Marne: 2-Day Champagne Tour with Tastings and Lunches

Discover the Charm of the Champagne Region on a 2-Day Tour

Planning a trip to France and craving an authentic taste of its world-famous Champagne? This 2-day private Champagne tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines visits to historic cellars with the chance to savor local cuisine and explore the stunning vineyards. Whether you’re a dedicated wine enthusiast or simply looking to indulge in some of France’s finest bubbles, this journey promises memorable moments.

One of the things we love about this experience is its emphasis on authenticity and depth. It’s not just about tasting; it’s about understanding the process, exploring historic sites, and enjoying genuine regional cuisine. A possible consideration is that the tour is quite intensive, so it’s best suited for those with a good level of mobility and curiosity about wine production.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an immersive, private experience rather than a large-group cruise. If you’re eager to learn about Champagne’s unique vineyards and history, and enjoy personalized attention, this tour will meet your expectations.

Key Points

Private, personalized experience with a dedicated guide
Visits to multiple wineries and cellars for a comprehensive understanding of Champagne production
Tastings included at diverse locations for varied flavor insights
Authentic regional cuisine with lunches and dinners in vineyards and classified villages
Historical highlights like Dom Perignon’s grave and 11th-century monuments
Vineyard and grape variety exploration in scenic locations

An Inside Look at the 2-Day Champagne Tour

What to Expect from This Tour

The Marne: 2-Day Champagne Tour is designed to take you deep into the heart of France’s most iconic wine-growing region. From vineyard walks to cellar visits, you’ll gain insights that go beyond just popping corks. The tour is fully private, meaning you’ll get tailored attention, which makes for a relaxed yet comprehensive experience.

The tour kicks off in the Marne Valley, an area known for its limestone-rich soils and seashell fossils—an intriguing geological feature that hints at the region’s ancient past. Visitors have raved about the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, noting that the experience is both educational and enjoyable. Reviewers mention that the guide is often fluent in French, offering an authentic local perspective.

Day 1: Marne Valley and Hautvillers

The day begins with a visit to a renowned winery in the Marne Valley. Here, you’ll see how the Champagne is made, and get to taste some of the products directly from the source. Many reviewers highlight that visits often include tours of cellars where Champagne ages for years. Guests note the opportunity to see seashell fossils embedded in the region’s limestone—a unique geological feature that adds a layer of historical intrigue.

A highlight is the visit to Hautvillers, a picturesque village where Dom Perignon—often called the father of Champagne—is buried. Walking through the village, you’ll see charming streets that seem straight out of a storybook, and learn about the monk credited with perfecting the bubbly. One reviewer appreciated that the tour included a visit to Dom Perignon’s grave, describing it as a moving, “touch of history that makes it all feel more real.”

Lunch on day one is a treat, featuring local Champagne cuisine. Expect seasonal dishes crafted to complement the bubbly, with some reviewers mentioning that the quality of the food exceeded expectations. In the evening, you’ll dine in a vineyard setting, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the countryside and a specially curated dinner.

Day 2: Reims Hill, Côte des Blancs, and Grand Cru Wineries

The second day takes you further afield, to the Reims Hill area and the Côte des Blancs, home to some of the most refined grape varieties used in Champagne. Here, you’ll visit a winery classified as Grand Cru, which is a mark of exceptional quality. Guests often comment on the detailed explanations of grape varieties and how they influence the final product.

A standout feature is the vineyard tour, where you’ll walk among the vines, taking in panoramic views of rolling hills and meticulously maintained vineyards. Visitors appreciate how the guide explains the production process step-by-step, including how each wine is crafted and aged to perfection.

A highlight is the visit to a classified historical monument from the 11th century, adding a touch of historical grandeur to your experience. At one winery, you’ll witness the intricate process of bottle production, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Champagne so special.

Lunch is served in a classified village in the Côtes des Blancs, giving you a taste of local flavors in a setting rich with history. The day wraps up with a visit to a cellar where tastings are elevated with expert guidance, emphasizing flavor profiles and the best ways to enjoy Champagne.

Comfort, Value, and Practicalities

Transportation is seamless, with pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation included. This private tour means no waiting for other guests, and you can tailor your experience to your interests. The tour typically runs over two days, with flexible starting times depending on your schedule.

Cost-wise, at $803 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Champagne, with visits to multiple wineries and authentic lunches and dinners. Reviewers note that this price is reasonable for the depth of experience and personalized service provided. Given the included visits, tastings, meals, and hotel stay in a vineyard, many find the value to be well worth it.

What’s Unique and Worth Noting

Guests have expressed appreciation for the guided tours of vineyards, often mentioning the beautiful scenery and insightful commentary. The guide’s expertise and friendliness are recurring themes, with many reviewers stating they felt well cared for and informed.

Some travelers mention that the dinners in the vineyard are a highlight, offering a chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine in a stunning setting. The visits to historic sites like the 11th-century monument and Dom Perignon’s grave add a cultural dimension that enriches the experience.

While the tour is quite full, it’s designed to be enjoyable rather than rushed. It’s ideally suited for those with an interest in wine production, history, and regional culture. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as vineyard walking and cellar visits involve some standing and walking on uneven ground.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-day private Champagne experience is best for travelers seeking an immersive, educational, and relaxed look into Champagne production. It caters well to wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and those looking for a taste of authentic French countryside life.

It’s ideal for visitors who appreciate personalized service and want to avoid large tour groups. The included boutique hotel stay gives it a touch of luxury, making it perfect for a special trip or a romantic getaway. However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer a more flexible, self-guided experience, this tour might be less suitable due to its structured nature and cost.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, making it straightforward to relax and focus on the experience.

How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit multiple wineries and cellars, including those in the Marne Valley, Côte des Blancs, and Reims Hill, to get a well-rounded understanding.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes. Tastings are part of each winery visit, giving you the chance to sample different styles and vintages.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera for photos, and water are recommended. The tour involves walking through vineyards and cellar areas.

Is this tour suitable for non-French speakers?
The guide is French, and reviews suggest the majority of the experience is conducted in French. Some guides may speak English, but it’s best to confirm when booking if language is a concern.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the provider beforehand. The itinerary can be tailored to your interests, within reason.

Is it suitable for pregnant women?
No. Due to the nature of wine tastings and cellar visits, pregnant women are advised to skip this tour.

What is the duration of each day?
Each day is designed for a full exploration, typically lasting several hours, with some free time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Final Thoughts

This Marne 2-Day Champagne Tour offers a comprehensive, authentic peek into one of France’s most celebrated regions. It balances historical sites, vineyard walks, insightful winery visits, and delicious regional cuisine—all within a private, personalized setting. The experience is well-suited for those eager to deepen their understanding of Champagne’s unique qualities and enjoy a luxurious, relaxed pace.

While the price might seem steep to some, the inclusion of multiple tastings, gourmet lunches, and a boutique overnight stay makes it a good value for dedicated wine lovers or those celebrating a special occasion. Keep in mind, the experience is quite curated and intensive, so it’s best for travelers who are genuinely interested in learning about Champagne rather than just tasting.

If you’re looking for a deep, authentic dive into Champagne with personalized service and historical touches, this tour is a fantastic choice. It combines education, scenery, and gastronomy — all in one beautifully crafted experience.

Note: For those considering other options, similar experiences include day trips from Paris or Epernay, but this tour’s private, in-depth approach offers a level of intimacy and detail that large group tours can’t match.