Épernay

The second city of the Champagne region, Épernay is famous for its grand tree-lined Avenue de Champagne lined with prestigious champagne houses and their chalk cellars beneath. It's a more accessible alternative to Reims for experiencing authentic Champagne production and tasting.

Things to do

• Avenue de Champagne Walking Tour — Stroll the famous tree-lined avenue to admire the grand Belle Époque façades of prestigious champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët.
• Moët & Chandon Cellar Visit — Descend into the chalk cellars 30 meters underground to learn champagne production methods and taste directly from one of the world's largest champagne producers.
• Musée de la Champagne — Explore the history and tradition of champagne production through exhibits housed in the Château Perrier, overlooking the town.
• Mercier Champagne House Tour — Visit one of Épernay's most accessible champagne houses with a train ride through its 18 kilometers of cellars and a descent by lift into the chalk galleries.
• Basilique Notre-Dame de l'Épine — Visit this stunning Gothic basilica located just outside Épernay, famous for its delicate twin spires and medieval architecture.
• Parc de la Patte d'Oie — Relax in this charming public park with tree-lined paths and manicured gardens in the heart of Épernay.

Food to try

• Champagne Tasting with Local Producers — Sample a variety of champagne styles—from brut to demi-sec—directly at small family-run champagne houses throughout Épernay.
• Tarte à la Champagne — A local pastry dessert filled with champagne-infused cream and topped with champagne-soaked fruit, distinctly Épernay.
• Jambon de Reims — Regional cured ham from nearby Reims, traditionally served sliced as a charcuterie board staple paired with champagne.
• Andouillette de Troyes — A specialty tripe sausage from the Champagne region, often grilled and served with mustard as a traditional bistro dish.
• Biscuit Rose de Reims — Pink almond macarons that are classic Champagne region sweets, traditionally dunked in champagne or Ratafia liqueur.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Champagne House Tours in Advance — Popular tours at Moët & Chandon and other major houses fill quickly, especially in summer, so reserve ahead to guarantee entry.
• Respect Cellar Visit Etiquette — Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes and a light jacket for the cool underground cellars, and follow guide instructions as the chalk tunnels can be narrow.
• Visit During the September Vintage Festival — Time your visit to coincide with the annual grape harvest celebrations in September for street festivities, music, and special champagne releases.
• Learn Basic Champagne Terminology — Familiarize yourself with terms like 'brut,' 'extra dry,' and 'demi-sec' to better appreciate tasting notes and express your preferences to producers.