Reims

Home to the stunning Reims Cathedral where French kings were crowned, Reims is the heart of the Champagne region with world-class vineyards and prestigious champagne houses offering tours and tastings. The city masterfully blends historical grandeur with wine culture and Art Deco architecture.

Things to do

• Reims Cathedral — Explore the UNESCO-listed Gothic masterpiece where French kings were crowned, featuring stunning stained glass and intricate architectural details.
• Veuve Clicquot Champagne House Tour — Visit one of Reims's most prestigious champagne producers to learn about production methods and enjoy a tasting in their historic chalk cellars.
• Pommery Champagne House — Tour this iconic Art Deco champagne house with 18 kilometers of underground cellars and contemporary art installations.
• Palace of Tau — Discover this former royal residence adjacent to the cathedral, housing coronation regalia, tapestries, and treasures from French royal history.
• Champagne Avenue Stroll — Walk along Avenue de Champagne lined with grand champagne house facades, manicured gardens, and Belle Époque architecture.
• Musée Automobile Reims Champagne — Browse an impressive collection of vintage and classic automobiles showcasing automotive history from the early 1900s onward.
• Basilica of Saint-Remi — Visit this Romanesque-Gothic basilica housing the relics of Saint Remi, featuring beautiful rose windows and stained glass.

Food to try

• Champagne Tasting — Experience world-renowned Champagne directly from prestigious houses like Moët & Chandon or Ruinart, pairing with local appetizers and canapés.
• Reims Biscuit Pink Cookies — Sample the famous rose-colored almond meringue biscuits that have been produced in Reims since the 17th century, often paired with Champagne.
• Jambon de Reims — Taste this traditional cured ham specialty from the region, often served sliced as a charcuterie appetizer or in local bistro dishes.
• Andouillette de Reims — Try this regional charcuterie specialty made from pork offal, typically grilled and served with mustard and fries in local restaurants.
• Macaron de Reims — Enjoy these small almond-based pastries, a local variation of macarons that differ from Parisian versions with their dense, chewy texture.
• Champagne Brunch — Partake in the local tradition of leisurely brunches featuring fresh pastries, local charcuterie, and unlimited Champagne at weekend cafés.

Local customs & good to know

• Champagne House Etiquette — Most champagne house visits require advance reservations, and tastings are typically conducted in French or English with formal presentations of the production process.
• Cathedral Visit Timing — Visit Reims Cathedral early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and to experience the stained glass in optimal natural lighting.
• Regional Greeting Custom — The French tradition of la bise (cheek kissing) is common in Reims; expect two to four kisses when greeting locals or shop owners.
• Lunch Culture — Reims follows the French tradition of a substantial lunch period between 12-2pm when many shops and offices close; plan activities accordingly.