Private Champagne Moet et Chandon Veuve Clicquot by Mercedes

Experience the Essence of Champagne with a Private Day Trip from Paris

If you’re dreaming of savoring some of France’s finest bubbly, this private Champagne tour offers an immersive experience with visits to Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot—two of the most renowned Champagne houses. For around $731 per person, you’ll spend about 12 hours exploring the vineyards, cellars, and scenic villages of the Champagne region in a comfortable Mercedes vehicle. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about the story behind your favorite sparkling wine, this trip promises a mix of guided tastings, charming landscapes, and a glimpse into France’s rich Champagne tradition.

We especially love the personalized experience offered by the private setting and the chance to enjoy guided cellar tours that go beyond superficial tastings. The luxury transport in a Mercedes E220 or minivan ensures you travel comfortably, making the long day feel effortless. The stops in Épernay and Hautvillers add a scenic charm and cultural depth that enrich the overall experience.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the driver is not a guide, so while he’ll ensure you arrive on time and handle the logistics, you might miss some of the detailed storytelling unless you opt for the surcharge live guide. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a luxury, hassle-free day with a focus on wine culture, especially those who prefer private groups and tailored experiences.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Travel in style and comfort with a Mercedes E220 or minivan, perfect for small groups.
• In-depth Visits: Guided cellar tours at Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot with tastings of two glasses each.
• Scenic & Cultural Stops: Picturesque stops in Épernay, Hautvillers, and a visit to Reims Cathedral.
• Flexible & Private: Private group experience with hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris, plus tiered pricing options.
• Authentic Experiences: Smaller group size helps ensure a more intimate, personalized visit.
• Cost & Value: While $731 might seem high, the inclusion of guided tours, tastings, private transport, and convenience offers strong value for a premium experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Your Champagne Day Out

Starting in Paris: Comfort from the Get-Go

The tour kicks off early at 7:30 am with hotel pickup in Paris—a real plus for those who prefer not navigating public transport or car rentals. From there, you’ll enjoy a smooth 2-hour drive in an elegant Mercedes, with windows down for some of the best scenery France has to offer. Along the way, expect a quick rest stop at a scenic rest area, giving you a chance to stretch and take some photos of the vineyards rolling by.

This seamless pickup and private transport set the tone for a relaxed, stress-free day of discovery, and the fact that your driver is English-speaking helps mitigate any confusion about the schedule or site details—though, as some reviews mention, the driver is not a guide, so don’t expect detailed commentary beyond the basics unless you pay extra for a live guide.

Moët & Chandon: The Grandeur of French Champagne

Arriving at Moët & Chandon around 10 am, you’ll be greeted with a guided cellar tour that lasts about two hours. This is the highlight for many—an inside look at the underground cellars, where the champagne matures in silence. You’ll learn about the production process, the history of the house, and see the vast, chalk-lined tunnels that hold millions of bottles.

The tasting of two glasses of Champagne here is more than just a sip; it’s an experience that underscores the craftsmanship behind the bubbles. One reviewer praised the “great tour” and the “professional, courteous” guide, emphasizing how the visit brought the Champagne’s story to life.

Lunch in Épernay: French Cuisine and Charm

Following the morning’s visit, you’ll head into Épernay, known as the Champagne capital of France. The included lunch is at a local classic French restaurant, offering a chance to relax, sample regional dishes, and chat about what you’ve seen so far.

Épernay’s lively streets and historic architecture provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely meal, and it’s a chance to see how the Champagne industry is woven into local life.

More Great Tours Nearby

Hautvillers: Village of Champagne’s Father

After lunch, a short 10-minute drive brings you to Hautvillers, a quaint village famous for being the home of Dom Pérignon, the monk credited with pioneering some of Champagne’s early techniques. At the Saint-Sindulphe church and the viewpoint, you’ll get sweeping scenic vistas over the vineyards and Marne River—ideal for photos.

The Abbey’s Church of Sindulphe offers a peaceful, historic atmosphere, and the panoramic views are some of the best in the region—a highlight that makes this tour more than just a tasting.

Reims: Cathedral and Champagne History

Your next stop is Reims, where the cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage site—is just a 30-minute drive away. While the visit is self-guided, the Reims Cathedral is where most French kings were crowned and is undeniably impressive in its Gothic grandeur.

This stop allows you to appreciate France’s royal history and the architectural splendor that underscores the region’s cultural significance.

Veuve Clicquot: The Big Name in Champagne

The afternoon is dedicated to Veuve Clicquot, established in 1772. Here, the guided tour lasts about two hours, where you’ll explore cellars that produce over 22 million bottles a year. The guide shares insights into the production process and history, culminating in a tasting of two glasses of Champagne.

Guests consistently highlight the guide’s knowledge, and one review mentions how the “great insight” into Champagne production made the visit memorable.

Wrapping Up in Reims

After the Veuve Clicquot tour, you’ll visit Reims Cathedral for some self-guided exploration—an excellent way to soak in France’s regal heritage before heading back to Paris.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

The drive back from Reims to Paris takes roughly 2.5 hours, arriving around 7:30 pm to be dropped off at your hotel. This efficient schedule allows you to enjoy a full day without feeling rushed, although long travel times mean you’ll spend considerable time on the road.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a luxurious, all-inclusive day with private transport and guided cellar visits. It’s especially suited to wine lovers seeking an in-depth look at Champagne production, as well as those who appreciate the charm of small villages and scenic views.

If you prefer a more guided commentary throughout or want to include local dining experiences beyond the included lunch, you might want to consider adding a live guide or exploring other options.

Travelers who appreciate comfortable transportation and being able to relax while someone else handles the logistics** will find this tour very valuable. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, personalized experience.

Detailed Review: Beyond the Basics

Transportation & Comfort: The Mercedes E220 or minivan offers a level of comfort that’s often missing on bus tours. The quiet ride, plush seats, and climate control make the long hours more enjoyable. According to a review, the driver was “very professional, on time and courteous”, which sets a positive tone. However, some travelers found the vehicle a bit dated and expected newer models, so if the latest luxury is a priority, check with the provider beforehand.

Guided Cellars Tours: The guided visits at Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot are the core of this experience. These tours go beyond just tasting; they open the doors to cellar history, production methods, and the craftsmanship that make Champagne special. The “great insight” shared by guides enhances the value, making the experience feel personal and educational.

Tastings: Each house offers two glasses of Champagne—not a huge quantity, but enough to appreciate the differences in style and flavor. These are included in the price, which adds value considering some tours charge extra for tastings.

Scenic & Cultural Stops: The viewpoint in Hautvillers and the Saint-Sindulphe church are more than just photo stops; they connect you to the history and landscape that make Champagne unique. One reviewer noted the “scenic views” as a highlight, emphasizing how these stops add depth to the experience.

Lunch & Flexibility: The included lunch at a French restaurant in Épernay is a practical inclusion, giving you time to relax and enjoy regional cuisine. However, the duration from 12:00 to 13:30 leaves some travelers wishing for more time in the village.

Reims & Cultural Heritage: Visiting the cathedral offers a cultural counterpoint to the wine-focused tours. The self-guided aspect means you can explore at your own pace, making it a flexible addition.

Price & Value: At $731, this tour positions itself as a premium experience. When you factor in transportation, guided tours, tastings, and hotel pickup, it offers a comprehensive package for those who value comfort and insider access. The tiered pricing allows some flexibility, but overall, it’s a worthwhile splurge for the quality and convenience offered.

Final Thoughts

This private Champagne tour from Paris delivers a well-rounded, luxurious day that will appeal most to wine enthusiasts, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed yet educational experience. The personalized service and guided cellar visits create a sense of intimacy and insight that larger group tours often miss.

While the long driving hours might be less appealing for those with limited time or who prefer more active exploration, the scenic stops and historic sights balance that out. The included tastings and local lunch also make the experience feel complete, offering a taste of authentic regional life.

However, if you’re someone who values in-depth narration throughout your trip or prefers a more modern vehicle, it’s worth considering those options. Still, for a luxury, hassle-free day with a focus on Champagne and scenic beauty, this tour stands out.

To sum it up, it’s a fine pick for anyone wanting to taste France’s bubbly in style, learn about its production, and enjoy a scenic journey through one of Europe’s most romantic wine regions.

FAQ

Is transportation in a luxury vehicle?
Yes, you’ll travel in a Mercedes E220 or minivan, providing a comfortable and private transport experience.

Are guided tours included?
Yes, both Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot cellars are visited with guides, and they include tastings of two glasses of Champagne each.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule, but the tiered pricing and private group setup allow some flexibility, especially if booking a surcharge for a live guide.

Is hotel pickup available?
Absolutely. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris, making it very convenient.

How long are the visits?
The Moët & Chandon visit lasts around two hours, Veuve Clicquot another two hours, with additional time for stops and lunch.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. No food or alcohol is allowed in the vehicle.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 due to the nature of the visits and the long day.

This private Champagne experience offers both comfort and education, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy France’s sparkling heritage without the hassle of organizing it themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: