Visiting Champagne from Paris: How to Plan a Perfect Trip

Visiting Champagne from Paris is one of the most exciting experiences for those who are connoisseurs of fine wine and also love adventure. It is the heart of France’s sparkling wine region and is known for its rolling vineyards, nostalgic champagne houses stepped in history and beautiful towns. Champagne offers a relaxing retreat just a short distance from Paris. Whether you are a wine lover or just want to lose yourself in the scenic beauty of nature in a historical location, visiting Champagne from Paris would not disappoint you. 

How to Get Champagne from Paris?

Traveling from Champagne to Paris is a seamless experience. It is an adventurous trip, and it is quite easy to travel to this exotic location from Paris. There are several ways to reach Champagne from Paris but the ideal way for you depends on your budget, schedule and the kind of experience you desire. Here are the travel options for traveling to Champagne from Paris: 

By Train:

One of the fastest ways of traveling to Champagne from Paris, TGV trains depart from Paris de l’Est and reach Reims, the capital of Champagne, in just 45 minutes. These are high-speed trains and offer a convenient travel experience if you want to travel in comfort as well as save time. Once you reach Reims, you can take a tour of local Champagne houses or take a short train ride to Epernany, another beautiful place in the region.

By Car:

If you are someone who loves long drives in the midst of breathtaking scenic beauty,  renting a car for visiting Champagne from Paris would be a great option. The drive from Paris to Champagne takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can take short stops and explore intriguing small villages and hidden gems along the way. Traveling to Champagne by Car allows you to customize your trip and gives you the freedom to explore as many spots as you can.  

By Guided Tour:

If you want a hassle-free experience where you can just enjoy and do not have to worry about planning, a guided tour would be a great option. There are many companies in Champagne that offer guided tours including transportation, exploring exotic Champagne houses, and wine tastings. You can just relax and make the most of your trip while the guides take care of everything for you.

Top Places to Visit in Champagne

Champagne is an exotic place. It is a wine lover’s paradise and nature lover’s escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. If you are visiting Champagne from Paris, these are the two main cities that you should definitely visit: 

1) Reims

Known for its intriguing history and its savory wine, Reims is a beautiful city that also has the magnificent Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was where French Kings were traditionally crowned. If you are going to explore Reims, make sure you visit these exotic Champagne houses that the city is home to:

• Veuve Clicquot – Famous for its yellow label and rich history.
• Taittinger – Offers a tour of historic underground chalk cellars.
• Ruinart – This Champagne house would impress you with its quality and vibe. It is one of the oldest Champagne houses. 

2) Épernay

Home to the popular Avenue de Champagne – a vibrant street lined with famous Champagne producers – Épernay is often referred to as the “Capital of Champagne”. Here are some must-visit houses in this unique city:

• Moët & Chandon – One of the world’s most iconic champagne brands.
• Perrier-Jouët – Known for its beautifully designed bottles and delicate flavors.
• Pol Roger – A favorite of Winston Churchill, offering a rich history and exquisite champagne.

Best Time to Visit Champagne

Champagne remains an intriguing place throughout the year. Whether you are going there for wine or for exploring its history or having some adventure, this place always has something for someone no matter when you visit it. The best time for visiting Champagne from Paris depends on what kind of trip you are looking forward to.

• Spring (March to May): Spring is when the vineyards start coming to life. The weather is pleasant and with the vineyards blooming, it looks like a nature lover’s paradise. Since the weather is nice, you can also enjoy outdoor activities.
• Summer (June to August): The temperature is warm, and it’s time for exciting festivals making it a lively place to visit. 
• Autumn (September to November): It is the best time for wine lovers since it is the harvest season. You can enjoy grape picking and watch special events at vineyards. 
• Winter (December to February): This season is quiet and peaceful. The streets are calm, so you can relax and explore the city. However, there are holiday markets that are quite interesting to explore. 

What to Expect During a Champagne Tasting?

If you are visiting Champagne, wine tastings are definitely going to be the highlight of your visit. The wine tastings are comprehensive and include much more than just sipping on exotic fine wine. You can explore the cellar, know about the history of the Champagne house and witness the Champagne-making process. There are some interesting houses that offer food pairings, blending workshops or an exclusive tasting of vintage wines.

Conclusion

Visiting Champagne from Paris is an experience full of adventure. It is a great way to explore France’s famous wine culture, history and beautiful landscapes. No matter whether you go for a day or longer, Champagne would not disappoint you with its exquisite houses and enchanting atmosphere. There are several ways through which you can explore the city. Whether you go by train, car or take a guided tour, exploring Champagne has never been more convenient. Plan your trip today and indulge in the sparkling magic of this iconic region.