Champagne is synonymous with celebration, luxury and indulgence. Located in the northeast of France, the region produces the world-famous sparkling wine of the same name—also my drink of choice.

The region is known for its picturesque vineyards, charming towns, and historic houses. Joe and I visited the region in 2021 and loved it so much that we’re currently planning a return trip for 2024. It’s an unforgettable experience for wine lovers and avid travelers alike.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the logistics of reaching Champagne from the United States and Paris, France. We’ll also unveil the top 10 Champagne houses you can’t afford to miss and recommend two of the best luxury accommodations for your stay. If you’re planning a trip and like to travel in VIP style, contact us for help in planning the ultimate holiday experience. Our full-service travel planning is an experience worth toasting to!

Getting to Champagne from the US

The easiest way to get to Champagne from the US is to fly into Paris, France, and then choosing between a train or car rental. Several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, United, and Air France, operate flights from the US to Paris, with a flight time of approximately 8 hours from New York.

Once you arrive in Paris, you can take a high-speed train to Reims, the capital of the Champagne region. This journey takes about 45 minutes, and ticket prices range between $20 and $40.

Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport and drive. The journey from Paris to Reims takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. As avid explorers, Joe and I often choose to rent a car in our travels. We highly recommend considering this option for your visit—having your own set of wheels proves invaluable for a truly immersive experience!

Getting to Champagne from Paris, France

If you’re already in Paris, getting there is easy! The best way to get there is by taking a train from Paris to Reims. Trains run regularly from Paris Gare de l’Est to Reims and take around 45 minutes. The cost of a one-way ticket is between $20 and $40.

If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Paris and drive. The journey from Paris to Reims takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can hire a private driver to take you to the region.

Top 10 Champagne Houses to Visit

Moët & Chandon

Moët & Chandon Founded in 1743, is one of the oldest and most famous houses in the world. The house produces several different types, including the iconic Moët Impérial.

During our visit, in late June, the weather was lovely and we were able to enjoy our tasting outside in their garden. If you go, we highly recommend planning ahead and buying your tickets in advance.

Veuve Clicquot

Founded in 1772, Veuve Clicquot is known for its distinctive yellow label. The house produces a range of different Champagnes, including the Brut Yellow Label and the Vintage Rosé (which is one of my favs!).

Be sure to also plan a stop at the gift shop! We accidentally waited until the end of our trip, only to feel like I needed a return trip once we made our way back to Paris….

Taittinger

Taittinger is a family-owned house that has been producing since 1932. The house is known for its elegant and refined Champagnes, including the Brut Réserve and the Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs.

Laurent-Perrier

Founded in 1812, Laurent-Perrier is a house that specializes in high-quality, elegant Champagnes. The house produces a varied range, including the Brut, the Ultra Brut, and the Grand Siècle.

Sadly, we didn’t have time to visit Laurent-Perrier. I’ve since realized that we may need at least 2-3 weeks to visit all of the houses, and that’s if you are able to visit at least 2-3 each day…

Billecart-Salmon

Billecart-Salmon is a small, family-owned Champagne house. The house is known for its rosé, which is made using a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes.

Unfortunately, we didn’t make it to Billecart-Salmon, but we did find our way to the Le Bellevue Restaurant (which is inside the Royal Champagne Hotel), where we were able to enjoy an amazing meal, incredible view and a delicious bottle of the Brut Rosé. We’ve since added this small Champagne house to our list for our next visit.

Ruinart

Founded in 1729, Ruinart is one of the oldest houses in the world. The house produces a range, including the Brut, the Rosé, and the Blanc de Blancs. We opted for the brunch and again had the perfect weather! Our visit was late-June, in case you’re planning.

Pol Roger

Pol Roger is a family-owned house that has been producing since 1849. The house is known for its Brut Réserve and the Sir Winston Churchill, named after the famous British Prime Minister who was a devoted fan.

Piper-Heidsieck

Piper-Heidsieck is a house with a long and rich history dating back to 1785. The house produces a range, including the Brut and the Rare, which are known for their richness and depth.

Krug

Krug is a house that has been producing since 1843. The house is known for its rich and complex blends, including the Grande Cuvée, a blend of more than 120 different wines.

Charles Heidsieck

Charles Heidsieck is a house that was founded in 1851. The house produces a range, including the Brut Réserve and the Blanc des Millénaires, which is a vintage made using Chardonnay grapes.

Our Top Four Luxury Places to Stay

Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa (TOP PICK!)

The Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of the region. The hotel is set in a former coaching inn and offers stunning views of the vineyards. The hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant, a spa, and a range of luxurious rooms and suites. BONUS: Book with us to receive VIP Status (free breakfast, room upgrades, tours and more!)

Les Crayères (TOP PICK!)

Les Crayères is a five-star hotel located in a 19th-century mansion in Reims. The hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant, a spa, and a range of luxurious rooms and suites. The hotel is located close to many of the houses in the region. BONUS: Book with us to receive VIP Status (free breakfast, room upgrades, tours and more!)

Limited on time? Check out our favorite tours!

In Conclusion

Visiting this region of France is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should be on every wine lover’s bucket list. With its stunning vineyards, charming towns, and historic houses, the region offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned Champagne aficionado or just looking to explore a new part of France, this is the perfect destination. By following our guide, you can easily get there from the US or Paris, France, and stay at some of the most luxurious places in the region. So why not start planning your trip today?

Top Travel Questions for Champagne, France

1. What is the best time of year to visit?
   • Champagne is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The grape harvest takes place in September, which can be a fascinating time to visit. Spring and summer are popular times to visit when the weather is mild and the vineyards are in full bloom.
2. How do I get around?
   • The easiest way to get around is by car. You can rent a car in Paris or Reims and explore the region at your own pace. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour or hire a private driver. Bicycles are also a popular way to explore the region, and many houses offer bike rentals.
3. What houses should I visit?
   • There are many Champagne houses to choose from in the region, each with its own unique history and style. Some of the most popular houses include Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Billecart-Salmon. It’s a good idea to book ahead for tours and tastings.
4. What should I wear when visiting Champagne houses?
   • While there’s no formal dress code for visiting, it’s a good idea to dress smart-casual. Avoid wearing sports or beachwear, and wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the vineyards.
5. Where should I stay?
   • There is a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Here is a link to some of our favorite properties in the area. It’s a good idea to book your accommodation ahead of time, especially during peak travel periods.
6. Can I visit the houses without a reservation?
   • While some houses may allow walk-ins for tastings, it’s generally recommended to make a reservation ahead of time. This is especially important during peak travel periods, as the houses can get very busy.
7. Are there any other attractions to visit?
   • Yes, this is a beautiful region with a rich history and many other attractions to visit. Some popular options include the Reims Cathedral, the Palais du Tau, and the Champagne Museum in Epernay.
8. How much does it cost to visit a house?
   • The cost of visiting a Champagne house varies depending on the house and the type of experience you choose. A basic tour and tasting can cost anywhere from €10-€30 per person, while more exclusive experiences can cost several hundred euros per person.
9. Can I bring Champagne back to the US?
   • Yes, you can bring Champagne back to the US for personal consumption. However, you may be subject to customs duties and taxes, so it’s a good idea to check the latest regulations before you travel.
10. Are there any Champagne festivals or events I should know about?
    • Yes, Champagne hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Foire de Châlons in August and the Fêtes Henri IV in September. The region is also known for its Christmas markets, which take place in many of the towns and cities throughout December.