Top Things to Do in Reims, France – A Guide to the Heart of Champagne Country
When people think of France, their minds usually drift to Paris — the Eiffel Tower, croissants, and the romantic Seine River. But just a short train ride northeast of the capital lies Reims (pronounced “Rance” in French) — a city that glows with both royal history and sparkling Champagne. Known as the Coronation City of French Kings and the heart of Champagne country, Reims offers a delightful mix of cultural heritage, world-famous bubbly, Gothic architecture, and fine French dining — all without the crowds of Paris.
So, if you’re dreaming of sipping Champagne straight from its birthplace, exploring centuries-old cathedrals, and wandering cobblestone streets filled with local charm, this guide will take you through the top things to do in Reims, France — a city that sparkles in more ways than one.
🥂 1. Visit the Legendary Champagne Houses
Reims is the undisputed capital of Champagne production. The city sits on top of chalk caves that have aged bottles of bubbly for centuries. Visiting one of the world-famous Champagne houses is an absolute must.
✨ Maison Veuve Clicquot
Founded in 1772, Veuve Clicquot is a symbol of innovation and elegance. You can tour their underground cellars — miles of cool, chalky tunnels known as crayères — and learn how Madame Clicquot became one of the first female entrepreneurs in France. Of course, the highlight is the tasting session, where you’ll savor that crisp, golden sparkle that made the brand iconic.
🍾 Taittinger
Just south of the city center, Taittinger offers one of the most atmospheric Champagne tours in Reims. Their ancient cellars date back to the Gallo-Roman era and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The combination of history and bubbly perfection makes this experience unforgettable.
🏛️ Ruinart
The oldest Champagne house in the world, founded in 1729, Ruinart is synonymous with refinement. Tours here feel more like an art exhibit than a winery visit — every detail is pure sophistication. The chalk cellars beneath the estate, some carved in the 13th century, are simply breathtaking.
💡 Pro tip:
Most Champagne houses require advance booking, especially during high season (May to September). Book online a few weeks before your visit to secure your tasting slot.
🕍 2. Marvel at the Reims Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Reims)
No visit to Reims is complete without standing in awe before Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, one of the most stunning Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Built in the 13th century, it’s where 26 French kings were crowned, including Charles VII, who was anointed here in the presence of Joan of Arc.
🌟 What to Look For
- The “Smiling Angel” (L’Ange au Sourire) – an iconic sculpture symbolizing the city’s resilience after World War I.
- Stained glass windows by Marc Chagall – a colorful blend of history and modern art.
- The tower climb – for a small fee, you can ascend the towers and get an incredible panoramic view of Reims.
The cathedral isn’t just an architectural masterpiece — it’s a living piece of French history that survived bombings and wars but still stands proudly in the heart of the city.
🏰 3. Explore the Palais du Tau
Right next to the cathedral, you’ll find Palais du Tau, the former residence of the archbishops of Reims. This palace played a key role during the coronations of French kings — it’s where they prepared before entering the cathedral. Today, it’s a museum showcasing royal regalia, coronation robes, tapestries, and medieval treasures.
Wandering through its elegant halls gives you a vivid sense of the grandeur that once defined the French monarchy.
🍇 4. Take a Champagne Road Trip — The Route du Champagne
If you have time, rent a car or join a guided tour and head out along the Route du Champagne, a scenic drive that winds through rolling vineyards, charming villages, and family-run Champagne estates.
🚗 Highlights Along the Route
- Épernay – about 30 minutes south of Reims, this small town is home to the legendary Avenue de Champagne, lined with prestigious houses like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët.
- Hautvillers – the birthplace of Champagne! This is where Dom Pérignon, the Benedictine monk who perfected the Champagne-making process, lived and worked.
- Aÿ-Champagne – another lovely stop, known for both grand marques and boutique producers.
Bring your camera — between the golden vineyards, centuries-old cellars, and bubbly tastings, every corner feels like a postcard.
🍴 5. Indulge in Reims’ Local Cuisine
France is synonymous with food, and Reims is no exception. Beyond Champagne, the city boasts a culinary scene that perfectly pairs with its sparkling reputation.
🍖 Try the “Jambon de Reims”
This local ham is delicately seasoned and often served cold, similar to pâté. Pair it with a glass of chilled Brut Champagne — heaven!
🧀 Chaource and Langres Cheese
These creamy cheeses come from the nearby Champagne region. Enjoy them with crusty baguette and Champagne for the ultimate French picnic.
🍬 Biscuits Roses de Reims
The pink biscuits of Reims are a local delicacy that dates back to the 17th century. Traditionally dunked into Champagne, they add a sweet crunch to your sparkling experience.
🥂 Michelin-Star Dining
For fine dining, try Le Foch (one Michelin star) or L’Assiette Champenoise (three Michelin stars) — both offer exquisite tasting menus featuring local ingredients and, naturally, Champagne pairings.
🎨 6. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts
If you appreciate art, the Reims Fine Arts Museum (Musée des Beaux-Arts) is a delightful stop. Housed in a former abbey, the museum displays works from the Renaissance to modern art. Highlights include paintings by Corot, Monet, and Pissarro — a visual treat for art lovers seeking calm between Champagne tastings.
🪖 7. Step Back in Time at the Surrender Museum
History buffs will love the Musée de la Reddition — the exact site where Germany signed the surrender that ended World War II in Europe on May 7, 1945. The war room has been preserved just as it was on that day. Walking through this museum is like stepping into a living time capsule, giving you a tangible sense of the city’s resilience and importance in world history.
🌳 8. Stroll Through the Parks and Gardens
Reims isn’t all about Champagne and cathedrals — it’s also a green city. When you need a break, take a leisurely walk through its many gardens and parks.
🌸 Parc de la Patte d’Oie
Located near the train station, this manicured park is perfect for an afternoon picnic or a quiet stroll.
🌿 Parc Léo Lagrange
A larger park with a lake, walking trails, and sports areas — perfect for jogging or just relaxing under the trees.
🌺 Les Promenades
One of the oldest public parks in Reims, lined with fountains and flowers — ideal for people-watching and photography.
🛍️ 9. Shop for Local Products
You can’t leave Reims without a few souvenirs!
Head to the Place Drouet-d’Erlon, the main shopping street filled with boutiques, cafes, and Champagne shops. Here’s what to bring home:
- A bottle (or two) of Champagne — look for smaller producers for unique flavors.
- Biscuits Roses de Reims — packaged beautifully for gifting.
- Local cheeses, pâtés, and artisanal chocolates.
You’ll also find fashion stores, perfume shops, and home décor boutiques for that authentic “made in France” touch.
🌆 10. Experience the Reims Nightlife
When the sun sets, Reims transforms into a lively social scene. Locals gather in wine bars, and tourists mingle over glasses of bubbly.
🍸 Where to Go
- Le Crypto – a chic Champagne and cocktail bar perfect for an elegant evening.
- Les 3 Brasseurs – a popular brasserie near the city center serving craft beers and French dishes.
- Club 56 – if you’re in the mood to dance, this trendy spot offers great music and a young crowd.
And don’t miss the light show at the Reims Cathedral during summer — a dazzling spectacle that projects colors and animations on the façade, bringing the Gothic masterpiece to life.
🏨 11. Where to Stay in Reims
From luxury hotels to charming guesthouses, Reims has accommodation for every traveler and budget.
⭐ Luxury
- La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa – MGallery – a 5-star hotel directly facing the cathedral. Elegant rooms and Champagne at check-in? Yes, please.
- L’Assiette Champenoise – not just a Michelin-starred restaurant but also a luxurious hotel with serene gardens.
🏠 Mid-Range
- Holiday Inn Reims Centre – comfortable and conveniently located near the main square.
- Best Western Premier Hôtel de la Paix – stylish rooms, indoor pool, and perfect for exploring the city on foot.
💰 Budget
- Hotel Azur – cozy, clean, and walking distance from major attractions.
- Ibis Styles Reims Centre – reliable chain with free breakfast and modern design.
🚆 12. How to Get to Reims
Reims is just 45 minutes from Paris by high-speed TGV train from Gare de l’Est — making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway from the capital.
🚙 By Car:
If you’re driving, the journey takes about 1.5 hours via the A4 motorway. Having a car also allows you to explore Champagne villages nearby.
🚌 By Tour:
Many Champagne tours from Paris include Reims as a highlight, often combining a cathedral visit with tastings at Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger.
☀️ 13. Best Time to Visit Reims
Reims is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when vineyards are lush and temperatures mild.
- Spring: vineyards awaken, festivals begin, fewer crowds.
- Summer: perfect weather, but busier.
- Autumn: harvest season — see the grape-picking in action!
- Winter: cozy Champagne tastings and Christmas markets with twinkling lights.
💡 14. Quick Travel Tips
- Book Champagne tours early, especially at big houses.
- Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll walk a lot, especially in cellars and cobblestone streets.
- Bring a light jacket — the Champagne caves are chilly year-round (around 10°C / 50°F).
- Download Google Translate offline — Reims is tourist-friendly, but not everyone speaks fluent English.
✨ 15. Why Reims Should Be on Your France Itinerary
Reims isn’t just another French city — it’s where royalty met refinement, where history meets hedonism, and where every glass of Champagne tells a story. Whether you’re exploring its UNESCO-listed cathedrals, sipping vintage bubbly in ancient chalk caves, or watching the sunset over vineyard hills, Reims offers a kind of magic that Paris can’t replicate.
