Epernay and Reims Champagne Private Day Trip from Paris

Planning a trip to France and eager to experience the sparkling jewel of the country? This private Champagne day trip from Paris offers an insightful, comfortably paced journey through the heart of France’s famed vineyards and historic sites. While it’s a full-day adventure, it covers enough ground to leave you with a deep appreciation for Champagne’s heritage, craftsmanship, and scenic beauty.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides bring the region’s stories alive, making the journey informative and engaging. Second, the exclusive visits to renowned Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot promise an authentic taste of luxury. Lastly, the balance of scenic drives, cultural sights, and tastings creates a well-rounded experience. A potential consideration is the tour’s price, which is on the higher side — but this includes private transport, multiple tastings, and expert guiding, making it well worth it for enthusiasts or those craving a guided deep dive into Champagne.

This experience suits travelers who value comfort, expert insights, and authentic Champagne history. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want an accessible way to explore France’s celebrated wine region, this tour offers a taste, quite literally, of what makes Champagne so special.

Good To Know

• Luxury Private Transport: Comfortably explore the region in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi.
• Expert-Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides offer insights into Champagne’s history and production.
• Exclusive Champagne House Visits: Tours and tastings at Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, with options for alternatives when necessary.
• Historic Landmarks: Visit Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its regal ceremonies.
• Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy picturesque views of vineyards and rolling hills throughout the day.
• Flexible & Personalized: The private nature allows for a tailored experience, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Pickup & Scenic Drive

The day begins early, with a pickup from your Paris hotel — a convenience that’s not to be underestimated. The 2-hour drive offers a chance to relax and soak in the countryside views, as your guide shares engaging stories about Champagne’s evolution and its global reputation. This is a time where you can settle in comfortably, with WiFi on board to share photos or catch up on your travel plans.

Hautvillers: The Birthplace of Champagne

Your first stop is Hautvillers, a charming village famed for its connection to Dom Pérignon. The visit to his grave offers a tangible link to Champagne’s legendary past. Reviewers like Marjorie highlight the “interesting” commentary from guides about Dom Pérignon’s role in refining winemaking processes. You’ll also have a panoramic view of the vineyards, perfect for snapping photos and absorbing the peaceful ambiance of this historic site.

Moët & Chandon: A Champagne Icon

Next, in Épernay, the tour visits the world-renowned Moët & Chandon. The guided tour of its underground cellars reveals the scale and meticulous craftsmanship behind their champagne production. Expect to see vast tunnels, ancient barrels, and the impressive storage halls. The tasting session includes two glasses: Moët Impérial and Rosé Impérial. Reviewers like Humberto describe the experience as “truly memorable,” emphasizing the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the tastings. It’s a chance to taste the difference that heritage and craftsmanship make.

Lunch in Épernay

A relaxed lunch break in Épernay offers a chance to enjoy regional cuisine at a local restaurant. This pause allows you to reflect on the morning’s exposures and re-energize before heading to Reims. The tour’s timing ensures plenty of time for the meal without feeling rushed.

Reims & Champagne Heritage

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Reims, home to UNESCO-listed cellars of either Veuve Clicquot or Pommery. Both are steeped in history and offer tours that showcase their heritage. Visitors praise the expert guides for their insights, turning behind-the-scenes visits into captivating stories. The tours typically last around 1.5 hours and include tastings, making them a highlight for wine lovers.

Reims Cathedral: A Historical Marvel

Your final stop is the Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Reims, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, famous for hosting 33 royal coronations. The brief visit allows you to marvel at its stained glass windows and intricate carvings, grounding your day in a historical context. It’s a nice contrast to the bubbly, offering a taste of France’s regal past.

Return to Paris

After a full day of exploration, the tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel. Most travelers find that the journey is thoroughly enriching, with plenty of stories and tastings to remember.

What Does the Price Cover — Is It Worth It?

At $665.62 per person, this is a premium experience, but it’s justified by several factors. The private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, while the guided tours and tastings are high-quality and curated. The inclusion of all fees and taxes—plus bottled water and WiFi—adds to the convenience. Critics like Humberto mention the professionalism and kindness of the guides, which greatly enhances the trip.

However, it’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included — so budget for that separately. The value lies in the exclusive access to top Champagne houses, the personalized attention, and the opportunity to learn from passionate guides.

Why Travelers Rave About This Tour

Multiple reviews mention how the knowledgeable guides and delicious tastings made the day unforgettable. Marjorie fondly recalls the “interesting” commentary, and Humberto calls it a “day trip of a lifetime,” emphasizing the professionalism and friendliness of the driver and guide. The small group nature means a more intimate experience, and the flexible itinerary allows for some adjustments based on availability and interest.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting an accessible peek into Champagne’s storied world without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate luxury, comfort, and expert storytelling. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in some of France’s finest wines, this trip offers a well-rounded, memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation with WiFi, making the journey comfortable and seamless.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, ensuring you make the most of your day in Champagne.

Are tastings included?
Yes, tastings at Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot (or Pommery as an alternative) are included, with two glasses of Champagne per visit. For those under 18, non-alcoholic drinks are offered.

Can I choose different Champagne houses?
If certain houses are fully booked, the tour provider offers alternative options, ensuring you still experience top Champagne producers.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but a stop at a local restaurant provides ample time to enjoy regional cuisine.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, balancing sightseeing, tastings, and travel comfortably.

What’s the best time of year to go?
The tour runs year-round, but note Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot are closed in January and February. Alternative options are available during these months.

Is this private or group tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Who is the guide?
Guides are professional, knowledgeable, and friendly — as recounted by guests like Marjorie, who said Anna made the ride interesting and fun.

What’s the main benefit of this tour?
The blend of history, culture, and wine tasting, combined with private transport and expert guides, makes for an immersive and comfortable day in Champagne.

Final Thoughts

This Epernay and Reims private Champagne day trip offers a thoughtfully curated way to explore one of France’s most celebrated regions. It’s perfect for those who want more than just tasting — they want stories, history, and a taste of luxury. The personalized touch ensures you won’t feel like just another tourist, but rather a guest enjoying an insider’s look into Champagne’s legendary heritage.

The combination of scenic drives, historic landmarks, and top-tier Champagne houses makes this a well-rounded, memorable experience. While it’s a splurge, the quality of guides, exclusivity, and educational value make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about Champagne or seeking a meaningful day in France.

This tour’s strengths lie in its knowledgeable guides, carefully curated visits, and authentic tastings — a true highlight for wine lovers and culture seekers alike.

Whether celebrating a special moment or simply indulging your curiosity, this trip delivers a taste of France’s most famous bubbly in style and comfort.