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A day trip from Paris to the Champagne region is one of the most rewarding excursions you can take — especially if you’re a fan of sparkling wine, scenic countryside, and French heritage. Just a short train ride or guided tour away, Champagne offers a perfect blend of bubbly indulgence and historical exploration. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to plan the perfect day trip, including top champagne houses, tours, tickets, tastings, and travel tips.
Why Visit the Champagne Region?
Champagne isn’t just a drink — it’s a place. Only sparkling wine produced in this region under strict rules can be called “champagne.” The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to picturesque villages, rolling vineyards, and legendary producers like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger.
How to Get from Paris to Champagne
There are two main towns in the Champagne region that make for easy day trips from Paris: Reims and Épernay.
By Train:
- Paris to Reims: Take a TGV from Gare de l’Est – around 45 minutes.
- Paris to Épernay: About 1 hr 15 min by regional train from Gare de l’Est.
Check train schedules on the SNCF Connect website.
By Guided Tour:
Don’t want to deal with transport? Book a guided day trip with transportation, winery visits, and tastings included.
Best Champagne Houses to Visit
Here are some of the most iconic (and delicious) stops to include in your itinerary:
1. Moët & Chandon (Épernay)
Possibly the most famous champagne house in the world. Explore vast underground cellars and taste their classic Brut Imperial.
- Tours start from €26. Visit Moët & Chandon
2. Veuve Clicquot (Reims)
Known for its iconic yellow label, Veuve Clicquot offers a polished tour with tastings of their flagship champagnes.
- Bookings are essential. Visit Veuve Clicquot
3. Taittinger (Reims)
Family-owned and less commercial, Taittinger offers a charming and informative cellar tour. The chalk caves here are centuries old.
- Tours from €23. Visit Taittinger
Where to Eat During Your Trip
Pair your champagne tasting with fine food:
In Reims:
- Brasserie Excelsior: Classic French brasserie with elegant Art Deco vibes.
- Le Foch: Michelin-starred restaurant with refined tasting menus.
In Épernay:
- La Table Kobus: Elegant bistro with seasonal menus and excellent wine pairings.
- Les Berceaux: A favorite among champagne lovers.
Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends and high season.
What to Bring Back
Champagne houses often offer exclusive vintages and limited editions only available on site. Most will pack bottles safely for travel. Other souvenir ideas:
- Champagne stoppers
- Branded glassware
- Local biscuits (like Biscuits Roses de Reims)
Travel Tips for Your Champagne Day Trip
- Book tours in advance: Popular houses fill up fast.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Many tours involve walking through long cellar tunnels.
- Don’t overbook: 2–3 tastings are ideal for one day.
- Check age restrictions: Some tastings require participants to be 18+.
- Drink responsibly: If self-driving, designate a sober driver or use a tour service.
Sample Itinerary for a Champagne Day Trip
Morning:
- Depart Paris via train around 8:00 AM
- Arrive in Reims by 9:00 AM
- 10:00 AM tour and tasting at Veuve Clicquot
Lunch:
- 12:30 PM lunch at Brasserie Excelsior
Afternoon:
- 2:30 PM visit Taittinger or transfer to Épernay
- 4:00 PM tour at Moët & Chandon
Evening:
- Return to Paris by 6:30–7:00 PM
Conclusion
A Champagne day trip from Paris is an unforgettable escape filled with bubbles, beauty, and French charm. Whether you’re clinking glasses in ancient chalk cellars or soaking up vineyard views, the region delivers on every level. Just plan smart, book early, and get ready to say “Santé!”
