Ultimate Reims Travel Guide: Champagne Capital & Coronation City
Table of Contents
Introduction: Where French Kings Were Crowned & Champagne Was Born
Welcome to Reims, the elegant capital of France's Champagne region, where history bubbles up from every corner like the region's famous sparkling wine. This sophisticated city, located just 45 minutes by high-speed train from Paris, offers a perfect blend of monumental history, artistic heritage, and of course, world-class champagne. Reims is where 25 French kings were crowned, where Roman emperors once walked, and where the delicate art of champagne production was perfected over centuries.
What makes Reims truly extraordinary is its unique dual identity as both a historical powerhouse and a living center of champagne culture. The city's skyline is dominated by the breathtaking Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site where French monarchs received their crowns for nearly a thousand years. Just beneath the city's streets lie hundreds of kilometers of champagne cellars, some dating back to Roman times, where millions of bottles age to perfection in the cool, chalky tunnels.
The atmosphere in Reims is one of understated elegance and joie de vivre. Unlike the tourist-thronged streets of Paris, Reims moves at a more relaxed pace, where locals still outnumber visitors in the charming sidewalk cafés lining Place Drouet d'Erlon. The city beautifully balances its monumental past with contemporary energy—Art Deco architecture stands alongside medieval wonders, and innovative restaurants share space with traditional champagne houses. There's a palpable sense of pride here, born from knowing your city represents the very pinnacle of celebration and luxury.
Why Visit Reims? For UNESCO-listed Gothic architecture including the coronation cathedral, world-famous champagne houses with historic crayères (chalk cellars), exceptional French dining at more accessible prices than Paris, rich Roman history, and the perfect blend of monumental sights and relaxed urban living.
How to Get There
Reims enjoys excellent transportation connections, making it easily accessible from Paris and major European cities while maintaining its provincial charm.
Nearest Airports
| Airport | Distance | Drive Time | Transport Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) | 140 km | 1.5 hours | TGV train (30 min to Reims), rental car, shuttle bus |
| Paris Orly (ORY) | 155 km | 2 hours | Train via Paris, rental car |
| Brussels South Charleroi (CRL) | 215 km | 2.5 hours | Rental car, train with connection |
| Luxembourg (LUX) | 235 km | 2.5 hours | Rental car, train with connection |
By Train
Reims is exceptionally well-connected by rail. The TGV (high-speed train) from Paris Gare de l'Est takes just 45 minutes, with multiple departures daily. Direct TGV services also connect Reims to Charles de Gaulle Airport (30 minutes), as well as to cities like Strasbourg, Bordeaux, and Lille. The beautiful Art Deco Reims-Centre station is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the cathedral.
By Car
Driving to Reims offers flexibility for exploring the wider Champagne region:
- From Paris: A4 motorway east (approximately 1.5 hours, 145 km)
- From Brussels: E411/E42 (approximately 2.5 hours, 240 km)
- From Luxembourg: E25/E50 (approximately 2.5 hours, 235 km)
- From Strasbourg: A4 motorway west (approximately 3 hours, 315 km)
Travel Tip: The TGV train from Paris CDG Airport to Reims is often faster and more convenient than driving, especially considering Paris traffic. Book train tickets in advance for the best fares.
Local Transportation
Reims' compact city center is easily walkable, with most major attractions within comfortable walking distance:
- Citura Bus Network: Efficient local bus system covering the entire city
- Bicycle Rental: Vél'Oxygène bike-sharing system with stations throughout the city
- Taxis: Available at stands near the station, cathedral, and Place Drouet d'Erlon
- Electric Scooters: Various companies offer app-based scooter rentals
- Walking Tours: The best way to appreciate Reims' architectural details
Where to Stay
Reims offers accommodation options ranging from luxurious champagne-themed hotels to charming boutique establishments, many housed in historic buildings that reflect the city's rich heritage.
Luxury Hotels
Les Crayères: The legendary 5-star hotel set in a beautiful château with exquisite gardens, Michelin-star dining, and impeccable service.
Grand Hôtel des Templiers: Historic mansion with luxurious rooms, indoor pool, and central location near the cathedral.
L'Assiette Champenoise: Relais & Châteaux property with 3 Michelin stars, contemporary design, and exceptional spa facilities.
Hotel de la Paix: Modern 4-star luxury with spa, indoor pool, and sophisticated champagne bar.
Mid-Range Hotels
Hotel Azur: Art Deco gem with stylish rooms and excellent location near Place Drouet d'Erlon.
Best Western Premier Hôtel de la Paix: Comfortable business-class hotel with good amenities and central location.
Mercure Reims Centre Cathédrale: Reliable chain hotel perfectly situated for exploring the historic center.
Hotel Crystal: Boutique hotel with personalized service and charming, individually decorated rooms.
Budget Options
Ibis Reims Centre: Affordable comfort in excellent central location near the cathedral.
Campanile Reims Centre - Cathédrale: Reliable budget chain with good value and convenient location.
Première Classe Reims: Basic but clean accommodation at very affordable prices.
Various B&Bs and Guesthouses: Charming options in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
| Hotel | Family Features | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Novotel Reims Tinqueux | Family rooms, children's menu, swimming pool | Just outside center, free parking |
| Ibis Styles Reims Centre | Family rooms, included breakfast, colorful decor | Central, near main attractions |
| Kyriad Reims Centre | Connecting rooms, family-friendly atmosphere | Near Place Drouet d'Erlon |
| Appart'City Reims Centre | Apartments with kitchenettes, family-sized units | Central with self-catering facilities |
Unique Stays
For those seeking distinctive accommodation experiences:
- Château Hotels: Stay in converted castles in the surrounding Champagne countryside
- Wine Domains: Accommodation at working champagne producers like Domaine Les Crayères
- Historic Mansions: Boutique hotels in restored 18th-century townhouses
- Art Deco Gems: Hotels preserving Reims' distinctive interwar architecture
What to See
Reims boasts an extraordinary concentration of historical and cultural attractions that tell the story of France itself.
Landmarks & Cultural Sites
Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral: This UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece is where French kings were crowned for centuries. The cathedral's stunning Gothic architecture features over 2,300 statues, including the famous "Smiling Angel." The interior's soaring vaulted ceilings, magnificent stained glass windows (including modern works by Marc Chagall and Imi Knoebel), and the sheer scale of the building will leave you breathless. Don't miss the treasury with coronation artifacts.
Palais du Tau: Adjacent to the cathedral, this former archbishop's palace served as the residence for French kings before their coronation. Today it houses the Cathedral Treasury, including coronation robes, chalices, and other regalia. The building itself is a masterpiece, with its Great Hall capable of hosting coronation banquets for hundreds of guests.
Basilique Saint-Remi: Another UNESCO site, this Romanesque-Gothic basilica contains the tomb of Saint Remi, the bishop who baptized Clovis, first king of the Franks. The sheer age of the building (begun in the 11th century) and its beautiful proportions make it a must-visit. The attached museum showcases regional history from prehistoric to Renaissance times.
Porte de Mars: This impressive Roman triumphal arch is the largest of its kind in the Roman world. Dating from the 3rd century AD, it stands as a testament to Reims' importance as the capital of Roman Belgium. The detailed carvings, though weathered by time, still hint at its original grandeur.
Museums & Cultural Centers
Musée des Beaux-Arts: Housed in the former Abbey of Saint-Denis, this fine arts museum boasts an impressive collection spanning from the Renaissance to modern times, including works by Cranach, Corot, and David.
Musée de la Reddition: The actual room where General Eisenhower accepted the German surrender on May 7, 1945, preserved exactly as it was on that historic day. A profoundly moving experience that brings WWII history to life.
Planétarium de Reims: A modern celestial theater offering fascinating shows about astronomy and the universe, located near the basilica.
Frac Champagne-Ardenne: Contemporary art museum showcasing cutting-edge works in a striking modern building.
Things to Do
Beyond its monumental sights, Reims offers diverse experiences that immerse visitors in champagne culture, French history, and local life.
Champagne Experiences
Champagne House Tours: Visit legendary houses like Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot, Pommery
Cellar Explorations: Descend into historic crayères (chalk cellars)
Champagne Tastings: Sample different cuvées and vintages with expert guidance
Grower Visits: Meet small producers in the surrounding vineyards
Champagne Classes: Learn champagne appreciation and food pairing
Vineyard Tours: Explore the Montagne de Reims champagne route
Cultural Activities
Cathedral Light Show: Spectacular evening projections on the cathedral facade
Historical Walking Tours: Guided explorations of Reims' 2,000-year history
Art Deco Architecture Trail: Self-guided tour of Reims' exceptional 1920s buildings
Market Visits: Experience the vibrant Halles du Boulingrin covered market
Museum Hopping: Discover Reims' diverse museums and galleries
Library Visit: See the beautiful Carnegie Library, a gift from the philanthropist
Seasonal Activities
Christmas Market: Festive market with local crafts and mulled wine
Johannine Celebrations: June festival honoring Saint John with fireworks
Vendange (Harvest): September grape harvest celebrations
Fêtes de Reims: Summer festival with concerts and cultural events
Garden Visits: Explore Parc de Champagne and other green spaces
River Walks: Stroll along the Vesle River through the city
Champagne House Tours Comparison
| Champagne House | Tour Highlights | Duration | Booking Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taittinger | Roman chalk cellars, family history, extensive galleries | 1 hour | Advance booking essential |
| Veuve Clicquot | UNESCO cellars, Madame Clicquot's story, iconic yellow label | 1.5-2 hours | Reservations required |
| Pommery | Art installations in cellars, architectural diversity | 1.5 hours | Recommended in advance |
| Ruinart | Oldest champagne house, deepest cellars, exclusive experience | 2 hours | Mandatory reservation |
| Mumm | Interactive museum, extensive cellars, Cordon Rouge focus | 1 hour | Walk-ins sometimes available |
Food & Drink
Reims' culinary scene reflects its position as the capital of Champagne, with sophisticated dining and traditional Champagne-Ardenne specialties.
Traditional Dishes to Try
- Biscuits Roses de Reims: Pink champagne biscuits traditionally dipped in champagne
- Jambon de Reims: Pressed ham cooked in champagne, served cold in slices
- Potée Champenoise: Hearty stew with pork, sausages, and winter vegetables
- Pâté de Reims: Chicken or pork pâté wrapped in pastry
- Andouillette de Troyes: Tripe sausage from nearby Troyes, an acquired taste
- Chaource Cheese: Creamy cow's milk cheese from the Champagne region
- Reims Mustard: Historical mustard that once rivaled Dijon's
Recommended Restaurants
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Le Millénaire | French Gastronomic | $$$$ | 3 Michelin stars, exceptional wine list |
| Brasserie du Boulingrin | Traditional French | $$ | Historic 1925 brasserie, Art Deco interior |
| Le Foch | Modern French | $$$ | Creative cuisine, excellent champagne selection |
| Au Petit Comptoir | French Bistro | $$ | Cozy atmosphere, seasonal menu |
| L'Apostrophe | French/Mediterranean | $$ | Terrace dining, creative dishes |
| Le Bocal | Seafood | $$ | Fresh fish, oyster bar, casual atmosphere |
Bars, Cafés & Champagne Bars
Reims' social scene revolves around champagne, with numerous dedicated bars and tasting rooms.
Champagne Bars
Champagne G.H. Mumm: Elegant bar at the champagne house with extensive tasting options
Le Clos: Taittinger's garden bar perfect for summer champagne tasting
CDM Champagne Bar: Central location with over 100 champagnes by the glass
Wine Bars
Le Wine Bar by Le Vintage: Knowledgeable staff, excellent small producers
3.14 Champagne: Modern champagne bar with creative food pairings
Boutilly Bar à Vins: Intimate setting with carefully curated selection
Traditional Cafés
Café du Palais: Historic café with stunning stained glass and literary history
Les Caves du Forum: Wine bar and restaurant in Roman cellars
Pâtisserie Fossier: Historic tea room serving the famous pink biscuits
Shopping
Reims offers excellent shopping opportunities, from luxury champagne purchases to local artisan products and French fashion.
Food & Champagne
Champagne: Direct from houses or specialized wine merchants
Biscuits Roses: The famous pink biscuits from Fossier
Local Specialties: Jambon de Reims, mustard, regional cheeses
Chocolate: Champagne-filled chocolates and other confections
Fashion & Boutiques
French Brands: Mid-range and luxury French fashion boutiques
Local Designers: Unique pieces from Champagne region creators
Accessories: Leather goods, scarves, jewelry
Department Stores: Galeries Lafayette and other French chains
Arts & Crafts
Local Art: Paintings and crafts inspired by champagne and region
Books: Champagne guides, French cookbooks, local history
Ceramics: Traditional pottery from the Champagne region
Christmas Decorations: Local crafts available year-round
Shopping Districts
- Rue de Vesle: Main shopping street with international brands
- Place Drouet d'Erlon: Cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops
- Cour des Halles: Modern shopping center in historic market location
- Around the Cathedral: Artisan shops and champagne merchants
- Halles du Boulingrin: Covered market for local food products
Culture & Local Life
Reims' culture is deeply intertwined with its dual identity as coronation city and champagne capital, creating a unique blend of royal grandeur and celebratory spirit.
Local Traditions
The "Bacchus" traditions surrounding champagne production influence daily life, from the annual vendange (grape harvest) celebrations to the constant presence of champagne in social gatherings. The city maintains proud Gallo-Roman roots while embracing its role in contemporary French culture.
Festivals & Events
Fêtes Johanniques (June): Celebration of Joan of Arc and Charles VII's coronation with medieval markets and processions
Les Sacres du Folklore (July): International folklore festival with dancers and musicians from around the world
Flâneries Musicales d'Été (June-July): Summer classical music festival in various historic venues
Christmas Market (December): One of France's most beautiful Christmas markets around the cathedral
Rêve de Couleurs (Summer): Spectacular light shows projected onto the cathedral facade
Vendange (September): Grape harvest celebrations throughout the champagne region
Jazz en Champagne (October): Jazz festival featuring international artists
Local Stories & Legends
The most famous legend concerns the "Smiling Angel" of Reims Cathedral. During WWI, the cathedral suffered extensive damage, and the smiling angel statue was decapitated. The recovered head became a symbol of French cultural resilience, and when the statue was restored, the angel's mysterious smile was carefully preserved. Locals say the smile represents hope surviving through destruction.
Another legend tells of the Roman crypt beneath the cathedral where Saint Remi baptized Clovis with oil brought from heaven by a dove—the same oil used to anoint French kings during their coronation. This "Holy Ampulla" was destroyed during the French Revolution, but fragments were preserved and are displayed in the Palais du Tau.
Practical Information
Weather & Best Times to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Mild, 8°C to 18°C, occasional rain | Gardens, comfortable sightseeing, fewer crowds | Variable weather, some attractions may have shorter hours |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Warm, 15°C to 25°C, mostly sunny | Festivals, outdoor dining, long days | Peak tourist season, higher prices, need advance bookings |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | Cool, 6°C to 19°C, beautiful foliage | Wine harvest, photography, cultural events | Grape harvest can mean busy champagne houses |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Cold, 0°C to 6°C, possible snow | Christmas markets, museum visits, cozy dining | Short days, some attractions closed or have reduced hours |
Currency & Costs
Reims uses the Euro (€). While more affordable than Paris, prices reflect its status as a premium destination.
- Budget hotel room: €70-120 per night
- Mid-range hotel: €120-250 per night
- Luxury hotel: €250-600+ per night
- Restaurant meal (mid-range): €25-50 per person
- Champagne house tour: €25-60 per person
- Museum entry: €6-12 per person
- Glass of champagne: €8-20 depending on quality
Safety & Emergency Information
Reims is generally very safe, but standard precautions for European cities apply.
- Emergency Number: 112 (general emergency)
- Police: 17
- Ambulance: 15
- Fire Department: 18
- Hospital: Hôpital Maison Blanche, 45 Rue Cognacq-Jay
- Pharmacy: Multiple in city center; after-hours rotation displayed
Champagne Tasting Tip: If planning to visit multiple champagne houses, space out your tours and consider having a substantial meal beforehand. The alcohol content can be deceptive, and cellars are often cool—dress in layers.
Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, Reims conceals numerous treasures that offer authentic local experiences.
Lesser-Known Attractions
Musée-Hôtel Le Vergeur: This beautifully preserved 13th-16th century townhouse museum contains an exceptional collection of Dürer engravings and offers a glimpse into bourgeois life across centuries. The tranquil Renaissance garden is a peaceful oasis.
Cryptoportique: Underground Roman galleries dating from the 3rd century AD, once part of the forum. These mysterious subterranean passages hint at Reims' importance as the Roman capital of Belgium.
Chapelle Foujita: A stunningly decorated chapel created by Japanese-French artist Léonard Foujita in 1966. The unique blend of Byzantine and Japanese influences creates an unexpectedly harmonious spiritual space.
Saint-Nicaise Hill: This residential neighborhood features exceptional Art Deco and Modernist architecture from the 1920s reconstruction, including the stunning Villa Douce.
Secret Viewpoints
Library Staircase: The Carnegie Library's main staircase offers a unique framed view of the cathedral through an arched window.
Parc de Champagne: The elevated areas of this extensive park provide beautiful perspectives of the city skyline away from the crowds.
Saint-Remi Cloister: The peaceful cloister of the basilica offers contemplative views of the ancient architecture.
Quiet Cafés & Restaurants
L'Écurie du Palais du Tau: The former stables of the archbishop's palace now house a charming tea room with garden seating.
Le Jardin d'Été: A hidden garden café behind the Museum of Fine Arts, perfect for a quiet moment.
Boulangerie L'Essentiel: An exceptional artisan bakery slightly off the tourist trail, beloved by locals.
Itineraries
24-Hour Reims Express
Morning: Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and Palais du Tau. Climb cathedral towers for panoramic views.
Mid-day: Stroll through Place Royale to Place Drouet d'Erlon for lunch at a traditional brasserie.
Afternoon: Tour Taittinger champagne cellars, then visit Basilique Saint-Remi and its museum.
Evening: Champagne tasting at a dedicated champagne bar followed by dinner at Le Foch.
After Dinner: Return to see the cathedral illuminated (seasonal light shows in summer).
2-Day Champagne Immersion
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cathedral & Palais du Tau, Roman sites | Veuve Clicquot tour, Halles du Boulingrin market | Champagne bar hopping, gastronomic dinner |
| 2 | Pommery champagne tour, Art Deco architecture walk | Saint-Remi Basilica, Museum of Surrender | Final champagne tasting, traditional French dinner |
3-Day Comprehensive Experience
| Day | Activities | Dining |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival, cathedral complex, Roman monuments, walking tour | Lunch at brasserie, dinner at Le Millénaire |
| 2 | Champagne house tours (Taittinger & Ruinart), Museum of Fine Arts | Market lunch, dinner at Au Petit Comptoir |
| 3 | Saint-Remi Basilica, Surrender Museum, Carnegie Library, shopping | Farewell lunch, departure |
Nearby Destinations
Reims makes an excellent base for exploring the wider Champagne region and northeastern France.
Champagne Towns
Épernay: Avenue de Champagne with prestigious houses like Moët & Chandon
Hautvillers: Picturesque village where Dom Pérignon perfected champagne
Aÿ: Historic champagne village with classified Grand Cru vineyards
Bouzy: Famous for still red wine used in rosé champagne
Historical Sites
Fort de la Pompelle: WWI fortification museum with extensive collection
Château Thierry: American WWI memorial and museum
Sedan: Europe's largest medieval castle
Laon: Magnificent medieval cathedral on a hilltop
Natural Attractions
Montagne de Reims: Regional natural park with forest and vineyards
Lac du Der-Chantecoq: Europe's largest artificial lake, birdwatching paradise
Faux de Verzy: Unique dwarf beech trees in magical forest
Côte des Blancs: Scenic champagne route through Chardonnay vineyards
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between visiting champagne houses in Reims versus Épernay?
Reims offers larger, more historic champagne houses with spectacular crayères (Roman chalk cellars) directly beneath the city, focusing on grand heritage and scale. Épernay's Avenue de Champagne features beautiful 19th-century mansions with cellars stretching beneath the town, offering a more intimate experience. Many visitors do both—Reims for historical depth, Épernay for the classic champagne avenue ambiance.
How far in advance should I book champagne house tours?
For major houses like Veuve Clicquot, Ruinart, and Taittinger, book at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for English-language tours. Smaller houses might accommodate last-minute bookings, but during peak season (May-October), everything should be reserved ahead. Some exclusive experiences require booking months in advance.
Is Reims suitable for visitors who don't drink champagne?
Absolutely. While champagne is a major attraction, Reims offers exceptional Gothic architecture, Roman history, World War sites, excellent museums, and beautiful Art Deco architecture. The culinary scene stands on its own merits, and the city's compact center is perfect for exploring historical sites and shopping without ever entering a champagne cellar.
What is the best way to get around the Champagne region from Reims?
While trains connect Reims to Épernay (30 minutes), having a car is ideal for exploring vineyards and smaller villages. Alternatively, join organized tours that handle transportation, hire a private driver for flexibility, or use regional buses for specific routes. Biking between champagne villages is popular in good weather but requires planning for the hilly terrain.
Are there any special etiquette rules for champagne tasting?
Champagne tasting follows general wine etiquette: avoid strong perfumes, hold glasses by the stem, and don't feel obligated to finish every pour if you're driving. More specifically, appreciate the bubbles and aromas before tasting, and don't be afraid to ask questions—champagne professionals love sharing their passion. Dress is generally smart-casual, especially at premium houses.
What's the best way to ship champagne home?
Most champagne houses and wine shops offer international shipping services, though this can be expensive. For smaller quantities, specially designed travel cases allow you to check champagne as luggage. Be aware of your home country's alcohol import limits and taxes. Some travelers prefer to purchase from merchants in their home country who import the same champagnes.
How does Reims compare to other French cathedral cities like Chartres or Amiens?
While all three have magnificent Gothic cathedrals, Reims stands apart as the coronation cathedral with unparalleled historical significance in French monarchy. The city also offers the unique champagne dimension absent in other cathedral cities. Compared to Chartres' medieval atmosphere or Amiens' floating gardens, Reims feels more urban and sophisticated, with better dining and shopping options due to its larger size and wealth from champagne.
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