Looking for a charming alternative to Paris? Reims, the heart of France’s Champagne region, offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and gastronomy. Just a short train ride from the French capital, this vibrant city is bursting with world-class champagne houses, incredible architecture, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply in search of unique experiences, Reims is a destination that has it all.
REIMS SPRITZY SNAPSHOT
- Where to Eat – Le Bocal
- Where to Drink – Le Clos
- Best Wine Bar – Le Pressoir
- Foodies – Halles Centrales Du Boulingrin
- Art lovers – Pommery Champagne House
- Unique experience – G.H. Martel Cellar Tour & Tasting
- History Fanatics –Museum of the Surrender
- Architectural Wonder – Reims Notre Dame Cathedral
- Best Day Trip – Reims to Épernay
- Must Try –Biscuit Rose with Champagne & Ratafia de Champagne
Where to Eat – Le Bocal
This tiny, unassuming seafood restaurant quickly became one of my favourites during my trip. Located opposite the food market, Le Bocal offers a daily selection of fresh seafood perfectly paired with a glass (or two) of champagne. Must-try dishes include the home-cured salmon pastrami, hot oysters, and the trio of fish roe—but honestly, everything here is fresh and delicious.
Advance booking is highly recommended.
Where to Drink – Le Clos
Les Clos is a vibrant and casual bar filled with locals. Situated in the trendy Boulingrin area, it offers something for everyone: a cozy wine bar at the front for intimate catch-ups, a bustling outdoor pub area packed with energy, and an event space at the back hosting live music and comedy nights. It’s the perfect place to soak up the local vibe with a great glass of wine or beer.
Best Wine Bar – Le Pressoir
Le Pressoir is a chic wine boutique bar offering an impressive selection of local French wines. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the menu, ensuring a memorable tasting experience. The modern, vibrant ambiance makes it an ideal spot to relax and savour both wine and food.
Advance booking is highly recommended.
Foodies – Halles Centrales Du Boulingrin
For food lovers, a visit to this art deco, undercover market is an absolute must. Halles Centrales Du Boulingrin is brimming with fresh, specialty produce from the region, including cheeses, sausages, and wines. Open on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday mornings, this market is full of culinary delights, just waiting to be devoured. The surrounding Boulingrin area also offers an array of bars and restaurants if you’re looking for a nice lunch or drink afterwards.
Art (& Champagne) lovers – Pommery Champagne House
f you love champagne and art, the Pommery Champagne House is a dream come true. This unique experience combines a contemporary art exhibition with a tour of the crayeres (chalk pits) in the cellars. Learn about Madame Pommery’s passion for art and champagne making while admiring the stunning exhibits, and finish with a glass of their exquisite champagne. Entry starts at €27, with an option to upgrade to vintage champagne (Top Tip – upgrade one adult for a comparative tasting).
Note – one of the few champagne house tours where pre-booking isn’t required as they have a self guided option
Unique Experience – G.H. Martel Cellar Tour & Tasting
Explore this boutique champagne house and UNESCO World Heritage site, descending 22 meters into medieval chalk quarries. The guided tour provides fascinating insights into the generations of this family-run house and the champagne-making process. End your visit with a tasting session; the Prestige option at €45 per adult was a standout for us, especially the vintage champagne. Tastings start at €25.
History Fanatics –Museum of the Surrender
Reims played a pivotal role in World War II, being the site where the treaty of surrender was signed on May 7, 1945. This museum offers a captivating glimpse into that historic moment, featuring artifacts, uniforms, and exhibits. Step into the actual map room where the treaty was signed in secrecy before the formal Berlin ceremony.
Architectural Wonder – Reims Notre Dame Cathedral
The Reims Notre-Dame Cathedral is an iconic masterpiece of gothic architecture. Larger than its more famous Parisian counterpart, this UNESCO World Heritage site has been a cornerstone of French Catholic history, hosting the anointings and coronations of numerous monarchs. Both its interior and exterior are awe-inspiring, making it a must-visit landmark.
Best Day Trip – Reims to Épernay
Champagne enthusiasts will love this bucket-list day trip. Discover picturesque countryside, charming towns, and countless champagne houses, from world-renowned Moët & Chandon to fairytale boutique producers. Visit Dom Pérignon’s tomb or see Napoleon’s hat. There’s something for everyone. Check out our recommended day trip itinerary here – https://spritzinguplife.com/from-reims-to-epernay-champagne-adventure/.
Must Try – Biscuit Rose with Champagne & Ratafia de Champagne
No trip to Reims is complete without trying the region’s specialities. Dunk Fossier’s Le Biscuit de Reims into champagne for an elevated experience—the pink sponge biscuit absorbs the flavours beautifully. On its own, it’s hard and less appealing, but paired with bubbly, it’s divine.
Ratafia de Champagne, a sweet dessert wine or liqueur made from unfermented champagne grapes, is another must-try. Its smooth, rich flavour is the perfect way to end your culinary adventure in Reims.
Reims is a city that offers something for every kind of traveller, whether you’re a history buff, art lover, foodie, or champagne enthusiast. It’s a place where you can truly indulge in the finer things in life. I for one can’t wait to go back!
For more France travel and food tips visit – https://spritzinguplife.com/france/
