Reims: The Complete Guide

Reims Cathedral

Roughly situated 100 kilometers North-East of Paris (equivalent to a journey of about forty-five minutes by train on the fast route), Reims emerges as the entry point to Champagne, an illustrious historical French region renowned for its effervescent libation. Boasting numerous captivating landmarks and a grand tally of 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites, this town is an essential inclusion for your sojourn in France. Chiefly acclaimed for its production of champagne, Reims is home to several of the most sizable and acclaimed champagne estates, many of which extend invitations for tours and tastings. Notably, the Reims Cathedral stands as the hallowed site where every French monarch, spanning from 987 to Charles X in the 19th century, underwent coronation.

TIP: If you are visiting Reims for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a walking tour with a local guide.
This is one of the most complete and best-rated guided tours of the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Reims in about 1.5 hours.
If you prefer exploring at your own pace read our blog on Top Places to visit in Reims!.

Visiting Reims for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Reims on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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23 Best places to See in Reims

This complete guide to Reims not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Reims and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Reims Cryptoporticus

Reims Cryptoporticus
CC BY-SA 4.0 / ADT Marne
In Ancient Roman design, a cryptoporticus, derived from Latin words 'crypta' and 'porticus', refers to a sheltered corridor or passageway. In English, it's commonly termed as "cryptoportico." Characterized as a semi-underground gallery, the vaulting of the cryptoportico sustains aboveground portico structures and is illuminated by light filtering through the apex of its arches. When constructed on inclining terrains, a cryptoportico's…
Location: Cryptoportique, Place du Forum, Reims, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Reims Cryptoporticus

We recommend to rent a car in France through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Musée Hôtel Le Vergeur

Musee Hotel Le Vergeur
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Johan Bakker
Located within a distinguished "hôtel particulier" or mansion, officially recognized as a Monument Historique, the Musée Hôtel Le Vergeur showcases a distinctive compilation. The hôtel, dubbed Le Vergeur, derives its name from the affluent Vergeur family, who retained ownership of the property until the 16th century. Under the ownership of Hugues Krafft, the most recent custodian of Hôtel Le Vergeur,…
Location: Musée-Hôtel Le Vergeur, Place du Forum, Reims, France | Hours: Tuesday - Sunday. Hours are from 10am until 12 noon and 2pm until 6pm. | Price: €5.50 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Musée Hôtel Le Vergeur

Click here to read our blog about Historic Tour of Reims (With Maps!)

Porte de Mars

Porte De Mars
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Carole Raddato
Porte de Mars stands as an ancient Roman triumphal arch situated in Reims, France. Dating back to the third century AD, it holds the distinction of being the widest arch within the Roman world. This monumental edifice, the Mars Gate, hails from the initial years of the 3rd century and remains as the sole survivor among four gates that once…
Location: Porte Mars, Place de la République, Reims, France | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Porte de Mars

Click here to read our blog about An Introduction to the Champagne Houses of Reims: A Sparkling Experience!

Place Royale, Reims

Place Royale Reims
Public Domain / PD-self
Located in Reims, France, Place Royale, often referred to as "Royal Square," occupies a significant spot. It's the original city centre of the Roman town (crossing of cardo and decumanus) but now it's a nice classicist city square in a typically French style. At its heart, a bronze statue of King Louis XV of France takes prominence. This statue, created…
Location: Place Royale, Reims, France | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Place Royale, Reims

Click here to read our blog about Top Places to Visit in Reims!

Joan of Arc Statue, Reims

Statue De Jeanne DArc
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Clelie Mascaret
Standing as an embodiment of the Third Republic era, this statue, sculpted in the late 19th century, pays homage to the iconic Joan of Arc. A remarkable figure known as a warrior, mystic, martyr, and saint, she emerged as the savior of Reims, shielding the city from the destructive grasp of the English army. This statue finds its place in…
Location: Statue de Jeanne d'Arc Canton de Reims-1, 51100 Reims France | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Joan of Arc Statue, Reims

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims

Cathedrale Notre Dame Reims E1714558862244
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tontonflingueur
Dominating the heart of Reims, the Notre-Dame Cathedral stands in stately fashion, its soaring spires commanding attention even from afar. Esteemed as one of France's most exquisite cathedrals, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a prime exemplar of Gothic architecture. The splendid 13th-century structure showcases an intricately adorned facade reminiscent of delicate lacework and showcases an impressive ensemble of…
Location: Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, Notre Dame de Reims, Place du Cardinal Luçon, Reims, France | Hours: 7:30am until 7:30pm | Price: €8 | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims

Musée de la Reddition (World War II Museum)

Musee De La Reddition World War II Museum
CC BY-SA 4.0 / G.Garitan
The Musée de la Reddition, also known as the Museum of the Surrender, stands as a solemn tribute to the memory of the Second World War. This museum finds its abode within a structure designated as a Monument Historique, the very edifice that housed General Eisenhower's headquarters during the wartime period. Of paramount significance, this building served as the site…
Location: Musée de la Reddition, Rue du Président Franklin Roosevelt, Reims, France | Hours: Every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays | Price: €5.50 | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Musée de la Reddition (World War II Museum)

Musée des Beaux-Arts, Reims

Musee Des Beaux Arts
CC BY-SA 4.0 / LC51-1920
Reims boasts a remarkable museum of fine arts, a fitting feature for a city bearing the title of "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire" (City of Art and History). This museum houses an exquisite collection of French and European paintings spanning from the Renaissance to the modern Art Déco movement. The Musée des Beaux-Arts showcases a diverse array of artistic treasures, including…
Location: Musée des Beaux-Arts, Rue Chanzy, Reims, France | Price: €5: Fine Arts Museum and Foujita Chapel | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Musée des Beaux-Arts, Reims

Palais du Tau (Archbishops' Palace)

Palais Du Tau Et Cathedrale
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ludovic Péron
Explore the magnificent lodgings where the monarchs of France dwelled in Reims during their coronation ceremonies. Within these resplendent surroundings, it becomes effortless to envision the opulence of bygone royal festivities. Adjacent to the cathedral, the Palais du Tau, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the French Neoclassical aesthetic of the 17th century. However, the edifice itself dates…
Location: Palais du Tau, Place du Cardinal Luçon, Reims, France | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Palais du Tau (Archbishops' Palace)

La Maison Mumm

Mumm
CC BY-SA 3.0 / G.Garitan
G. H. Mumm & Cie is a Champagne house founded in 1827 and based in Reims, France. G.H. Mumm is one of the largest Champagne houses and is currently ranked 4th globally based on number of bottles sold. The company is owned by Pernod Ricard. G.H. Mumm was the official sponsor of F1 racing from 2000 until 2015 and provided…
Location: G.H. Mumm, Rue du Champ de Mars, Reims, France | Price: € 28 | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting La Maison Mumm

Bibliothèque Carnegie

Reims CarnegieLibrary
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ludvig14
The Bibliothèque Carnegie de Reims, commonly referred to as the Carnegie Library of Reims, stands as a testament to philanthropy and resilience. This public library emerged as a result of generous contributions from businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, who extended his support to the city of Reims in the aftermath of World War I. Notably, Reims was among three cities…
Location: Bibliothèque Carnegie, Place Carnegie, Reims, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Bibliothèque Carnegie

Chapelle Foujita (Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix)

Reims Chapelle Notre Dame De La Paix Foujita
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Aimelaime
The Japanese artist associated with the Ecole de Paris, Tsuguharu Foujita, found profound inspiration during a visit to the Basilique Saint-Rémi, leading him to embrace Christianity. His formal conversion took place on October 14, 1959, at the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, and he adopted the name Léonard upon baptism. In 1965, driven by an unwavering artistic vision, Leonard Foujita realized…
Location: Chapelle Foujita, Rue du Champ de Mars, Reims, France | Hours: Every day from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on Tuesday. | Price: €5.50 | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Chapelle Foujita (Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix)

Reims Champagne Automobile Museum

Car In Musee Automobile Reims Champagne
CC BY-SA 1.0 / AlfvanBeem
Step into the captivating realm of automotive history at the Reims Champagne Automobile Museum! Currently under the stewardship of a collectors' association, this museum boasts an impressive assembly of 230 vehicles, with the oldest specimens dating all the way back to 1908. Within its walls, you'll find an awe-inspiring collection that comprises 160 distinctive branded automobiles, accompanied by 70 vintage…
Location: Musée Automobile Reims Champagne, Avenue Georges Clemenceau, Reims, France | Hours: From May 1 to October 31: 10:00 - 12:00 & 14:00 - 18:00 From November 1 to April 30: 10:00 - 12:00 & 14:00 - 17:00 | Price: €10,00 | Website | Distance: 1.6km
Visiting Reims Champagne Automobile Museum

Musée Saint-Rémi

Reims Musee St Remi
Public Domain / PD-self
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the former Saint-Rémi Royal Abbey stands as a splendid example of Neoclassical architectural brilliance. Its significance is rooted in safeguarding the Holy Ampulla, a revered consecrated ointment employed in anointing monarchs during their coronation rites. The Saint-Rémi Royal Abbey edifice now hosts the Musée Saint-Rémi, housing assortments dedicated to regional history up until…
Location: Musée Saint-Remi, Rue Simon, Reims, France | Hours: Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Price: €5.50 | Website | Distance: 1.8km
Visiting Musée Saint-Rémi

Basilique Saint-Rémi

Reims Basilique Saint Remi
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Aimelaime
Reims' most ancient church, the Basilique Saint-Rémi, stands as an extraordinary example of Romanesque architecture and proudly bears its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Constructed between 1005 and 1049 to serve a Benedictine abbey, this church was erected atop the grounds where an 8th-century Carolingian chapel once stood, drawing countless pilgrims. While the exterior exhibits Gothic influences, the…
Location: Basilique Saint-Remi, Rue Saint-Julien, Reims, France | Distance: 1.8km
Visiting Basilique Saint-Rémi

Taittinger

Tattinger Caves
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Victor Grigas
Taittinger is situated in the historic city of Reims, a focal point of France's renowned Champagne region. Easily accessible, the Champagne house is a prominent attraction for visitors touring this part of the country. Taittinger boasts a rich history, with its origins tracing back to the 13th century. The champagne house's legacy intertwines with the ancient Abbey of Saint-Nicaise, whose remnants…
Location: Champagne Taittinger - Visites des Caves, Place Saint-Nicaise, Reims, France | Price: Tastings: €37 | Website | Distance: 1.9km
Visiting Taittinger

Villa Demoiselle

Reims Villa Demoiselle
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Morio60
The Villa Demoiselle, an architectural gem erected in Reims during 1890 under the direction of Henry Vasnier, stands adjacent to the Domaine Pommery along the Henri-Vasnier Boulevard. Originally named Villa Cochet, this stately mansion underwent a transformation in April 2004, emerging as the Villa Demoiselle. With its acquisition by Vranken, the new owner dedicated the site to their flagship brand,…
Location: Villa Demoiselle, Boulevard Henry Vasnier, Reims, France | Hours: Wed-Sun 10.00-18:00 | Price: €35 | Website | Distance: 2.1km
Visiting Villa Demoiselle

Maison Ruinart

Maison Ruinart
Public Domain / Tangopaso
Ruinart, proudly holds the distinction of being the most ancient Champagne house, devoted solely to crafting champagne since 1729. This illustrious establishment was established by Nicolas Ruinart within the Champagne region, situated in the city of Reims. Presently, it stands under the ownership of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SA. Driven by entrepreneurial spirit, Nicolas Ruinart brought to life the…
Location: Champagne Ruinart, Rue des Crayères, Reims, France | Distance: 2.2km
Visiting Maison Ruinart

Champagne Pommery

Reims Champagne Pommery
CC BY-SA 40 / Aimelaime
Pommery is located in Reims, the unofficial capital of the Champagne region in northern France. The estate is easy to find and is one of the significant landmarks in the city. Established in 1858 by Alexandre Louis Pommery and Narcisse Greno, Pommery soon became a forerunner in the Champagne industry. Over time, it has perfectly fused tradition with innovation. The…
| Hours: Monday and Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. | Price: €26 Self Guided Tour / €32 Guided Tour | Website | | Distance: 2.2km
Visiting Champagne Pommery

Maison Veuve Clicquot

Barrels In Veuve Clicquot Cellars
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Tomas er
Maison Veuve Clicquot stands proudly in Reims, the epicenter of France's celebrated Champagne region. This globally recognized champagne house is a must-visit for any wine or history enthusiast exploring the area. Founded in 1772, the story of Veuve Clicquot is as effervescent as its champagnes. The house gained acclaim under the leadership of Madame Clicquot, a formidable widow ("veuve" in…
Location: Champagne Veuve Clicquot - Centre de Visite, Rue Albert Thomas, Reims, France | Price: From €35 | Website | | Distance: 2.3km
Visiting Maison Veuve Clicquot

Parc de Champagne

Parc De Champagne
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Garitan
Inaugurated in 1910 under the guidance of the Pommery Champagne House's director, this park was conceived by the Reims-native landscape architect Edouard Redont. It seamlessly blends a picturesque landscaped environment with a plethora of sports and open-air recreational offerings. The park served as a prestigious venue for significant gatherings until its unfortunate destruction amid the ravages of the First World…
Location: Parc de Champagne, Avenue du Général Giraud, Reims, France | Distance: 2.6km
Visiting Parc de Champagne
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Fort de la Pompelle

Fort De La Pompelle
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Les Meloures
The Fort de la Pompelle, also known as Fort Herbillon, was constructed around Reims after 1870 as a part of a fortification belt in the Séré de Rivières system. It played a crucial role during the First World War in defending Reims. Situated roughly 2 kilometers north of Sillery, it is adjacent to the N44 road, which connects Reims and…
Location: Fort de la Pompelle, Puisieulx, France | Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on Mondays | Price: €5.50 | Website | Distance: 8.5km
Visiting Fort de la Pompelle

Moët & Chandon

Moet Chandon Caves
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Victor Grigas
Moët & Chandon, one of the world's most acclaimed Champagne houses, is nestled in Epernay, often referred to as the "Capital of Champagne." This town, located just south of Reims, boasts the prestigious Avenue de Champagne, where Moët & Chandon's grand residence is a highlight. Founded in 1743 by Claude Moët, the maison quickly gained prominence, becoming the champagne of…
Location: Moët & Chandon, Rue Pupin, Épernay, France | Website | Distance: 24.4km
Visiting Moët & Chandon

Where to Stay in Reims

The best area to stay is in the city center, where boutique hotels and guesthouses provide easy access to Reims Cathedral, the Palais du Tau, and the city’s vibrant dining scene. For a more luxurious experience, staying at a champagne house estate in the surrounding vineyards offers a refined retreat.

A 2 to 3-day stay is ideal for exploring Reims’ historic sites and visiting champagne houses for tastings. A 4-day stay allows for day trips to Épernay, Hautvillers, and the scenic Champagne Route.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Reims. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Reims Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Reims

Reims, located in the Champagne region of northeastern France, is famous for its rich history, stunning cathedral, and world-renowned champagne houses. Here’s a guide to the best time to visit Reims:

  1. Spring (March to May): Spring is a delightful time to visit Reims as the weather begins to warm up, and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. This season is ideal for exploring the city’s historic landmarks, such as the magnificent Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spring also offers opportunities to visit the nearby champagne vineyards and participate in tastings of the region’s famous sparkling wines.
  2. Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Reims, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions, such as the picturesque Place Drouet-d’Erlon and the tranquil Parc de la Patte d’Oie. Summer also brings a variety of cultural events and festivals to Reims, including music concerts, art exhibitions, and food fairs. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this time.
  3. Fall (September to November): Fall is another great time to visit Reims, as the weather remains pleasant, and the summer crowds begin to dissipate. This season is ideal for exploring the city’s museums and galleries, such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Palais du Tau. Fall also offers opportunities for culinary experiences, such as sampling traditional dishes like coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon at local restaurants and bistros.
  4. Winter (December to February): Winter in Reims is relatively quiet, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures. This season offers a more intimate experience for visitors, with the opportunity to explore the city’s indoor attractions, such as its historic churches, museums, and wine cellars, without the crowds. Winter is also a great time to indulge in hearty meals and warm drinks at cozy brasseries and cafes throughout the city.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Reims depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic landmarks, sampling champagne, or experiencing local culture, Reims has something to offer for every traveler throughout the year.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 7°C
  • February 8°C
  • March 12°C
  • April 17°C
  • May 19°C
  • June 23°C
  • July 26°C
  • August 28°C
  • September 23°C
  • October 18°C
  • November 10°C
  • December 8°C

How to get to Reims

Getting to Reims by Plane

Though there are no direct flights to Reims, it’s easy to get here from Paris. There are two airports you can arrive at when flying to Paris: The most convenient is Charles de Gaulle (CDG) international airport which is directly connected by train to Reims and only 30 minutes away. The train departs from CDG 2 train station. It is recommended to book your ticket in advance. The second airport is Orly international airport (ORY) and then travel to Gare de l’est (Paris-East train station) where you can catch the train to Reims. Reims is located 45 mins from Gare de l’est.

Visit Reims by Train

It is easy to travel to Reims from Paris as it is only 45minutes by TGV from Gare de l’Est. Reims is served by two main railway stations: Gare de Reims in the city centre, the hub for regional transport, and the new Gare de Champagne-Ardenne TGV 5 km southwest of the city with high speed rail connections to Paris, Metz, Nancy and Strasbourg. The motorwaysA4 (Paris-Strasbourg) and A26 (Calais-Langres) intersect near Reims.

Getting Around Reims

Reims is a city that can be conveniently explored on foot. Another pleasant option for enjoying sunny days is to rent a bicycle. However, one of the most convenient and cost-effective means of getting around Reims is to purchase a daily bus ticket. These tickets provide access to various modes of public transportation, including trams, regular buses, and 100% electric shuttles. You can obtain these tickets at the Office de Tourisme de Reims located on boulevard Général Leclerc, as well as on board the buses. Information about schedules and directions is clearly displayed on all buses and at bus stops for your convenience.

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