Champagne Day Trip with 6 Tastings, Reims and Winery from Paris

If you’re a fan of bubbles or simply curious about how Champagne is made, this full-day tour from Paris offers a well-rounded peek into France’s most iconic sparkling wine. With visits to two different wineries, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the historic Reims Cathedral, it’s a mix of delicious tasting, cultural discovery, and scenic vistas—all packed into around 11 hours.

What really makes this experience stand out is the small group size, capped at eight travelers, which allows for a more intimate and personalized vibe. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll get behind-the-scenes insights that you just can’t find on your own. On the downside, the long day may require some early mornings (starts at 7:00 am), and lunch isn’t included, so a bit of planning is needed to make the most of your free time in Epernay. If you love wine, history, and French countryside beauty, this tour is likely to hit the sweet spot.

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Six tastings across two wineries highlight a variety of Champagne styles.
• Cultural highlights include Reims Cathedral and Dom Pérignon’s resting place.
• Expert guides add depth with their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth journey through scenic vineyards.
• Flexible schedule allows free time in Epernay for lunch and exploration.

An In-Depth Look at the Champagne Day Trip

Overall Experience and Value

For around $266, this tour packs in a full day of exploring, tasting, and sightseeing. Travelers consistently comment on the value for money—with six tastings spread between two wineries, plus visits to historical sites, it’s a deep dive for Champagne lovers. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides like John, Lea, and Bruno, who make the experience both educational and fun without feeling rushed.

The transportation is in an air-conditioned minivan, which is particularly appreciated considering the early start and long drive. The small group size, with a maximum of eight people, ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, allowing for more interaction and tailored attention.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Most travelers note the authenticity of the visits—at one point, you’re at a family-run winery with Stéphane, where you’ll get up close to the wine press and learn about traditional Champagne-making techniques. This contrasts nicely with the larger, more commercial Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne house, which is still worth visiting for its popularity and extensive facilities.

Another highlight is the visit to Reims Cathedral and the tomb of Dom Pérignon at Hautvillers Abbey. These stops provide context and history that deepen appreciation for Champagne’s heritage beyond just the bubbly.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Champagne-Ardenne Vineyards

Here, you’ll walk through vineyards dotted with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, soaking in the picturesque rolling hills. Your guide will explain the nuances of cultivating Champagne grapes, like harvesting techniques and vineyard management. Travelers have appreciated the friendly guide who makes learning fun, with Jessica noting that the knowledge imparted was pristine.

Stop 2: Nicolas Feuillatte

This is perhaps the most famous Champagne brand in France, favored by many locals. The visit is a guided tour of the facility, where you’ll see production processes and sample three different glasses of Champagne. Reviewers like Deborah loved the delicious and interesting wines here, noting the large-scale setup but still feeling the warmth of the experience.

Stop 3: Hautvillers Abbey & Dom Pérignon

This UNESCO site is a must-see for Champagne enthusiasts. The guide will walk you through the Abbey Church, sharing stories of Dom Pérignon—often called the father of Champagne. Many visitors appreciate the personal connection to the history, with some like Jessica wishing they had more time in the town for shopping and wandering.

Stop 4: Reims Cathedral

This Gothic masterpiece, over 800 years old, is a highlight for architecture lovers. Its intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows are stunning. You’ll get about 20-30 minutes to explore on your own, perfect for snapping photos or soaking in the atmosphere, as many reviews mention.

Stop 5: Champagne Domi & Small Producer Visit

Meeting Stéphane at Champagne Domi offers an authentic, hands-on look at Champagne production. He walks you through the process, from pressing to bottling, and then you taste 3-4 different Champagne varieties. Reviewers like Lisa and Shaina highlight how knowledgeable and personable Stéphane is, making this one of the most memorable parts of the tour.

Stop 6: Epernay

Known as the Champagne capital, Epernay’s charming streets are a delight to explore. The guide points out highlights, and you have an hour of free time to enjoy lunch or wander. While no meal is included, many travelers take this chance to grab a local bite and soak in the town’s lively atmosphere.

Practical Details and Traveler Tips

The tour departs early at 7:00 am from Paris and ends back at the same meeting point—Dada12 Av. des Ternes. The small group format means you’ll get more personal interaction with guides like John, Lea, or Bruno, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

The cost covers six tastings, visits to iconic sites, and transport, but note that your own lunch and drinks are not included. Travelers often find bringing water and snacks helpful, especially considering the long drive and the early start.

The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately—comfortable shoes are a must for vineyard walks and exploring historic sites. The minimum age is 7 years, making it family-friendly for those traveling with kids.

What Past Travelers Say

Jessica called it “a great trip,” praising the “pristine” guide knowledge and the variety of sites. Deborah loved the small winery experience and learning about Champagne production firsthand. Many reviewers, including Susan and John, appreciated the scenic drives and breathtaking views along the way.

Bruno, in particular, gets high praise for his engaging personality and ability to tailor stops to the group’s interests. Several mention that the unhurried pace and multiple stops made it feel like a personalized adventure rather than a rushed hustle.

Considerations

Some guests mention that the lunch break can feel lengthy—up to an hour—and wish for more time exploring the towns. Also, the long drive, starting at 7:00 am, might be tiring for some, but many feel the experience is well worth it. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a mix of wine tasting, history, and scenic drives rather than just a quick sampling.

This Champagne day trip offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of France’s bubbly capital. You’ll learn about the production process, sample varieties from both family-run and large wineries, and visit iconic landmarks—all in one manageable day. The small group size and knowledgeable guides elevate the experience to something special, making it feel more like visiting friends than a touristy crowd.

Ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a deeper appreciation of Champagne, this tour balances education with fun and stunning scenery. The price reflects the quality of the visits and tastings, and most reviews praise the value for money. Just be prepared for an early start and some long hours—those are small trade-offs for such a comprehensive glimpse into France’s most celebrated sparkling wine.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 7 years old, making it family-friendly. Keep in mind, the activities focus on tasting and sightseeing, so younger children might need extra entertainment during downtime.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included. The guides prefer cash tips but also accept bottles of good wine if you prefer a gift.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have about an hour in Epernay to find a restaurant or café of your choice.

What is the transportation like?
Transfers are in an air-conditioned minivan, providing a comfortable ride through scenic French countryside.

How long are the stops at each site?
Most visits range from 30 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, with a longer tasting session at Nicolas Feuillatte and Champagne Domi.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions. Dress appropriately and be prepared for vineyard walks if the weather permits.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, most travelers book about 61 days in advance, so it’s advisable to reserve early for the best availability.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a small-group tour with set stops, so customization options are limited. However, guides often adapt to the group’s interests during the day.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in France’s finest bubbles, this tour offers a memorable, well-organized way to discover Champagne’s secrets—without the hassle of planning.