France is a country that is full of unique places and things to discover. Landscapes, monuments, museums, cuisine... To plan a trip to France, it sometimes is difficult to pick a place to go to enjoy local specialties. If you have chosen Paris but are tickled by your curiosity, you might want to plan a short getaway to discover new and different places, and things that would be seen nowhere else. For one day, champagne enthousiasts will be pleased to get away from Paris and enjoy an authentic experience in the vineyards of the Champagne region, home of the mythical drink. They will also be able to enjoy the countryside around Reims, its famous cathedral, and some champagne-tasting of course ! To celebrate a special occasion, or perhaps just out of curiosity, this little trip to Champagne will allow you to get immersed in the universe of champagne.
Seeking an authentic champagne experience : how to go ?
A few companies offer guided tours of vineyards in the Champagne region, along with champagne-tasting and a few walks and visits that will allow you to discovers the wonders of this region.
Did you prefer to be independent ?
If you would like to go your own way, you can hop on a train to Reims, departing from the Gare de l'Est train station (direct metro journey from Saint-Germain-des-Prés, line 4 in the direction of Porte de Clignancourt). You will then be able to enjoy a visit in the tremendous cathedral of Reims, which is a true masterpiece of gothic architecture, before you join in on a guided tour of the surrounding vineyards, and take part in some champagne-tasting.
From Reims, with a little help...
Upon prior reservation, some companies also offer to come pick you up at the Reims train station and take you to an « all-inclusive » tour in the land of champagne. For instance, La Vigne du Roy offers private or semi-private day tours of semi-day tours. Count 440€ for two people for a private full day tour. For more information or to make a reservation, you can check their website here.
For a totally laid-back journey
If you do not want to have to worry about transportation, you can also use a company such as Paris Champagne Tour. For 175€ per person, the company will send a minivan to pick you up at Hotel du Danube, or any place you want in Paris, and will drive you to Reims (duration : approximately 1h30), and will bring you back to the hotel in the evening. Your day tour will include guided visits of vineyards, of the Reims cathedral and a famous champagne house, lunch at a restaurant and of course, some champagne-tasting ! For more information or to make a reservation, you can check their website here.