Plan your journey to Reims, France, with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring essential tips on history, Champagne tasting, cultural landmarks, and practical advice for your visit.
Welcome to Reims, a city where history, culture, and Champagne come together for an amazing vacation! Located in Northern France in the Champagne region, Reims offers a mix of wine tastings, ancient cathedrals, and city vibes. Whether you love history, enjoy wine, or just want a relaxing getaway, Reims is the perfect place to be!
In this travel guide, we’ll show you the must-see places in Reima. We’ll visit museums and art galleries that tell the city’s story through its culture. And, of course, we’ll explore Champagne, from famous Champagne houses to hidden wineries where you can taste some of the best sparkling wine in the world.
Get ready to plan your perfect trip with this Reims travel guide, where every sip and sight will become a memorable highlight and delicious experience.
History of Reims
Reims has played a pivotal role in French history and culture for centuries. Known as the traditional coronation site of French kings, Reims witnessed the crowning of many monarchs, solidifying its significance in medieval Europe. The city’s location along trade routes contributed to its prosperity.
Reims is famous for:
Coronation Site: The city was where many French kings were crowned, making it a symbol of royal power and religious importance.
Historical Landmarks: The Cathedral of Notre Dame is an example of Gothic architecture and was central to these royal ceremonies. Nearby, the Palais du Tau was where kings stayed before their coronations and now houses a museum about this history.
Today, Reims remains a city with a deep connection to French history and culture, offering visitors a chance to explore its fascinating past and beauty still today.
Champagne Tasting and Wineries
Reims is beyond famous for its exquisite Champagne production. Champagne is a sparkling wine made here using special methods. The cool climate and chalky soil in Reims help grapes grow well, making them perfect for Champagne. The process involves a second fermentation that gives Champagne its bubbles and taste.
Visiting Reims offers a chance to explore famous Champagne houses and wineries, such as:
Moët & Chandon: Known worldwide, Moët & Chandon offers guided tours where you can see how Champagne is made and enjoy tastings of their famous varieties.
Veuve Clicquot: Another well-known Champagne house, Veuve Clicquot welcomes visitors for tours and tastings in their historic cellars.
Taittinger: Set in ancient Roman chalk quarries, Taittingeroffers tours deep into their cellars, showcasing their Champagne-making process and offering tastings.
Visiting these Champagne houses in Reims allows you to learn about the art of Champagne-making and taste some of the best sparkling wines in the world. It’s a delightful experience that combines history, culture, and the joy of savoring fine Champagne.
Top Attractions to See in Reims
Besides champagne and tastings, Reims has other highlights to experience as well.
Reims Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims): A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Reims Cathedral is famous for its facade, sculptures, and stained glass windows. It’s also where French kings were historically crowned.
Saint Remi Basilica (Basilique Saint-Remi): This Romanesque-Gothic basilica houses the relics of Saint Remi, a revered figure in French history. Its architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit.
Place Drouet d’Erlon: Reims’s lively central square, Place Drouet d’Erlon, is lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants. It’s perfect for strolls, people-watching, and enjoying the city’s atmosphere.
Museums and Art Galleries
Musée des Beaux-Arts: Featuring an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Palais du Tau: Adjacent to the Cathedral, this former palace showcases artifacts related to the coronation of French kings and offers insights into medieval royal life.
Musée de la Reddition: Located in the former Allied headquarters where Germany surrendered in World War II, this museum tells the story of Reims’ role in the war.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
Reims is surrounded by other charming destinations and hidden gems, perfect for day trips and exploration. These day trips offer a range of experiences, from Champagne tastings and vineyard tours to exploring landmarks and towns, making them ideal extensions to your visit to Reims. Take a look at some of the best choices:
Châlons-en-Champagne: Approximately 45 minutes southwest of Reims, Châlons-en-Champagne boasts a really interesting old town with timber-framed houses and canals. Visit the Saint-Etienne Cathedral and walk along the Marne River.
Troyes: Located about an hour southeast of Reims, Troyes is known for its well-preserved architecture and cultural scene. Explore the narrow streets, visit the Troyes Cathedral, and discover local museums with art and history.
Verdun: Approximately 1.5 hours northeast of Reims, Verdun is famous for its significance in World War I. Visit the DouaumontOssuary and Verdun Memorial to learn about the war’s impact on the region and pay respects to those who fought.
Practical Tips for Visiting Reims
Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Reims are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. Summer months can be busy with tourists, so plan ahead for accommodations and activities. Winter offers a quieter experience, but some attractions may have reduced hours.
Seasonal Events: Reims hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Fêtes Johanniques in May, celebrating Joan of Arc, and the Reims Jazz Festival in October. Check local event calendars to coincide your visit with these celebrations.
Transportation: Reims is easily accessible by train from Paris and other major cities in France. The city has a reliable public transportation system with buses and trams, making it easy to get around. Taxis and rental cars are also available to explore nearby attractions and vineyards.
Accommodations: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Reims offers a range of hotels, from luxury options to budget-friendly choices. Consider staying near the city center to have easy access to attractions, restaurants, and public transportation.
As you can see, Reims is definitely one of the top interior regions to visit in France, especially for wine and champagne lovers; it can’t be missed! To plan the ideal wine tasting and hit all the top spots and sights on your trip, reach out to us at Adventures by Matt so we can start curating a perfect trip for you!
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