Dreaming of a Champagne day trip from Paris? Reims and Epernay sit less than 90 minutes away and deliver everything you imagine: UNESCO-listed chalk cellars, grand Champagne houses, vine-laced hills, and delicious tastings. This guide covers the best ways to get from Paris to Reims and Epernay, how to plan your itinerary, where to book tours, and insider tips for a smooth, sparkling escape.

Quick answer: Best ways to visit Reims and Epernay from Paris

For most travelers, the fastest and most flexible option is the train: TGV to Reims in about 45 minutes and TER to Epernay in about 1h15. Guided Champagne tours from Paris are a great choice if you want tastings without logistics. Driving is ideal if you plan to visit small growers scattered in the hills-just designate a sober driver.

Check schedules and book tickets on SNCF Connect or Trainline. Prices vary with demand; booking 2-8 weeks ahead can save money.

How to get from Paris to Reims and Epernay

Paris to Reims by train (fastest option)

• Departure: Paris Gare de l’Est
• Arrival: Reims Centre (walkable to the cathedral) in about 45-50 minutes on the TGV
• Alternative: Champagne-Ardenne TGV station (about 30-40 minutes from Paris) + tram A into the city center (~15 minutes). The tram ticket is around €1.80-€2.10.
• Frequency: 2-3 trains per hour when combining central and Champagne-Ardenne TGV services.
• Seats: TGV tickets are for a specific train with seat reservations; TER tickets (regional) are more flexible but can be slower.

Paris to Epernay by train (direct TER)

• Departure: Paris Gare de l’Est
• Arrival: Epernay station, about a 10-15 minute walk to Avenue de Champagne
• Timing: Typically 1h10-1h25 on a direct TER; some departures may require a change-check the timetable.
• Cost: Usually €17-€30 one-way depending on time and flexibility.

Reims to Epernay (midday hop)

• By TER train: ~35-45 minutes; roughly hourly service but expect midday gaps.
• By car: ~30 minutes via D951 through the Montagne de Reims vineyards-scenic and quick.
• By tour: Many local operators provide transfers between the two with tastings en route.

Driving from Paris (freedom to roam)

• Route to Reims: A4 east from Paris, about 145 km (90 miles).
• Route to Epernay: A4 to D3/D951 into Epernay; plan 1h30-1h45 without traffic.
• Parking in Reims: Cathédrale, Gambetta, or Erlon parking garages are central.
• Parking in Epernay: Lots near Avenue de Champagne and Place Hugues Plomb.
• Important: Cellars are cool (10-12°C); plan a jacket. Never drink and drive-spitting is standard at tastings.

Guided Champagne tours from Paris (no-hassle tastings)

• Format: Small-group van tours, 7:30-8:00 am pick-up, 10-12 hours total.
• Typical inclusions: Visits to 2-3 Champagne houses (a grand maison + a boutique grower), cellar tour, village of Hautvillers (Dom Pérignon), and a countryside lunch.
• Price range: ~€190-€300 per person.
• Good for: First-time visitors, small groups, and anyone who wants to taste freely without logistics.

Suggested day-trip and weekend itineraries

1) Reims-focused day trip (no car)

• 08:00: TGV from Paris Gare de l’Est to Reims Centre
• 09:00: Reims Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Reims), the coronation site of French kings
• 10:30: Cellar tour + tasting at Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot, Mumm, or Pommery (reserve in advance)
• 12:30: Lunch near Marché du Boulingrin
• 14:00: Musée de la Reddition (WWII surrender museum) or Saint-Remi Basilica
• 16:00: Second tasting at a different style of house (e.g., chalk crayères vs. modern caves)
• 18:00-19:00: TGV back to Paris

2) Epernay-focused day trip (no car)

• 08:00-08:30: TER from Paris Est to Epernay
• 09:45: Stroll Avenue de Champagne (UNESCO), lined with mansions and 100+ km of cellars below
• 10:30: Moët & Chandon cellar tour and tasting
• 12:30: Lunch in Epernay town center
• 14:00: Short taxi to Hautvillers (Dom Pérignon’s abbey) + winery visit to a small grower
• 17:30: TER back to Paris

3) Ambitious “both cities” day trip (train + TER)

Works best with early departure and pre-booked tastings.

• 07:30: TGV Paris → Reims; quick cathedral visit
• 10:30: Reims cellar tour
• 12:30: TER Reims → Epernay; sandwich or quick lunch
• 14:00: Avenue de Champagne + tasting
• 17:30-18:00: TER Epernay → Paris

4) Two days in Champagne (recommended)

• Day 1: Reims sights + two tastings (one grand maison, one mid-size)
• Overnight: Reims or Epernay
• Day 2: Epernay Avenue de Champagne + afternoon in the Montagne de Reims (Hautvillers, Aÿ-Champagne, Verzenay lighthouse viewpoint). Consider hiring a driver if tasting.

Top Champagne houses and unique experiences

Whether you favor big names or boutique growers, book in advance-especially on weekends and during harvest.

In Reims (grand maisons + UNESCO chalk cellars)

• Taittinger: Stunning ancient chalk crayères; classic, elegant style.
• Veuve Clicquot: Iconic brand; insightful tours about aging and riddling.
• Pommery: Art exhibits in vast caves; bold, architectural estate.
• Mumm: Engaging tour; strong focus on craftsmanship and history.
• Lanson: Known for fresher, non-malolactic style; pre-book tours.

In Epernay (Avenue de Champagne icons)

• Moët & Chandon: The largest Champagne house; polished tours and tastings.
• Mercier: Fun, family-friendly guided cellar train and giant barrel.
• De Castellane: Distinctive tower; great views and engaging exhibits.
• Perrier-Jouët (advance only): Art Nouveau heritage, boutique experiences.

Grower-producers (by appointment; car or driver helps)

• Billecart-Salmon (Mareuil-sur-Aÿ): Elegant, pure style; limited visits.
• Leclerc Briant (Epernay): Biodynamic pioneer; interesting cuvées.
• Small growers in Hautvillers, Aÿ, Ambonnay, Verzenay: Intimate tastings and great value; call or email ahead.

Insider tip: Mix one big house with one grower for contrast. You’ll experience both Champagne’s grand history and its artisanal soul.

Best time to visit Champagne

• May-June: Lush vineyards, mild weather, fewer crowds than summer.
• July-August: Warm, busy, long daylight-book tours well in advance.
• Late August-September (harvest): Electric atmosphere; some houses reduce tours or close to focus on vendanges.
• October: Golden vines and calmer streets; a local favorite.
• December: Reims Christmas market; festive but chilly and shorter hours.
• Jan-March: Quiet, good availability; pack warm clothes for cellars (10-12°C).

Budget, tickets, and booking tips

Booking tips

• Reserve cellar tours 2-4 weeks ahead; peak summer and Saturdays book out earlier.
• Book TGV tickets early for lower fares; TER prices are more stable but can sell out at busy times.
• Many houses are closed on Sundays and some Mondays; plan around this.
• Consider a local driver or private guide if you want to visit multiple growers safely.

Practical tips and tasting etiquette

• Cellar conditions: 10-12°C and sometimes damp; wear comfortable shoes and bring a light layer.
• Etiquette: Spitting is normal; avoid heavy perfume; taste water between pours.
• Food: Book lunch in advance on weekends; pack a snack if moving between towns by train.
• Shopping: Duty-free allowances vary; EU residents can carry within the EU. For travelers to the US, 1 liter is duty-free; you can bring more with duty/taxes. Shipping can be expensive; ask the house about partners in your home country.
• Accessibility: Some historic cellars have stairs; inquire in advance for accessible options.
• Rain plan: Museums (Musée de la Reddition, Palais du Tau), Foujita Chapel, and covered tastings work well.

Where to eat in Reims and Epernay

Reims

• Brasserie du Boulingrin: Classic brasserie near the market hall.
• Au Bon Manger: Natural wines, charcuterie, and local specialties.
• Sacré Burger: Casual and quick near the cathedral.

Epernay

• La Cave à Champagne: Cozy spot for regional dishes.
• Symbiose: Modern bistro with seasonal menus.
• Picnic: Parc de Champagne or vineyard overlooks near Hautvillers.

First-hand style itinerary: A seamless Reims + Epernay day

We caught the 07:48 TGV from Paris Est and landed in Reims before 09:00. The cathedral’s stained glass glowed in the morning light-an easy, unhurried 40-minute visit. A pre-booked 10:30 tour at Taittinger let us descend into the chalk crayères, once Gallo-Roman quarries, now calm, candle-lit galleries stacked with aging bottles. After a glass of Brut Réserve, we strolled to Marché du Boulingrin for a quick lunch (bread, cheese, and a tartelette from a bakery stand).

At 14:02, we hopped on a TER to Epernay. Fifteen minutes later we were on Avenue de Champagne, where mansion after mansion guards cellars stretching for miles. Our 15:00 tour at Moët & Chandon walked through the brand’s heritage and finished with a polished tasting. We window-shopped at a boutique for a bottle to take home, then boarded the 17:30 TER. By 18:45, we were back in Paris-unrushed, well-fed, and happily sparkling.

FAQs

Is Reims or Epernay better for a day trip?

Choose Reims for the cathedral, multiple grand maisons, and big-city energy. Choose Epernay for the concentrated magic of Avenue de Champagne and a small-town feel. You can do both in a long day with smart planning.

Do I need a car to visit Champagne?

No. Trains to Reims and Epernay are frequent, and many Champagne houses are walkable or a short taxi ride away. A car or driver helps if you’re targeting boutique growers in the countryside.

How many tastings can I do in one day?

Two to three is comfortable. Allow 60-90 minutes per visit and buffer for transit.

Are Champagne houses open on Sundays?

Many are closed on Sundays and some Mondays. Check and reserve ahead.

Can I ship Champagne home?

Some houses ship internationally via partners. Costs can be high; carrying bottles back in a padded wine sleeve is often cheaper. Know your customs limits.

Conclusion: The effortless Champagne escape from Paris

Reims and Epernay are two of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Paris. With fast trains, walkable highlights, and world-class Champagne houses, you can fit a lot into a single day-yet the region rewards an unhurried weekend. Book your cellar tours early, decide whether you’ll focus on Reims, Epernay, or both, and mix a grand maison with a grower for contrast. From the Gothic splendor of Reims Cathedral to the stately mansions of Avenue de Champagne, you’re in for a sparkling journey that’s as smooth as a perfectly poured glass.

Reims day trip from Paris
Epernay from Paris
Paris to Champagne train
Best Champagne houses
Avenue de Champagne