From Paris: Reims and Champagne Tasting Full-Day Tour

A full-day adventure into the heart of France’s Champagne country, visiting Reims and Épernay, is a treat for lovers of bubbly and history alike. For around $408 per person, you’ll spend approximately 11 hours exploring stunning vineyards, touring iconic champagne houses, marveling at Reims Cathedral, and tasting some of the finest sparkling wines in the world. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this tour offers a perfect balance of culture, gastronomy, and scenic beauty.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to visit both large, well-known champagne houses and smaller, family-run estates. This contrast gives you a real sense of the craftsmanship behind each bubbly. Plus, the inclusion of a three-course gourmet lunch in a local restaurant enhances the overall value, making it more than just a tasting trip. The only consideration is that the schedule can be tight, and sometimes the order of visits might shift depending on availability—a minor point, but worth noting if you’re a deep champagne enthusiast.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate history, fine wine, and scenic landscapes, and are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and tasting. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy learning with a guided expert, as many reviews highlight the guides’ extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor. Keep in mind, children under 16 aren’t recommended, and the tour involves some walking and cold cellar visits, so comfortable shoes are essential.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covers both major champagne houses and Reims Cathedral, blending history with wine tasting.
Expert guides like Alex, TJ, and Sebastian bring enthusiasm and knowledge that make each stop engaging.
Variety of tastings and a blind tasting session help you develop your palate and understand what makes each champagne unique.
Included lunch and transportation add convenience, making this a stress-free experience.
Small group sizes foster a friendly atmosphere, with many travelers noting the value for money.
Some flexibility in the schedule means you might miss out on vine visits due to weather or timing, but overall, the experience remains rich and varied.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full-Day Champagne Tour

Starting from Paris—Comfort and Convenience

The journey begins with pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Paris, a feature that sets this tour apart from self-driven adventures. The drive to Épernay takes about 100 minutes, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenic countryside of the Grand Est region. The transportation is via an air-conditioned minivan, ensuring comfort, especially after a long day.

This door-to-door service is a big plus, especially if you’re tired after exploring Paris or want to avoid public transport. As one review mentioned, “Tomer was very kind and thoughtful,” making sure everyone was picked up on time and comfortable.

Épernay and Champagne Houses—A Mix of Grandeur and Intimacy

The highlight of the day is touring two different champagne houses—one large, often iconic producer such as Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, or Taittinger, and a smaller, family-run estate. The selection depends on availability, but the reviews indicate that travelers generally find these visits to be both informative and enjoyable.

Imagine walking through the cellars, often damp and chilly, with your guide explaining every step of the process, from grape to bottle. “The caves are incredibly unique!” one reviewer raved. Expect guided tours that last around two hours at each house, during which you’ll see the production process and sample several champagnes. The tasting sessions often include a second blind tasting, where you learn to differentiate sparkling wines by taste and aroma—a fun way to sharpen your senses.

Many travelers appreciated the contrast—visiting a big house like Nicolas Feuillatte or Mercier gives insight into mass production techniques, while smaller producers offer a more personal, artisanal perspective. Several reviews highlight the value of seeing both ends of the spectrum, with one saying, “The champagne house visits were fantastic, especially the comparison between a large operation and a smaller family effort.”

Scenic Vineyards and a Gourmet Lunch

After the first round of tastings, the tour continues with a visit to a vineyard for a scenic walk and a tasting surrounded by lush vines. One guest recounted, “We loved the way the guide explained the different grape varietals and terroir—really educational and beautiful to see firsthand.” It’s an excellent chance to connect the taste of champagne with the landscape and climate that produce it.

Lunch is included at a local restaurant, and many reviewers mention it as a surprisingly excellent meal—sometimes even gourmet or Michelin-quality. “Lunch at Le Théâtre was wonderful,” one traveler remarked, appreciating the thoughtfully prepared three-course meal. It’s a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy regional gastronomy.

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Reims Cathedral—A Gothic Masterpiece

In the afternoon, the tour shifts to the historic city of Reims, renowned for its magnificent Gothic cathedral, where French kings were crowned for centuries. The cathedral’s architecture is striking, with soaring stained-glass windows and detailed sculptures. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, enough time to appreciate its grandeur and learn about its role in French history.

One reviewer commented, “The Notre Dame of Reims is simply breathtaking, and learning about its significance added a layer of depth to the day.” Visiting Reims also offers a chance for some memorable photos and a brief walk through a charming city center.

Final Tasting and Return to Paris

The day wraps up with a final tasting, often at a large champagne house like Nicolas Feuillatte, where a guide might demonstrate a dramatic bottle saber or share behind-the-scenes stories. This last session is a fun way to consolidate your newfound knowledge and enjoy some last sips of bubbly.

The return journey to Paris lasts about two hours, giving plenty of time to reflect on the day or review your notes. As one guest put it, “From pickup to drop-off, everything was seamless, and our guide made the experience so enjoyable.”

Analyzing the Value

At $408 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the included hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, guided visits, tastings, and a full meal. The reviews consistently praise guides like Alex and TJ, whose enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness elevate the experience beyond mere sightseeing.

Many travelers noted that the variety of champagne houses—big and small—plus the scenic vineyard stop, creates a well-rounded, educational experience that’s perfect whether you’re a casual bubbly drinker or a budding connoisseur. The opportunity to savor multiple champagnes and learn tasting techniques makes it a worthwhile investment for wine lovers.

While the schedule can sometimes be tight, the overall pace is generally appreciated. Some reviews mention that the order of visits might change slightly, but the core experience remains engaging and comprehensive.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits those interested in French history, wine, and scenic landscapes, especially if you prefer guided experiences that eliminate the hassle of DIY travel. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a thorough introduction to Champagne and Reims, as well as seasoned wine enthusiasts looking to deepen their appreciation. Keep in mind, children under 16 aren’t recommended, and be prepared for some walking, cool cellar environments, and a full day on your feet.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Paris to Épernay?
The journey takes about 100 minutes in an air-conditioned minivan, offering a comfortable start and a chance to relax or chat with fellow travelers.

What’s included in the price?
Your tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, guided tours at champagne houses, tastings, a three-course lunch, and bottled water.

Can I visit my favorite champagne house?
The champagne house visited depends on availability, but if you have a preference, you can contact the provider in advance.

Is there time to buy champagne during the tour?
Yes, most visits include tastings, and you might have an opportunity to purchase bottles directly from the houses, though purchases are optional.

Are the cellars cold?
Yes, champagne cellars are often cool and damp, so bringing a jacket or extra layer is advisable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 16 are not recommended, mainly because of wine tastings and the nature of the visits.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Paris offers a rich, balanced experience of the Champagne region’s highlights—spectacular vineyards, fascinating champagne houses, and the historic beauty of Reims. The guided visits, tastings, and included lunch make it a good value, especially for those eager to learn about champagne’s craftsmanship without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

You’ll love the way guides like Alex and TJ bring the region to life, sharing stories and insights that turn a day of tasting into a memorable journey through France’s sparkling heritage. The scenic drives, photo-worthy vineyard views, and impressive cathedral help justify the price, making this a worthwhile outing for anyone seeking an authentic, educational, and delicious experience.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Champagne and Reims. If you’re looking for an enjoyable, well-organized day with plenty of tastings and scenic beauty, this trip is hard to beat.

Remember, booking in advance gives you flexibility and peace of mind, especially since cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours beforehand. Pack comfortable shoes, bring a sense of adventure, and get ready to toast your day in France’s sparkling heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: