Reims –A Complete Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of the Champagne region, Reims is more than just a charming French city—it’s a destination steeped in history, elegance, and world-class sparkling wine. Known as the “Coronation City” of France, Reims has been the site of numerous royal coronations, with its breathtaking Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims standing as a proud witness to centuries of French heritage. Today, it blends its historical legacy with vibrant modern life, offering travelers an exquisite mix of culture, gastronomy, architecture, and celebratory champagne houses.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims — Place du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame is Reims’ most iconic monument and the traditional coronation site for French kings. Its soaring Gothic façade is covered in intricate statuary — including the famed “Smiling Angel.” Inside, the vaulting, chapels, and stained glass (including windows by Marc Chagall) reward visitors. Entry is generally free; donations encouraged. Guided tours explain the art and royal history. Evening projection shows (son et lumière) are often scheduled in summer. Visitors should dress respectfully for services and expect security checks at busy times.

Palace of Tau (Palais du Tau) — 2 Place du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims

Directly adjacent to the cathedral, the Palace of Tau was the archbishops’ residence and the coronation preparation site. Today it houses coronation regalia, tapestries, and sculptural programs related to the cathedral. Explore the large halls and rooms that show the practical and ceremonial items used in royal anointings. Pair this visit with the cathedral and allow 1–2 hours for artifacts and displays. Audio guides or guided tours deepen context about medieval ceremony and royal ideology.

Basilique Saint-Remi & Musée Saint-Remi — 53 Rue Simon, 51100 Reims

The Basilica of Saint-Remi holds relics of Saint Remigius, the bishop who baptized Clovis I. The adjacent Musée Saint-Remi in the former abbey offers archaeology, medieval art, and WWI-era displays. The Basilica’s Romanesque-Gothic mix and cloistered gardens provide a quieter, contemplative contrast to the cathedral. Museum exhibits trace Reims’ evolution from Roman times through the Middle Ages and into the modern period — a must for history lovers.

Porte de Mars & Roman Remains — Rue de Mars area, Reims center

Reims (ancient Durocortorum) retains Roman vestiges such as fragments of the Porte de Mars, once a Roman triumphal arch. These archaeological remnants are scattered in and around the city center and provide tangible proof of Reims’ ancient heritage. Look for information panels and small displays that place these ruins in the context of Roman Gaul. A short walk from the pedestrian core, the ruins make for an informative quick stop.

Musée des Beaux-Arts — 8 Rue Chanzy, 51100 Reims

The Fine Arts Museum houses paintings and sculptures from the Renaissance through modern eras. It’s a compact museum ideal for rainy days or lovers of French painting. Rotating exhibitions mean repeat visitors often find something new. Check opening hours and any combined ticket deals with other local museums. Audio guides available in major languages.

Villa Demoiselle (Art Nouveau mansion) — 17 Rue Joubert, 51100 Reims

A restored Belle Époque mansion showcasing luxurious Art Nouveau interiors and garden terraces. Guided visits reveal period decoration, frescoes, and the social history of Reims’ elite. The villa offers a snapshot of wealthy life in late 19th–early 20th-century Reims, and its restoration is a triumph of heritage preservation.

Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) & Place de la République — Place de la République, 51100 Reims

The city’s grand Hôtel de Ville and surrounding square Host local events, markets, and seasonal festivities. Architectural details inside are often accessible during special events or open-door days. The square is a lively meeting place and a good orientation point for walking tours. Nearby cafés and benches make this a convenient stop.

Campanile, Cathedral Towers & Viewpoints — Cathedral complex

Some tours and authorized access points allow visitors limited ascent to viewpoints or tower areas for elevated city vistas. Availability varies and often requires climb of narrow stairs; check in advance for access and safety restrictions. The views reward the effort with sweeping perspectives across Reims and surrounding rooftops.

WWI Memorial Sites & Sights — Various across Reims

Reims was heavily damaged in World War I and hosts several memorials and plaques dedicated to wartime memory. Museums and local plaques explain bombardments and reconstruction efforts. For those interested in military history, these sites pair well with regional battlefield tours. Respect and quiet reflection are appropriate.

Historic Streets & Neighborhood Walks — Rue de Vesle, Place Drouet-d’Erlon

Wander Reims’ pedestrianized streets, including Rue de Vesle and Place Drouet-d’Erlon. These areas are filled with cafés, boutique shops, and architectural details spanning centuries. Self-guided or audio tours enhance appreciation; many walking tours launch from the tourist office near the cathedral.

Taittinger (Maison Taittinger) — 9 Place Saint-Nicaise, 51100 Reims

Taittinger offers guided tours of vaulted chalk cellars beneath a former abbey, ending with tastings of signature cuvées. Tours show the riddling, ageing, and blending processes. Reserve ahead and bring ID for tastings. Their cellars are an excellent introduction to Champagne terroir and cellar ecology.

Pommery (Maison Pommery) — 5 Place Général Gouraud, 51100 Reims

Pommery’s grand estate pairs historical cellars with contemporary art installations — an immersive blend of culture and champagne. Tours highlight creative marketing history and the role of art in Pommery’s modern identity. Tastings showcase house styles and prestige cuvées.

Veuve Clicquot (boutique & experiences in Reims) — central boutique locations vary

Veuve Clicquot’s presence in Reims includes boutiques and curated tasting experiences; verify current addresses. Their storied history and luxury positioning make Veuve Clicquot an aspirational stop for enthusiasts seeking vintage and prestige offerings.

Ruinart (appointments, cellars) — visits often arranged from Reims / Épernay

Ruinart is the oldest Champagne house; visits often require advance booking and sometimes operate from nearby Épernay. Their chalk cellars and artful approach to cellaring make the tour historically rich and sensorially rewarding.

Perrier-Jouët (by appointment) — boutique experiences and tastings available

Known for floral, elegant Champagnes and art nouveau branding, Perrier-Jouët’s tastings often highlight aesthetics as much as flavor. Check current visiting protocols and book in advance for guided tastings.

Grower Champagnes (Récoltant-Manipulant producers) — various village addresses

Small family producers (growers) offer intimate tours and a direct look at vineyard management and hands-on methods. Visiting growers is often the best way to taste distinct terroir expressions and support local producers. Contact producers directly for visits and appointments.

Cave des Sacres (specialist wine merchant) — 9 Rue des Élus, 51100 Reims

A recommended place to source unique bottles and regional recommendations. Staff can advise on cellaring and shipping — useful for visitors who want to take bottles home.

Champagne Workshops & Masterclasses — various venues in Reims

Workshops teach tasting technique, dosage differences, and pairings. These are suited to enthusiasts who want structured learning beyond cellar tours. Book via the tourist office or independent operators.

Vineyard Walking Tours — Montagne de Reims & local slopes

Join guides for vineyard walks that explain pruning, terroir classification, and grape health. These are seasonal and particularly beautiful in spring and autumn. Wear sturdy shoes and check weather conditions.

Harvest Experience (Vendanges) — vineyards around Reims (Sept)

Participate in seasonal harvest events (usually September) where visitors can witness or even help pick grapes. Many houses host harvest festivals — a memorable way to connect with Champagne’s agricultural roots.

Musée Saint-Remi (archaeology & history) — 53 Rue Simon, 51100 Reims

This museum in the former abbey explores Reims’ deep history through artifacts from Roman, medieval, and modern periods. Exhibits include mosaics, manuscripts, and artefacts that chart the city’s cultural evolution.

Palace of Tau Museum — 2 Place du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims

Houses coronation regalia and ecclesiastical treasures; essential companion to the cathedral visit. Intimate displays clarify rituals and displays the opulence of historic ceremonies.

Musée des Beaux-Arts — 8 Rue Chanzy, 51100 Reims

Paintings and sculptural works spanning centuries; rotating exhibitions offer contemporary focus at times. Good for art lovers looking to complement historic site visits.

FRAC Grand Est (contemporary art) — regional contemporary art center

Hosts modern art exhibitions and programs connecting local audiences to emerging artists. Check current exhibitions for dates and themes.

Musée de la Reddition & WWII heritage exhibits — nearby sites in Reims area

Engage with 20th-century history through exhibits that focus on wartime diplomacy and surrender events. Some sites require travel to nearby locations; guided tours are recommended.

La Comédie de Reims & local theaters — 2 Boulevard du Général Leclerc, 51100 Reims

Theater programming ranges from drama to contemporary productions. Seasonal schedules include classical and modern performances — a great evening cultural option.

Photography & small contemporary galleries — Rue de Vesle and center

Stroll neighborhood galleries for regional photography and rotating contemporary shows. Smaller spaces often host intimate openings and artist talks.

Maison de la Culture & local arts centers — various addresses

Community cultural programming: concerts, film festivals, workshops, and exhibitions. Good for experiencing living culture beyond museums.

Historical House Visits (Villa Demoiselle etc.) — 17 Rue Joubert

Period interiors and restored homes offer insights into noble and bourgeois lifestyles of the late 19th/early 20th centuries. Guided tours elucidate décor and restoration techniques.

Seasonal Festivals & Cultural Events — check Reims cultural calendar

Music festivals, literary events, and Champagne-focused fairs occur at different times of year — plan travel around them if you prefer vibrant event atmospheres.

Maison Fossier (Biscuits Roses de Reims) — 25 Cours Jean-Baptiste Langlet, 51100 Reims

Home of the iconic pink biscuit — shop for gift boxes and freshly made biscuits. Try dipping them in Champagne or coffee. Guided tastings and factory tours may be offered seasonally.

Jambon de Reims (Reims Ham) — served at local bistros and charcuteries

A regional specialty, lightly smoked and often cooked with local wine or Champagne. Seek out traditional charcuterie counters or bistro menus listing “Jambon de Reims.”

Marché du Boulingrin (covered market) — Place du Boulingrin, 51100 Reims

Lively covered market featuring produce, meats, fish, and cheeses. Excellent for fresh picnic supplies and local interactions with producers. Market days vary; mornings are best.

Michelin & Fine Dining (Domaine Les Crayères) — 4 Rue Tronsson-Ducoudray, 51100 Reims

Luxury dining with refined menus and Champagne pairings — ideal for special occasions. Book well in advance and check tasting menus for seasonal offerings.

Bistros & Brasseries (Place Drouet-d’Erlon) — Place Drouet-d’Erlon, 51100 Reims

Casual restaurants serve classic French fare with local touches. Great for lunch or relaxed evening meals paired with local Champagnes by the glass.

Chocolatiers & Pâtissiers — Rue de Vesle and surrounding streets

Local pastry shops and chocolatiers produce exquisite sweets and artisanal chocolates — bring these home as gifts or enjoy with an afternoon coffee.

Champagne-infused Cuisine — selected restaurants throughout Reims

Chefs use Champagne in sauces, reductions, and desserts. Seek tasting menus that explicitly list wine-paired dishes for the full culinary effect.

Food Tours & Market Walks — organized by local operators

Guided food tours highlight producers, market stalls, tastings, and local specialties. Good for first-time visitors looking to sample many items efficiently.

Casual Cafés & Tearooms — cathedral square and pedestrian corridors

Perfect for people-watching and leisurely biscuit-dipping rituals. Many cafés serve regional snacks and light lunches.

Picnic Spots & Abbey Gardens — Abbey of Saint-Remi gardens, public parks

Pick up bread, cheese, charcuterie, and soft drinks from markets and enjoy a scenic picnic in abbey grounds or public parks — simple and memorable.

Le Parc / Domaine Les Crayères — 4 Rue Tronsson-Ducoudray, 51100 Reims

High-end dining set in a historic estate; expect refined seasonal menus and Champagne pairings. Ideal for celebrations; reservations essential.

La Table des Crayères (tasting menus) — in Les Crayères estate

Tasting experiences that showcase regional produce and culinary artistry. Menus change seasonally with local vintages.

Brasserie Excelsior — Place Drouet-d’Erlon area

An Art Deco dining staple known for classic dishes in a grand setting — enjoyable for lunch or a lively dinner.

Le Millénaire / Contemporary bistro options — central Reims

Modern bistro food with inventive pairings. Book early for dinner; mid-range pricing and comfortable ambiance.

Les Caves du Forum (wine bar & small plates) — 38 Place Myron Herrick, 51100 Reims

Pair charcuterie and small plates with rare Champagnes by the glass. Cozy underground atmosphere perfect for tasting nights.

Local Bistro "Le 7" & neighborhood favorites — central squares

Neighborhood bistros offering approachable French cuisine; great for moderate budgets and local ambiance.

Seafood & Seasonal Restaurants — Le Bocal or similar venues

Fresh seafood prepared with regional sauces and Champagne reductions — usually available at specialty restaurants in the center.

Casual Crêperies & Quick Bites — pedestrian streets and cafes

Affordable lunch options; crêperies serve savory galettes and sweet crêpes — convenient for families and budget travelers.

Patisserie & Dessert Stops — artisanal patisseries across the core

End a meal or indulge in the afternoon with tarts, éclairs, and Champagne-flavored desserts.

Tips for Dining — reservations, etiquette, and timings

Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner; reserve for dinner, arrive on time for lunch bookings, and note dress codes for upscale venues.

Les Caves du Forum — 38 Place Myron Herrick, 51100 Reims

An underground Champagne bar with an impressive selection. Perfect for tasting lesser-known cuvées and enjoying an intimate atmosphere.

Place Drouet-d’Erlon Terraces — Place Drouet-d’Erlon, 51100 Reims

This lively square hosts terraces ideal for bar-hopping, evening drinks, and socializing with locals and visitors alike.

Hotel Lounges (Domaine Les Crayères, etc.) — Les Crayères address above

Luxury hotel lounges are ideal for an elegant post-dinner drink in an opulent setting.

Live Music & Small Venues — local theaters and music bars

Check local listings for jazz nights, acoustic sets, and seasonal open-air concerts that make summer evenings especially enjoyable.

Cocktail Bars & Mixology Spots — central Reims

Contemporary bars craft cocktails that often include Champagne-based recipes; good for trying something creative.

Seasonal Night Events & Festivals — check city calendar

Summer festivals and nighttime Champagne events beautifully highlight the city’s celebratory culture.

Late-night Dining Options — brasseries and bistros in the center

Several casual restaurants remain open later for those wanting a late meal after a show or tasting.

Safety & Practicalities — taxis, transport after dark

Taxis and rideshare options operate in Reims; central areas are generally safe, but plan transport if you’re heading to remote vineyards.

After-hours Wine Shops — specialist merchants with evening hours

Some shops offer late tastings or by-the-glass options; useful for last-minute bottle purchases before departure.

Etiquette & Local Vibe — relaxed, refined evenings

Reims nightlife emphasizes relaxed elegance rather than loud clubbing — perfect for leisurely evenings with a glass of Champagne.

Boulingrin Covered Market — Place du Boulingrin, 51100 Reims

A bustling market for fresh produce, cheese, charcuterie, and flowers. Great for sourcing picnic supplies and local specialties.

Maison Fossier Boutique — 25 Cours Jean-Baptiste Langlet

Buy boxed Biscuits Roses de Reims and other confectionery items designed as gifts and souvenirs.

Champagne House Boutiques (Pommery, Taittinger) — addresses above

Official boutiques sell prestige bottles, branded flutes, and limited editions — excellent for collectors or gifts.

Cave des Sacres — 9 Rue des Élus

A curated wine shop where experts can advise on bottles for drinking now or cellaring.

Rue de Vesle Shopping Strip — Rue de Vesle, city center

A pedestrianized shopping area mixing fashion, homeware, and specialty food stores — ideal for stroll-and-shop afternoons.

Local Chocolatiers & Pâtissiers — central shopping avenues

Find artisan chocolates and pastries perfect as edible gifts; many shops package beautifully for travel.

Antique & Vintage Boutiques — scattered through center

Hunt for decorative items, vintage glassware, and small curios — enjoyable for collectors and décor lovers.

Gourmet Gift Shops & Food Halls — seasonal pop-ups and stores

Speciality stores sell regional oils, mustards, honey, and preserves — perfect for foodies bringing home tastes of Champagne country.

Tourist Souvenir Stalls (near cathedral) — Place du Cardinal Luçon area

Pick up branded flutes, postcards, and other classic souvenirs — easy last-minute gifts near major sites.

VAT refunds, shipping & luggage tips — boutique assistance

For non-EU shoppers, ask shops about VAT refund forms and shipping options to avoid heavy luggage — shops often facilitate export paperwork.

Épernay & Avenue de Champagne — 30–40 min drive from Reims

Épernay hosts the Avenue de Champagne, where grand houses and cellars line an avenue of vines and monuments. It’s a natural complement to Reims’ cathedral-driven itinerary.

Hautvillers — Dom Pérignon’s village (Marne)

A picturesque village closely tied to Champagne history and the resting place of monk Dom Pérignon. Panoramic viewpoints over the Marne valley are postcard-perfect.

Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park — near Rilly-la-Montagne

A protected area of vineyards, forests, and hamlets. Hiking and cycling routes showcase the region’s natural diversity. The park is a great choice for nature lovers and photographers.

Verzy & the Faux de Verzy — near Montagne de Reims

Home to rare twisted beech trees unique to the area; a short walk through woodland reveals botanically fascinating specimens.

Mailly-Champagne & small grower villages — Côte des Blancs routes

Smaller village producers open family cellars for intimate tastings and individualized explanations of terroir and viticulture.

Champagne scenic drives & D-road routes — self-drive through vineyards

Plan a slow drive along secondary roads through vine-covered slopes, stopping in villages for tastings and photos.

WWI battlefields & memorial tours — guided day trip options

Guided tours to nearby battlefields and memorials provide sobering historical context to the region’s wartime past.

Bicycle tours between villages — local operators or DIY rental

Cycle-friendly routes connect villages and tasting spots; combine light exercise with countryside views. Choose an organized tour if you plan tastings en route.

Local markets & village fêtes — Sundays and festival days

Village markets and harvest fêtes are excellent ways to encounter local culture, artisanal foods, and seasonal customs.

Paris & regional train links — Gare de Reims to Paris TGV (~45 min)

Reims is an easy day trip from Paris by TGV — an efficient option to combine capital city sightseeing with Champagne experiences.

Gare de Reims (Train station) — Place du Général Koenig, 51100 Reims

High-speed TGV connects Reims to Paris (approx 45 min). The station is centrally located and well-served by taxis and buses. Buy tickets in advance for best fares.

By Air — Paris CDG/Orly plus regional options

Most international visitors fly to Paris and take the train to Reims. Reims Champagne Airport services limited routes; car hire at airports is widely available.

Local Public Transport — buses and walkable center

Central Reims is highly walkable; buses connect peripheral neighborhoods. Buy single tickets or day passes depending on itinerary.

Car Rental & Driving Tips — station and airport providers

Rent a car for vineyard exploration; be mindful of narrow vineyard lanes, parking rules, and local speed limits. Some villages have limited parking.

Biking & Walking — rental shops and marked routes

Cycle paths and walking trails in the Montagne de Reims area offer scenic options. Take water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes.

Best Time to Visit — May–September, harvest in September

Late spring to early autumn offers best weather and vineyard activity. Harvest season (September) is lively but busier; winter is quiet with fewer tourists yet dramatic architecture.

Money, Cards & VAT — euros; cards widely used

Cards accepted in most venues; carry small cash for markets. Non-EU visitors can claim VAT refunds for qualifying purchases — keep receipts and consult sellers.

Languages & Communication — French primarily, English common in tourism

Use basic French phrases to be polite; most guides and high-end venues will provide English explanations or guides.

Safety, Health & Accessibility — general city safety, medical services

Reims is generally safe; use usual precautions. For accessibility, check ahead with museums and cellars as older buildings may have limited access.

Tourist Office & Visitor Resources — central Reims tourist office

Start at the tourist office for maps, booking help, and local advice. They often run official tours and can help book cellar visits or recommend guides.

Reims is more than just the Champagne capital of the world—it is a city where history, culture, architecture, and gastronomy blend seamlessly. From its awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral and UNESCO-listed heritage sites to the world-famous Champagne houses and charming local markets, Reims offers an unforgettable travel experience for all kinds of visitors.

Its strategic location in the heart of the Champagne region makes it the perfect destination for wine lovers, while its rich historical significance, dating back to Roman times and the coronations of French kings, appeals to history enthusiasts. The city’s diverse dining scene, elegant boutiques, and vibrant festivals further enhance its charm.