Champagne Full Day Tour Reims + Wine Tour private
About this activity
Highlights
- Taste top-notch Champagne where it originated.
- Tour the World Famous Veuve Clicquot Winery
- Discover the cathedral of Reims and it's Smiling Angel
- Tour and Champagne tasting at a family estate
Full description
Program & Itinerary :
08:50 :Meet your guide at your Accommodation in Reims or at the train station
- 09:00 AM : Start your tour with the discovery of the Cathedral of Reims - 10:00 AM : Visit and Champagne tasting at famous Veuve Clicquot (or similar) - 11:30 AM : Enjoy a scenic drive along the Route du Champagne - 12:30 PM : Optional Champagne Tasting lunch at a local property or free time for lunch on your own - 03:00 PM : Visit and Champagne tasting at a family estate
05:00 PM : Return to Reims and drop off at your hotel or train station
Your journey begins with your friendly and knowledgeable English-speaking guide, a Champagne expert eager to share their passion. Together, you'll delve into the heart of Reims, where a guided tour awaits at the magnificent Reims Cathedral.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13th-century masterpiece of Gothic architecture boasts stunning stained glass windows, including those created by Marc Chagall. Step inside to admire the intricate details, including the elaborate 15th-century Gothic Organ Case and the awe-inspiring statuary collection, featuring over 2,300 statues including the iconic "Smiling Angel." Learn about the Cathedral's historical significance as the coronation site for French monarchs, with Joan of Arc famously playing a pivotal role in Charles VII's coronation ceremony.
A Toast at Veuve Clicquot (or similar):
Next, immerse yourself in the world of Champagne with a visit to the prestigious Veuve Clicquot Champagne House (or a similar Maison). Delve into the House's rich history, starting with its founding in 1772 by Philippe Clicquot-Muiron. Discover the captivating story of Madame Clicquot, a revolutionary figure who took over the business after her husband's passing and transformed it into a powerhouse known for its high-quality Champagnes. Enjoy a captivating tour of the cellars followed by a delightful Champagne tasting, savoring the renowned bubbles produced by this esteemed House.
Journey Through the Picturesque Champagne Region:
Board your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and embark on a scenic drive through the enchanting Route du Champagne. Wind your way through charming villages and rolling vineyards, marveling at the idyllic beauty of the Champagne countryside. As you travel, you'll have the opportunity to admire some of the most famous "Grandes Maisons" (renowned Champagne Houses) from afar, such as Bollinger, Gosset, and Deutz. Keep your eyes peeled for the picturesque Grand Cru villages that dot the landscape, including Ay, Hautvillers, Bouzy, and more.
Optional Champagne Pairing Lunch (Grand Cru Village of Ambonnay):
For an exclusive experience, opt for the additional lunch option at a local family-owned property in the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay. The Foureur family, wine growers since the 16th century, welcomes you to discover their passion for Champagne making. Enjoy a delectable lunch where each course is thoughtfully paired with their exceptional Champagnes, offering a true immersion into the art of food and wine pairing.
Family-Owned Winery Visit & Tasting:
Continue your Champagne exploration with a visit to a charming family-run winery established in 1875 in the Marne Valley. Meet Laure and David, the fifth generation of passionate winemakers, and learn about their dedication to traditional and ancestral methods. Explore their cellars and discover their unique "Plaisir d'Antan" Champagne, crafted with 100% Chardonnay and aged in oak barrels for a distinctive flavor profile. Conclude your visit with a delightful tasting, savoring the fruits of their meticulous craftsmanship.
A Tailored Experience:
Remember, this is a private tour! Feel free to discuss your preferences with your guide. Perhaps you'd like to swap a winery visit for a stop in the historic village of Hautvillers, where the legendary Dom Perignon is buried. Your guide is happy to personalize the itinerary to create a truly unforgettable experience that aligns with your interests.
Return to Reims:
Following your final Champagne tasting, relax and reminisce about your day as you return to your Reims hotel, where your guide will kindly drop you off.
Please note: In the event that a specific Champagne House is unavailable, a similar one will be substituted to ensure a fulfilling experience. You may also share cellar visits with other guests, a common practice to enhance the overall enjoyment for everyone.
Book your private Champagne adventure today and create lasting memories in the heart of this sparkling region!
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of the Cathedral of Reims
- Sightseeing in the vineyards with your wine expert guide
- Tour and Champagne tasting at Veuve Clicquot (or similar) and a Champagne family estate
- English-speaking driver/guide, Expert in Champagne wines
- Transportation in a comfortable, fully equipped minivan
- Personal insurance and expenses.
- Meals and drinks.
- Gratuities for the driver/guide.
- Entrance fees or tasting fees unless mentioned
- Champagne tasting lunch with drinks included (OPTIONAL, 100€ per person)
Meeting point
Start Location
Reims, France
Important information
Know before you book
- Minimum number of 2 participants (adults) applies.
- Tour is operated in English.
- Tour is not wheelchair accessible
- If Veuve Clicquot is not available, we will replace it with another similar winery
Know before you go
- Please be ready 10 minutes before arrival time
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- 8 hour Private Champagne Tasting Tour
- Tour available from March to end of October
Health & restrictions
Age, Height, Weight
- Minimum age: 18
Cancellation policy
Cancellation Policy : Up to 7 days before the tour : 100% refund – Less than 7 days before the tour : no refund available. (modification of the date available according of availability)
Reviews
Francesco was an outstanding guide for the Gems of Alsace tour. Although he is on the younger side, he brought a remarkably deep knowledge of the region, its history, villages, wines, and culture. He answered every question thoughtfully and added context that made each stop far more meaningful. He was also super personable, outgoing, and easy to talk with throughout the day. He struck a great balance between sharing information and giving us time to explore on our own. He kept the group organized without ever making the day feel rushed or overly structured. The villages, wine route, and Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle were all wonderful, but Francesco truly elevated the experience. He clearly takes pride in showing visitors the best of Alsace. We would happily recommend this tour—and especially Francesco—to anyone visiting the region.
We had an exceptional tour with Valentine, who was so energetic and generous in sharing his knowledge on wines. We will never read wine labels the same anymore! Thank you Valentine! The tour could be more comfortable if there was a bigger car as 2 of my friends had to sit at the front and the middle seat would not be possible for a bigger person. Also the choice of wineyard could be better although "better" is subjective - the our group of 5 would rate our last stop the poorest although the other 3pax in our tour might thought otherwise!
Our guide to Saint-Emilion was perfect. He was very knowledgeable of wines and the three chateaux that we visited. Also being picked up at the tourism office was very convenient.
Additional information
Please note that we do not distribute water bottles anymore to limit our environmental impact. We strongly recommend that you bring a reusable bottle.
Note : In the event that the Champagne House we had originally planned to visit is not available, it will be replaced with a similar Champagne House. The tour of the Champagne House may be conducted with other people, depending on the size of the group. This is common practice in order to provide everyone with an enjoyable and informative experience.