Built above miles and miles of underground passageways constructed by the Romans, the town of Reims is an extraordinary place. The passageways nowadays are champagne cellars which house millions of bottles of the city’s finest drink.
The best sights here include the Gothic Cathedral Notre-Dame de Reims, where French monarchs were once crowned, and the Saint-Rémi Basilica, dating back to the 11th century. The basilica is now a museum that traces the history of Reims through its archaeological, military and religious artefacts.
It’s impossible not to hear names such as Veuve Clicquot, Ruinart and Pommery while in Reims. The long deep tunnels that house these famous vintages can be explored on a guided tour, and of course you are allowed a little tipple at the end of the tour. As Reims is home to a large student population, there are plenty of restaurants, bars and lively clubs open till late.
The region of Champagne-Ardenne is made up of Ardennes, Marne, Aube and Haute-Marne, which are all scenically beautiful. Besides the long, sprawling vineyards, there are fresh lakes, rivers, parks and forests.
The town of Troyes, not too far from Reims, is one of the finest destinations in France. Here you’ll find an atmospheric old town, infinitely charming and serene. As it’s off the tourist trail, you won’t be squashed by large crowds of visitors.
By car there are two route options from Paris, which lies approximately 150kms away: on the A4-E50 directly; or, on the A1 as far as Lille, then to Soissons on the A104, and to Reims on the N31. From Paris, Gare de l’Est, there are between 9 and 12 rail connections to Reims daily. Reims has its own airport, located eight kilometres from town. Taxis provide transport back and forth. Most foreign arrivals will touch down at Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport and will need to catch a connecting flight to Reims.
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