Private tour of the Champagne area, meet local producers and taste their Champagne, start from your hotel in Paris.

Discover the Private Champagne Tour from Paris

The private tour of the Champagne region offers a seamless, full-day experience for those eager to explore France’s sparkling wine capital. Starting directly from your hotel in Paris, this 10 to 12-hour journey takes you into the heart of Reims and Épernay, where you’ll meet local Champagne producers and visit renowned houses like Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, or Mercier. The tour includes exclusive cellar visits, tastings of at least five Champagne varieties, and the chance to explore historic villages such as Hautvillers.

Priced at $969.50 per person, the tour is a premium experience that is booked on average 88 days in advance. It has earned a perfect rating of 5.0 out of 5 from 42 reviews, with 95% recommending it. While some find the price high, most appreciate the private, customizable nature of the tour, the knowledgeable guides, and the authentic local visits. This tour suits those who value personalized experiences and want to avoid crowded group tours.

Key Points

• Private, door-to-door transport from Paris with pickup and drop-off at your hotel
• Visit prestigious Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, or Mercier, including cellar tours and tastings
• Meet owners of family-owned Champagne cellars and tour vineyards in Damery, with options to buy bottles without commission
• Explore the village of Hautvillers, the resting place of Dom Pérignon, and learn about Champagne’s origins
• Enjoy an exclusive tasting of at least 5 Champagne varieties in various settings, including cellars and private homes
• Flexible itinerary, with stops at vineyards, historic sites, and picturesque villages, all in a luxury vehicle

Starting from Paris: Door-to-Door Service

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or preferred location in Paris, providing a personalized start to your day. The private vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with bottled water, making the journey comfortable. The drive to the Champagne region takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy scenic views of the French countryside.

This door-to-door service ensures a stress-free experience, with no need to navigate public transport or worry about timing. It’s a particular advantage for those staying in central Paris, wanting to maximize time exploring rather than commuting.

Visiting a Prestigious Champagne House in Reims or Épernay

The highlight of the tour is a visit to a prestigious Champagne house, with options including Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Mercier, or Pommery. The cellar visits are led by guides who walk you through underground galleries, revealing centuries-old tunnels and the secrets of Champagne production.

The admission to these cellars is included, allowing you to witness the historic craftsmanship behind each bottle. These wineries serve as living witnesses to Champagne’s development over the centuries, offering insights into traditional methods and modern techniques.

The choice of house may depend on availability and day of the week, and some visits might include a tasting in a historic setting. The visits are designed to combine educational commentary with sensory experiences.

Exploring Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon’s Village

A visit to Hautvillers, a charming village famous as the resting place of Dom Pérignon, offers a more intimate look at Champagne’s origins. You can admire breathtaking views of the Marne Valley and walk through medieval streets lined with vineyards.

This stop lasts around 30 minutes, giving enough time to appreciate the historic abbey and the scenic surroundings. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with Champagne’s heritage and see vineyard landscapes that have been cultivated for centuries.

Champagne Tasting Experiences in Reims and Damery

After visiting the cellars, the tour continues with exclusive tastings. Guests sample at least five different types of Champagne, often in different settings—from cellars to private residences.

In Reims, the group has the chance to enjoy a glass at one of the major Champagne houses, offering a luxurious tasting environment. Plus, the tour includes a visit to Damery, where a family-owned Champagne cellar owner invites guests into his living room to taste his best vintage Champagne.

An especially valued aspect is the option to purchase bottles directly from the producer, often without any commission, and the possibility to arrange Champagne shipping. This allows for authentic souvenirs that aren’t available in stores.

Walking Through Villages and Vineyards

The tour also emphasizes the visual beauty of Champagne country. Guests pass through typical villages with quaint houses and vineyards spread across rolling hills. These picturesque scenes reinforce the region’s reputation as France’s sparkling wine heart.

Although not a dedicated activity, the drive through the countryside offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the local landscape.

The Role of the Guide and Personalized Experience

According to reviews, guides like Clement or Agnes are praised for their knowledge, engagement, and friendly demeanor. One review highlights Clement’s passion and humor, which made the experience especially memorable. The private nature of the tour allows guides to tailor the experience to your interests, whether that means focusing more on vineyards, cellars, or local history.

The small group or private setup ensures a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and enjoy a personalized experience.

Practical Details: Timing, Pacing, and Physical Requirements

The total duration is approximately 10 to 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. The itinerary is flexible, with stops at key sites spaced out comfortably. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as some stops involve walking through cellars or villages.

Warm clothing is advised, as cellars are kept at 51°F (around 11°C), which may feel cool, especially after wine tastings. The tour is fully private, so it can be adapted if needed, but it remains best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Comparing Value and Cost

While the $969.50 price might seem high, it includes luxury transportation, private guides, multiple Champagne tastings, and exclusive visits. This level of personalization sets it apart from group tours or self-guided trips, offering an immersive and tailored experience.

Most reviews mention the knowledge of the guides and quality of the Champagne tastings as standout features, making the cost justifiable for those seeking a premium, curated experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Champagne tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, luxury travelers, and anyone wanting a deeper dive into Champagne’s heritage. It suits those who prefer personalized service, value comfort and exclusivity, and are willing to invest in a high-quality experience.

It’s less suitable for travelers on a strict budget or those looking for a quick overview, as the experience is both comprehensive and deliberately relaxed.

Final Thoughts on the Champagne Private Tour

This tour provides an elegant way to explore France’s sparkling wine capital, with exclusive cellar visits, tastings, and scenic drives. The private nature ensures a customized, intimate experience that highlights Champagne’s history, landscapes, and craftsmanship.

While the price point reflects the luxury and personalized service, most reviews confirm that the quality of guides and access to top Champagne houses justifies the cost. The tour is particularly well-suited for those seeking a special, in-depth visit rather than a casual overview.

For history lovers, wine aficionados, or celebrating a special occasion, this private Champagne experience from Paris offers a memorable day filled with delightful tastings and authentic local encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours, including travel time, visits, and tastings.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, guided visits to Champagne houses, tastings of at least five Champagnes, admission to cellars and villages, and pick-up/drop-off in Paris.

Can I buy Champagne during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase bottles directly from producers without any commission, and shipping arrangements can be made.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing because cellars are kept at 51°F (around 11°C). Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It requires moderate physical activity and comfort in cool environments, so it’s best for those with good mobility.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are opportunities to enjoy local dishes near the Champagne houses.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or full refund.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, as a private experience, it can be tailored to your preferences within the available stops.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 88 days in advance, so early reservations are recommended.

Who leads the tour?
The tour is led by knowledgeable multilingual guides from Finding France, ensuring expert commentary and friendly service.