Full-Day Private Champagne Tasting in Reims and its Vineyards

A Private Day in Champagne: Reims and Its Vineyards

Picture this: a full-day adventure that whisks you from the bustling streets of Paris to the serene vineyards of Reims. For $685.54 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring the beautiful city of Reims, visiting historic landmarks, and sipping some of the finest champagnes in the world. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll travel comfortably on a high-speed train with your private driver, making this a seamless, intimate experience ideal for lovers of bubbly and French culture alike.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this tour are the balance of city exploration and vineyard visits—you get to see Reims’ famous cathedral and monuments, then relax in the countryside tasting prestigious Grand Cru champagnes. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional French lunch in a countryside restaurant adds a genuine taste of regional life.

A possible consideration is the busy schedule—with many stops packed into a single day, some travelers might find it a bit rushed, especially if they want a more leisurely pace or deeper dive into each location. This tour is best suited for those who want a rundown of Reims’ highlights without sacrificing the quality of wine and sightseeing. If you’re comfortable with a tightly packed schedule and eager to learn about champagne making, this experience offers excellent value.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who value expert guidance, authentic experiences, and a well-rounded taste of Reims’ city and vineyards. It’s designed for those who appreciate a good balance of sightseeing, education, and indulgence, making it a compelling choice for a day trip from Paris.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience combining city sights and vineyard visits
• All-inclusive with high-speed train tickets and tastings
• Authentic French lunch in the countryside adds a local flavor
• Two champagne houses with tastings of high-quality (Grand Cru) champagnes
• Comfortable transportation with a private driver between locations
• Busy schedule, ideal for those who enjoy a full, active day

The Journey Begins: From Paris to Reims

The adventure kicks off bright and early at 8:00 am, meeting at 78 Bd de Strasbourg in Paris. The highlight here is hopping aboard a luxury TGV train, which zips you in just 45 minutes to the historic city of Reims. We found this part of the experience quite smooth—no cramped cars, and the scenery speeds by while you relax. You’re with your local guide, an essential element that makes all the difference, adding context and stories you wouldn’t get if you were exploring alone.

The quick train ride is not just practical; it sets the tone for a day that’s lively and well-organized. Once in Reims, the tour takes you straight into the heart of the city.

Exploring Reims: Landmarks and History

Your first stop is Place Drouet-d’Erlon, often called the “place d’Erlon” by locals. Here, amidst cafes and lively streets, you’ll get a quick taste of Reims’ vibrant atmosphere. The statue called “La Gloire” and the Fontaine Subé provide excellent photo opportunities and a sense of the city’s character.

Next, your guide will lead you to the Reims Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Reims), a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture. This cathedral is more than just a beautiful building—it’s where French kings were crowned, and its stunning stained glass and intricate sculptures are awe-inspiring. Visitors can also explore nearby sites like Place Royal or the Cryptoportique, an ancient Roman forum, giving you a layered sense of Reims’ long history.

While some reviews mention the hectic pace of the city tour, most appreciate the guide’s knowledge and the opportunity to see the city’s highlights in a compact period. One reviewer noted the informative nature of the tour, making it worthwhile even if you’re pressed for time.

Champagne Cellar Visits: The Heart of the Region

The true highlight for many will be visiting two different champagne houses—each offering insights into the champagne production process. Your private driver takes you first to a champagne cellar in Reims proper, where you’ll tour the cellars and learn about the history and craftsmanship behind champagne making.

Here, you’ll sample three glasses of high-quality champagne, which could include some of the region’s best offerings. The tasting is conducted in a setting that’s both educational and indulgent—an ideal way to understand the complexity behind these sparkling wines.

Later, in the vineyard region of Mailly-Champagne, you’ll visit a second house renowned for Grand Cru harvests. The wines here are considered top-tier, and you’ll taste three more glasses of the region’s best grapes. If the weather permits, you’ll even get a chance to stroll through the vineyards, enjoying scenic views and snapping pictures amid the lush vines.

While some critics have found the cellar visits rushed, most agree that the quality of tastings and the chance to walk among the vines make it worthwhile. The personalized attention from your private driver and guide means you’re not just another tourist but a guest immersed in the champagne world.

A Relaxing French Lunch in the Countryside

Midway through your day, you’ll stop at a golf club restaurant in Bezannes, where a traditional French lunch awaits. This break provides a welcome pause from sightseeing and a chance to savor regional cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Some reviews expressed disappointment with the lunch spot, describing it as a “golf club restaurant,” not necessarily charming or rustic. However, others appreciated the opportunity to experience a local, upscale setting in the countryside. The key here is that the focus is on quality and regional authenticity, even if the ambiance might be more modern or corporate.

Return to Paris: Wrapping Up the Day

After your vineyard visit, your driver transports you back to Reims’ train station for the return journey. The train departs around 4:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax and reflect on your day during the roughly 1.5-hour journey back to Paris. Most travelers find the day to be well-paced, although some noted it’s quite full — perfect if you’re eager to pack in as much as possible.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At nearly $700, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a lot in return: train tickets, guided city sightseeing, visits to two champagne houses, tastings, and a substantial lunch. The inclusion of private transportation between locations means you don’t have to worry about logistics, and the guided commentary enriches the experience.

A review from Ira_M, however, cautions that the schedule might feel rushed and criticizes the lunch spot, calling the whole experience a “waste of money and time.” While that’s an outlier view, it highlights the importance of knowing that this tour is fast-paced and might not satisfy travelers seeking a leisurely day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for those eager to see both the city of Reims and visit two renowned champagne houses without the hassle of planning individual train trips and tastings. It’s ideal if you appreciate guided education and tasting and want a rundown in one packed day.

It’s also suitable for first-time visitors to Champagne, as it offers a good combination of history, culture, and wine in a manageable schedule. However, if you prefer a very slow, in-depth tasting experience or wish to explore more vineyards, you might find this tour a bit too brisk.

The Sum Up: The Right Choice for Curious Champagne Lovers

This private tour strikes a compelling balance between sightseeing, education, and wine indulgence for travelers who want the convenience of expert-guided visits in one day. The combination of Reims’ stunning cathedral, historical landmarks, and visits to prestigious champagne houses makes it a well-rounded experience. The inclusion of a traditional French lunch and scenic vineyard strolls adds authenticity and variety.

While the schedule is packed, most travelers will appreciate the value of expert guidance, seamless transportation, and quality tastings. It’s especially good for those who enjoy learning about champagne-making and want to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of self-organizing.

If you’re looking for a memorable, educational, and indulgent day trip from Paris that highlights the best of the Champagne region, this tour offers a well-designed, all-in-one package. Just be prepared for a full day, and you’ll likely come away with a new appreciation for France’s most sparkling export.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking around Reims and visiting cellars where you might need to go down 100 steps without an elevator. If mobility is a concern, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

How long is the train ride from Paris to Reims?
The high-speed TGV train takes about 45 minutes, making it quick and comfortable for a day trip.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, you will taste a total of six glasses of high-quality champagne, divided between two champagne houses.

What is the lunch like?
You’ll enjoy a traditional French lunch at a countryside restaurant in Bezannes, located near a golf club. Some reviews found the setting more modern or corporate, but most appreciated the regional cuisine.

Can I customize or add additional stops?
As a private tour, it’s possible to discuss your preferences with the operator, but the itinerary is designed to maximize highlights within the day.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Paris around 6:00 pm.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be aware of the walking, cellar steps, and the full-day schedule.

Are drinks other than champagne available?
The tour focuses on champagne tastings; other beverages are not specified in the package.

How many people are in a typical group?
This is a private experience, so only your group will participate.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for city walking and vineyard strolls. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if visiting vineyards in warm or rainy conditions.

Exploring Reims and its renowned champagne region in a single day is a delightful, if brisk, way to add sparkle to your trip. With a focus on quality, knowledgeable guides, and seamless transport, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of France’s bubbly capital of wine.