Reims-2-day-itinerary

Reims Itinerary: 2 Days of Champagne and History

Day 1:

Morning

  • Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims: Start your day with a visit to this stunning cathedral, where many French kings were crowned. Take in the intricate architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
  • Palais du Tau: Next door to the cathedral, this former archbishop’s palace is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Reims Museum of History.

Lunch

  • Le Jardin des Crayères: Treat yourself to a delicious meal at this Michelin-starred restaurant, set in a beautiful garden. Try their champagne pairing menu for a truly French experience.

Afternoon

  • Taittinger Champagne Cellar: Take a guided tour of this renowned champagne house and learn about the production process. Of course, you’ll also get to sample some of their finest bubbly!
  • Reims Museum of Fine Arts: If you’re interested in art, head to this museum, which features works by French masters like Monet and Renoir.

Evening

  • La Place Royale: Stroll around this picturesque square, surrounded by beautiful buildings and cafes. It’s a great spot to relax and people-watch.
  • Le Grand Café: For dinner, try this cozy bistro, serving classic French dishes with a modern twist.

Day 2:

Morning

  • Veuve Clicquot Champagne Cellar: Another must-visit champagne house, Veuve Clicquot offers guided tours and tastings. Don’t miss the stunning cellars and beautiful gardens.
  • Reims Train Station: Take a short walk to the train station, where you can admire its beautiful Art Deco architecture.

Lunch

  • Le Bistro du Forum: Grab lunch at this lively bistro, serving tasty French cuisine at reasonable prices. Try their champagne cocktail for a fun twist!

Afternoon

  • Reims Champagne Automobile Museum: If you’re interested in cars and champagne (who isn’t?), head to this quirky museum showcasing vintage vehicles and champagne-themed exhibits.
  • Parc de la Patte d’Oie: Take a stroll through this beautiful park, featuring walking trails, gardens, and a lovely lake.

Evening

  • La Brasserie de Reims: End your trip with dinner at this bustling brasserie, serving classic French dishes in a lively atmosphere. Be sure to try their champagne beer!
  • Reims Night Market (summer only): If you’re visiting during the summer months, don’t miss the night market, featuring local food, drinks, and crafts.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel de la Paix: This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms in a beautiful 19th-century building. It’s located in the heart of Reims, close to all major attractions.
  • Ibis Reims Centre: For a more budget-friendly option, try this modern hotel with cozy rooms and a convenient location.

Things to Know:

  • Reims is easily accessible by train from Paris (approximately 45 minutes).
  • The city has a compact center, making it easy to explore on foot.
  • Be sure to book champagne cellar tours in advance, as they can fill up quickly.
  • Don’t forget to try some of the local specialties, like champagne (of course!), jambalaya (a type of ham), and biscuits roses de Reims (pink biscuits).

Transportation:

  • Reims Train Station: The main train station is located in the city center, with regular trains connecting to Paris and other French cities.
  • Bus Network: Reims has an efficient bus network covering the city and surrounding areas. You can buy tickets at newsstands or online.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be aware that they may not speak English.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds during peak season (June to September).
  • Don’t overdo it on the champagne tastings – pace yourself!
  • Take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit and learn about Reims’ rich history.
  • Try to avoid visiting during harvest season (August to October), as some attractions may be closed or have limited hours.

Enjoy your trip to Reims!