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Champagne is not just about bubbles - it's about history, tradition, and the people who bring this iconic wine to life. Whether you’re a champagne enthusiast or just looking for an unforgettable escape, here’s your perfect 3-day itinerary to explore the best of the region, from Reims to Epernay, with a few hidden gems along the way.
Day 1: Discovering Reims
Start your champagne journey in Reims, the unofficial capital of the region and a city steeped in history.
Morning: Begin your day with a visit to Pommery. Known not only as the creator of the first brut champagnes but also for the incredible artwork in its underground cellars, it’s a blend of history and modern art that’s worth seeing.
Lunch: Treat yourself to a fabulous meal at Les Crayères, where you have two dining options:
The fine dining experience at the 3-star restaurant, or
The more approachable bistro in the garden, offering relaxed elegance and fantastic food.
If you’re in the mood for something more laid-back, go for a gourmet burger paired with champagne at Sacré Burger.
Les Crayères
Afternoon: No visit to Reims is complete without exploring the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims. This UNESCO World Heritage site is breathtaking, with its stunning Gothic architecture and incredible stained glass windows.
Evening: Wrap up the day at one of Reims’ best champagne bars:
The Glue Pot: A pub with an exceptional champagne list where winemakers themselves hang out.
Le Wine Bar by Le Vintage: Cozy atmosphere and great wines by the glass.
Le Pressoir also has w great selection, and can host larger groups in their barrel room downstairs.
Day 2: Road Trip from Reims to Epernay
Today is all about taking the scenic route and discovering charming villages and hidden spots between Reims and Epernay.
Morning: Drive south to Verzy and Verzenay.
Stroll through the Faux de Verzy forest, known for its twisted beech trees.
Climb the Verzenay Lighthouse for panoramic views of the vineyards.
Grab a drink at the Perchingbar - a quaint treehouse bar with views of the vineyards
Visit some of the iconic small growers in this beautiful valley of vines like Alexandre Penet or Champagne Sabine Godmé.
Lunch: Enjoy the stunning views of the vines at Chateau de Sacy with a very reasonable priced lunch, or drive to Ay-Champagne to the Rotisserie Henri IV for a hearty, comforting meal in a casual setting.
Chateau de Sacy
Ay is also home to Pressoria, an interactive museum that explains everything about champagne -ideal for a deeper dive into the winemaking process.
Afternoon: Head to Hautvillers, the birthplace of champagne and where Dom Pérignon is buried at the Abbey. This quaint village offers beautiful views and a tangible sense of history.
If you’re into small, family-owned champagne houses, there are plenty to visit in these villages.
Day 3: Exploring Epernay
Epernay is the heart of champagne production, with the legendary Avenue de Champagne as its centerpiece.
Morning: Stroll along the avenue and visit some of the grand houses:
Gosset: One of the oldest wine houses in Champagne, known for rich, elegant styles.
Boizel: Family-run and recently renovated maison.
Leclerc-Briant: Biodynamic and beautifully crafted champagnes.
Mercier: the real attraction is the underground train that takes you on a guided tour through their expansive cellars. It’s a fun, slightly kitschy experience that adds a bit of adventure to your tasting.
Lunch: Pop into Sacré Bistro for a casual, satisfying meal with a glass of something bubbly or drive south of Epernay, try to book a table at Les Avisés - a restaurant and hotel owned by the Selosse family known for its exceptional food and wine list (and rare cuvées). If you can’t get in, La Gare in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger is a fantastic casual alternative with great value set lunches.
Afternoon: Visit Le Clos du Mesnil known as Krug's most exclusive blanc de blancs, and schedule some visits with some of the region's exceptional growers.
Some of the best are Pertois-Lebrun in Cramant for crystallin grand cru blanc de blancs, De Sousa in Avize for a fresh persepctive on sustainability and Hatt et Söner in Bergère-les-Vertus for a bespoke vintage experience.
Evening: Back to Epernay discover Le 19, a grower champagne bar and tasting room where you can sample boutique cuvées from small producers.
Avenue de Champagne - Epernay
Tips for the Journey:
Book your cellar visits and restaurants well in advance - especially Les Avisés and Les Crayères.
Hire a driver or arrange transport if you plan to taste throughout the day.
Always call ahead to small producers if you’re planning a visit - a lot of growers host tastings from their kitchen table, so they appreciate the heads-up.
Final Thoughts:
In just three days, you’ll experience the grandeur of Reims, the charming villages between, and the heart of champagne production in Epernay. Whether you’re sipping at a grand house or discovering a boutique grower, every glass tells a story.
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