no alt text

Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 09 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Anna Brooke

Most of France’s famous Champagne houses are based in the historic city of Reims and smaller Epernay, both within an hour of Paris – although smaller producers can be found all over this specialist wine region.

Cellar tours provide a unique insight into how Champagne is made and blended, what makes it different from ordinary wines, just how much craftsmanship goes into bubbly, and how each Champagne house has its distinctive style – and often include visits to the magnificent cellars.

While you’re there

Be sure to visit the beautiful 13th-century Gothic cathedral in Reims, with its magnificent sculpted facade and stained glass by Chagall.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The Champagne houses in Reims are easily accessible by high-speed TGV train from Gare de l’Est in Paris in just 45 minutes. Some are walkable, but most will require a taxi from Reims station.

There are more than 12,000 to choose from, and almost all welcome visitors. The bigger houses have two guided tours per day, one in the morning, one in the afternoon – you can just turn up, but it’s better to book a place via the house’s website to avoid disappointment.

When to do it

Houses are generally open all year round, seven days a week, though some close on the weekends; schedules vary by season too. September-October is harvest time, the busiest time of year, and some houses may be closed.

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Champagne Region Private Day Trip from Paris

Champagne Region Private Day Trip from Paris

Paris

Explore the vineyards and Champagne estates around Reims and/or Epernay during this private Champagne day trip from Paris. Travel into the F...

€175 | Rating 4.77 / 5 [44 ratings]

Website >

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Champagne Day Trip with 6 tastings, Reims Cathedral & Family Winery from Paris

Champagne Day Trip with 6 tastings, Reims Cathedral & Family Winery from Paris

Paris

Champagne is just outside of Paris! Join this small-group tour and you’ll discover the growing, harvesting, bottling, and proper way of tast...

€220 | Rating 4.87 / 5 [375 ratings]

Website >

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Champagne Small Group Wine Day Trip with Wine Tastings & Lunch

Champagne Small Group Wine Day Trip with Wine Tastings & Lunch

Paris

Discover the region of Champagne in one day on this tour from Paris. You'll enjoy guided visits and tastings at renowned Champagne houses s...

€300 | Rating 4.69 / 5 [346 ratings]

Website >

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo
Champagne & Reims Tasting Day Trip from Paris

Champagne & Reims Tasting Day Trip from Paris

Paris

Tantalise your taste buds with a full-day tour from Paris to the heart of France’s famous Champagne region. Visit the UNESCO-listed town of ...

€300 | Rating 4.64 / 5 [84 ratings]

Website >

Tour supplied by:

Viator Logo