If you\u2019re planning a day trip to Champagne but agonizing over how to go there or choosing the best cellar among the hundreds available, you’ve come to the right place. With my tips, you\u2019ll know everything about the must-see landmarks, the local dishes, and all the entertainment opportunities in the area.<\/p>\n
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One day isn\u2019t enough for an exhaustive tour of the Champagne region. It\u2019s one of the largest regions of the Marne\u2019s department, and there is too much area to cover. You need to have a precise destination in mind.<\/p>\n
I recommend going to Reims<\/b> and \u00c9pernay, <\/b>two cities where you can find the most famous champagne houses<\/b> in the area. There is also Troyes, an old medieval town <\/b>and, nowadays, the factory-shopping capital of Europe<\/b>.<\/p>\n
Best of all: They all have a direct railway connection to Paris.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll also have the chance to visit Hautvillier<\/b>, the rumored birthplace of champagne. Legend has it that the Benedictine monk Dom P\u00e9rignon invented the process behind the sparkling wine here.<\/p>\n
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The vineyards of Champagne with the seasons, and each has its unique charm. Still, if you\u2019re fond of outdoor strolls, the warm days of spring and summer are the best time to explore the region.<\/p>\n
July and August are the warmest months, with an average temperature of 21\u00b0. It rains a lot in September, and towards the end of the month, Many vineyards close due to the grape harvest.<\/p>\n
Therefore, while July and August remain solid options, you may prefer the relative coolness of May and June (18\u00b0). You would also avoid the tourist rush.<\/p>\n
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Champagne is a large region; if you want to make the most of your trip, an early start in the morning is your best bet.<\/p>\n
The first trains leave Paris at 5 a.m. Taking one at 7 a.m. should be early enough, considering their average travel time (45 minutes to 1:30). That gives you good odds of reaching your destination at 8 or 9 a.m.<\/p>\n
It will leave you plenty of time to calmly explore the region, and to visit a cellar before or after lunchtime.<\/p>\n
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It takes between 46 min and 1h30 to reach Champagne from Paris, depending on your destination.<\/p>\n
Take the train to avoid unnecessary hassle about parking or traffic.<\/p>\n
Once in Champagne, you also have a TER line at your disposal. The so-called bubbly line connects Reims to Epernay and is an excellent way to explore both cities in one day.<\/p>\n
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The most famous cellars are often crowded. If you don\u2019t want to miss out, I recommend booking a place early. Most of them have websites where you can buy a ticket in advance. I\u2019ve listed them below.<\/p>\n
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Whether to visit the champagne houses or the vineyards of local wineries, good walking shoes are paramount.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re sensitive to cold temperatures, take some warm clothes during your tour of the local wine cellars. They remain at low temperatures for the sake of their cuv\u00e9e.<\/p>\n
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Here\u2019s a list of the best champagne houses in the region.<\/p>\n
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