From Reims: Champagne Day Trip to Two Local Domains & Lunch

When you think of Champagne, images of sparkling bottles, glamorous vineyards, and storied tradition often come to mind. This 8-hour tour offers a balanced look at the region’s history, scenery, and tasting experiences — all for $281 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit the historic city of Reims, the birthplace of Champagne’s roots, explore Hautvillers where Dom Pérignon rests, then stroll along Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, home to some of the most famous champagne houses.

What makes this trip stand out is the chance to taste 6 glasses of authentic Champagne at two family-run estates, far from the commercialized giants. Plus, the included lunch at a quaint local restaurant gives you a taste of genuine French hospitality and cuisine.

On the downside, you’ll need to make your own way to Reims if you’re staying elsewhere — this tour starts at the train station. It’s ideal for those who love history, scenic landscapes, and a good glass of bubbly, especially if you prefer small groups and personalized attention. This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or travelers seeking an authentic, hassle-free way to explore Champagne beyond just drinking the bubbly.

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Reims, Hautvillers, and Épernay in one day
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures personalized experience
• Two family-run champagne estates for genuine tastings, avoiding tourist traps
• Expert guides enhance the storytelling and tasting insights
• Delicious French lunch included, with main course, dessert, and Champagne
• Valuable for those wanting a well-rounded, authentic Champagne experience

This tour offers a wonderful balance of sightseeing, history, and tasting — all within a carefully curated 8-hour window. Starting at the Reims train station, you’ll hop into a comfortable van with a small group. This setup means you won’t be lost in a sea of travelers; instead, you’ll get a more intimate look at this unique part of France.

The first stop is a quick sightseeing tour of Reims, a city renowned for its majestic cathedral and royal history. While only 20 minutes are allocated, you’ll get a sense of the grandeur that made Reims a historic hub for French kings and a fitting starting point for the day.

Next, the journey takes you through the scenic Marne Valley vineyards, a landscape dotted with lush green vines. It’s a backdrop that immediately sets the tone for what’s to come — a region synonymous with sparkling wine craftsmanship.

The next highlight is the charming village of Hautvillers, often called the birthplace of Champagne. This picturesque spot is where Dom Pérignon, the legendary monk credited with refining Champagne’s méthode champenoise, is buried. You’ll walk through narrow streets, soak in the quaint architecture, and understand why this village exudes a sense of timeless tradition.

Many reviews mention how engaging and enthusiastic guides, like Radamus, make these stops come alive with stories of monks, vineyards, and the evolution of sparkling wine. One visitor noted, “Radamus was very enthusiastic and passionate about Champagne from which we learnt everything we could want to know.”

The tour then moves on to Épernay, often called the Capital of Champagne. Here, the highlight is Avenue de Champagne, a street lined with stunning mansions and the entrances to legendary champagne houses like Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët, and Pol Roger. While the guided visits focus on two family estates, walking along this avenue is a visual feast that hints at the wealth and history of Champagne production.

You can expect a brief guided tour and tasting at each estate. Visitors consistently praise the authenticity — tasting 6 glasses of Champagne in total. One reviewer raved, “We loved visiting the smaller family-run Champagne houses, enjoyed some lovely Champagne and warm hospitality.” This means you’re getting more than a surface-level impression; it’s a chance to appreciate the diversity of flavors and styles that come from different growers.

The core of this tour is the champagne tastings. At two family estates, you’ll sample three glasses each, totaling six glasses throughout the day. This approach guarantees variety and insight into the different styles and nuances of Champagne — from brut to organic if available.

The reviews are full of praise for the guides’ knowledge and the warm hospitality at these estates. One guest remarked, “The knowledge of our guide Radames was excellent and the warm welcome at the wineries made the day.” It’s clear that genuine passion and expertise elevate the experience far beyond just sipping bubbly.

Midday, you’ll pause at a local restaurant for a main course, dessert, and a glass of Champagne. Many reviewers highlight this as a highlight, appreciating the authenticity and quality of the meal. One said, “Lunch was excellent as well,” and others note that the delicious traditional French food complements the sparkling wines perfectly.

This break not only refuels you but also offers a chance to reflect on the morning’s experiences. It’s a good reminder that in Champagne, food and wine are intertwined traditions, and this tour captures that essence.

Transportation is by comfortable van, and the small group size (up to 8 participants) makes for a more personalized experience. The tour is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the surroundings without rushing. The total duration is 8 hours, which includes travel, visits, tastings, and lunch.

The guide’s expertise helps maximize the limited time — many reviews mention how guides like Pierre or Radamus expertly managed the schedule and shared fascinating stories.

One thing to consider is the starting point: you need to meet at Reims station, which may require planning if you’re not already in Reims. The tour recommends specific train options from Paris, making it easier to coordinate your travel.

This tour isn’t about mass tourism — it’s about authentic family estates, scenic villages, and guided insights that turn a simple tasting into a cultural experience. Many guests rave about the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, like Radamus, Pierre, or Christophe, who bring the region’s stories to life.

At $281, you’re paying for a full day of curated experiences, including transportation, tastings, and a quality lunch. When you compare this to the cost of private tastings or visiting on your own, it’s a good value considering the expert guidance and intimate group size.

If you’re someone who loves wine, history, and picturesque scenery, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suitable if you prefer small groups and personalized attention. It’s ideal for those eager to learn about Champagne’s origins, or anyone wanting a taste of authentic family-run wineries.

While it’s not suited for wheelchair users, it’s perfect for adventurous travelers comfortable with walking through charming villages and standing during tours.

This Reims-based Champagne day trip offers a well-balanced, enriching experience. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of the region’s history and production, along with plenty of delicious Champagne to savor. The tour’s highlights — small group size, authentic family estates, and a genuine French lunch — make it a fantastic value for anyone craving an authentic taste of Champagne.

It’s best suited for enthusiasts wanting a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at the Champagne world, or history buffs eager to learn more about Dom Pérignon and the origins of sparkling wine. If you’re short on time but want to see the highlights and enjoy a memorable day, this tour delivers.

• What is included in the price?
  The tour includes transportation, expert guides, sightseeing in Hautvillers and Épernay, tastings at 2 family estates (6 glasses total), and a traditional French lunch with main course, dessert, and 1 glass of Champagne.

• How long is the tour?
  The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, from pick-up at the Reims train station to drop-off.

• Where does the tour start?
  It begins at the Office de Tourisme du Grand Reims, in front of the Reims train station.

• Do I need to arrange my own transport from Paris?
  Yes, you need to book your own train from Paris to Reims. The tour recommends specific TGV trains, and you should arrive in Reims early enough to meet the guide.

• Can I join if I don’t speak French?
  The tour is conducted in English, and guides like Radamus and Pierre are fluent, ensuring you won’t miss out on the stories and explanations.

• Is lunch included?
  Yes, lunch at a local restaurant is included, with a main course, dessert, and a glass of Champagne.

• How many people are in the group?
  The tour is limited to 8 participants, fostering a more intimate experience.

• Are there any accessibility considerations?
  Unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and site conditions.

• What if I want to cancel?
  You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• What kind of Champagne will I taste?
  You’ll sample from two traditional family estates, enjoying a total of 6 glasses, which may include different styles and flavors, depending on the estates’ offerings.

This day trip from Reims is a thoughtfully organized way to experience Champagne’s heritage, scenery, and flavors. You’ll get a glimpse into small family estates, walk through historic villages, and enjoy authentic French hospitality. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting a relaxed, educational, and delicious day in one of France’s most iconic wine regions. Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or just curious about the bubbly’s origins, this tour offers a memorable, authentic adventure that’s worth the price.