How to Spend 3 Days in Champagne

Though Champagne is within easy commuting distance of Paris, it’s worth taking several days to fully immerse yourself in the region’s beauty, mellow pace, and delectable wine. The area is also renowned for its medieval architecture and culinary acumen. Here’s how to make the most of a 3-day stay.

Day 1: Wine tasting

The Champagne region is home to some of the world’s top-rated wineries, so devote a full day to sipping and swirling. Make your way to scenic Épernay, a charming village just steps from verdant vineyards. Begin with a stroll along the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne, then drop into one of the famed Champagne houses for a tasting, descending into the chalk-carved cellars. Once you’re suitably merry, return to ground level for a quick bite before heading into the vines. Bicycle tours and rentals offer a relaxed way to discover the vineyards, wend your way through the Marne Valley (Vallée de la Marne), and experience the tranquil French countryside. When the sun begins to set, return to Épernay for a hearty bistro meal and a glass of something special.

Day 2: Sightseeing

On your second day, make the short journey to refined Reims, the region’s largest city, for a wide-ranging sightseeing tour. First, check out the UNESCO-listed Reims Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims), a High Gothic marvel dating to the 13th century. After lunch, zip around town on a Segway tour, or visit some of the city’s other historical highlights, such as the Tau Palace (Palais du Tau) and the Saint-Rémi Basilica (Basilique Saint-Rémi). After a busy day, you’ve earned a glass (or three) of bubbles and a gourmet meal, so venture to one of Reims’ Michelin-starred eateries—from the inventive Restaurant Le Foch to the ultraglamorous Le Parc Les Crayères.

Day 3: A northern France day trip

As tempting as it might be to spend another day sipping flutes, Reims and Épernay are both perfect jumping-off points for further adventures in the north of France. If you’re a history buff, visit one of the key World War I landmarks and explore former battlefields and bunkers. Alternatively, wander around Troyes, Champagne’s third and final major hub. Just over an hour’s drive from Reims, Troyes boasts its own cathedral and vinous attractions. At the end of the day, toast your trip by popping one last bottle.