Champagne – Reims: Private tour from Paris by minivan

Discover the Elite Private Champagne Tour from Paris at $522.44 per Person

This private tour from Paris offers an intimate, expertly guided exploration of the Champagne region in Reims. Priced at $522.44 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, this journey is perfect for those seeking a blend of cultural sights and world-renowned wine tastings in a comfortable minivan. The tour includes hotel pickup, visits to two distinguished Champagne houses, a UNESCO-listed cathedral, and a charming village, making it a comprehensive experience in a short time.

Travelers appreciate that the tour is exclusively for your group, ensuring personalized service and a relaxed pace. The tour starts early, with a meeting at 8:00 am, and offers mobile tickets for easy access. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts, history lovers, or anyone wanting a taste of France’s celebrated Champagne and historic Reims city.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with exclusive group access
• Visit to Reims Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Guided tour and tasting at the Champagne G.H. Martel & Co in medieval cellars
• Visit to Champagne Roger Manceaux with tastings of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier
• Stop at Hautvillers, where Dom Pérignon discovered the Champagne-making method
• Includes bottled water, all fees, and two Champagne tastings; lunch not included

Reims Cathedral: A Gothic Masterpiece and UNESCO Heritage Site

The tour begins with a visit to the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Reims, a true icon of Gothic architecture built in the 13th century. The guide provides commentary on its remarkable architecture, which features a stunning unity of style, and more than 2,300 sculpted motifs decorating its façade.

The cathedral’s famous stained glass windows, some dating from the 13th century, include three designed by Marc Chagall in 1974. The Smiling Angel, with its outstretched wings, is among the most well-known sculptures. Visitors can appreciate the cathedral’s historical role as the site of French royal coronations, adding depth to the visual grandeur.

Champagne G.H. Martel & Co: Exploring Medieval Cellars and Tasting

Next, the tour visits the Champagne G.H. Martel & Co, located in medieval Crayères, some dug between the 4th and 15th centuries. The cellars add a sense of history and charm as they preserve the delicate bubbles of the family-owned Champagne house.

During the visit, the guide explains the Champagne production process as you walk through the sublime underground chambers. The tasting here includes samples from their exclusive collection, highlighting the elegance and quality of Martel Champagne. This visit offers a perfect blend of history, craftsmanship, and flavor.

Champagne Manceaux: A Family Heritage of Sustainable Viticulture

The tour continues with a visit to the Champagne Roger Manceaux, a family-run estate with five generations of experience. Located in the Montagne de Reims, a Premier Cru village known for its quality grapes, this producer emphasizes sustainable viticulture practices.

The visit includes a tour of the cellars and a tasting of three grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier. The wines lean toward balancing tradition with environmental responsibility, and the tastings showcase the distinct character of each varietal.

Discovering Hautvillers: Birthplace of Champagne as We Know It

On the journey back to Paris, the group stops at the charming village of Hautvillers. This village is famous for its old Benedictine abbey, where Dom Pérignon is believed to have discovered the method of making Champagne in the 18th century.

While exploring Hautvillers, visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village, which is steeped in history and tradition. The stop offers a chance to appreciate the roots of Champagne and see the landscape that inspired centuries of viticulture.

Logistics: Private Transportation and Convenient Meeting Arrangements

This tour departs from Paris at 8:00 am, with pickup included, ensuring a hassle-free start. The air-conditioned minivan offers comfortable transport for the duration, with bottled water provided. Being a private experience, only your group participates, allowing for a more tailored and flexible schedule.

The tour’s duration of approximately 4 hours is designed for those with busy schedules but still eager to experience the highlights of Reims and Champagne. The group discounts are not explicitly detailed but suggest options for larger parties or multiple bookings.

Inclusions and Practical Details

The tour includes all fees and taxes, private transport, and tastings at two Champagne houses. The visits to Reims Cathedral, Hautvillers, and the cellar tours are all included in the price, with no additional charges for entrance or tastings at the Champagne estates.

It’s important to note that lunch is not included, so planning a meal beforehand or after the tour is advisable. The confirmation is received at booking, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with accessible meeting points near public transit.

Unique Features Setting This Tour Apart

What makes this private tour especially appealing is the combination of cultural, historical, and wine tasting experiences packed into a short trip. The inclusion of two Champagne cellar visits with tastings, combined with a guided tour of Reims Cathedral, provides a well-rounded view of the region’s significance.

The visit to Hautvillers offers a picturesque conclusion, connecting the modern Champagne industry with its historic origins. The small-group setting allows for personalized attention from guides who are knowledgeable about both wine production and regional history.

What to Keep in Mind Before Booking

While the tour offers many highlights, the 4-hour duration means pacing is brisk, and participants should be comfortable with walking and standing during visits. The lack of lunch means that travelers should plan accordingly, especially if they prefer a hearty meal.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather could impact some outdoor or cellar visits, but full refunds or alternative dates are offered if cancellations occur due to weather.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This private Champagne tour is best suited for wine lovers, history buffs, and those interested in the cultural significance of Reims. Its personalized format and focus on exclusive tastings make it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking an intimate experience outside the busy city.

The tour’s combination of sightseeing, tasting, and storytelling ensures a memorable day in one of France’s most iconic regions, with a perfect balance of education and indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

What is included in the price?
The private transportation, visits to two Champagne houses, tastings, Reims Cathedral tour, and Hautvillers stop are included, along with all fees and taxes.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

What kind of Champagne is tasted?
You will taste Champagnes from Martel and Manceaux, which include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, with only your group participating.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins with hotel pickup in Paris, near public transit.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, with full refunds.

How do I get tickets?
Tickets are mobile, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking.

Are the cellar visits suitable for all ages?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking and standing involved.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-drinkers can still enjoy the sightseeing and learn about Champagne production, though tastings are included.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of cultural sites, exclusive Tastings, and historic villages in a private, intimate setting makes this experience particularly memorable.

How early should I arrive?
The tour starts at 8:00 am, so arriving at the pickup point on time ensures a smooth experience.

Find more details at Viator’s website.