The Champagne Region in the Northeastern part of France and is beautiful. We have been a few times and we love it a bit more each time.
The first time we went to Champagne, it was Fall and driving through the countryside was amazing. All the vineyards were changing colors and the hills where lit up with bright orange and yellow. If you have a car, don’t miss the opportunity to just enjoy the beauty of the vineyards by driving the Route Touristique du Champagne (Champagne Tourist Route).
Let’s start with the obvious, Champagne and tasting. Epernay likes to call itself the Capital of Champagne and it’s not wrong. Just take a stroll down the Avenue de Champagne. Here you will find some of the most famous and prestigious Champagne producers: Moet & Chandon, Mercier, Perrier-Jouet to name a few. Many are open of tours and tasting but you should book ahead of time. We did the Mercier tour because we got to ride a little train through all the underground tunnels where they make and age the Champagne. We really enjoyed it.
You can also visit the Champagne and Archaeology Museum in Epernay.
We have also spent some time in Reims. Reims is a bit of a bigger city in the Champagne region and the home of Vueve Clicquot. We had a great tour and tasting at Veuve. You can book here. The history of the cellar and its winemakers was fascinating, but to mention entertaining and tasty. They organize all sorts of events so definitely worth checking out.
Ruinart is also in Reims. A winemaker in Beaune told us this is the best Champagne you can buy. We agree, but try it for yourself and let us know!
Don’t miss the Cathedral of Notre Dame, it is really stunning and definitely worth seeing. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important Gothic cathedrals in France. This historic cathedral has been the site of the coronation of French kings for centuries.
Adjacent to the cathedral, the Palais du Tau was once the residence of the archbishops of Reims. Today, it houses a museum showcasing artifacts from the cathedral, including coronation regalia, tapestries, and statues. The building itself is a masterpiece of Gothic and classical architecture.
Reims is charming town with tons of cute bistros and shops.
We have stayed at the Continental hotel twice. Its charming, has a lovely bar and restaurant and is directly across the street from a beautiful park that is fantastic for dogs, kids and just a lovely stroll.
The Champagne region, with its blend of history, culture, and, of course, champagne, offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re wandering through the historic streets of Reims, sipping champagne in Épernay, or indulging in gourmet cuisine, the region promises a journey filled with elegance and delight. Check out our post about hotels in the region here.
