An independent day trip on a recent trip to Paris turned into one of my most memorable ones. Reims is just a 45-minute high-speed TGV train ride outside of Paris and offers the visitor a city full of history, architecture, and delicious champagne! After all, it is the gateway to the Champagne region.
Before we left the states, I purchased tickets from Paris to Reims. Just head over to the SCNF website for details.
We took a mid-morning train from Gare de L’Est and we were in Reims by 11:00 am. First thing, we headed over to the local tourist office next to the station to get a map and we were off to explore.
Our first stop was:
MUSEUM OF THE SURRENDER
This museum is the perfect example of why researching your trip is so important and rewarding.
Although it’s a bit out of the way from the city center and train station, it is worth the walk. It commemorates the end of World War II in Europe at the actual site of surrender. Visitors can browse through displays of actual items, and uniforms and most importantly, view the room where the German generals unconditionally surrendered to the Allies, ending WWII.
LUNCH
After learning so much, we were hungry and lunch was in order.
So on our way back to the city center, we stopped at Le Petit Basque. And what a find. Delicious paella was in our minds and this lovely local dining establishment did not disappoint.
After we filled our bellies, we walked the main boulevard in Reim’s, taking in the city, and in the near distance stood the majestic…
REIMS CATHEDRAL
Notre-Dame de Reims, is a Roman Catholic cathedral in the French city of the same name, the archiepiscopal see of the Archdiocese of Reims. The cathedral was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and was the traditional location for the coronation of the kings of France. And its beauty and significance are not to be missed.
The Cathedral is especially known for the number of statues that adorn its walls: 2302! In fact, it’s the world’s only religious edifice that contains the largest number of statues, one of which is particularly famous; The Smiling Angel, the emblem of Reims.
After visiting the majestic cathedral, it was time to learn about all things bubbly and tour a Champagne house so off we went to…
MUMMS CHAMPAGNE HOUSE
Before we left home, I booked a tour of this champagne house and I am glad I did. My advice is to do this sooner than later. These tours book up faster. Do not expect to get in by just showing up.
This champagne house definitely met our needs. It was walkable from the train station, offering well-reviewed cave and tasting tours. Our tour guide was wonderful, providing an overview of the region and the champagne house. He led us into the areas of the house where the champagne is made and down into its caves. Amazing!
Our tour ended with a delicious tasting and of course, we bought a bottle of bubbly. Important tip: You cannot bring champagne on the plane, either as checked or carry-on luggage. Plan to drink before you go home or have it shipped.
It was time to head back to our train and bid au revoir to Reims. We hope to come back again someday!
If you plan on visiting Paris in the near future and are interested in practical tips on making it a memorable vacation, click here to read my blog post.