Champagne, France Travel Guide

Discover the allure of Champagne, France – a region renowned for its world-class sparkling wine, historical landmarks, and captivating landscapes.

Nestled in northeastern France, the Champagne region is a paradise for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Known worldwide for its sparkling wine, this region offers more than just bubbly beverages. It is a blend of picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and rich history, making it a must-visit for any traveler. Begin your journey in Reims, the region's largest city, where you can explore the stunning Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Gothic masterpiece has been the site of the coronation of French kings for centuries. After soaking in the history, take a leisurely stroll through the city's vibrant streets filled with cafes, shops, and, of course, Champagne houses. Next, head to Epernay, often referred to as the 'Capital of Champagne'. Here, the Avenue de Champagne awaits with its grand mansions and prestigious Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët. Take a guided tour to learn about the meticulous process of Champagne production, from grape to glass. Don't forget to indulge in tastings to truly appreciate the region's signature drink. For a more rustic experience, visit the rolling vineyards that dot the landscape. Many local producers offer tours and tastings right on their estates, providing a more intimate insight into the art of Champagne making. The scenic beauty of the vineyards, coupled with the warmth of the local vintners, makes for an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a connoisseur of fine wines or simply a traveler in search of beauty and history, the Champagne region offers a unique and enriching experience. From its historic cities and charming villages to its world-famous vineyards, Champagne is a destination that promises to delight and inspire.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Champagne.

Book your Champagne house tours in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours, as the cobblestone streets and vineyard paths can be uneven.
Visit smaller, family-owned Champagne producers for a more personalized experience and unique tastings.
Try to schedule your visit during the harvest season (late September to early October) for a chance to see grape picking in action.
Don't forget to explore local cuisine; many restaurants in the region offer dishes that pair perfectly with Champagne.

Destinations in Champagne

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Cote des Blancs

Explore Champagne: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Champagne

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Sedan Castle

Explore the historical grandeur of Sedan Castle, a majestic fortress that showcases the rich heritage and breathtaking views of France's medieval past.

4.5

Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin - Visitors Center

Explore the luxurious world of Veuve Clicquot at their Visitors Center in Reims, where tradition and innovation meet in every sip.

4.6

Château Perrier

Discover the rich history of Champagne at Château Perrier, a cultural gem in Épernay that offers an immersive museum experience.

4.6

Site COROT

Explore Site COROT, a serene park in Saint-Junien, where nature meets the artistic legacy of Jean-Baptiste Corot, perfect for relaxation and inspiration.

4.6

Best landmarks in Champagne

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Maison Mumm Reims

Discover the art of champagne at Maison Mumm in Reims, where tradition meets excellence in every sparkling sip.

4.5

Champagne Lanson

Explore the rich heritage of winemaking at Champagne Lanson in Reims, where exquisite Champagne awaits your discovery.

4.7

Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park

Discover the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, a nature lover's paradise in France's Champagne region.

4.5

Moulin de Verzenay

Explore the historic Moulin de Verzenay, a charming windmill winery in the heart of Champagne, where beauty and tradition come together.

4.4

Best restaurants in Champagne

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Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa

Discover luxury dining and serene spa experiences amidst breathtaking vineyard views at Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa.

4.6

La Cave à Champagne

Discover exquisite French cuisine and exceptional champagne at La Cave à Champagne in Épernay – a true culinary treasure.

4.4

Hôtel L' Assiette Champenoise

Experience unparalleled luxury at Hôtel L' Assiette Champenoise—where exquisite French cuisine meets elegant accommodations in Champagne.

4.8

Chez Max

Discover the charm of traditional French cuisine at Chez Max in Magenta – a culinary gem in the heart of Champagne.

4.7

Best bars in Champagne

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L'Apostrophe

Discover L'Apostrophe in Reims, where traditional French cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for any culinary adventure.

4.1

Le Clos

Discover the essence of Champagne at Le Clos, Reims' premier wine bar offering exquisite selections and a cozy atmosphere.

4.4

Ernest Hemingway Café

Discover the charm of Ernest Hemingway Café in Reims, where literary inspiration meets delightful beverages and a cozy atmosphere.

4.0

Pub l'Escale

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local brews at Pub l'Escale, the perfect bar for tourists in Reims.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Champagne

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La Loge

Experience the electrifying nightlife of Reims at La Loge, the premier live music bar that brings together local and international talent.

3.9

Atrium Club & Events

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Atrium Club & Events in Reims, a premier disco club and event venue where unforgettable memories are created.

3.5

Curt'N

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Curt'N, Reims' premier disco club, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await.

2.7

L'Alegra

Dive into the heart of Châlons-en-Champagne's nightlife at L'Alegra, where music and dance create unforgettable experiences.

3.2

Best shops in Champagne

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Designer Outlet Troyes

Explore Designer Outlet Troyes for unbeatable deals on designer brands and a delightful culinary experience in the heart of France.

4.2

Marques Avenue Troyes

Discover unbeatable deals and a wide selection of stores at Marques Avenue Troyes, the ultimate outlet shopping experience in Saint-Julien-les-Villas, France.

3.8

Cora

Discover local flavors and vibrant shopping at Cora Supermarket in Vichy, where fresh produce meets unique culinary experiences.

3.7

Galeries Lafayette Reims

Explore the elegance of Galeries Lafayette Reims, a premier shopping destination for fashion, beauty, and gourmet delights in the heart of the historic city.

4.1

Explore Champagne on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Champagne, mapped for you.

Champagne Essentials

Champagne is located in the northeastern part of France, approximately 150 kilometers from Paris. The nearest major airport is Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris. From Paris, you can take a high-speed TGV train from Gare de l'Est to Reims, which takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive from Paris to Champagne, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Car rentals are available at the airport and in Paris.
Once in Champagne, getting around is relatively easy. The region is well-connected by trains, with regular services between cities like Reims, Épernay, and Châlons-en-Champagne. Local buses operate within towns and to nearby villages. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but can be expensive. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the vineyards and countryside at your own pace.
The currency used in France is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and rural areas where card payments might not be accepted. ATMs are readily available in larger towns like Reims and Épernay.
Champagne is generally a safe region for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, especially in your car. Reims and Épernay are safe cities, but it is best to avoid poorly lit and deserted areas at night. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number is the European emergency number and can be used for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Reims has several hospitals and medical facilities, including the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Reims. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual when visiting Champagne houses; avoid overly casual attire. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains or buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Bonjour' followed by a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Champagne and pair it with regional cuisine. Don't pour your own Champagne; it is customary for the host to pour.
To experience Champagne like a local, visit the smaller, family-owned Champagne houses in addition to the well-known brands. Participate in a vineyard tour and learn about the Champagne-making process. Attend local festivals and events, such as the Fêtes Johanniques in Reims. Engage with locals and ask for their favorite Champagne recommendations. Explore the regional cuisine by dining at local bistros and trying specialties like 'jambon de Reims' and 'biscuits roses de Reims'.

When is the best time to visit Champagne?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Champagne

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Champagne. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bawn-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [seel voo pleh]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
  [ehk-skew-zay mwah]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byahn. eh voo?]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay?]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kom-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwah leuh meh-nu, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnzh pah duh vyahnd]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!À l'aide!
  [ah led]
- Go away!Allez-vous-en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uhn med-sin]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-du]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ah-sheh-tay...]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhoost]
- How much is it?C'est combien?
  [seh kohm-byen?]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [seh troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vay voo beh-say luh pree?]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kel uhr eh-teel?]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel eh ewn uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [deez uhr eh duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tan]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [ee-er]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-man]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duhr]
- 3Trois
  [trwah]
- 4Quatre
  [katr]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [set]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuhf]
- 10Dix
  [deez]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo eh...?]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kel eh luh-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (sur lah kart)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn eh luh pro-shen (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor....)]

History of Champagne

The history of Champagne dates back to Roman times when the region, known as Campania, was prized for its fertile soil and favorable climate. The Romans planted the first vineyards here, which laid the foundation for the region's wine-making tradition.
During the medieval period, Reims became a significant city in Champagne due to its cathedral where French kings were traditionally crowned. The association of Champagne wines with royal ceremonies elevated the region's status and its wines' prestige.
In the 17th century, Champagne wines began to naturally develop bubbles, a phenomenon initially considered a fault. However, this 'fault' was embraced by some winemakers, leading to the intentional production of sparkling wine. Dom Pérignon, a Benedictine monk, was instrumental in refining the methods for making sparkling Champagne.
In the early 20th century, a series of violent protests erupted known as the Champagne Riots. Local vine growers were angered by the influx of cheaper wines from outside the region being sold as Champagne. These riots led to the establishment of stricter regulations and the creation of the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system to protect the authenticity of Champagne.
Champagne suffered significant damage during World War I, with many vineyards and cellars destroyed. Post-war reconstruction efforts were immense, but they also led to innovations in vineyard management and wine production, setting the stage for Champagne's modern resurgence.
Today, Champagne is synonymous with celebration and luxury. The region hosts numerous prestigious wine houses and annual events like the Champagne Harvest Festival. The commitment to quality and heritage continues to define Champagne, making it a globally revered symbol of elegance and festivity.