Discover the Sparkling Charm of the Champagne Region
If you’re looking to truly understand what makes Champagne so special, this full-day guided tour offers just that. For $410, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring the vineyards, visiting two carefully selected wineries, and learning from local winemakers, all while enjoying luxurious transport aboard a Class V Mercedes van. Starting around 9 a.m. in Reims, the experience takes you through the Grand Est region, focusing on areas like Montagne de Reims and Epernay, with stops tailored to give you a real taste of both the wine and the land.
What we love most about this tour is the chance to see how Champagne is made from the inside, with visits to cellars, barrel-aging processes, and the rare lantern tour of the cellars—excellent for those who enjoy a bit of history and mystique. Plus, the masterclass of five champagnes with vineyard views in Cramant is a highlight, making it ideal for wine lovers eager to deepen their knowledge or just indulge in some quality bubbles.
However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suited for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or very young children, since it involves some walking and is not stroller or wheelchair friendly. For travelers who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences with a focus on quality over quantity, this tour fits perfectly.
If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized Champagne day that balances luxury, education, and local charm, this tour is an excellent pick.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Visits: Focus on independent winemakers and family cooperatives, offering a genuine taste of local Champagne production.
- Expert Guidance: Explanations are provided directly by the winemakers, in both French and English.
- Luxurious Transport: Comfortable Mercedes van with amenities like phone chargers and bottled water enhances the day.
- Gourmet Lunch: Enjoy a carefully chosen restaurant with a glass of champagne or wine included.
- Unique Experiences: Lantern cellar tour and the possibility to combine with special activities like a harvest immersion.
- Small Group: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
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A Day in the Heart of Champagne: What to Expect
This tour is designed for those who want to see, taste, and learn without feeling rushed. We start early, around 9 or 9:30 a.m., meeting at a designated spot in Reims. From there, you’re whisked away in a sleek, beige leather interior van, which feels like traveling in style but without the pretension. The limited group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd—this is about quality experience, not just filling seats.
Visiting the Cellars and Tastings
The first highlight is visiting at least one local winemaker or family cooperative. These visits are particularly valuable because the explanations are delivered directly by the winemakers, giving you insights into traditional techniques and the distinct characteristics of their vintages—expect to taste at least three vintages from each house. One guest noted, “You really get a sense of the craftsmanship behind each bottle,” which is a sentiment many share.
The cellar tours themselves are often accompanied by discussions about how Champagne is stored and aged. Some tours include a rare lantern tour (particularly on Wednesdays and Saturdays), adding a layer of atmospheric intrigue as you walk through the dimly lit, historic tunnels.
The Lunch Experience
Midday, you’ll stop at a carefully selected restaurant, where the focus is on local, seasonal dishes. Your meal includes a starter, main course, and dessert, with a glass of champagne or wine to complement the food. Reviews mention that the lunch is “delicious and well-paced,” giving enough time to relax and soak in the vineyard views.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Masterclass in Cramant
In the afternoon, you’ll head to a vineyard in Cramant for a masterclass on five champagnes. The setting—overlooking the vines—offers a picturesque backdrop for tasting and learning. Here, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the different styles, terroirs, and aging techniques, making the experience more than just a tasting. Some guests have called this part of the day “a real eye-opener” for understanding the diversity within Champagne.
Visiting an Ultra-Private Estate
The tour also includes a visit to a chateau or private estate, where you can sample more exclusive, smaller-production champagnes. This intimate setting offers a rare chance to see the craftsmanship behind boutique Champagne houses, which often remain under the radar.
Scenic Breaks and Photo Opportunities
A highlight for many are the vineyard walks and the brief photo stops in the scenic hills. During these moments, you can capture the rolling landscape and take a break with homemade pastries and your last bubbles of the day.
Returning to Reims
The tour wraps up around 5:00 or 5:30 p.m., with a comfortable ride back in the van. The entire day balances guided education, tasting, and leisure, making it suitable for those who want a fuller picture of Champagne beyond just visiting a big house.
Transportation and Group Size
The transportation is round-trip in a luxury Mercedes van, which is a significant plus. The vehicle includes phone chargers, bottled water, and blankets, making the journey comfortable. The tour is limited to 7 people, ensuring a relaxed and personal experience. For larger groups, the vehicle can be privatized or shared with up to six others, which keeps the experience intimate.
Some reviews mention the timing—departing early ensures that you maximize your day without feeling rushed. The tour is designed to minimize time spent in transit, focusing on the vineyards and cellars, which is highly appreciated.
Price and Value
At $410 per person, this tour might seem on the higher end, but the value lies in the small-group intimacy, expert guidance, exclusive visits, and gourmet lunch. Compared to larger, more commercial Champagne tours, this experience offers depth and authenticity. The inclusion of tastings at two wineries, a masterclass, and a luxury vehicle makes it a well-rounded package for those seeking quality over quantity.
On top of that, the possibility to add on unique experiences like a harvest immersion or other workshops provides flexibility for those with specific interests.
Is This Tour Right for You?
This experience suits travelers who value authentic, small-group tours, and are willing to pay a bit more for a deeper understanding of Champagne. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn from local producers, or anyone wanting a luxury, hassle-free day that combines sightseeing, tasting, and gourmet food. However, it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, very young children, or travelers looking for a large, energetic group experience.
If you appreciate attention to detail, personalized service, and the chance to see the land that produces Champagne, this tour will meet your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation aboard a luxury Mercedes van, visits and tastings at two wineries (each with at least three vintages), a gourmet lunch with a glass of champagne or wine, and a scenic vineyard walk with homemade pastries. The explanations are provided directly by the winemakers.
How long does the tour last?
It starts around 9:00-9:30 a.m. and returns by 5:00-5:30 p.m., offering a full day of Champagne exploration.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2 years old, and the vehicle isn’t adapted for those with mobility impairments. The experience involves walking and some standing, so it’s best for older children or adults.
Can I customize the experience?
Yes, a tailor-made Champagne tour is available starting from $350 per person. For special requests like a harvest immersion or workshops, contact the provider for a quote.
What about the group size?
The tour is limited to 7 participants, ensuring a personal experience. Larger groups can be accommodated by privatizing the vehicle.
Is the tour offered in English and French?
Yes, guides deliver explanations in both languages, making it accessible for international visitors.
Final Thoughts
This Champagne Day Tour offers a thoughtful way to experience France’s most famous sparkling wine region. From visiting authentic, family-run wineries to enjoying a scenic vineyard lunch and a special masterclass, it balances education, relaxation, and indulgence. The small group size, luxurious transport, and focus on local, independent producers mean you’ll leave with more than just a few bottles—you’ll carry a genuine understanding of what makes Champagne so beloved.
Perfect for wine lovers, curious travelers, or those seeking a refined yet authentic experience, this tour promises a memorable day among the vines, with plenty of bubbles to toast the occasion.
In brief, if you’re after a well-curated, intimate, and educational Champagne experience that skips the crowds and commercialism, this tour is a smart pick. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, your camera, and an appetite for both wine and spectacular scenery.
You can check availability for your dates here: