Reims brings together history, bubbles and city life in a way few other French cities do – compact, elegant and full of experiences that are easy to combine into a very memorable trip.
The city where kings were crowned
Reims’ most iconic landmark is the impressive Notre-Dame de Reims. This Gothic cathedral, built in the 13th century, was the coronation site for almost all French kings from the Middle Ages until the 19th century. The façade is richly decorated with hundreds of sculptures, and the colourful stained-glass windows – including work by Marc Chagall – fill the interior with a magical light.
Right next door stands Palais du Tau, the former residence of the archbishop. Here you gain deeper insight into the coronation ceremonies and why Reims played such a central role in French history. The city is also home to Porte de Mars, a Roman triumphal arch from the 3rd century that reminds you that Reims was an important city in Gaul long before the Champagne era.
History is not tucked away in museums alone – it lies in the streets, squares and buildings, giving the city a character that lifts the whole experience.
Champagne – the beating heart of the city
Reims is synonymous with champagne. Beneath the city lie kilometres of chalk cellars – the famous crayères – where bottles are stored in perfect conditions. Several of the world’s best-known Champagne houses are based here, including Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger and Ruinart.
A guided tour in Reims offers not only tasting, but also insight into the craftsmanship, ageing and history behind the region’s most famous export. Many of the cellars are experiences in themselves, with vaulted passages, carved walls and an almost cathedral-like atmosphere underground.
Reims therefore works very well as a base if you want to combine city life with wine experiences. In a short time you can also continue to Épernay, Hautvillers and several of the classic villages of Champagne.
Food, city walks and an elegant atmosphere
Reims is more than bubbles. The city has a lively restaurant scene ranging from classic brasseries to gastronomic addresses. Here you can taste local specialities such as jambon de Reims, Chaource cheese, boudin blanc and modern French dishes that are often paired with champagne rather than red wine.
The centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. Place Drouet d’Erlon is the city’s lively main axis, lined with cafés, restaurants and shops, while smaller side streets hide wine bars, pleasant squares and quiet corners that give the city a surprisingly relaxed rhythm.
Reims was badly damaged during the First World War, but today the city has been rebuilt with a harmonious blend of historical weight and modern elegance. The result is a city that feels both distinguished and human at the same time.
When is the best time to visit Reims?
Reims works well all year round. Spring is perfect for city walks and green vineyard landscapes, summer brings lively streets and long evenings on outdoor terraces, while autumn is especially atmospheric when the harvest shapes the whole region. In winter the city has a quieter, more intimate atmosphere that suits a weekend of spa, good food and champagne.
The easy access from Paris makes Reims an excellent choice both for a spontaneous weekend and as part of a more planned itinerary in northern France. The city is especially well suited to couples, wine lovers, history enthusiasts and travellers who want a sophisticated experience without complicated logistics.
4-day Champagne itinerary in Champagne
This itinerary gives you four rewarding days with Reims as your starting point, combining monumental history, prestigious houses, Épernay, vineyards, small villages and a calmer luxury ending – with hotel suggestions under each day, just like in the template.
Reims: royal history and prestigious houses
Start at Notre-Dame de Reims and spend time in the centre before visiting one of the major Champagne houses. This day gives you the classic introduction to the city, from monumental buildings to underground cellars and elegant dinners.
- Visit Reims Cathedral and Palais du Tau
- Book a cellar visit at Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot or Ruinart
- End with dinner in central Reims
Épernay and Avenue de Champagne
Head to Épernay to experience Avenue de Champagne and the more wine-village side of the region. Add a stop in Hautvillers for views, history and a calmer rhythm than in Reims.
- See Avenue de Champagne and famous houses such as Moët & Chandon
- Stop in Hautvillers, the village of Dom Pérignon
- Consider tasting at a smaller producer on the way back
Village life, vineyards and slow luxury
Spend the day on small roads, Grand Cru landscapes and quiet stops in the villages. This is the day for viewpoints, local specialities and a deeper understanding of grapes, soils and how diverse Champagne really is.
- Drive through Montagne de Reims and classic wine villages
- Add a short walk or viewpoint among the vines
- End with lunch or an early dinner featuring local specialities
Final day in Reims
Use the final day to slow down and enjoy elegant Reims at a calmer pace. Have a morning coffee at Place Drouet d’Erlon, stop by delicatessens or Champagne houses to buy a few bottles to take home, and consider one last tasting or a long lunch before departure.
- Start the day slowly with breakfast and a city walk in the centre
- Buy champagne, local cheeses and small delicacies to take home
- End with a good lunch or early gourmet dinner before departure