Paris: Private Epernay Trip with Champagne Vineyard Tastings

Planning a trip to Paris often means enjoying art, history, and incredible cuisine. But just a couple of hours outside the city lies the Champagne region, a sparkling jewel filled with vineyards, grand Champagne houses, and stories that go back centuries. This private tour, priced at around $1,024 per person and lasting 11 hours, offers an inside look at how some of the world’s most famous sparkling wines are made, with visits to top wineries, tastings, a three-course lunch, and scenic drives through picturesque villages.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see both the grand Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and smaller, family-run vineyards — a combo that offers a well-rounded picture of the region’s diversity. Plus, the private guide means you get personalized attention and stories that bring the region to life. On the flip side, this is a long day with quite a bit of driving, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full days and eager to learn.

If you’re a wine lover or simply curious about France’s most celebrated sparkling wine, this tour offers a perfect mix of education, taste, and scenic charm. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive experience that avoids the hassle of planning, and who appreciate authentic visits rather than just tourist traps.

Key Points

Exclusive Access: Visit a top Champagne house like Moët & Chandon with a guided tour, giving you behind-the-scenes insight.
Tasting Variety: Sample up to 7 different sparkling wines, from large producers to smaller vineyards.
Authentic Experience: Learn about Champagne’s history and production directly from knowledgeable guides.
Cultural Charm: Discover the villages and vineyards that shaped the region’s reputation.
Enjoy a Gourmet Lunch: Indulge in a thoughtfully prepared 3-course meal at a local restaurant.
All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, entry fees, tastings, and meals are covered, making it a seamless day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into Your Champagne Adventure

Starting in Paris, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, setting off early for the Champagne region. The two-hour drive is a chance to settle in and get some context from your guide, who will share interesting tidbits about the area’s history and the significance of Champagne production. This is more than just a scenic drive—your guide’s commentary adds depth, making the journey as engaging as the stops.

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The First Stop: Épernay and Moët & Chandon

Your first major highlight is a guided visit to Moët & Chandon, arguably the most iconic Champagne house. Depending on availability, your guide will organize a tour of the facilities, where you’ll see the vast cellars and learn about the production process. The tasting here is a real treat — you’ll sample up to 7 different sparkling wines. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge of the guides, with one noting, “Victor is the best,” and others mentioning how the guide made the tour “real” and engaging.

After the tour, you’re free to stroll down Avenue de Champagne, a street lined with historic Champagne houses and charming shops. Many guests enjoy this moment to soak in the atmosphere and snap photos of the grand facades.

Lunch in Épernay

Next, a delicious 3-course lunch awaits at a local restaurant chosen for its authentic charm and quality. The meal provides a well-earned break and a chance to discuss the morning’s sights with fellow travelers. Reviewers love the surprise element of the lunch — “what a surprise,” one said — highlighting how this added an extra layer of enjoyment to the day.

Visiting a Smaller Vineyard and the Champagne Museum

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to a smaller vineyard where the staff are described as “charming” and the atmosphere “cozy and welcoming.” Here, you’ll see a different side of Champagne production — more hands-on and intimate. The chance to taste their elegant and exclusive product offers a contrast to the larger houses, revealing the nuances of boutique Champagne.

A visit to the local Champagne museum offers insights into the tools used to make the wine and provides a short film about the vines and harvests, adding educational value to the experience.

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Final Tasting and Scenic Photo Stops

Your day concludes with a second vineyard visit in the Champagne-Ardenne, where you’ll get to meet the workers and hear about their unique techniques. This less commercial, more personal engagement often impresses guests, who appreciate seeing the passion and craftsmanship behind each bottle.

A quick photo stop in the countryside allows you to capture the rolling vineyards and idyllic landscapes that make this region so special.

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Return to Paris

After a full day of tasting, touring, and dining, you’ll head back to Paris, arriving in the early evening. Many travelers find this a perfect way to combine the best of France’s rural charm with the comforts of guided convenience.

What This Tour Means for You

The value of this experience isn’t just in the tastings (though those are very generous), but in the stories, history, and personal touches from guides that elevate a simple wine tour into a memorable cultural experience. The private group setting means fewer crowds, more tailored conversations, and a more relaxed pace. Plus, the all-inclusive nature removes the stress of planning and negotiating at every stop.

The long drive might be a consideration if you’re sensitive to travel time — but for many, the scenic ride and engaging commentary make it worthwhile. Also, because this tour involves visits to Champagne houses and vineyards, participants must be at least 18 years old and should be prepared for some walking in cool cellar environments.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Champagne’s production firsthand. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups looking for an intimate, guided day that offers both education and indulgence. If you want to avoid the hassle of self-driving or booking multiple visits independently, this all-in-one package is a safe choice.

It’s not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, so keep that in mind if bringing family. And if you have specific preferences for certain Champagne houses, contacting the provider ahead of time can help ensure your favorites are included.

The Sum Up

For anyone interested in the sparkling world of Champagne, this private day trip from Paris offers a thoughtful balance of history, craftsmanship, and taste. You’ll enjoy the comfort of private transport, the expertise of guides, and the chance to sample up to 7 different wines in a relaxed setting. The combination of large Champagne houses and smaller estates gives you a well-rounded view of the region’s diversity, making this a worthwhile experience for both casual sippers and avid connoisseurs.

The included three-course lunch and scenic drives further enrich the day, ensuring it’s not just about wine but about embracing the culture of this beautiful region. The reviews consistently highlight knowledgeable guides and memorable tastings, reinforcing how special this tour can be. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to deepen your appreciation for Champagne, this trip provides a genuine, enjoyable, and well-paced way to see France’s sparkling heart.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, with approximately two hours of travel each way, plus time for visits, tastings, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
Transportation in a private, air-conditioned minivan, a private guide, entry fees, tastings at 2 Champagne houses, and a 3-course lunch are all included.

Can I choose which Champagne house I visit?
The tour typically visits a renowned house like Moët & Chandon, but the specific producer is selected based on availability. If you prefer a particular house, it’s best to contact the provider in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, because it involves wine tastings and visits to cellars, it’s only for those 18 and older. Pregnant travelers should also consider this.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing for walking and layers, as cellars can be cool, and sunglasses or camera for photos. No special attire is required.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. This offers peace of mind for flexible travel plans.

This private Champagne tour from Paris offers a thorough, personable experience that combines history, taste, and scenery. It’s perfect for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Champagne and enjoy a well-organized, memorable day in the French countryside.