Reims Travel Guide

Reims Travel Guide: World-Renowned Champagne Houses in Reims

Reims is synonymous with champagne, and no trip to the city would be complete without visiting at least one of its legendary champagne houses. While not all of the maisons in Reims are open to the public, many of the most popular champagne houses offer tours and tastings, giving visitors a chance to explore the historic chalk cellars and sample world-class bubbly.

Please note that the champagne houses in Reims have varying opening hours and may close completely during the winter months. We recommend checking with each individual champagne house for their hours of operation and tour dates before making travel arrangements to visit Reims. In order to ensure that you are able to visit the champagne house(s) of your choosing, we encourage you to book your champagne tour(s) in advance of your visit to Reims. Champagne tours and tastings can be booked through each individual champagne house's website.

Whether you are a champagne connoisseur or just looking to experience the region’s most celebrated export, these are some of the top champagne houses and tasting rooms to visit in Reims:

Champagne Vranken-Pommery ♡

Vranken-Pommery is two distinct champagne houses with shared ownership: Vranken and Pommery. While their champagnes may be bottled separately, a visit to Vranken-Pommery will allow you to taste cuvées from both brands.

Known for its bold blue branding and innovative spirit, Pommery combines historic winemaking traditions with contemporary art, making it one of the most unique champagne houses in the region. Tours of Pommery include a visit to their underground chalk cellars (crayères), the first in all of Champagne. To add to the experience, the cellars are filled with modern art installations as part of the Expérience Pommery project in honor of the spirit and legacy of Madame Pommery.

Villa Demoiselle 

If you are interested in tasting Vranken champagnes, then a visit to Villa Demoiselle is a must! Located across the street from the main Pommery estate, Villa Demoiselle is one of the most beautiful architectural gems in Reims. This elegant mansion is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau and Art Deco design. The on-site tasting room serves an assortment of Vranken champanges. Tours of Villa Demoiselle also include a tasting. 

G.H. Mumm Champagne (La Maison Mumm) ♡

One of the most well-known and respected champagne houses in Reims, G.H. Mumm has been producing exceptional champagne since 1827. Recognized by its signature red ribbon (Cordon Rouge) bottles, inspired by the Légion d’Honneur, France’s highest order of merit, G.H. Mumm has long been associated with prestige, celebration, and innovation. G.H. Mumm is one of the largest champagne houses in the world, so visiting G.H. Mumm will feel a bit more industrialized than the small houses, but their tour is still engaging and interesting. 

Visitors traveling to Reims can experience G.H. Mumm through an immersive cellar tour that takes you deep into the nearly 15.5 miles (25 kilometers) of underground chalk tunnels where the champagne is stored and aged to perfection, followed by a guided tasting session. Their tasting room is also open to the public in the event that you would like to skip the cellar tour and just try some of their champagnes. 

If you visit G.H. Mumm, we recommend booking a tour that includes the opportunity to try champagnes from their RSRV Collection. The RSRV Collection includes champagnes made exclusively for their Grand Cru cuvées (aka the highest-quality grapes). 

Champagne Lanson

Champagne Lanson, founded in 1760, is one of the oldest champagne houses in Reims and offers a unique perspective on the champagne-making process. Unlike many of the traditional underground cellar tours, a visit to Lanson provides an inside look at the more industrial side of production, including their stainless steel storage tanks and on-site vineyard, making it an intriguing stop for those who want a deeper understanding of how champagne is made on a large scale.

Veuve Clicquot

Veuve Clicquot is one of the most globally recognized champagne houses, known for its bold innovation and the pioneering spirit of Madame Clicquot. The house’s extensive underground chalk caves, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into centuries of champagne history. Meanwhile, the tasting experience allows visitors to savor the signature Brut Yellow Label and La Grande Dame cuvées. Veuve Clicquot’s tours are polished and engaging, making this a perfect stop for visitors looking for a blend of luxury, history, and world-class champagne.

Maison Ruinart

As the oldest established champagne house (founded in 1729), Ruinart offers one of the most exclusive and refined champagne experiences in Reims. Their historic chalk cellars, carved 131 feet (40 meters) underground, are some of the most incredible in the region. Tours at Ruinart emphasize the artistry of champagne-making, with a focus on their Chardonnay-driven cuvées, particularly the prestigious Blanc de Blancs.

Champagne Taittinger

If the name Taittinger sounds familiar, it could be because Taittinger is James Bond's preferred champagne! One of the few family-owned champagne houses remaining in Reims, Taittinger is known for its elegant, Chardonnay-forward champagnes and its Gallo-Roman chalk cellars beneath the ruins of the Saint-Nicaise Abbey. The tour provides a blend of history, tradition, and winemaking expertise, making it an engaging experience for champagne lovers. Visitors can explore the deep underground tunnels, learn about the aging process, and finish with a tasting of their signature Taittinger Brut Réserve or the luxurious Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs.

Champagne G.H. Martel

For travelers looking for a more intimate and budget-friendly champagne experience, G.H. Martel & Co is a fantastic option. This smaller, family-run house offers a warm and less commercialized visit compared to the big-name houses. The tour includes a visit to their historic cellars, an introduction to traditional champagne production, and a relaxed tasting session of their varied and affordable cuvées. 

Champagne Pol Couronne

Pol Couronne is a hidden gem in Reims!  While Pol Couronne may not have the centuries-old history of some of Reims’ larger houses, it makes up for it with a strong focus on craftsmanship and quality. The house specializes in Grand Cru champagnes, ensuring that only the finest grapes from the Champagne region make it into their bottles. 

Unlike many of the bigger champagne houses, Pol Couronne does not offer a tour of its vineyards or cellars, but instead, it offers a chic and modern tasting room right in the city center, just steps from Reims Cathedral. Pol Couronne also offers the opportunity to learn how to open a bottle of champagne with a sabre (known as sabrage in French), in the event that is something that interests you on your trip to Reims.

Reims Travel Guide: Landmarks & Monuments in the Coronation City

Steeped in history, Reims is home to some remarkable landmarks. These sites offer a glimpse into Reims' unique heritage.

La Porte de Mars 

Reims under the Roman Empire was a city called Durocortorum, which served as the capital of the Remi tribe and was one of the largest cities northwest of Rome. The Porte de Mars is a massive 3rd-century AD triumphal arch, which once marked an entrance to the ancient city. As its name suggests, the gate was dedicated to Mars, the god of war. Its intricate carvings, though weathered by time, depict scenes of Roman mythology, agricultural abundance, and military triumphs. While much of its grandeur has faded, the arch remains a historical landmark and a must-see for those interested in Reims’ Roman heritage.

La Porte de Mars can be found in the Place de la République, across from Reims Station (Gare de Reims).

Square of the Cordeliers (Ruins of the Cordeliers Convent) 

Located in Reims’ historic center, next to Reims Cathedral, is the Square of the Cordeliers which is home to the Ruins of the Cordeliers Convent. Originally founded in the 13th century, the Cordeliers Convent was later destroyed, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful set of stone arches and remnants of Gothic architecture. Today, the square blends history with quiet greenery, making it a lovely place for a stroll or a reflective pause.

Located in front of Reims Cathedral, the Statue of Joan of Arc commemorates the French heroine’s pivotal role in history. It was in Reims, in 1429, that Joan of Arc led Charles VII to his coronation, securing his legitimacy as the rightful king of France. The statue, depicting Joan on horseback in full armor, captures her unwavering determination and bravery. A visit to this monument is a reminder of Reims’ deep connection to France’s national identity and its significance in medieval history.

Reims Travel Guide: Top Reims Museums

While museums are certainly not the main draw for visitors in Reims, the city does have a selection of museums that are worth a visit if you have some free time while you are in the city. 

For the art aficionado: 

• Museum of Fine Arts: The Museum of Fine Arts in Reims houses an exceptional collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning centuries. Highlights include works by Monet, Renoir, and Claudél, reflecting Reims’ appreciation for art. The Museum of Fine Arts in Reims has been closed for restoration work since September 2019 and is scheduled to reopen in 2027.

For the history lover: 

• Museum of the Surrender: Located in the former headquarters of General Eisenhower’s Expeditionary Forces in Europe, this is where Germany officially surrendered to the Allies on May 7, 1945 at 2:41 AM, marking the end of WWII in Europe. The highlight of the museum is the original map room, left exactly as it was on the day of the surrender, complete with war maps and strategy boards. The museum also features photographs, documents, and artifacts that provide insight into the final days of the war. A visit here offers a powerful glimpse into a pivotal moment in world history. The Museum of the Surrender is closed on Tuesdays, January 1, May 1, November 1, and December 25, annually. Please note that the Museum of the Surrender will be closed for renovation work beginning Monday, May 12, 2025 until March 2026.
• Museum Saint-Remi: Located next to the Basilica of Saint Remi, the Museum Saint-Remi is dedicated to Reims’ rich history, from antiquity to the present. This UNESCO-listed site is named after Saint Remi, the bishop who baptized Clovis, the first king of France, in 496 AD—a defining moment in French history. The museum’s impressive collection includes religious artifacts and archaeological treasures. A visit here provides a deep dive into the history of Reims and its importance as a royal and religious center. Museum Saint-Remi is closed on Mondays, January 1, May 1, November 1, and December 25, annually.
• Tau Palace (Palais du Tau): The Tau Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the residence of the Archbishops of Reims and the place where French kings prepared for their coronation at Reims Cathedral. Today, the museum showcases an extraordinary collection of coronation relics, medieval sculptures, and artifacts from the cathedral. Walking through its halls and seeing the opulent coronation artifacts makes it easy to imagine the lavish ceremonies that once took place here. Tau Palace is currently closed to the public for renovations and is scheduled to reopen to the public sometime in 2026.
• Fort de la Pompelle Museum: A crucial military site during World War I, Fort de la Pompelle played a key role in defending Reims from German forces. Today, it stands as a war museum, preserving the history of the Great War with an extensive collection of weapons, uniforms, and artifacts from the front lines. Fort de la Pompelle Museum is closed on Mondays, January 1, May 1, November 1, and December 25, annually.
• Automobile Museum Reims: Car enthusiasts will love the Automobile Museum Reims, home to a diverse collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and racing vehicles. With 250 cars and motorcycles in its collection, the museum traces the evolution of the automobile industry, including rare models from legendary French manufacturers like Citroën, Renault, and Peugeot. The Automobile Museum Reims is closed on Tuesdays, January 1, and December 25, annually. 

Reims Travel Guide: Popular Churches

While Reims is dotted with impressive churches, there are two that are worth exploring: Reims Cathedral and the Basilica of Saint Remi. 

Reims Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims) ♡

One of the most iconic and historically significant cathedrals in France, Notre-Dame de Reims has stood as a symbol of French monarchy, resilience, and architectural grandeur for centuries. Built in the 13th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site served as the coronation church of French kings for almost 700 years, with a total of 25 monarchs crowned within its hallowed walls. Among its most famous coronations was that of Charles VII in 1429, attended by Joan of Arc, who had led him to reclaim his throne during the Hundred Years’ War.

Beyond its royal significance, the cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, featuring an elaborate façade adorned with over 2,300 statues, including the famous Smiling Angel (L’Ange au Sourire), a beloved symbol of Reims. The soaring nave, intricate stone carvings, and immense height create a breathtakingly grand interior. However, its history is also marked by destruction—during World War I, German bombing raids on Reims caused catastrophic damage to the cathedral, igniting a fire that collapsed the roof, shattered its stained glass, and left much of the structure in ruins.

Following extensive restoration work, Reims Cathedral has not only regained its former glory but has also embraced modern artistry. Some of its remarkable stained glass windows were reimagined by renowned artists, including Marc Chagall, whose stunning blue-hued windows illuminate the apse with biblical scenes, and Imi Knoebel, whose abstract, colorful designs bring a contemporary touch to the medieval setting. Today, the cathedral remains a symbol of resilience and renewal, welcoming visitors to marvel at its history, artistry, and the role it played in shaping France’s royal and religious identity.

Reims Cathedral is free to visit and open daily. For additional information, please visit the Reims Cathedral website.

Basilica of Saint Remi (Basilique Saint-Remi)

The Basilica of Saint Remi is the oldest and one of the most significant religious sites in Reims, almost 100 years older than Reims Cathedral. It was built to honor Saint Remi, the Bishop of Reims who famously baptized Clovis I, the first king of the Franks, in 496 AD, marking the beginning of the close relationship between the French crown and the Catholic Church. The basilica was originally constructed in the 11th century to house the saint’s relics, though much of its structure was later expanded and refined over the centuries, blending elements of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Stepping inside, visitors are greeted with a serene and atmospheric interior, featuring soaring vaulted ceilings, elegant stone columns, and an impressive sense of space that evokes both grandeur and tranquility. The stained glass windows beautifully illuminate the basilica, adding to the sense of reverence and history. The tomb of Saint Remi, located within the basilica, remains a place of pilgrimage, drawing visitors who wish to pay tribute to the bishop whose influence shaped French history.

The Basilica of Saint Remi is open daily and is free to visit. Additional information regarding the Basilica of Saint Remi can be found on the Reims.fr website.

Reims Travel Guide: Good Eats

The food in Reims is undoubtedly one of the city's highlights, offering everything from world-class haute cuisine in Michelin-starred restaurants to casual bistros. The city's culinary scene is a celebration of French gastronomy, featuring exquisite desserts, artisanal cheeses, and an abundance of fresh, local ingredients that cater to every palate.

Speciality Foods:

While the main speciality in Reims is, of course, its signature champagne, there are some additional foods that visitors should try during their time in the city. Some of the must-try specialties include:

• Rose Champagne Biscuits (Biscuits Roses de Reims): These iconic pink biscuits from Maison Fossier are a specialty of Reims, known for their delicate crunchy texture. Traditionally, they are meant to be dipped into champagne, making them a perfect pairing for a tasting experience. However, they are also great when dipped in coffee or tea! Biscuits Roses de Reims make a great souvenir, especially when packaged in beautiful tins, and can be purchased directly from Maison Fossier or from grocery stores in Reims. The train station even had a display of them available for purchase!

• Reims-Style Ham (Jambon de Reims): A local delicacy, Jambon de Reims is a flavorful, pressed ham made with a mix of herbs and spices. It can be enjoyed both cold and hot. It is typically served with mustard.
• Chaource Cheese: A soft, creamy cow’s milk cheese from the Champagne region, Chaource has a delicate, buttery flavor.
• Reims Mustard: Less famous than Dijon mustard, Reims mustard has a unique wine-infused flavor, giving it a slightly tangy, complex taste. It is often used in sauces, dressings, or served alongside meats and charcuterie.

Popular Restaurants in Reims:

Out of all of the meals we have eaten through our travels in France, our favorites have been in Reims. The food scene in Reims is bar none! We recommend making dinner reservations in advance of your visit to Reims, especially if you are planning to visit Reims on a weekend. Reservations are typically made in Reims using thefork. A few of the city's most popular eateries are listed below.

• Le Parc Les Crayeres - Located in the elegant Domaine Les Crayères Hotel, Le Parc Les Crayeres is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering a refined dining experience that showcases the finest in French cuisine. With its exquisite dishes, impeccable service, and extensive champagne list, it is the perfect place for an unforgettable gastronomic experience in Reims.
• La Grande Georgette - Located near Reims Cathedral inside the La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa, La Grande Georgette offers a modern brasserie experience with a stylish ambiance, serving refined French cuisine with a contemporary twist, including excellent seafood and well-executed classic dishes.
• L'ExtrA Restaurant Reims - A hidden gem in Reims, L'ExtrA is known for its intimate atmosphere and creative, seasonal menus, offering a fine-dining experience that highlights local ingredients.
• Alfred Burger - For a casual dining option, Alfred Burger serves the best gourmet burgers in Reims, featuring high-quality ingredients, generous portions, and delicious fries. As an added bonus, reservations are not required, so if you can just walk-in, order, and eat!
• Restaurant Gabrielle Reims - Restaurant Gabrielle provides a chic yet relaxed fine-dining experience, offering elegant French cuisine, expertly paired wines, and impeccable service.
• Café Crème - A charming café with a cozy vibe (à la American diner), Café Crème is a great spot for brunch, known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent selection of sweet and savory options.
• Café du Palais - A charming, family-run café with a vintage Art Deco interior, Café du Palais is beloved for its warm atmosphere, delicious French classics, and impressive champagne selection. Its quirky décor adds to its unique appeal, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
• Café Clicquot Reims - Café Clicquot offers a stylish yet relaxed setting to enjoy Veuve Clicquot champagne, light bites, and pastries. With its chic décor and inviting terrace, it is an ideal spot for a leisurely break while exploring Reims.

Looking for additional restaurant recommendations for your trip to Reims? Check out the links below. 

Reims Travel Guide: Transportation

Reims is the largest city in Champagne, but still remains incredibly walkable and compact. The city also boasts an efficient public transportation system, including trams and buses, which make it easy to explore its many neighborhoods and champagne houses.

Airports:

• Paris Vatry Airport (XCR) is the closest airport to Reims, located approximately 33.5 miles (54 kilometers) outside of Reims. There is no direct public transportation from XCR to Reims available. If you are flying into XCR, your best bet will be to take a taxi to Chalons En Champagne and then take a train to Reims. 
• Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the next closest airport to Reims, located approximately 69 miles (111 kilometers) from Reims. Trains regularly connect CDG with Reims; however, changing trains is typically required. Train journeys between CDG and Reims can take anywhere from 50 minutes to just shy of 2 hours. Make sure you are booking your departure from Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport (TGV Station - CDG 2), as this is the name of the train station located at CDG airport. To book train tickets to Reims from CDG, please visit the SNCF website.

Local Transit:

To make the most of your time in Reims, the best way to see the city is undoubtedly on foot. However, using public transportation is also a necessity if you are looking to visit some of the champagne houses that lie on the outskirts of the city center. The main means of public transportation in Reims are outlined below.

• Tram: Reims has two modern and convenient tram lines (A & B) that run through the city, connecting key spots like the train station, city center, Reims Cathedral, and several champagne houses. The trams are clean, reliable, and easy to use, making them a great option if you want to explore beyond the historic center. Trams generally run from 5:15 AM to 12:25 AM, daily.
• Public Bus: Reims has an extensive bus network that covers the city and surrounding areas. If you are staying a bit farther from the center or planning to visit locations just outside of Reims, the buses provide a convenient way to get around. The tickets for the buses in Reims are the same as those for the two tram lines, making it easy to get around the city center using both forms of public transportation. Buses generally run from 5:15 AM to 12:25 AM, daily.
• Rideshare Apps: Uber operates in Reims. Rides can be easily requested from with the Uber app. 
• Taxis: Taxi stands are readily available throughout Reims, making it convenient for residents and visitors to access taxi services. These taxi stands are typically located at key locations such as the train stations and hotels. If you are planning on visiting areas outside of Reims, such as Hautvillers, you may need to call for a taxi to pick you up and bring you back to Reims. 

Ticketing & Tips

Tickets for both the trams and buses in Reims can be purchased from the ticketing machines at the tram stops. Tickets can be purchased with either cash or debit card at the ticketing machines. The tickets are refillable, so make sure you hang onto your ticket in order to refill it, if needed.

If you have yet to purchase a ticket from one of the ticketing machines and are planning on taking a bus, you can purchase your bus ticket directly from the bus driver. Should you buy a ticket directly from the driver, know that it is cash only and exact change is appreciated. 

Tickets cost €1.80 and tickets are valid for 1 hour on the entire network (meaning it can be used on both buses and trams, should you need to make a connection). If you purchase your ticket on the bus, from the driver, the cost is €2.00. One day tickets are also available, which include unlimited travel for one day, for €4.50. One day tickets need to be purchased from the ticketing machines at the tram stops.

Tickets are the same price, regardless of age.

For additional information, including schedules and routes, please visit the Grand Reims Mobilités website.

Local & Long-Distance Trains:

Train Stations

Reims has two main train stations: Gare de Reims, also called Reims Station (the TGV station), and Reims Maison Blanche which is just outside of the city center. If you are traveling from Paris to Reims, you are going to want to arrive via Reims Station. Reims Station is walking distance to many hotels, champagne houses, and is a major transit hub in Reims.

Gare de Reims (Reims Station)

• Reims Station services high-speed TGV trains, including those connecting Reims with Paris (Gare de l'Est/Paris Est).
• Regional TER (Regional Express Train) lines also operate from Reims Station, including those connecting Reims to the surrounding Champagne region (i.e., Epernay and Châlons-en-Champagne). 

Reims Maison Blanche 

• Reims Maison Blanche is a smaller train station in Reims, servicing Regional TER (Regional Express Train) lines, including those connecting Reims to the surrounding Champagne region (i.e., Champagne-Ardenne TGV, Epernay, Aÿ-Champagne). 
• Reims Maison Blanche is located approximately 2.6 miles (4.3 kilometers) outside of the city center.