From Paris: Reims Cathedral, Champagne Cellar, and Tasting

Discover the magic of Champagne on a full-day tour from Paris that combines cultural sights with the region’s bubbly delights. For $198 per person, this 11-hour journey offers a chance to visit the iconic Reims Cathedral, explore historic Champagne cellars with a professional guide, and taste some of the finest Champagne in the world. The tour also features a visit to the Lighthouse of Verzenay for stunning views, and a charming stop in the village of Hautvillers, famous as the birthplace of Champagne production.

This tour is designed for those eager to learn about Champagne’s history and production process in a relaxed, small-group setting. Limited to 8 participants, it promises a more personal experience compared to larger group excursions. The tour departs from 6 Rue de l’Amiral de Coligny in Paris, and includes several notable stops that highlight the region’s cultural and vinicultural heritage.

Key Points

• Full-day experience exploring Champagne and Reims from Paris
• Visit Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Guided tour of Champagne cellars with a tasting session
• Includes visits to Hautvillers and the Lighthouse of Verzenay
• Small group limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience
• Languages offered: French, English, Spanish

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting Reims Cathedral: Notre Dame of Reims

The tour begins with a guided visit to Reims Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Notre Dame of Reims holds historical importance as the traditional coronation site for French kings. The guide provides insightful explanations of its architectural features and historical significance.

Spending about one hour at this majestic cathedral allows ample time to admire its intricate facades, stained glass windows, and the famous sculptures. This stop offers a meaningful introduction to the region’s heritage before heading into the Champagne cellars.

Touring Champagne Cellars with a Professional Guide

The highlight of the tour is the visit to a Champagne cellar, where a professional guide explains the production process and secrets of Champagne crafting. As the tour takes you through old, mystical cellars, you gain a deeper understanding of how Champagne is made, from grape harvesting to the bottle.

Following the cellar exploration, guests enjoy a Champagne tasting session, sampling some bubbly directly from the source. The tasting lasts around one hour, allowing time for appreciation and conversation about the different varieties and their unique qualities.

Scenic Views from the Lighthouse of Verzenay

In the afternoon, the tour includes a visit to the Lighthouse of Verzenay, an unusual tower that offers sweeping views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside. The guided tour of this lighthouse lasts about one hour and provides a wonderful vantage point to appreciate the landscape of the Champagne region.

The belvedere, located at the top, is perfect for taking photos and enjoying the scenic panorama. This stop adds a visual dimension to the tour and allows visitors to see the vineyard-covered hills from above.

Exploring Hautvillers: The Birthplace of Champagne

The tour takes a charming detour to the village of Hautvillers, renowned as the birthplace of Champagne. This picturesque village is famous for being where Dom Pérignon, the legendary monk, discovered the Champagne method. Guests spend approximately 75 minutes wandering through its narrow streets, admiring the traditional houses and vineyards.

Hautvillers offers a quiet, authentic glimpse into the region’s history and winemaking traditions. It’s a relaxing stop that complements the more structured visits, providing an opportunity to soak in local atmosphere.

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Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from Devant l’agence France Tourisme, near the Louvre-Rivoli Metro station (Line 1) in Paris. The journey is conducted in a van that travels through the Champagne region over about two hours to Reims. The small group size, limited to 8 participants, ensures an intimate environment where questions are welcomed, and interaction is more personal.

The entire day is well-paced, balancing sightseeing, learning, and tasting, with enough flexibility to enjoy each stop comfortably.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the $198 price are the guided visit of Reims Cathedral, the Champagne cellar visit and tasting, the visit to the Lighthouse of Verzenay or Epernay (seasonal), and the exploration of Hautvillers. The guide conducts the tour in English, French, and Spanish.

However, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, nor meals. Travelers should plan accordingly for lunch or snacks during the day.

The Comfort and Practical Tips

Since the cellars can be cool, wearing warm clothing is recommended, especially if visiting in cooler months. The tour involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are advisable. Alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, ensuring safety for everyone.

The timing of the tour means starting early, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. No payment is required upfront if you choose to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for travel plans.

Comparing Similar Champagne Tours from Paris

This tour is one of several options for exploring Champagne from Paris. Other offerings include half-day tastings to Epernay, full-day wine tours, and visits to other houses like Taittinger. These options often feature similar stops but vary in length, focus, and included experiences. The small-group setting and the combination of cultural and tasting experiences make this tour particularly appealing for those wanting a balanced overview.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour unique is the combination of cultural landmarks with Champagne tastings in a small-group setting. The inclusion of Reims Cathedral, the Lighthouse of Verzenay, and the village of Hautvillers provides a well-rounded experience. The personal guide enhances the visit with explanations in multiple languages, making it accessible to international travelers.

The 11-hour duration offers a comprehensive day without feeling rushed, perfect for those wanting a deeper insight into Champagne’s heritage and production.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and cultural explorers alike. It’s ideal for travelers who want to avoid large crowds and prefer a more intimate, educational experience. The moderate walking and cool cellar temperatures make it suitable for most physically able visitors, though comfort is key.

The price point reflects the quality of the guided visits and tastings, making it a good value for those interested in both cultural sites and Champagne.

Final Thoughts on the Reims Champagne Day Trip

This small-group tour from Paris offers a balanced look at the history, culture, and production of Champagne. The guided visits to Reims Cathedral, Champagne cellars, and Hautvillers provide plenty of insight and photo opportunities. The Champagne tasting directly in the cellars is a highlight, offering a chance to sample some of the best bubbly the region produces.

The Lighthouse of Verzenay adds a scenic touch, giving panoramic views of the vineyards. The limited group size ensures a comfortable pace and personalized attention. This tour is especially suitable for those seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day trip that combines sightseeing with sensory experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 11 hours, starting from Paris and returning to the same location.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is Devant l’agence France Tourisme, near the Louvre-Rivoli Metro station (Line 1) in Paris.

What is included in the price?
The guided visit of Reims Cathedral, Champagne cellar visit and tasting, visit to the Lighthouse of Verzenay or Epernay (seasonal), and Hautvillers are included. The guide speaks English, French, and Spanish.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. Travelers should plan for lunch or snacks independently.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is a small group limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking, and warm clothing is advised because the cellars can be cool.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are alcoholic drinks allowed in the vehicle?
No, alcoholic drinks are not permitted in the vehicle for safety reasons.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned, the moderate walking and cultural content suggest it’s best for teenagers and adults.

How do I pay for the tour?
You can reserve now and pay later, with no upfront cost, and pay at a later date to accommodate travel planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby