Reims: Champagne Day Trip Veuve Clicquot & Family Cellars

Summary

Champagne tasting in Reims Veuve Clicquot cellars plus family grower tour and lunch

You’ll taste Champagne straight from both world-famous and family-run cellars in Reims, wander through the echoing halls of Notre Dame Cathedral with a local guide, enjoy lunch at a real neighborhood spot, and ride past endless vineyards. It’s one of those days you’ll replay in your head every time you hear a cork pop.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell—chalky, cool, almost damp—when we stepped into the Veuve Clicquot cellars beneath Reims. Our guide, Camille, flicked on her flashlight and grinned at our wide eyes. She explained how these tunnels have been here for centuries, carved deep under the city. I kept running my hand along the wall just to feel that crumbly texture (probably not allowed, but I couldn’t help it). The first sip of Champagne tasted sharper after all that underground quiet—like it woke up my tongue.

I didn’t expect to be so taken by Reims Cathedral. It’s right in the city center and honestly, photos don’t do those stained glass windows justice. Camille pointed out a statue everyone calls “the smiling angel”—locals touch its foot for luck before exams or weddings. We lingered outside while bells rang; even with tourists around, there was this hush that made me think about all the coronations here. Lunch after was at a little place where I tried something called “jambon de Reims” (Li laughed when I tried to say it in French—definitely butchered it).

The drive through Montagne de Reims vineyards felt like being inside a painting—all those neat rows of vines rolling over hills, tiny villages popping up between them. At the family grower’s cellar, everything was smaller scale compared to Veuve Clicquot but somehow warmer. The owner poured us his own Champagne and told stories about his grandfather working these same vines. There was a moment where he paused mid-sentence to check a bottle’s label—just this small gesture that made me realize how personal it all is here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Reims Champagne Tour and Tastings

• Sightseeing in Reims city
• Visit Reims Cathedral
• Tour Veuve Clicquot cellars and taste Champagne
• Lunch at local restaurant
• Drive through Reims Mountain Vineyards
• Cellar tour and tasting at family grower

Top questions

How do I get to Reims for this Champagne day trip?

You can take a TGV train from Paris-Est station to Reims; recommended trains are listed depending on the day. Arrive early as pickup is from central locations in Reims.

Is hotel pickup included for this Veuve Clicquot tour?

No hotel pickup; meeting points are at Reims train station or Champagne-Ardenne station depending on your arrival method and day of week.

Are tastings at both Veuve Clicquot and a family grower included?

Yes, guided tours and tastings are included at both Veuve Clicquot estate and a family-run Champagne producer.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Yes, lunch at a local restaurant is included in your day trip itinerary.

What language are the tours conducted in?

Tours and tastings at both cellars are conducted in English.

How many people will be on this Champagne day trip?

The group size is limited to 8 people per booking for a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it's suitable for all physical fitness levels as there is minimal walking required.

What happens if my train is delayed or canceled?

The company cannot be held responsible for train delays or cancellations; plan accordingly and consider arriving in Reims early if possible.

What’s included

Your day includes transport by air-conditioned minivan from central Reims, guided tours with tastings at both Veuve Clicquot and a family grower cellar (entry fees covered), sightseeing stops including Notre Dame Cathedral with your English-speaking driver-guide, plus lunch at a local restaurant before returning late afternoon.