Champagne Private Day Trip: Epernay & Reims 9 glasses

If you’re in Paris and craving a full day of bubbles, history, and stunning landscapes, this private Champagne tour offers a taste of the region’s finest. For $1,510 per group up to two people, you’ll spend about 12 hours exploring iconic Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, visiting the legendary Hautvillers village, and soaking in breathtaking vineyard views. The tour includes multiple tastings, a visit to Reims Cathedral, and a chance to learn about the fascinating process of Champagne-making from passionate guides.

What we love about this experience is how it blends luxury with authenticity—you get to visit small family producers with panoramic views, and tour prestige houses that produce millions of bottles annually. Plus, the interactive Champagne museum, designed to appeal to all senses (and kids!), adds a playful twist to learning about this sparkling wine’s journey from vine to glass.

A possible consideration might be the long day’s schedule—if you prefer a more relaxed pace or shorter visits, this might feel a bit packed. And while the tour strives to book Moët & Chandon —a highlight for many—it’s worth noting that availability isn’t always guaranteed, and an alternative house might be substituted.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate history, want insider access to both major Champagne brands and local family producers, and enjoy scenic drives with expert commentary. If you’re a wine lover or a seasoned traveler seeking a comprehensive Champagne experience, this trip ticks those boxes.

Key Points

Exclusive access to both large houses like Moët & Chandon and smaller family producers.
Breathtaking panoramic views over vineyards at Hautvillers.
Educational yet fun Champagne museum catering to all ages.
Historic sites like Reims Cathedral and Dom Pérignon’s grave.
Comfortable private transportation with WiFi and bottled water included.
Full-day itinerary packed with tastings, sightseeing, and cultural highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Your Champagne Day

When we picture a perfect day trip in the Champagne region, this tour hits all the marks. It begins early with a pickup in Paris (or Epernay/Reims), followed by a scenic 2-hour drive on the highway. During that time, your guide—probably friendly and knowledgeable—shares tidbits about Champagne’s history, key production secrets, and regional quirks. We found this just enough to set the tone without overwhelming.

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Visiting a Family-Run Champagne Producer

One of the most charming parts of this tour is visiting a local family estate perched atop the hills. Here, you’ll meet a family member or a dedicated team member, who will guide you through the cellars and production process. You’ll taste 3 glasses of Champagne, each representing different styles or techniques, and enjoy the spectacular views over the vineyards. According to reviews, this intimate visit offers a personal touch you won’t find at large commercial houses. One traveler from Spain called it “muy bien,” praising both the guide Emily and the driver Ibrahim for their professionalism and friendliness.

The Legend of Dom Pérignon

Next, you’ll stop at the grave of Dom Pérignon in Hautvillers, the tiny village that’s synonymous with Champagne history. The visit lasts around 45 minutes, and you’ll get a chance to walk in the footsteps of the monk whose work helped shape the beverage we love today. Travelers often mention the beautiful panoramic views here, which make for perfect photos and a moment of reflection.

Touring the Major Champagne Houses

Arriving in Épernay, the tour includes a visit to Moët & Chandon—the world’s largest Champagne producer. Expect a guided walk through the underground cellars, where millions of bottles are stored in vaulted tunnels. Here, you’ll taste 2 glasses of Champagne, including Moët Impérial and Rosé Impérial. One reviewer noted, “Every second one bottle of Moet et Chandon Champagne is being opened,” underlining just how prolific this brand is. However, since bookings are subject to availability, sometimes an alternative prestige house is substituted, which still offers a top-tier experience.

Afterward, travelers have a lunch break—about 1 hour—at a recommended local restaurant in Épernay. The tour suggests making a reservation, which is wise if you want a good meal without rushing.

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Reims and Its Historic Cathedral

In the afternoon, the tour heads to Reims, a city famous for its cathedral—the site of over thirty-three sovereign coronations. The Notre-Dame de Reims is an architectural marvel and a must-see for history buffs. The visit lasts around 30 minutes and provides a window into French monarchy and religious history.

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Exploring More Champagne Heritage

The last stops include Veuve Clicquot or Pommery, both designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These houses are steeped in history, known for their distinctive styles and heritage stories. One reviewer mentioned discovering “one of the two ‘Widows’ heritage houses,” emphasizing the historical significance of these estates. A visit here often involves a tour of cellars with centuries-old stones and an exploration of brand stories, combined with tastings.

Returning to Paris

The day wraps up with a 2.5-hour drive back to Paris, with a stop at a few scenic viewpoints if time permits. The tour ends around 8-9 pm, dropping you back at your hotel or accommodation.

How This Tour Brings Value

This private tour offers a comprehensive look at Champagne, balancing large-scale production with intimate family visits. The inclusion of multiple tastings—totaling 9 glasses—means you’re likely to sample a wide range of styles, from prestige cuvées to smaller producers’ offerings. The expert guides and well-planned itinerary ensure you gain insight into how Champagne is made, its historical roots, and the landscape that nurtures it.

The price point might seem high at $1,510, but it covers all entrance fees, tastings, transportation, and local guidance—which can add up if done independently. Plus, the private group setting promises a more personal, less hurried experience. Several reviews highlight the timeliness and friendliness of the guides, making the day comfortable and enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves wine and history, and prefers VIP treatment, this tour will suit you well. It’s ideal for couples or friends seeking a special day, especially those eager to see both big houses and local producers. Travelers who appreciate scenic drives and curated experiences will find this tour hits all the right notes.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or a shorter day, this might feel a bit full. But overall, it offers great value for those who want an immersive taste of Champagne without the hassle of organizing transport or tours themselves.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups up to two people, providing a personalized experience with your own guide and driver.

How long is the drive from Paris?
The drive is approximately 2 hours each way on the highway, giving you plenty of scenic views of vineyard landscapes.

What is included in the price?
All entrance fees, tastings (total of 9 glasses), bottled water, soda, WiFi on board, and private transportation are included.

Can I expect to visit both large Champagne houses and smaller producers?
Yes, the itinerary includes visits to major brands like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, as well as a local family estate with panoramic views.

What if Moët & Chandon isn’t available?
The tour will arrange an alternative prestige Champagne house of similar caliber if needed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the interactive Champagne museum designed for all five senses suggests it could be fun for kids, though tastings are intended for adults.

How much time is allocated for sightseeing and tastings?
Expect about 1.5 hours at each Champagne house, 45 minutes at Hautvillers, and additional time at Reims Cathedral and the museum.

Do I need to make reservations for lunch?
Yes, the tour recommends making a reservation at a local restaurant in Épernay to ensure a smooth experience.

Final Thoughts

This Champagne private day trip offers a rewarding journey through France’s most sparkling region, blending history, scenic beauty, and exceptional wine. The balance of large house tours and intimate family visits creates a comprehensive picture of Champagne production, appealing to both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.

Travelers who value expert guidance, personalized service, and diverse tastings will find this experience well worth the cost. It’s a fantastic way to escape Paris’s hustle and indulge in a day of luxury, learning, and discovery.

If you’re seeking a full immersion into Champagne’s culture and craft, this tour is a wonderful choice. Just be prepared for a long but rewarding day that covers plenty of ground—both geographically and historically.

Note: Always double-check availability and tour details before booking, especially if certain houses like Moët & Chandon are your top priority.