Your Ultimate City Guide To Reims

Unofficially referred to as the capital of Champagne, Reims will satisfy any traveler with its feudal history, culinary flair, and bubbly spirit.

Less popular than other large French cities, Reims has often been a “pass-through” town but never a final destination. But, the eastern city is a French historical and cultural jewel, in addition to being one of the most renowned champagne producers in the region. It is a dreamy little French hidden gem with tree-lined avenues, a majestic gothic cathedral, and opulent hotels which never fails to sweep visitors off their feet.

HOW TO GET THERE

Located 1-hour and 30 minutes away from the capital by car, Reims can be reached both by car or train. By train, it is less than an hour, making it possible to spend a serene weekend away from Paris. If you wish to visit the surrounding areas of the town and sleep in the recommended hotels, you can either drive to Reims or rent a car on-site.

DO

Champagne Gosset

12 Rue Godart Roger, 51200 Épernay

Founded in 1584 by Pierre Gosset, this family-owned Champagne House is undisputedly the oldest house in the region and one of the biggest in France. Formerly producing red wine, the Gosset family started making champagne when they discovered bubbles in their fermented wine. Located just outside of Reims, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes are locally grown and bought from Grand Cru (most renowned) vineyards. The Gosset champagne is the most prestigious cuvée of the house and produced with extreme attention, including aging them four to ten years in a dark cellar. After visiting the revered House of Gosset, sit down to a full lunch paired with the most exquisite vintage Gosset Champagnes. Conservation, elegance, and family are the core values behind this French institution.

Hot tip: avoid going during September as most of the Champagne Houses are closed due to harvest season!

The Gosset cellars
The Gosset cellars. FACEBOOK Champagne Gosset

The Reims Cathedral

Pl. du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims

Universally known, the Reims Cathedral carries the entirety of French Catholicism and history on its shoulders. If you must only see one French Cathedral, it ought to be the one in Reims. Built during 13th century, the Reims Cathedral is the finest example of gothic architecture and 13th century art techniques in France. Its second claim to fame? This landmark played host to more than 30 sovereign coronations over the span of 1,000 years, naming Reims the city where kings are made. But, the Cathedral adapted with the times, including: serving as a hospital during WWI and as a grain factory during the French Revolution. After withstanding fires and being left in a state of decrepitude, the Reims Cathedral was restored to its former glory and listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991. Admire the Rose window and the 2,200 statues, especially the famous smiling angel adorning the western façade.

The Reims Cathedral
The Reims Cathedral. Photo by Reno Laithienne on Unsplash

EAT

Café du Palais

14 Pl. Myron Herrick, 51100 Reims

Art-Déco museum or restaurant? Located in the center of Old Reims, Café du Palais is the perfect chic spot for a night out in the city or a mid-day succulent break. From the beautifully displayed dishes to various artworks and statues gilding the space; Café du Palais delivers a feast for the eyes. To satisfy your sense of taste, the menu is brimming with regional dishes, such as: La Champenoise (Reims ham terrine,) and locally sourced cheese accompanied by potatoes and an extensive list of Champagnes. While waiting for your dish, admire the decoration around you. From discreet sculptures to vintage furniture, an abundance of quirky trinkets are displayed for your own enjoyment. Family-owned since 1903, the sweeping Café du Palais is perfect for a traditional meal in a scenic dining room.

Café du Palais
Café du Palais. FACEBOOK Café du Palais, Reims, depuis 1930

L’Assiette Champenoise

40 Av. Paul Vaillant-Couturier, 51430 Tinqueux

Farmhouse sweetbreads with carrots
Farmhouse sweetbreads with carrots. FACEBOOK L’assiette champenoise, A. Lallement

The chic restaurant of Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement is the trendiest place to eat in Reims. Situated on the outskirts of the city in a beautiful and secluded hotel, L’Assiette Champenoise is the ideal place for a serene yet amazing culinary experience. The chef revisits timeless Champagne dishes by adding an innovative twist, including: milk fed lamb with leek and Breton jumbo shrimp. For seafood lovers, try the Chef’s exquisite blue lobster as it is a tribute to his father. Passionate about high-quality and regionally grown produce, expect only the best when you dine at L’Assiette Champenoise! The stylish yet modest dining room is contemporary embellished with earth tones and plush furniture. Ode to Reims’ traditions and signature flavors, this restaurant will not disappoint.

STAY

Hôtel L’Assiette Champenoise

40 Av. Paul Vaillant-Couturier, 51430 Tinqueux

The indoor pool of the hotel
The indoor pool of the hotel. FACEBOOK L’assiette champenoise, A. Lallement

The chic restaurant of Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement is the trendiest place to eat in Reims. Situated on the outskirts of the city in a beautiful and secluded hotel, L’Assiette Champenoise is the ideal place for a serene yet amazing culinary experience. The chef revisits timeless Champagne dishes by adding an innovative twist, including: milk fed lamb with leek and Breton jumbo shrimp. For seafood lovers, try the Chef’s exquisite blue lobster as it is a tribute to his father. Passionate about high-quality and regionally grown produce, expect only the best when you dine at L’Assiette Champenoise! The stylish yet modest dining room is contemporary embellished with earth tones and plush furniture. Ode to Reims’ traditions and signature flavors, this restaurant will not disappoint.

A typical suite of the hotel
A room in the hotel. FACEBOOK L’assiette champenoise, A. Lallement

Les Crayères

64 Bd Henry Vasnier, 51100 Reims

A room in the hotel
A room in the hotel. FACEBOOK DOMAINE LES CRAYERES
Eve McGuardian

Contributor

Eve was born and raised in NYC and later on, moved to Paris. She grew up in an international home and is fluent in both French and English. Every chance she gets, she travels; either to discover a new culture or as a volunteer in an organization. The most memorable cities she has been to are: Ischia, a little island off the coast of Naples for the people, Istanbul for the culture, and Paris for the architecture.

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