From Paris: Champagne Cellars and Vineyards Tour and Tasting

An In-Depth Look at the Champagne Cellars and Vineyards Tour from Paris

This 12 to 13-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Champagne region, starting from Paris at a cost of $287.35 per person. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to experience famous Champagne houses, historic cellars, and scenic vineyard views in a single day. The tour features pickup options, making it convenient for visitors staying in or around Paris.

The journey takes travelers through Epernay, Aÿ-Champagne, and Reims, with stops at renowned Champagne houses including Charles Mignon and Moët & Chandon. The guide leads guests through historic cellars and sensory centers, with tasting experiences of 2 to 3 champagne flutes. Although some cellar options like Moët et Chandon require reservations and additional fees, the included tours provide a rich tasting experience.

Most participants appreciate the well-paced itinerary, the knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to walk through iconic Champagne streets and visit the Reims Cathedral. The small group size, limited to 7 travelers, ensures a more personal experience, while the air-conditioned luxury minivan enhances comfort. The only potential limitation is that lunch is not included, so visitors may want to plan ahead for their meal during free time on Avenue de Champagne.

Key Points

• Full-day guided experience from Paris with luxury transport and small group size.
• Visits include Charles Mignon Family Champagne House, Pressoria sensory center, and Reims Cathedral.
• Tastings of 2 to 3 champagne flutes included at several locations, with optional upgrades available.
• Tour features scenic views from Chatillon-sur-Marne and opportunities for photos.
• Most stops are free to enter, with some additional fees applicable for certain cellar visits.
• Pickup from Paris is available, with a meeting point at 38 Bd de Bercy.

Starting from Paris to the Heart of Champagne

The tour kicks off in Paris, departing from 38 Bd de Bercy, and transports guests in a luxury air-conditioned minivan capable of carrying up to 7 travelers. The journey to Epernay spans approximately 2 hours and offers passengers a chance to relax onboard with WiFi and bottled water provided.

Once in Champagne, the first stop is Chatillon-sur-Marne, where a 270° panoramic view over the Marne Valley awaits. This brief 15-minute stop is perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape, along with a visit to the statue of Pope Urban II.

Exploring Champagne Charles Mignon: Family-Owned Cellar and Tastings

The visit to Champagne Charles Mignon is a highlight, offering a 2-hour tour and tasting at this local, family-run house in Epernay. Guests tour the cellars, learn about traditional Champagne production, and sample 2 or 3 flutes of Champagne. The tasting is led by their sommelier, and the tour is available in English or French (not on Sundays).

This intimate visit provides insight into small-scale Champagne craftsmanship, contrasting with larger brands, and allows for a more personalized experience.

Shopping and Lunch on Avenue de Champagne

Guests then have around 2 hours free time on Avenue de Champagne in Epernay. This legendary street is lined with luxury Champagne houses, shops, and cafes, making it ideal for lunch and shopping. While lunch is not included, visitors can choose from nearby restaurants or bakeries, taking advantage of the free time.

This stretch is also where visitors can browse Champagne boutiques or simply stroll past historic cellars with minimal effort, soaking in the luxurious atmosphere of Champagne’s most famous avenue.

Optional Visit to Moët & Chandon Gift Shop and Cellars

From May onwards, the tour offers a 45-minute visit to Moët et Chandon‘s gift shop, with the option to visit their cellar with reservation and extra fee. Though the cellar tour isn’t included in the base price, the gift shop experience allows for shopping for Champagne souvenirs or exploring Moët’s iconic branding.

This optional stop gives a taste of large-scale Champagne production and its prominent place in luxury branding.

Sensory Journey at Pressoria in Aÿ-Champagne

The next stop is at Pressoria, a pressing center located in the picturesque village of Aÿ-Champagne. Here, a 2-hour visit involves a sensory experience that explores Champagne production from pressing to tasting. Passengers learn about vineyard practices and the aromas and textures that define Champagne.

Pressoria’s innovative approach makes this site stand out, providing interactive displays and tastings that deepen understanding of Champagne’s flavor profile.

Reims: Visit to Notre-Dame Cathedral

After exploring the vineyards, the group transfers to Reims, a journey of about 40 minutes. At Reims Cathedral, a live guided tour of the Gothic masterpiece unfolds, focusing on its architecture and its role as the coronation church for French kings. The 1-hour visit includes insights into the cathedral’s history and artistic details.

This visit is a key cultural highlight, showcasing one of the most important Gothic structures in France and adding historical depth to the Champagne experience.

Return to Paris with Scenic Views

The tour concludes with a 2-hour drive back to Paris, arriving at the initial pick-up point. Passengers can relax, reflect on the day, and perhaps share photos of the vineyard vistas, cathedral facades, and wine cellars encountered during the trip.

Practical Details and Booking Notes

The tour is designed for most travelers, with confirmation provided at booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, and WiFi onboard helps keep everyone connected.

For those planning a visit, note that lunch and dinner are not included, giving flexibility to choose meals based on personal preferences. The meeting point is centrally located in Paris, and pickup from hotels is available for an extra fee.

The tour’s high rating of 5.0 based on one review reflects satisfaction with the guide Liviu, praised for making the day special and ensuring guests see many highlights of the Champagne region.

Final Thoughts on the Champagne Cellars and Vineyards Tour

This comprehensive day trip from Paris offers a balanced mix of vineyard visits, tastings, cultural landmarks, and scenic views. Its strength lies in the small group size and expert guides who make the experience engaging and informative. The inclusion of notable Champagne houses, particularly Charles Mignon, combined with unique sensory experiences at Pressoria, makes for a memorable day.

While lunch isn’t included, the free time on Avenue de Champagne provides ample opportunity to explore local dining options. The optional upgrades at Moët et Chandon** add a layer of flexibility for those seeking a deeper dive into large Champagne brands.

Ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Champagne, this tour offers a well-rounded and accessible way to enjoy the region’s finest sights and flavors in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, luxury air-conditioned transport with WiFi is included from Paris and for the return journey.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak French?
Absolutely. The tour is primarily available in English, and guides are proficient in both languages.

Are there options to upgrade the cellar visits?
Yes, upgrades for Moët et Chandon and other prestigious Champagne houses are available with extra fees.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is free time on Avenue de Champagne to find local restaurants or cafes.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 55 days in advance, but available spots can vary based on season and demand.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 7 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.