Destinations

Your Essential Travel Guide To Reims

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Discover Things To Do In Reims

Reims has two main claims to fame. The first is that it is at the heart of France’s champagne region – only wines made in the area can have the name “champagne”. The second is that its cathedral was where no less than 33 French kings were crowned – making it the country’s equivalent of Westminster Abbey.

It also has some magnificent architecture ranging from some of France’s finest examples of the gothic to a large number of art deco buildings.

There are no less than five sites that have official UNESCO World Heritage status.

When visiting Reims, it’s a good idea to buy one of the official City Cards. For under 20 euros, it entitles you to a visit to a champagne house and the choice of two audio tours of Reims.

Getting there

Getting there

You can travel from Calais or Dieppe to Reims in just three hours by car so you can take our Newhaven-Dieppe, Dover-Dunkirk or Dover-Calais crossing.

It’s also only about 1 hour and 40 minutes by car to Paris heading due south west.

What to see in Reims?

Visit the magnificent Cathedrale Notre Dame de Reims. You can also climb up the cathedral tower for a panoramic view.

Next to the cathedral is its museum in the Palais du Tau where you’ll find giant statues of some of the kings whose coronations were held there. Nearby is the Saint Remi Basilica, a 1,000 year old church which has contained the relics of the Bishop of Reims since 1099.

During the Roman occupation it’s thought that the city had no less than four gates around its walls and one of these remains today - The Porte de Mars.

A more modern piece of history can be found at the Surrender Museum which has been located in the building where, on May 7th 1945, German generals signed the documents to officially end the Second World War.

Of all the champagne houses you can visit, Taittinger is one of the most impressive. Champagne tours are also very popular.

Best Restaurants In Reims

Reims is home to some of the best restaurants in France. Whether you're looking for traditional French cuisine, or something more exotic, there's something for everyone in Reims. Enjoy an evening out at one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Le Millénaire and Le Foch, or keep things casual at a local cafe or bistro. And don't forget to try some of the delicious local wines while you're there!

Reims Champagne Tours

No visit to Reims would be complete without a visit to one of the world-famous Champagne houses. Take a tour of the Taittinger Reims Champagne House or visit the extensive cave cellars of some of the other famous Champagne houses in the city such as the elegant Champagne Pommery or Veuve-Clicquot, with many offering sommelier-led tastings. Learn about the history and production process of Champagne and sample some delicious bubbles. It's an experience you won't forget!

FAQ

To travel by car from Calais to Reims, you can follow the A26 and A4 highways. Start by heading southeast from Calais on the A26/E15/E40 highway. Continue on the A26 for approximately 106 miles (170 kilometers) until you reach the interchange with the A4/E50 highway. Take the exit onto the A4/E50 highway, and continue eastward for about 87 miles (140 kilometers) until you reach Reims. The total driving time is approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Reims is located in the northeastern part of France, in the region of Grand Est. It is situated about 81 miles (130 kilometers) east-northeast of Paris.

Reims is famous for several reasons. One of its main claims to fame is being the traditional coronation site of the French kings. The city's stunning Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was the place where many French monarchs were crowned. Reims is also renowned for its ties to the Champagne wine industry. The region surrounding the city is home to numerous prestigious champagne houses, making Reims an important hub for wine production and tourism.

Must-see attractions in Reims include Reims Cathedral, Palais du Tau, Basilique Saint-Remi, Champagne houses for tours and tastings, and the Musée de la Reddition.

When looking for hotels in Reims, France, you'll find a range of options to suit your preferences. Some popular areas to consider for accommodations include Cathedral Square, Avenue de Champagne, Boulingrin, and Place Drouet d'Erlon. These locations offer convenient access to attractions and a variety of hotels in Reims. To find suitable Reims hotels, you can search online booking platforms or consult travel websites that provide information on accommodations in the city.

Reims is located inland and does not have direct ferry connections. However, you can take a ferry from the UK to nearby ports such as Calais, Dunkirk, or Dieppe. From there, you can drive or take public transportation to Reims, which is located about 3 hours drive away from all three ports.

When in Reims, make sure to try Champagne, pâté de Reims, Biscuit Rose de Reims, andouillette, and local cheeses.

Shopping in Reims can be done on Rue de Vesle, at Halles du Boulingrin (covered market), Espace d'Erlon, and Cours Langlet, offering a range of shops, boutiques, and department stores.

Prices are subject to availability. Telephone booking fees apply. Terms and conditions apply.