From Paris: Champagne Cellars and Vineyards Tour and Tasting

Planning a trip to France and want to include a splash of sparkle? This full-day Champagne tour from Paris offers a chance to explore the legendary vineyards and cellars of the Grand Est region, visiting historic sites, tasting world-famous bubbly, and understanding what makes Champagne so special—all in around 12 to 13 hours.

For around $242 per person, you’ll experience a well-rounded trip that combines beautiful countryside scenery, insider tours of renowned champagne houses, and a visit to the Cathedral of Reims, famous for its architecture. What we love most? The expert guides who bring the region’s stories to life, and the stunning views over the Marne Valley. A potential consideration? The long day might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to 12+ hours on the move.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate wine and history, enjoy small-group experiences, and want a convenient day trip that takes care of transportation and planning. It’s especially ideal if you’re eager to learn about the méthode champenoise and taste a variety of champagnes without the hassle of organizing multiple visits yourself.

Key Points

All-inclusive experience with transportation, guided tours, tastings, and lunch
Expert guides who are knowledgeable and personable
Visits to prestigious champagne houses and historic cellars
Scenic views of Marne Valley and charming villages
Opportunity to purchase select champagnes at boutique shops
Suitable for small groups or private bookings, enhancing intimacy and flexibility

When we think about Champagne, the first images that come to mind are those elegant bubbles, the crackling sound when uncorked, and the luxurious feeling of celebration. This tour captures all those moments while offering a genuine look at the region’s winemaking traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins with hotel pickup and drop-off (if you select the VIP/private option), making it a seamless transition from Paris’s busy streets to the tranquil countryside. Traveling in a luxury minivan allows us to relax, enjoy the scenery, and appreciate the small-group vibe that makes this experience more personal and less like a factory tour.

The drive from Paris to Champagne-Ardenne takes about two hours, during which your guide—possibly Liviu or another knowledgeable local—sets the tone with stories about the landscape and history you’ll encounter. The comfortable transportation means you arrive refreshed and ready for a full day of discovery.

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First Stop: The Champagne Cellar Tour and Tasting at Charles Mignon

Our first major stop is Charles Mignon, a historic Champagne house with a reputation for quality and tradition. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the cellar, where centuries-old underground tunnels house aging bottles. The guides explain the méthode champenoise, the traditional process of second fermentation in bottles that creates those signature bubbles.

The tasting session following the tour is an opportunity to savor several champagnes, from crisp Brut to more complex Vintage varieties. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the tasting experience. One visitor noted, “Our guide was very friendly, knowledgeable and super professional. At the end, he even gave us a present—such a thoughtful touch.”

The Avenue de Champagne and Epernay

Next, we stroll along the famous Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, home to some of the most prestigious champagne houses like Moët & Chandon. The guided walk is brief but packed with history and insight into how this street became the heart of the champagne industry.

We also get time to explore the gift shops—an excellent chance to pick up bottles or souvenirs. Several reviewers have praised this part of the tour for its informal yet informative atmosphere, especially when guided by passionate local experts.

Lunch and Free Time in Epernay

Around midday, there’s a lunch break—a chance to enjoy regional cuisine, perhaps a classic French bistro, or simply relax in the town. The tour usually allows two hours of free time, giving you space to browse shops, take photos, or sit at a café and soak in the scenery.

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Pressoria Champagne Museum in Aÿ-Champagne

Afterwards, the tour moves to Pressoria, a Champagne museum and pressing center in Aÿ-Champagne. Here, we learn about the pressing process and see historic equipment used in production. The visit includes a guided tour, a chance to take photos, and another tasting session.

The reviews from travelers who’ve visited this spot mention the beautiful setting and the tastings of both traditional and organic wines. One guest appreciated the small, family-owned feel of the place, which adds authenticity to the experience.

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Reims Cathedral and Final Stops

The last major highlight is a visit to Reims Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The guided tour offers insights into its history and significance, especially its role in French coronations. A quick photo stop caps off this cultural highlight before heading back to Paris.

The return journey takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights and perhaps plan your next adventure in the Champagne region.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviews emphasize the quality of guides and the small group size, which makes the experience feel intimate rather than rushed. Travelers value the knowledgeable commentary and the variety of stops, from historic cellars to vineyard strolls.

While the price of $242 covers transportation, multiple tastings, guided tours, and lunch, it reflects the overall value when you consider the logistics and expertise involved. Visiting prestigious houses like Moët & Chandon** or family-owned boutique wineries makes the experience richer and more memorable than trying to visit independently.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting to see the “real” Champagne countryside without the hassle of planning multiple visits. The tour’s small-group or private options are perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed experience. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic stories, scenic views, and quality tastings.

This Champagne day trip from Paris offers a comprehensive look at one of France’s most celebrated products. The combination of historic cellars, vineyard views, and expert-guided tastings creates a truly engaging and educational experience. It’s a wonderful way to connect with France’s sparkling heritage, especially if you’re eager to understand both the craftsmanship and culture behind the bubbles.

The long but rewarding day is best for those who don’t mind a bit of a schedule and want to pack their trip with memorable sights and tastes. The positive reviews about the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery reinforce that this is a trustworthy choice for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation for Champagne.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a love of good wine, this tour offers plenty of reasons to raise a glass to the experience.

How long is the tour from Paris?
It lasts about 12 to 13 hours, including travel time, visits, and tastings.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, if you choose the VIP/private option, pickup and drop-off are included from your Paris accommodation.

What is the transportation like?
Travel is in a comfortable, luxury minivan, which allows for a relaxed journey through the countryside.

Are there guided tours at each stop?
Yes, each site—cellars, museums, and the cathedral—includes guided commentary from knowledgeable guides.

Can I buy champagne during the tour?
Yes, at shops like Charles Mignon and Avenue de Champagne, you can purchase bottles directly.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
For those under 18, non-alcoholic grape juice is offered during tastings, making it family-friendly.

How much free time is there?
You’ll have about two hours for lunch and browsing in Epernay, plus some free moments during visits.

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

Are small groups or private tours available?
Yes, options for small or private groups exist, providing a more personalized experience.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
It’s generally not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to the nature of cellar visits.

This Champagne tour from Paris offers a balanced, thoroughly enjoyable day that combines scenery, history, and tasting. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting convenience, authenticity, and a touch of luxury—all wrapped up in one memorable day.