Availability at Champagne houses may be constrained, especially during busy seasons or in winter months when some houses like Moët et Chandon and Veuve Clicquot are closed (January and February). The tour provider offers alternatives during these times.
• Booking early is recommended, as the tour is popular, especially with reviews indicating it’s booked on average 84 days in advance.
• This tour is best suited for those who appreciate guided learning and high-quality tastings, rather than casual sippers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private trip is perfect for anyone wanting a comprehensive, stress-free day in Champagne with knowledgeable guides leading the way. It’s ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, or travelers who want to see both the scenic and cultural sides of the region without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The emphasis on small, private groups or exclusive experience offers a personalized touch that larger tours can’t match.

If you’re interested in learning about Champagne’s craftsmanship, tasting from top houses, and exploring iconic historic sites, this trip will definitely satisfy. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate authentic experiences and prefer a more intimate, tailored day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tasting is for 18+ only, minors will have non-alcoholic drinks like juice. The tour includes sightseeing and is a full day, so it can work for families, but check with the provider about any specific restrictions.

What is included in the tour price?
All fees, taxes, private transportation, guide/driver, bottled water, WiFi, and tastings for adults are included. Lunch is not, so plan accordingly.

If some Champagne houses are closed, what are my options?
The tour provider will inform you if certain houses are unavailable and suggest alternative Champagne houses to visit, ensuring you still get a quality experience.

How long is the drive from Paris?
The drive is approximately two hours each way, providing a comfortable window for resting and learning from your guide.

Can I choose which Champagne houses to visit?
The itinerary has pre-selected houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, but if these are not available, alternatives will be offered.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, since it involves walking in cellars and historic sites, it’s best to inquire directly with the provider about accessibility.

When should I book this tour?
Booking at least 3 months in advance is recommended, especially if you want to visit specific houses or travel during peak seasons.

What if I am late or need to cancel?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, making planning a bit easier.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking tours, and dress in layers as cellar temperatures can be cooler than outside.

To sum it up, this private Champagne day trip from Paris offers a thoughtfully curated experience. You’ll visit iconic houses, learn about the craftsmanship behind every sparkling glass, and enjoy some of the best views and cultural sights the region has to offer. If you value guided, intimate encounters with French tradition and want to avoid the crowds, this tour provides an excellent balance of education, luxury, and genuine charm. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to celebrate France’s most famous bubbly with style and confidence.