Champagne Day Trip with 6 Tastings, Reims and Winery from Paris

Discover the delights of Champagne on this full-day trip from Paris, priced at $266.47 per person. With a duration of about 11 hours, this tour offers six tastings at two different wineries, a visit to the relic of Dom Pérignon, and key sights in Reims and Épernay. The tour is operated by Blue Fox Travel – Blue Bike Tours – Paris, and is ideal for those who want an intimate experience, as it caps at eight participants.

Traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan, visitors enjoy a well-paced itinerary that combines wine tasting, sightseeing, and cultural landmarks. While the tour features small group sizes and behind-the-scenes visits, the long drive early in the morning should be considered. This experience suits champagne enthusiasts and history lovers alike, especially those eager to learn about the production process and explore the scenic Champagne wine region.

Key Points

• Full-day itinerary lasting around 11 hours from Paris with round-trip transportation.
• Six Champagne tastings spread across two wineries, including a family-owned venue and a cooperative.
• Visits to iconic Reims Cathedral, Hautvillers Abbey, and Dom Pérignon’s tomb.
• Small-group experience capped at eight people for a more personal touch.
• The tour is suitable for ages 7 and up and operates in all weather conditions.
• Expert guides lead the journey, providing insights into Champagne making and local landmarks.

How the Tour Begins at Dada12 in Paris

The experience kicks off at 7:00 am at Dada12 Av. des Ternes, 75017 Paris. The group travels in an air-conditioned minivan through the Champagne wine region, setting the pace for a full day of sightseeing and tastings. The early start ensures ample time to explore the region’s highlights without feeling rushed.

The round-trip transport makes it easy for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of self-driving. The small group size enhances the intimacy of the experience, fostering engaging conversations and personalized attention from the guide.

Exploring the Vineyards of Champagne-Ardenne

The first stop is the Champagne-Ardenne region, where visitors walk through vineyards and see Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes growing on rolling hills. This stop lasts about one hour and offers the chance to learn about grape growing techniques directly from a knowledgeable guide.

The scenic landscape and the chance to see growing Champagne grapes make this a memorable introduction to the region’s viticulture. This stop is free of charge but provides valuable context for understanding the champagne-making process.

Champagne Tasting at Nicolas Feuillatte

Next, the tour visits the Nicolas Feuillatte facility, a favorite among the French. Here, visitors spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes, enjoying a guided tour of the winery and sampling three different glasses of Champagne included in the experience.

This visit offers an inside look into a major Champagne house, with explanations about production methods and the brand’s history. The tasting is designed to enhance appreciation for the different styles of Champagne, making it a highlight for enthusiasts.

Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hautvillers Abbey

The tour then takes visitors to Hautvillers Abbey, a site recognized by UNESCO. The Abbey Church is where Dom Perignon, the monk credited with developing French bubbly, lived in the 1600s. The guide leads guests to his grave, providing an opportunity to honor the inventor of Champagne.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes and combines historic interest with scenic views. It also offers a moment to reflect on the centuries-old tradition of Champagne-making and its connection to monastic life.

Exploring Reims Cathedral’s Gothic Architecture

After Hautvillers, the tour visits the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Reims, an architectural masterpiece over 800 years old. The cathedral’s stone carvings and stained-glass windows showcase Gothic craftsmanship. Visitors are given about 20-30 minutes to explore the cathedral freely and take photos.

The guide explains the cathedral’s historical significance as a site of French coronations and religious importance. This stop combines artistic beauty with cultural history, enriching the overall experience.

Champagne Domi and the Champagne-Making Process

The next destination is Champagne DOMI, where Stéphane, an authentic vintner, welcomes visitors. The guided walk through the cellars features up-close views of wine presses and bottle racks. The visit lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and includes tasting 3 to 4 Champagne wines.

Guests learn directly from the vintner about the production process, gaining insights into small-scale craftsmanship. The opportunity to taste multiple Champagnes in a personal setting makes this a real highlight for connoisseurs.

Free Time in Epernay and Optional Lunch

The final stop in the Champagne region is Epernay, known as the capital of Champagne. The group receives about one hour to explore the town at their own pace and choose a lunch spot—note that lunch is not included in the tour price.

Epernay’s charming streets, with notable sights and local eateries, provide a relaxed finish to the day. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the town and soaking in the wine country atmosphere.

The Tour Wraps Up Back in Paris

After exploring Epernay, the return journey begins, and the tour concludes back at the original meeting point in Paris. The long day ensures a comprehensive look at Champagne’s landscape, history, and production.

This tour’s value lies in the combination of sightseeing and tasting, with six opportunities to sample different types of Champagne. The small group size fosters engaging conversations, and the expert guide helps bring each stop to life.

Who Will Appreciate This Champagne Day Trip

This experience appeals most to champagne lovers eager to learn about the production process and taste a variety of wines. The cultural visits to Reims Cathedral and Dom Pérignon’s tomb add an enriching layer for history and architecture enthusiasts.

The early start and long drive are worth the trade-off for intimate visits and personalized attention. It suits those age 7 and above who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

For visitors seeking a relaxed, educational experience with expert guides, this tour offers a well-balanced day in the heart of Champagne.

Final Thoughts on the Champagne Day Trip

This tour offers an immersive experience into Champagne culture, combining historic landmarks, wine tastings, and beautiful scenery. Six tastings across two wineries deliver excellent value for the price, especially given the personalized small-group setting.

While the early start and long drive require some stamina, the diverse stops and knowledgeable guides make this a rewarding choice for champagne aficionados and curious travelers alike. The free cancellation policy adds flexibility for those unsure about their plans.

This full-day Champagne adventure stands out as an educational, scenic, and delicious experience that showcases the best of France’s sparkling wine and its historic roots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes round-trip transportation, six Champagne tastings, a guided visit of Nicolas Feuillatte, and a personal visit to a family-run winery. It also covers visits to Reims Cathedral and Hautvillers Abbey, as well as expert guidance.

How many stops are there during the tour?
The tour features six stops: Champagne-Ardenne vineyard, Nicolas Feuillatte winery, Hautvillers Abbey, Reims Cathedral, Champagne Domi, and Epernay.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. Visitors have about one hour free in Epernay to find a restaurant or picnic spot of their choice.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s best to dress appropriately for the weather, with comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s perfect for champagne enthusiasts, history buffs, and those looking for an educational day trip that combines scenic views with tastings. The tour is suitable for children aged 7 and older.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.