One Day in Reims to Exploring Champagne and French History
Spending one day in Reims is definitely doable, and I highly recommend it as this is exactly what we did when we were last in France.
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ToggleWhile it’s great to spend the night and take your time exploring, if you only have a day, you can still experience the best of what this historic city has to offer, especially as this town is very walkable.
Reims is so close to Paris that it makes the perfect day trip, known for its stunning Notre Dame Cathedral and world-famous Champagne houses, which is why you’re probably reading this article!
Initially, when we were planning on visiting Reims, it was for the Champagne houses, but I was really surprised by the rich history, beautiful architecture, and impressive cathedral. The city is incredibly walkable, making it easy to get from tourist sights to restaurants and Champagne tastings without having to spend money on public transport. Whether you’re into history, wine, or just a picturesque French town, Reims is the perfect spot to visit if you’re short on time in France.
Here’s my guide on everything you need to know to spend a perfect one day in Reims—I’ve done the planning and research for you!
⏰ Short on time?
🗺️ Here are the top 3 day trips and tours from Reims that we recommend!
- E-Bike Champagne Tour from Reims
- Half-Day Champagne Tasting Tour to Épernay
- Taittinger Champagne Morning Tour
🏨 Hotel in a great location: Best Western Hôtel de La Paix
🍾 Tip: Don’t miss a tour of Taittinger’s historic cellars!
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Getting to Reims from Paris
Reims is super easy to get to from Paris, whether you’re driving or taking the train.
By Train
The high-speed TGV train from Paris takes about 45 minutes, making it a quick and convenient way to reach Reims.
By Car
We opted to drive from Paris, which took about 1.5 hours. The drive is scenic and gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. This way, you can also easily drive down to Épernay if you want.
TIP: If you can, I recommend staying the night, which is what we did in the end. I stayed at the Best Western Hôtel de La Paix and loved it! It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore the town on foot.
What to See in Reims
Reims is full of historic landmarks and beautiful sights, so here are the must-see places during your one day in Reims:
Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral
This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Reims and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s known as the site where French kings were crowned. Inside, you’ll find breathtaking stained glass windows, and you can even join a guided tour of the Reims Cathedral here.
Palace of Tau
Right next to the cathedral is the Palace of Tau, a former archbishop’s residence turned museum. It’s where the French kings stayed before their coronations, and you can see the coronation treasures and historical artifacts up close.
Champagne Houses
Reims is the heart of Champagne country, and visiting one of its iconic Champagne houses is a must. Some of the most famous houses include Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Pommery, and Ruinart. Each house offers tours and tastings, where you can learn about the Champagne-making process and, of course, sample some bubbly!
TIP: If you’re short on time, I recommend joining a walking tour to see the city’s highlights, including the cathedral and the Champagne district.
Champagne Houses to Visit in Reims
Here are some of the top Champagne houses in Reims that are well worth a visit.
Veuve Clicquot: One of the most iconic names in Champagne, known for its bold yellow label and rich history.
Taittinger: A family-owned Champagne house with stunning underground cellars that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pommery: Famous for its grand architecture and modern art installations, making it a unique experience.
Ruinart: The oldest established Champagne house, offering exclusive tastings and tours.
Mumm: Known for its signature red sash label and lively tours.
Recommended Guided Tours in Reims
E-Bike Champagne Tour from Reims: Explore the Champagne region by e-bike, with stops at beautiful vineyards and tastings along the way.
Half-Day Champagne Tasting Tour to Épernay: Visit multiple Champagne houses, including some in Épernay, for tastings and tours.
Taittinger Champagne Morning Tour: Enjoy a morning tour of Taittinger, followed by tastings in the historic cellars.
One Day in Reims Itinerary
Morning
Start your day at Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral with an optional guided tour.
Explore the nearby Palace of Tau and learn about the city’s royal history.
Lunch
Grab lunch at a local café near Place Drouet d’Erlon, the main square in Reims, filled with restaurants and shops.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon visiting one or two Champagne houses. I recommend starting with Taittinger or Veuve Clicquot.
Head back to Place Drouet d’Erlon for dinner at one of the many lively restaurants on the street.
Where to Stay in Reims
If you’re planning to stay overnight, here are some options depending on your travel style.
Couples: The city centre near Place Drouet d’Erlon is perfect for romantic stays, with charming boutique hotels and restaurants.
Families: Stay near the Parc de Champagne for more space and family-friendly accommodations.
Budget Travelers: The area near the Reims train station offers more affordable options that are still close to the main attractions.
TIP: I stayed at the Best Western Hôtel de La Paix and loved it. It’s modern, comfortable, and located right in the heart of Reims. We could walk everywhere!
FAQ About Visiting Reims
What to do in Reims in 1 day?
In one day, you can visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, tour a Champagne house like Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger, and explore the historic city centre on foot.
Is Reims a good day trip?
Yes, Reims is the perfect day trip from Paris! It’s only 45 minutes away by high-speed train and offers a blend of history and Champagne experiences.
How long should you spend in Reims?
One day is enough to see the highlights, but staying for a night or two allows you to fully experience the city and visit multiple Champagne houses.
Is Reims worth visiting?
Absolutely! Reims offers a unique combination of history, beautiful architecture, and world-class Champagne. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring France.
👉 If you are looking for more tips about visiting France? Make sure to check out How to Visit the Champagne Region from Paris next.
Can you walk from Reims train station to Veuve Clicquot?
Veuve Clicquot is about a 30-minute walk from the train station, so it depends if that’s walkable for you. It might be better to take a taxi or join a tour.
Is Reims a walkable city?
Yes, Reims is very walkable, with most of the major sights located within the city centre.
Does Reims have an old town?
Yes, the old town of Reims is filled with charming streets, historic buildings, and plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.
What is Reims best known for?
Reims is best known for its Notre-Dame Cathedral, its role in the coronation of French kings, and its world-famous Champagne houses.
Does Reims have a hop-on-hop-off bus?
Reims does not currently have a hop-on-hop-off bus, but the city is easy to explore on foot or by using local public transportation.
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