Private Champagne Day Trip to Vineyards of Reims with French Lunch from Paris

Discover the Ultimate Champagne Day Trip from Paris

This private champagne tour offers an immersive experience in the Reims region, combining comfortable high-speed train travel, expert-guided vineyard visits, and six exclusive champagne tastings. Priced at $719.22 per person, it guarantees a full-day exploration that balances wine, history, and local cuisine. The tour is perfect for enthusiasts eager to deepen their appreciation of French champagne while enjoying a stress-free journey from Paris.

Traveling with a local guide, visitors discover two carefully selected vineyards, explore the historic city of Reims, and admire the stunning Reims Cathedral. The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, making it ideal for a comprehensive taste of the champagne region without the hassle of planning. While the tour includes a traditional French lunch and visits to iconic landmarks, it does not provide hotel pickup, which travelers should keep in mind.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive full-day tour from Paris to Reims, including high-speed train tickets
• Visit two vineyards with guided tours and six champagne tastings
• Enjoy a traditional French lunch in a charming family restaurant
• Explore the historic city of Reims and its landmarks, including the Reims Cathedral
• Group discounts available; only your group participates in this private experience
• The tour departs at 8:00 am from Gare de l’Est and lasts about 10 hours

Journey from Paris to Reims by High-Speed Train

This tour begins at Gare de l’Est in Paris, where travelers board a high-speed TVG train with their guide. The train journey offers a quick, comfortable transfer to the city of Reims, cutting down travel time and allowing more hours to enjoy the day. The train tickets are included in the price, emphasizing the smooth start to the experience.

Once in Reims, a private vehicle takes guests to the various stops planned for the day. This efficient transport setup makes the trip seamless, freeing visitors from worries about logistics or transport arrangements. The departure time at 8:00 am ensures a full day of activities, with the return to Gare de Paris-Est scheduled for about 7:00 pm.

Visiting the Charm of Reims City and Its Landmarks

The Reims city tour is a highlight, providing insight into the region’s rich history. Visitors explore the city’s main monuments and learn about its medieval past and the hardships faced during World War II. The city’s architecture and storied streets set a perfect backdrop for the day’s wine-focused pursuits.

A visit to the Reims Cathedral is included, which is renowned as one of France’s most important gothic structures. The cathedral’s extraordinary architecture leaves a lasting impression, and the guide offers insights into its history and significance. This stop lasts about one hour, giving visitors enough time to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of this medieval masterpiece.

Guided Tours of Champagne Vineyards and Cellars

Two vineyard visits are the core of the champagne tasting experience, each led by knowledgeable guides. The first visit occurs at 1 Rue de Chigny, where an old castle’s cellars and vineyards await exploration. Visitors learn about the champagne production process while sampling high-quality champagne.

The second vineyard stop at 1 Rue des Vignes takes visitors to a family-owned winery. Here, guests taste some of the most delicious French champagne, discovering different styles and flavors that showcase the region’s craftsmanship. Both visits involve guided tours lasting around three hours total, during which the guide explains the nuances of champagne production and aging.

Savoring a Traditional French Lunch in Ludes

Midway through the day, guests enjoy a two-hour lunch in the village of Ludes. The meal is served in a charming family restaurant, where local cuisine pairs beautifully with champagne. This meal provides a relaxing pause and an authentic taste of regional gastronomy, complementing the wine tastings perfectly.

The lunch arrangement emphasizes local flavors and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience. The pairing of good local champagne with the meal is a notable feature praised by previous visitors.

Exploring Reims’ Historic Landmarks and the Cathedral

After lunch, the tour continues with a one-hour walk through Reims’ streets, where the focus is on its most beautiful monuments. The guide highlights the city’s medieval history and its resilience through challenging periods, including WWII.

The Reims Cathedral dominates this segment, offering an extraordinary view of gothic architecture. Visitors learn about its history and significance, making it a meaningful visit that enriches the champagne experience with cultural context.

The Personal Touch of a Private Guided Experience

Led by an experienced local guide, the tour ensures personalized attention and engaging storytelling. The reviews highlight guides like Pablo, who provide informative commentary on both champagne and regional history, as well as friendly, approachable service.

The private nature of the tour means no crowds and a flexible schedule, allowing for a relaxed pace. Although the tour involves some physical activity, such as going down 130 steps in one of the cellars, the overall pace remains manageable for most travelers.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour covers 7 hours, including train travel, vineyard visits, lunch, and sightseeing. It features return tickets for the high-speed train, transfers by private vehicle, and guided tours of both wineries with expert champagne guides. Guests sample six glasses of high-quality champagne, giving plenty of tasting opportunities.

A traditional French lunch is part of the package, and the tour also includes a detailed city visit with landmark sightseeing. Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring an intimate experience.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour is highly praised for its guides, wine quality, and easy logistics, some reviews mention that the tastings are with other guests, and the champagne choices are basic unless additional paid options are chosen. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers need to arrange their transportation to the meeting point.

Plus, there is a physical aspect involving descents into cellars via 130 steps, which might be a consideration for those with mobility concerns.

Final Thoughts on the Reims Champagne Day Trip

This full-day private tour offers a comprehensive look at Reims’ historical landmarks and champagne vineyards, combining education, tasting, and sightseeing. The expert guides make the experience engaging, and the inclusion of a French lunch adds a relaxed, authentic touch.

Priced at over $700 per person, the tour provides excellent value for those seeking an in-depth, personalized champagne adventure from Paris. It’s especially well-suited for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone wanting a hassle-free, well-organized day trip.

While the tour’s price point may seem high, the attention to detail and quality of experiences—from winery visits to city landmarks—justify the expense for many visitors. It’s a solvent choice for a memorable, well-rounded day in the Champagne region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes all train tickets, private transfers, guided visits to two wineries, six champagne tastings, a French lunch, and a sightseeing tour of Reims and its landmarks.

Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
The provided information does not specify dietary accommodations, so it’s best to inquire directly with Local CoolTour.

Are the tastings with other guests or private?
The tastings are with other guests, but the overall tour remains private for your group only.

How physically demanding is the tour?
There is a 130-step descent in a cellar, which could be challenging for some, but overall the pace is manageable.

What are the meeting points and times?
The tour departs at 8:00 am from Gare de l’Est in Paris. The end point is back at the same station.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start time.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by Local CoolTour.

What is the overall rating of this tour?
It holds a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on 13 reviews, with 92% recommending it.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, though those with mobility issues should consider the cellar steps.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially for those who want a comprehensive, private champagne experience with expert guides and memorable sightseeing.