Reims The Champagne Capital

Unveiling the Champagne Capital:
A Comprehensive Reims Travel Guide

Tourism Summary:

Reims, a captivating city in northeastern France, is renowned as the heart of the Champagne region, producing some of the world's most prestigious sparkling wines. With a rich history dating back to Roman times, Reims boasts a UNESCO World Heritage-listed cathedral, impressive Roman ruins, and a plethora of Champagne houses offering tours and tastings. The city's elegant architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene make it a must-visit destination for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and those seeking a taste of French joie de vivre.

1. Transportation Options to Reims:

• Air: The closest major airport is Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). From there, you can take a direct train to Reims, which takes approximately 45 minutes.

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

• Train: Reims Centre railway station is well-connected to major French cities like Paris, Strasbourg, and Lille, as well as other European destinations.

Reims Centre railway station

• Bus: Intercity and international bus services connect Reims to various French cities and European destinations.

2. Accommodation for All Budgets:

• Luxury Hotels:
  • L'Assiette Champenoise: A luxurious hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant located just outside of Reims, offering elegant rooms and a tranquil setting.
    

    L'Assiette Champenoise, Reims
  • Domaine Les Crayères: A stunning château hotel surrounded by a park, offering luxurious accommodations and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
    

    Domaine Les Crayères, Reims
• Mid-Range Hotels:
  • Best Western Premier Hôtel de la Paix: A modern hotel in the city center, offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
    

    Best Western Premier Hôtel de la Paix, Reims
  • Hôtel Azur: A charming hotel near the train station, offering cozy rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
    

    Hôtel Azur, Reims
• Budget-Friendly Options (2 and 3-star hotels):
  • Hôtel Cecyl: A simple and affordable hotel near the cathedral, offering basic accommodations and a central location.
    

    Hôtel Cecyl, Reims
  • ibis Reims Centre Gare: A budget-friendly hotel near the train station, offering clean rooms and easy access to public transportation.
    

    ibis Reims Centre Gare

3. Must-See Tourist Attractions:

• Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims:A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture where French kings were once crowned.
  

  Cathédrale NotreDame de Reims
• Palais du Tau:A former archbishop's palace, now a museum showcasing religious art and artifacts related to the coronation ceremonies.
  

  Palais du Tau, Reims
• Basilica of Saint-Remi:A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Romanesque basilica with a beautiful interior and a crypt containing the tomb of Saint Remi.
  

  Basilica of SaintRemi, Reims
• Champagne Houses: Take a tour of renowned Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Pommery, and learn about the Champagne-making process.
• Musée de la Reddition (Museum of the Surrender):A museum located in the building where the German surrender was signed in 1945, marking the end of World War II in Europe.
  

  Musée de la Reddition (Museum of the Surrender), Reims

4. Enriching Day Trip Options:

• Epernay:Visit the "Capital of Champagne" and explore the Avenue de Champagne, lined with prestigious Champagne houses.
  

  Epernay, France
• Hautvillers:Discover the charming village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, and visit the abbey where Dom Pérignon, a Benedictine monk, is said to have perfected the Champagne-making process.
  

  Hautvillers, France
• Verdun:Learn about the history of World War I at the Verdun Memorial and battlefield sites.
  

  Verdun, France

5. Best Times to Visit Reims:

• Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and colorful vineyards in autumn, perfect for exploring the city and the surrounding Champagne region.
• Summer (July-August): Warm, sunny weather, lively outdoor events, and extended daylight hours. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
• Winter (November-March): Cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and some attractions may have reduced hours. However, the Christmas markets in December are a charming experience.

6. Public Holidays in France:

• New Year's Day (January 1)
• Easter Monday (Varies)
• Labor Day (May 1)
• Victory in Europe Day (May 8)
• Ascension Day (Varies)
• Whit Monday (Varies)
• Bastille Day (July 14)
• Assumption of Mary (August 15)
• All Saints' Day (November 1)
• Armistice Day (November 11)
• Christmas Day (December 25)

7. Useful Recommendations:

• Purchase a Reims City Pass: This pass offers free entry to many attractions and unlimited access to public transportation.
• Book Champagne House Tours in Advance: Popular Champagne houses can get booked up quickly, so it's best to book your tours in advance.
• Learn a Few French Phrases: Basic French phrases like "Bonjour" (hello), "Merci" (thank you), and "Au revoir" (goodbye) will be appreciated by locals.
• Savor Champagne and Local Cuisine: Indulge in the diverse flavors of Champagne and the region's culinary specialties, such as biscuits roses de Reims (pink biscuits) and jambon de Reims (ham).
• Explore the Surroundings: Rent a car or bike to explore the picturesque villages and vineyards of the Champagne region.