Epernay and Vineyards with Champagne Tasting

Discovering Champagne in Épernay and Vineyards with a Unique Bus Tour

A visit to the Champagne region isn’t complete without a taste of its sparkling wines and an appreciation for its landscape. This 2-hour 15-minute guided tour offers a taste of both, starting in the charming town of Épernay. For around $119 per person, you’ll board a double-decker bus—a rare sight in France—and explore iconic sights, breathtaking vistas, and indulge in champagne tastings. Led by friendly guides, this experience promises lively commentary, scenic views, and a festive atmosphere.

What we really like about this tour is its combination of fun and education. The rooftop ride offers a bird’s eye view of the UNESCO-listed Champagne avenue, which alone is worth the price, and the chance to savor three different champagne varieties—with a saber demonstration—adds a memorable touch. Another highlight is the authentic feel; it’s not a stuffy, corporate winery visit but a lively, social outing that captures the joyful spirit of champagne-making.

That said, one consideration is that this tour does not include visits to actual cellars or inside champagne houses. Instead, it focuses on viewing the landscape, quick tastings, and enjoying the atmosphere. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, sightseeing-oriented experience rather than a detailed behind-the-scenes tour.

If you enjoy scenic routes, tasting bubbly in a festive setting, and learning stories about Champagne’s heritage, this tour could be just right. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a light-hearted, social experience without the formality of a full cellar visit.

Key Points

• Scenic rooftop views of Épernay’s famous Champagne avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Multiple champagne tastings included, with a saber demonstration for added flair.
• Informative commentary about the land, vineyards, and history, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Lively, festive atmosphere with music, video footage, and a group-friendly vibe.
• No inside cellar visits, focusing on landscape and external views of Champagne houses.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, social outing rather than an in-depth winery tour.

A Closer Look at the Champagne Experience in Épernay

When you step onto the double-decker bus in Épernay, you’re immediately transported into a scene of celebration and heritage. This isn’t just about sipping champagne; it’s about feeling the land, seeing the famous avenue, and hearing stories from guides passionate about their craft. For many travelers, this approach offers a more authentic and relaxed experience compared to traditional cellar visits.

Starting at the Iconic Avenue de Champagne

Your tour kicks off from a vantage point on the terrace of L’Impériale, where you get a bird’s eye view of the grand Champagne houses that line the street. It’s easy to spot landmarks such as Champagne Deutz and Bollinger. The guides will share insights into why this avenue is so valuable—it’s considered the most expensive street in France—and how the 200 million bottles stored in the cellars contribute to its fame.

Expect lively commentary, music, and plenty of photo opportunities. As a reviewer noted, you’ll be filmed by pedestrians, a fun reminder of how unique this sightseeing style is. You’ll get to stand on top of the bus, enjoying panoramic views while learning about the land’s UNESCO status and its significance for champagne production.

Visiting Champagne Houses: Quick Stops with Tasting Highlights

Your stops are brief but packed with character and flavor. The first stop in Ay-Champagne offers a chance to admire the exterior of the houses and enjoy a tasting of Bollinger champagne, complete with a sabering display—a dramatic way to open a bottle, adding a bit of flash and fun. Many noted that this was a highlight, especially for champagne enthusiasts.

Next, you’ll stop outside the Champagne Bollinger estate for photos and commentary. While the actual inside visit isn’t part of this tour, the included tasting of another champagne provides a taste of what the region’s renowned producers offer. The 15-minute stop is enough to get a sense of the quality and style of the region’s bubbly.

Hautvillers and the Landscape

The third stop takes you to Hautvillers, often called the “cradle of Champagne.” Here, you’ll enjoy stunning views over the Marne valley and have the chance for another sabering. This part is especially popular, as it combines beautiful scenery with the opportunity to sip champagne in a beautiful setting. Several reviews praise the view, describing it as breathtaking.

Scenic Drive Along the Route Touristique du Champagne

Finally, the bus takes a leisurely drive along the Champagne tourist route, giving you ample time to appreciate the vineyard landscape, also listed as a UNESCO site. This part of the tour emphasizes the visual beauty of Champagne country—rolling vineyards, charming villages, and the distinctive landscape that makes the region so special.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes:

• Three flutes of champagne, carefully selected by the guides.
• A sabering demonstration, with bottles offered for tasting.
• Snacks appropriate to the time of day—local delicacies like sausage, cheese, or biscuits.
• Music and video footage to enhance the lively atmosphere.
• Informative commentary about the landscape and heritage.

What’s not included:

• Entry to champagne cellars or inside visits to houses (which is a plus for those who prefer outdoor experiences).
• Hotel pickup or drop-off—you’ll meet at a designated spot in Épernay.

Group Size and Logistics

The tour caters to a small group of up to 20 travelers, which helps create a more intimate, convivial environment. Most travelers find the group size optimal for lively interactions and personal attention from guides. The experience is carried out mainly outdoors and on the bus, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Authenticity and Real Experiences

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the authenticity of stories and anecdotes shared by guides. Many noted that guides like Marie Antoinette and Robert make the experience lively, sharing gossip and personal touches that bring the region to life. Despite the lack of inside cellar visits, the spectacular views, tastings, and atmosphere more than make up for it.

The music, video footage, and friendly banter create a festive vibe, perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a relaxed, joyful day. Several reviews mention that even in bad weather, the experience remained fun, thanks to the energy of the guides and the lively atmosphere.

Analyzing the Value

At roughly $120, this tour offers a decent value for those seeking a combination of sightseeing, tasting, and storytelling. While it doesn’t include full cellar visits, the scenic rooftop views, quick tastings, and the overall lively experience make it worthwhile. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a more casual, interactive approach rather than formal wine tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits social travelers who enjoy scenic vistas and bubbly in a festive setting. It’s perfect if you’re interested in learning about the landscape and heritage without the commitment of lengthy cellar visits. It’s also a great choice for those who want a light-hearted, lively outing that captures the joy of Champagne in a relaxed environment.

The Sum Up

This Epernay and Vineyards with Champagne Tasting tour is an engaging way to experience the Champagne region without the formality of a traditional tour. The rooftop views, interactive tastings, and fun anecdotes make it stand out. It’s ideal for travelers who want a social, scenic, and authentic encounter with Champagne.

While it doesn’t offer inside visits, the beautiful landscapes, lively atmosphere, and expert guides ensure you leave with memorable stories and a real sense of place. The tour is well-suited for those who enjoy casual, engaging experiences with a focus on views, bubbly, and good company.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure that balances education and entertainment, this tour will likely deliver more than you expect—especially if you’re a fan of sparkling wines and stunning vistas.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, although reviews mention it’s not in English by default, guides are usually able to accommodate, and additional languages may be available.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it a great half-day experience.

Does the tour include visits inside champagne houses?
No, it primarily passes by external sights and includes tastings outside.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, you get three flutes of champagne and the saber demonstration are included.

Can minors participate?
Yes, beverages include soda or soft drinks for minors, and the experience is suitable for all ages.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, especially as plenty of the experience is outdoors and on the bus rooftop.

Is transportation provided?
You meet at the designated point—no hotel pickup or drop-off is included.

What language is the tour conducted in?
Primarily in French, but guides often accommodate other languages depending on bookings.

Will I get time to take photos?
Absolutely, especially at stops like Hautvillers and along the avenue.

What makes this tour different from a cellar visit?
It’s more scenic and casual, offering spectacular views and a lively atmosphere, rather than inside an actual champagne cellar.

This lively tour offers a fun, scenic, and bubbly-filled way to experience Champagne, perfect for those who want to see, taste, and soak in the atmosphere without lengthy inside visits.