Experience the Elegance of Champagne with a Private Day Trip from Paris
This private Champagne tour takes you through some of the most iconic and charming parts of the Champagne region, starting with Moët & Chandon and Nicolas Feuillatte, then finishing in the picturesque village of Hautvillers. Priced at $603 per person, the day-long journey lasts about 11.5 hours and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off—a real convenience for travelers wanting to avoid logistical hassles. For those who appreciate luxury transport, a Mercedes E220 in business class or a minivan for larger groups makes the ride comfortable, with scenic views along the way.
What we particularly like about this experience is the variety of tastings—with a total of 8 glasses of Champagne—and the chance to walk through underground cellars at Moët & Chandon. The guides are known for their knowledgeable explanations, which make the Champagne tasting more meaningful than just popping corks. The visit to Hautvillers, the village where Dom Perignon developed the region’s winemaking techniques, adds a historical touch that enriches the day.
A possible consideration is the long driving hours—about 2.5 hours back to Paris after the day’s activities—which might be tiring for some. The tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts or travelers eager to learn about Champagne’s production process in depth, especially those who enjoy guided visits and high-quality tastings.
This tour offers a well-rounded, luxurious, and authentic experience that balances sightseeing, education, and indulgence—perfect for anyone wanting to make a special day of exploring France’s most famous bubbly.
Key Points
- Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Moët & Chandon, Nicolas Feuillatte, and Hautvillers with multiple tastings.
- Luxury Transportation: Comfortable Mercedes vehicles with guaranteed private departures.
- Authentic Experiences: Guided cellar tours with explanations and panoramic views.
- Taste Variety: Up to 8 glasses of Champagne across different producers and styles.
- Historical Context: Hautvillers and Dom Perignon’s legacy enrich the visit.
- Convenience: Hotel pick-up and drop-off included, simplifying your day.
Exploring the Champagne Region: A Detailed Review
If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Hautvillers
The Itinerary and What Makes It Special
This tour offers a carefully curated day that combines visits to renowned Champagne houses with charming local stops. Starting early at 7:30 am, the journey kicks off with a 2-hour scenic drive from Paris. We loved the way the landscape gradually transforms from the city’s hustle to rolling vineyards and lush countryside—an instant mood lift for wine lovers.
The first stop is at a local family Champagne producer—a refreshing change from the big-name brands. Here, you’ll get to experience a personalized tasting of 3 glasses of Champagne with explanations that shed light on regional differences and production nuances. Reviews from past travelers emphasize how informative and friendly their guides are, making even novices feel like Champagne connoisseurs.
Next, you’ll head to Epernay, the Champagne capital of France, home to Moët & Chandon. This is where the tour truly shines. Depending on your chosen experience level—Basic (“L” Imperial), Advanced (“Signature”), or Grand Vintage—you’ll explore underground cellars and taste 2 to 3 glasses of Champagne. The cellar tours are especially memorable, with guides explaining the intricate process of aging and blending. One visitor noted, “We loved the way the underground tunnels echo with history and the smell of aging Champagne—it’s like stepping into a wine cathedral.”
A lunch break in Épernay offers a chance to sample local cuisine or simply enjoy wandering along the famed Avenue of Champagne, lined with prestigious Champagne houses. The town’s youthful energy and history make it an ideal spot for a break.
In the afternoon, the tour proceeds to Nicolas Feuillatte. The guided cellar tour here gives insight into this modern Champagne house, which is known for producing 8 million bottles annually. The 3 glasses of Champagne tasting at this stop highlights the diversity of styles—from crisp, fresh bubbles to more complex options—appealing to both newcomers and seasoned drinkers.
Afterward, the visit to Hautvillers is both scenic and historic. The village’s Abbey of Saint-Pierre is where Dom Perignon refined Champagne-making techniques. Standing in the church or at the viewpoint overlooking the vineyards, you get a sense of how deeply intertwined this place is with the region’s fame. Many reviewers found this stop “the highlight for its peaceful charm and historical significance.”
The day wraps up with a 2.5-hour drive back to Paris, arriving around 7:00 pm. While the return journey is lengthy, the comfortable Mercedes vehicle helps smooth it over, and the scenery from the window provides one last visual treat.
What to Expect at Each Stop
Local Family Producer: Expect a warm welcome and a personalized tasting experience. With explanations tailored to your knowledge level, you’ll learn about the specific grapes and techniques used by this producer. Reviewers love the authenticity—”It felt like visiting a friend’s cellar, not a big commercial operation.”
Moët & Chandon: The underground cellar tour is a highlight, revealing the vast tunnels that hold millions of bottles. You’ll see the processing and aging areas and learn about the different levels of experience available. The tastings—ranging from Imperial to Grand Vintage—allow you to savor the diversity of styles that Moët offers.
Nicolas Feuillatte: As the world’s biggest Champagne producer, they focus on modern production methods. The guided tour is lively, with local staff sharing stories about the house’s history and innovation. The tasting here complements the earlier visits by showcasing more accessible, yet high-quality, Champagne.
Hautvillers: This tiny village offers a step back in time. Visiting the abbey and church tied to Dom Perignon, you’ll gain insight into how Champagne evolved. The panoramic viewpoint over the vineyards is an ideal spot for photos and reflection.
The Transportation and Timing
The luxury Mercedes E220 or minivan ensures a comfortable ride, especially after a long day of walking and sightseeing. The timings are well-paced: early start, generous breaks, and a smooth flow from one location to the next. The tiered pricing ensures that smaller groups can enjoy more personalized attention, while larger groups benefit from an affordable luxury experience.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value and Cost
At $603 per person, the tour is certainly an investment. However, considering the all-inclusive nature—including private transport, hotel pickup, multiple cellar tours, and eight glasses of Champagne—the cost reflects value for a premium, curated experience. It’s especially worthwhile if you’re a champagne enthusiast or want an educational, yet indulgent day with little planning hassle.
While you're exploring Hautvillers, here are other experiences we've looked into
What Past Travelers Say
Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and excellent selections of Champagne. One detailed comment was, “The explanations made all the difference—we left feeling like we understood the difference between a basic Brut and a vintage.” Others appreciate the personalized touch of the private tour and the luxury transport that makes the day seamless.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for wine lovers, especially those interested in Champagne production. If you enjoy guided tours with explanations, and want to learn about the history and craft behind the bubbly, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s also great for luxury travelers who appreciate comfort and a touch of exclusivity.
However, if you prefer more casual or shorter experiences, or aren’t keen on long drives, you might find this tour a bit extensive. It’s best suited for those who want a full-day, educational, and indulgent journey into the world of Champagne.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is operated as a private experience with a dedicated guide and vehicle, ensuring personalized attention.
What is included in the price?
The price covers guided cellar visits at Moët & Chandon, Nicolas Feuillatte, and a local producer, tastings of 8 glasses of Champagne, hotel pick-up and drop-off, all fees and taxes, and bottled water.
Are meals included?
No, meals and additional drinks are not included. You’ll have the opportunity to dine in Épernay during the lunch break.
What are the transportation options?
You’ll travel in a Mercedes E220 in business class for smaller groups (2-3 people), or a Mercedes minivan for larger groups (3-7 people).
How long is the drive back to Paris?
The return trip is approximately 2.5 hours. While long, the comfortable vehicles and scenic views make it manageable.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour suitable on Sundays?
Note that Champagne Chateau Boursault is closed on Sundays, so the tour will offer an alternative local Champagne producer instead.
How much walking is involved?
While most of the tour involves driving and guided visits, some walking is required at the cellar tours and Hautvillers, but it’s manageable for most travelers.
Final Thoughts
This private Champagne trip from Paris offers a luxurious, educational, and authentic look into one of France’s most celebrated regions. The combination of famous Champagne houses, charming villages, and expert guides makes for a memorable experience—whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning to explore the world of bubbles.
The focus on quality tastings and personalized tours ensures that you’ll leave with both a fuller glass and a richer understanding of Champagne’s history and production. The private nature and luxury transport add a layer of comfort, making it ideal for travelers seeking a special, hassle-free day.
For anyone who loves wine, history, and a touch of French elegance, this tour ticks all the boxes—worthy of its high rating and rave reviews. It’s a perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or simply indulge your passion for bubbly in style.
This tour is best suited for those seeking an all-inclusive, immersive Champagne experience with a private guide—ideal for those who appreciate quality, comfort, and a good story behind their Champagne.
You can check availability for your dates here: