Paris: Two Reims Champagne Vineyards with Tastings and Lunch

Discovering Reims: A Private Champagne Day Trip from Paris

If you’re someone who loves a good glass of bubbly and is eager to learn about the champagne-making process, this private tour from Paris to Reims might pique your interest. The experience promises visits to two renowned vineyards, tastings of top-quality champagne, a charming French lunch, and a quick peek at Reims’ stunning gothic cathedral—all in one day.

What makes this tour appealing is the chance to combine luxury wine tasting with cultural sightseeing, all while traveling comfortably by high-speed train. For lovers of fine wine, history buffs, and those craving an authentic French culinary experience, this trip offers a solid mix of everything.

However, a potential consideration is the price point of $707 per person, which might seem steep for some. The value hinges on your interest in champagne and your desire for a guided, curated experience rather than a DIY outing.

This tour suits travelers who want a luxury, guided experience with a focus on champagne, culture, and cuisine, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive day out of Paris.

Key Points

• Expert-guided vineyard visits enhance your understanding of champagne production.
• Tastings of five different champagne glasses offer a good variety for enthusiasts.
• A traditional French lunch in a family-run restaurant provides authentic local flavors.
• Travel by high-speed train makes the day efficient and comfortable.
• Visiting Reims Cathedral allows a quick but meaningful glimpse into gothic architecture.
• The experience is private and flexible, with guides speaking French, English, and Spanish.

A Close Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Starting Point: Gare de l’Est

Your day kicks off at Gare de l’Est in Paris, where you’ll meet your guide—typically at the entrance of Burger King. From there, a high-speed train whisks you away to Reims, which takes about an hour. The train ride itself is a highlight: quick, smooth, and offering views of the French countryside, giving you a taste of the region even before you arrive.

Reims City: First Impressions

Once in Reims, your guide will take you on a brief 15-minute tour of La Porte de Mars, an ancient Roman gate that hints at the city’s layered history. Then, a more substantial hour-long guided walk around Reims Cathedral — Notre-Dame de Reims. This iconic gothic structure is a marvel of architecture, with its impressive façade and intricate sculptures. The guide will fill you in on its architectural features and historical significance, making this more than just a quick photo stop.

Champagne Vineyards: Two Wineries

The real star of this trip, of course, is the champagne. You’ll transfer from the city into the countryside by private car, riding through rolling vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.

First stop: Champagne GH Martel & Co. Here, you’ll spend about an hour exploring the cellars with an expert guide. The reviews mention that guides are knowledgeable, and their insights turn the process of champagne-making into an engaging story. You’ll learn the differences between various types of champagne and walk through the cellars where the fermentation and aging happen. Be prepared for a descent of about 130 steps into the cellar—this is common but worth noting if you’re not keen on stairs.

Next, you’ll visit Champagne Mailly Grand Cru for another hour-long tour. This visit offers another perspective, perhaps a different style of champagne, allowing you to compare and appreciate the nuances of this iconic beverage.

Champagne Tastings and Lunch

At each winery, you’ll sample a total of five glasses of high-quality champagne. Guests have highlighted that the guides expertly explain the tasting notes, making it a more immersive experience. The tasting environments vary: some guests noted that one grower had no seating or lounge area, which might feel a bit rushed or less comfortable. However, the focus remains on the sparkling wines, and the quality is often praised.

Midway through the day, you’ll enjoy a traditional French lunch at a family-run restaurant in the village of Lude. The reviews suggest the meal is charming and authentic, giving you a break from the wine and a chance to savor local flavors.

Reims’ Highlights and Return

After lunch, you’ll have some free time to stroll through Reims’ streets, admire its architecture, and soak in the local atmosphere. The highlight here is the outside view of Reims Cathedral — a towering gothic masterpiece that has hosted numerous coronations of French kings. The guide will share snippets of history, adding context to your visit.

Finally, you’ll board the train back to Paris, completing a full, immersive day in the Champagne region.

The Practicalities and Value

Transportation: Comfort and Efficiency

The highlight of this tour is the use of high-speed train travel. It makes the journey swift and stress-free, freeing up your day for sightseeing and wine tasting. The train ride is about an hour each way, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery or relax.

Private Guide and Transportation

You’ll be accompanied by a private guide, which enhances the experience by allowing for more personalized attention and flexible pacing. The guide’s language skills—French, English, and Spanish—also make the tour accessible to a wide audience.

Cost and Value

At $707 per person, this tour is on the higher end, but considering the included return train tickets, private transfers, two vineyard tours with tastings, and a French lunch, many travelers may find it worthwhile—especially if they value a curated, guided experience over DIY travel.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews point out minor inconveniences, like limited seating during tastings and a guide who, in some cases, lacked extensive knowledge. The price might seem steep for those who prefer more casual or self-guided trips, or who are more budget-conscious.

Not Suitable for Everyone

The tour involves walking and descending 130 steps into the wine cellars, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues or who dislike stairs. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to travel to Gare de l’Est on your own.

Authentic Experiences and Special Touches

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of cultural sights—like Reims Cathedral—and wine tasting in renowned vineyards. The guides’ expertise helps demystify champagne production, a process often shrouded in mystery for many visitors.

Guests have praised guides like Sebastian for being “amazing” and “very knowledgeable,” which is crucial for appreciating the region’s champagne heritage. The authentic family restaurant lunch provides a taste of local life, not just touristy fare, giving you a true flavor of the region.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for wine aficionados eager to deepen their understanding of champagne, as well as those who enjoy cultural sightseeing combined with gourmet experiences. If you’re looking for a luxury, curated day trip with insightful guides and seamless logistics, this could be a perfect fit.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are concerned about stairs and walking, you might want to consider other options. The price point suggests it’s suited for travelers who prioritize guided, all-inclusive experiences over budget-friendly DIY adventures.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Paris to Reims offers a well-rounded blend of history, culture, and wine. The journey by high-speed train and the guided visits to two prominent champagne vineyards make it a convenient yet immersive way to explore France’s sparkling wine capital.

While the price tag might seem high, the inclusion of tastings, a French lunch, and private guides justifies the expense for those seeking a premium experience. The scenic drives through vineyards, the chance to learn directly from experts, and the stunning architecture of Reims Cathedral all add up to a fulfilling day.

If you’re passionate about champagne or simply eager for a sophisticated escape from Paris, this tour balances education, indulgence, and cultural sightseeing — with a few minor hiccups that are easy to overlook given the overall quality.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to meet your guide at Gare de l’Est station in Paris.

How long does the train ride take?
The high-speed train from Paris to Reims takes about one hour each way, providing a quick and comfortable transfer.

Are the vineyard visits guided?
Yes, each vineyard has a guide who will take you on a guided tour of the cellars, explaining the champagne-making process and helping you understand the different styles.

Can I expect to taste different types of champagne?
You will taste five glasses of high-quality champagne across the tours, giving you a good variety to appreciate different flavors and styles.

Are there any physical challenges involved?
Yes, you should be prepared to go down 130 steps into one of the cellars. The tour involves some walking and standing, which might not suit those with mobility issues.

What is the best suited for this tour?
This experience works best for champagne enthusiasts, culture lovers, and foodies who appreciate guided tours and are willing to invest in a high-end day trip.

To sum it up, this tour offers a comprehensive and elegant way to experience the champagne region, combining historical sights, authentic cuisine, and premium tastings. While it’s on the pricier side, the curated nature and private guides make it a memorable choice for those looking to indulge and learn in style—perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply elevating your Paris visit.