Excursion to the Champagne region and Wine Tasting

A sparkling way to spend a day outside Paris — this private tour takes you into the heart of the Champagne region, visiting iconic houses like Moët & Chandon, Taittinger, and Pommery, as well as smaller, more intimate producers. For around $694 per person, you’ll enjoy a flexible, personalized experience with transportation, lunch, and tasting included. We love how this tour combines comfort with authentic insight, thanks to a knowledgeable guide who listens to your preferences and keeps the day lively and engaging.

Two aspects stand out. First, the visit to renowned Champagne cellars offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the bubbles are crafted — a real treat for wine lovers. Second, the personalized touch provided by the guide, Jean Baptiste, who is praised for his friendliness, professionalism, and passion for Champagne. He makes the experience not just educational, but memorable.

A potential consideration is the duration — 8 to 10 hours means a long day, especially if you prefer more relaxed, less rushed tours. Also, as a private experience, it’s best suited for those who value a tailored itinerary and are willing to invest a bit more for a premium experience. This tour is ideal for travelers eager to explore Champagne in depth, appreciate both major brands and hidden gems, and enjoy a comfortable, guided journey from Paris.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: A knowledgeable and friendly guide enhances the experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: Customizable visits to major houses and boutique producers.
• In-Depth Tasting: Between 7 and 10 glasses of Champagne, with cellar visits included.
• Authentic Locations: Visits to historic sites like Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers and panoramic vineyard views.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Private transportation, lunch, and drinks included.
• Ideal for Connoisseurs: Perfect for those wanting a detailed, personalized Champagne experience.

A Closer Look at the Experience

If you’re eager to understand why Champagne is so special and want to see the process firsthand, this tour hits the mark. Starting early at 7:30 am, your private driver and guide pick you up at your Paris hotel, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free day. The journey itself is part of the charm — a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle whisking you away from the city’s bustle into the lush vineyards and historic towns.

Visiting Moët & Chandon

The first stop is one of the most famous Champagne houses in the world, Moët & Chandon. Here, you get a 1.5-hour visit that includes a guided tour of the cellars and a tasting session. The inclusion of an admission ticket means you can go behind the scenes and see how the legendary Champagne is stored and matured. According to reviews, this stop offers a fascinating glimpse into the production process, which is made even more memorable by the professional guidance.

Exploring Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon

Next, you’ll visit Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, a quaint church famously linked to Dom Pérignon, the monk often credited with pioneering Champagne production. Only 15 minutes are spent here, but it’s a meaningful stop — you’ll see the tomb of Dom Pérignon himself and learn about his contributions. Then, a brief panoramic stop provides sweeping views over the Marne valley, perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the landscape.

Lunch in Epernay

Midday, the tour pauses for a gourmet lunch at a highly-rated restaurant in Epernay. This break isn’t just about refueling; it’s an opportunity to savor local cuisine, often paired with Champagne, in a relaxed setting. The 1.5-hour duration allows enough time to enjoy good food without feeling rushed, making it a highlight for many travelers.

Independent Exploration in Epernay

After lunch, you’ll visit Champagne Le Gallais, a boutique house with a rich heritage and character. This visit is about 75 minutes and includes a tasting that will expand your appreciation of the region’s diversity. The guide’s knowledge about the vineyard and wine-making process adds depth, and many reviews emphasize how passionate guides make these visits engaging.

The Flexibility of the Tour

What makes this experience stand out is the ability to customize — whether you want more visits to other houses or extra time exploring. The guide is attentive, and the tour’s private nature means your group’s interests shape the day. You can swap in additional stops or spend more time at certain locations if you wish.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At nearly $700, this is a premium experience. But considering the inclusion of transportation, multiple cellar visits, tastings, lunch, and personalized guidance, many find it offers excellent value, especially compared to booking separate tours or transportation. The 7 to 10 glasses of Champagne you sample, combined with the chance to see world-famous houses and learn about the region’s history and production, make it a comprehensive journey.

The reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guide, Jean Baptiste, who has a clear passion for Champagne. One traveler described him as “a friendly, excellent driver and guide,” noting how he showed them tasty Champagne houses and arranged a surprise tasting in the vineyard. Such personalized touches elevate this experience beyond just a generic day trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting a full day of discovery outside Paris with minimal hassle. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a personal touch and want to visit both major Champagne houses and small, characterful producers. If you’re looking for an insider’s view of Champagne, with expert guidance and a comfortable ride, this is a strong choice.

That said, it’s a long day — suited for travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and are prepared for a bit of an indulgent experience. If your goal is a relaxed, low-key day, this might feel a bit rushed; but if you love immersive, guided visits to legendary cellars, this tour delivers.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, a private, air-conditioned vehicle is included for the entire day, making the trip comfortable and hassle-free from start to finish.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, giving you a full day of Champagne exploration without feeling rushed.

Are lunch and drinks included?
Yes, a gourmet lunch is provided in Epernay, and the tour includes between 7 and 10 glasses of Champagne, all part of the package.

Can I customize the stops?
The tour is flexible and can be tailored to your requests. Your guide listens to your interests, making it a personalized experience.

How long is the tour?
Expect the tour to last approximately 8 to 10 hours, covering multiple visits, sightseeing, and lunch.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your party participates, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is this suitable for beginners or only connoisseurs?
While wine lovers will appreciate the tastings, the tour’s educational style makes it accessible for those new to Champagne as well.

To sum it up, this private Champagne tour balances luxury, education, and authentic regional charm. With expert guidance, a flexible itinerary, and a focus on quality experiences, it offers a rewarding way to enjoy Champagne beyond just sipping a glass. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to explore France’s most famous bubbly region, this trip from Paris is hard to beat. Perfect for curious travelers who want to learn, taste, and see the Champagne region in style.