A Quick Guide to Your Paris to Reims Day Trip
Dreaming of swapping the bustling Parisian avenues for sparkling Champagne and awe-inspiring Gothic cathedrals? A day trip to Reims, the heart of the Champagne region, is the perfect escape. This guide provides a complete, step-by-step plan for an unforgettable day exploring France’s coronation city, blending rich royal history with the world’s most famous bubbly.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Paris | Approximately 144 km (89 miles) |
| Fastest Travel Time | ~45 minutes by high-speed TGV train |
| Average Day Trip Cost (per person) | €100 – €250 |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | April-June & September-October |
How to Get to Reims from Paris
Getting to the Champagne capital from Paris is surprisingly simple. While you have several options, the high-speed train is by far the most efficient and popular choice for a day trip, allowing you to maximize your time in the city.
Paris to Reims by Train (The Best Way)
The fastest and easiest way to travel is via the TGV INOUI high-speed train. The journey is a swift 45-minute ride, whisking you from the heart of Paris to the center of Reims before you can even finish your morning croissant.
- Departure Station: Paris Gare de l’Est
- Arrival Station: Reims Centre
- Travel Time: ~45 minutes
- Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance on the official SNCF Connect website. Prices can be as low as €20 one-way when booked weeks ahead but can climb to €70+ for last-minute travel.
Paris to Reims by Car
Driving offers the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the charming vineyards and smaller villages around Reims. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via the A4 motorway. However, be prepared for potential Paris traffic and the cost of tolls (approx. €11-€15 each way). Parking in Reims is available in numerous underground garages but will add to your daily cost.
Paris to Reims by Organized Tour
For a completely hassle-free experience, consider an organized day tour. These all-inclusive packages typically handle round-trip transportation, guided visits to one or two Champagne houses (including tastings!), and sometimes lunch. It’s a great option if you prefer not to manage logistics. Prices generally range from €150 to over €300 per person.
| Method | Duration | Average Cost (Return) | Best For… |
|---|---|---|---|
| TGV Train | ~45 mins each way | €40 – €140+ | Speed, efficiency, and maximizing time in Reims. |
| Car | ~1.5-2 hours each way | €50 – €80 (fuel & tolls) | Flexibility and exploring the surrounding countryside. |
| Organized Tour | Full Day (8-10 hours) | €150 – €300+ | A stress-free, all-inclusive experience. |
| Bus | ~2-3 hours each way | €15 – €40 | The tightest budgets where time is less of a concern. |
Top 5 Things to Do on a Reims Day Trip
Reims is compact and walkable, allowing you to experience its grandest sights in a single, memorable day. Here are the absolute must-dos:
-
Marvel at the Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral
This is not just another cathedral; it’s a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a cornerstone of French history. As the traditional site for the coronation of French kings—33 were crowned here—its historical significance is palpable. Don’t miss the breathtaking stained-glass windows, including the modern creations by Marc Chagall.
Details: Entry is free. Open daily approx. 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM. -
Go Underground at a World-Famous Champagne House
A trip to Reims isn’t complete without descending into its famous crayères—ancient Roman chalk cellars where millions of bottles of Champagne age to perfection. This is an experience for all the senses. Remember: Booking tours in advance is mandatory for almost all houses!
For Grandeur: Veuve Clicquot or Pommery
These iconic houses boast vast, impressive cellars and offer slick, informative tours that tell the story of their world-renowned brands.
For History: Taittinger
Tour the cellars beneath the ruins of the 13th-century Saint-Nicaise Abbey, blending ancient history with exquisite Champagne.
For Convenience: G.H. Mumm
Located closer to the city center, Mumm offers a fantastic and easily accessible tour experience.
Details: Tour prices range from €25 for a basic tour with one tasting to €80+ for vintage tastings.
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Walk Through History at the Palais du Tau
Located right next to the cathedral, this former Archbishop’s Palace was where the future kings of France resided before their coronation. Today, it’s a museum showcasing royal treasures, coronation robes, and original statues from the cathedral’s facade.
Details: Entry is €8. Typically closed on Mondays. -
Visit the Site of the WWII Surrender
For history buffs, the Musée de la Reddition (Museum of the Surrender) is a poignant stop. It was here, in this unassuming schoolhouse that served as Allied headquarters, that the German Instrument of Surrender was signed on May 7, 1945. The “map room” has been perfectly preserved.
Details: Entry is €5. Typically closed on Tuesdays. -
Explore the Basilica of Saint-Remi
Just as impressive as the cathedral, this stunning Romanesque-Gothic basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a bit of a walk from the center but worth it for its serene atmosphere and historical importance, as it holds the relics of Saint Remi, who baptized King Clovis.
Details: Entry is free.
Sample Itinerary: A Perfect Reims Day Trip from Paris
Here’s a simple, logical plan to help you make the most of your day without feeling rushed.
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Catch an early TGV train from Paris Gare de l’Est (e.g., the 8:10 AM train).
- Arrive in Reims around 9:00 AM. Take a 10-minute walk from the station to the city center.
- Head straight to the Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral to experience its grandeur before the biggest crowds arrive.
Mid-Day (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch. Grab a delicious sandwich with local Jambon de Reims from a boulangerie or sit down at a traditional brasserie near Place Drouet d’Erlon.
- Take some time to stroll through the main square and soak up the city’s atmosphere.
Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:30 PM)
- Make your way to your pre-booked Champagne house tour. Most tours last between 1.5 to 2 hours, including the tasting.
- After your tour, visit the adjacent Palais du Tau to see the royal coronation treasures.
Evening (5:30 PM onwards)
- Find a chic wine bar for a final apéritif—one last glass of Champagne, of course!
- Walk back to Reims Centre station to catch your TGV train back to Paris, filled with memories of history and bubbly.
Where to Eat in Reims (For Every Budget)
From quick bites to Michelin-starred feasts, Reims has something for every palate.
- Budget-Friendly (€): Head to the beautiful Art Deco covered market, Halles du Boulingrin, for fresh produce, cheese, and local snacks. Local boulangeries are perfect for a classic jambon-beurre sandwich.
- Mid-Range (€€): For a quintessential French experience, book a table at Brasserie Le Boulingrin. Its classic ambiance and delicious fare are a local institution. Or try Le Crypto for modern French cuisine.
- A Special Treat (€€€): If you’re celebrating, Reims has Michelin-starred options like Le Foch or Racine, where you can indulge in exquisite, inventive cuisine.
Insider Tips for a Flawless Day Trip
- Book Everything in Advance: This is the golden rule! Secure your train tickets and Champagne tours at least a few weeks ahead for the best prices and guaranteed availability, especially during peak season.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The city center is walkable, but you’ll be on your feet all day. Good shoes are non-negotiable.
- Bring a Jacket or Sweater: The Champagne cellars maintain a constant cool temperature of around 10°C (50°F) year-round. You’ll be grateful for an extra layer!
- Check Opening Days: Be aware that many museums and some smaller shops in France close on Mondays or Tuesdays. Always verify hours online before your visit.
- Pace Yourself: It can be tempting to visit multiple Champagne houses, but for a day trip, one comprehensive tour is usually plenty and far more enjoyable than rushing between two.
- Get Real-Time Advice: For the latest candid tips and experiences from fellow travelers, do a quick search for “Reims day trip from Paris Reddit” before you go.
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here is a sample budget to help you plan your expenses for the day.
| Expense | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Return TGV Ticket (booked ahead) | €45 | €80 |
| Lunch | €15 (Boulangerie/Market) | €40 (Brasserie) |
| Champagne House Tour | €25 (Basic Tour) | €45 (Prestige Tour) |
| Coffee / Snacks | €10 | €15 |
| Estimated Total | €95 | €180 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Reims worth visiting for a day?
Absolutely! Its compact size and high-speed train connection make it one of the best day trips from Paris. In just one day, you can explore a world-famous cathedral, tour an iconic Champagne cellar, and immerse yourself in centuries of French history.
Is Champagne a day trip from Paris?
Yes, the Champagne region is perfectly suited for a day trip. Reims is the region’s largest city and acts as the main hub. Being just a 45-minute train ride away, it’s the ideal destination for a day of Champagne tasting and sightseeing.
How long is the train from Paris to Reims?
The high-speed TGV train from Paris Gare de l’Est to Reims Centre station takes approximately 45 minutes, making the journey incredibly quick and convenient.
How far are the Champagne Caves from Paris?
The famous Champagne caves (crayères) are located within the city of Reims and the nearby town of Épernay. Reims itself is about 144 km (89 miles) from Paris. You can step off the train in Reims and be at the entrance of a major Champagne house like G.H. Mumm within a 15-minute walk.
Should I visit Reims or the Loire Valley for a day trip?
This depends entirely on your interests!
- Choose Reims for: World-class Champagne, French coronation history, and magnificent Gothic architecture, all easily accessible in a short time.
- Choose the Loire Valley for: Sprawling fairytale castles (châteaux), beautiful gardens, and a different wine region. However, the Loire Valley’s attractions are much more spread out, and the journey from Paris is longer (2-2.5 hours), making it more challenging to see without a car or a full-day organized tour.
TL;DR: Your Reims Day Trip in a Nutshell
- Go by Train: The 45-minute TGV from Gare de l’Est is the best option. Book it early.
- Must-Do Activities: Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral and take a pre-booked tour of a Champagne house (Taittinger, Mumm, or Veuve Clicquot).
- Key Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket for the cold Champagne cellars.
- Enjoy the Bubbly: You’re in the Champagne capital of the world—savor it!
