A weekend in Reims

Plan your weekend in Reims: Champagne cellars, Gothic cathedral, local cuisine and cultural highlights in the heart of Grand Est.

Why go to Reims

Located in the Grand Est region, Reims is known for its historical heritage and its status as the capital of Champagne wine production. This city combines centuries of history with a practical and modern urban layout, making it ideal for a short stay.

Reims Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims) is one of the most important landmarks in France. Over 25 kings of France were crowned here. The Gothic architecture, the stained glass by Marc Chagall, and the historical significance make it a central attraction. Admission is free.

The Palace of Tau, a former archbishop’s residence and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers insight into the coronation ceremonies and royal traditions. Entry costs around 8 euros.

Another strong reason to visit Reims is Champagne tourism. The city is home to renowned producers such as Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Pommery, and Ruinart. Most houses offer guided tours of their chalk cellars (called “crayères”) and tastings. Prices range from 25 to 60 euros per person depending on the producer and tasting package.

For visitors seeking both history and culinary heritage, Reims offers an effective mix: cultural sites, wine tourism, and practical walking distances between attractions. The city is compact, with a good public transport system and a walkable centre.

The best season to go to Reims

Reims is accessible year-round, but spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the most practical periods for a visit.

In spring, temperatures range from 12°C to 20°C, ideal for walking between sites and visiting Champagne houses. Vineyards nearby begin to bloom, and cellar visits are less crowded.

Autumn is also suitable. Harvest season starts in September, and Champagne producers offer tours with more insight into production processes. The light is softer, and tourist flows are moderate.

Summer (July–August) brings warmer temperatures (up to 28°C) and more events such as Reims Jazz Festival, but also higher accommodation prices and more visitors.

Winter (December–February) is less popular, but the Reims Christmas market, held on the forecourt of the Cathedral, draws local tourism. Some Champagne houses reduce their visiting schedules in winter, so it’s best to check ahead.

How to get to Reims

Reims is easily connected by train, car, and plane, which makes it practical for a short stay.

By train

The TGV (high-speed train) from Paris Gare de l’Est to Reims Centre Station takes 45 minutes. There are up to 10 direct trains daily. Tickets start at 16 euros if booked in advance. The station is located in the city centre, near the Cathedral and major hotels.

Another option is the Champagne-Ardenne TGV station, 8 km from downtown. It connects with regional buses or taxis.

By car

Reims is located on the A4 motorway, about 145 km from Paris. The drive takes about 1h30. Parking is available in several underground and open-air car parks like Parking Cathédrale or Parking Erlon. Rates start from 1.50 euros/hour.

By plane

The nearest major airport is Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). From CDG, a direct TGV train reaches Reims in about 30 minutes. Alternatively, car rental is possible at the airport.

Public transport in Reims includes trams and buses, which cover most attractions. A 24-hour transport pass costs around 4 euros.

Where to stay in Reims

Reims offers various accommodation options in different categories and price ranges. The majority of quality hotels are located near Place Drouet-d’Erlon, the Cathedral, and the train station.

5-star hotels

• Domaine Les Crayères: A luxury Relais & Châteaux property with refined rooms and a park setting. Located near Champagne Pommery. Prices from 400 euros per night. Strong reviews for service and quietness. https://www.lescrayeres.com

4-star hotels

• La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa: Opposite the Cathedral, this modern hotel offers spa services, good restaurant, and quality rooms. Rooms from 190 euros. https://www.marriott.com
• Hotel de la Paix Best Western Premier: Located on Place Drouet-d’Erlon, with modern design, pool and good accessibility. Prices from 140 euros. https://www.hotel-lapaix.fr

Other quality stays

• Ibis Styles Reims Centre: Central, practical and clean. Around 100 euros per night, good value for short stays. https://www.accor.com

All these hotels are within walking distance from restaurants, Champagne houses and public transport.

Where and what to eat in Reims

Reims has a practical food culture combining local products and Champagne pairings.

Local dishes

Try Jambon de Reims, a seasoned ham served cold, and Reims mustard, used in many sauces. Another staple is Pink Biscuits of Reims (Biscuits Roses), often dipped in Champagne.

Where to eat

• Le Foch (1 Michelin star): Refined dishes, fresh fish, Champagne pairings. Menu from 75 euros. https://www.restaurant-foch.com
• Café du Palais: Historic bistro, near the Cathedral. Local cuisine, art deco interior. Average meal 25–30 euros. https://www.cafedupalais.fr
• Brasserie Excelsior: On Place Drouet-d’Erlon, offering regional classics and Champagne by the glass. https://www.brasserie-excelsior-reims.fr

Street food

For informal dining, the Boulingrin Market area offers bakeries, cheese shops and small deli counters. Try Champagne and cheese pairings at local wine bars like Le Wine Bar Reims.

What to do in Reims

Historical sites

• Cathédrale Notre-Dame and Palace of Tau remain key visits. The cathedral is open daily, free access.
• Saint-Remi Basilica and Museum: Less visited, Romanesque-Gothic church and museum with archaeological collections. Entry 5 euros.

Champagne cellars

• Taittinger, Ruinart, and Veuve Clicquot offer tours with tastings. Book online. Prices 25–60 euros.
• Smaller producers like Champagne G.H. Martel offer more intimate visits.

Museums and culture

• Musée des Beaux-Arts: Paintings, sculptures, and temporary exhibits. Entry 5 euros.
• Cryptoportique gallo-romain: An underground Roman ruin in Place du Forum, free access.

Sports and excursions

• Champagne vineyard tours: Half-day trips to Montagne de Reims or Épernay. Book via providers like Aÿ Champagne Experience or Sparkling Tour. Prices from 70 euros per person.
• Biking routes around the vineyards or through Montagne de Reims Natural Park.
• Hot-air balloon flights over the Champagne hills (approx. 200 euros).

Special events

• Reims Christmas Market, Fêtes Johanniques (June), and Flâneries Musicales (classical music festival in summer) attract local visitors.

Last tips

A weekend is enough to explore Reims without rushing. Prioritise the Cathedral, one Champagne house, and a local restaurant.

To avoid tourist traps, prefer smaller Champagne producers or independent restaurants around Boulingrin Market. Avoid dining only on Place Drouet-d’Erlon, which can be overpriced.

Book Champagne visits and hotels in advance, especially on weekends and during events.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, as most attractions are within walking distance but involve cobbled streets.

Purchase a Reims City Pass if you plan to visit museums and use public transport. Prices from 22 euros/day.

Locals are generally approachable. Learn a few French phrases for a better experience.

XperienceFrance is your travel specialist in France.