Visit Reims, France’s champagne capital
If want to learn about champagne’s history and taste the different varieties there is no better place than visiting Reims, France’s champagne capital. Beside the abundance of champagne the city of Reims has a lot to offer its visitors. Located just under two hundred miles from Paris a visit to Reims is a convenient addition to your Paris trip. Simple grab a train from Paris and spend a day or two in the Reims area.
Reims is a busy university town with numerous terraces cafes, beautiful architecture, shopping and culture. One of the first places you should visit in Reims is place d’Erlon. This is right in the centre of the city and is the location of many cafes where you can sit on the terrace and just soak up the city’s vibe.
One of Reims most popular and best sites is the Notre Dame Cathedral. This enormous gothic cathedral has been a common and important character in French history. There were twenty five coronations held at the Notre Dame Cathedral in Reims. The most interesting coronation held here is that of King Charles VII in 1429. Joan of Arc who gave Charles VII advice on what to do with his troops in 1429 witnessed it. The area around the cathedral is also a great spot for shopping and eating. There are a number of little food shops to rest your feet at.
If you visit Reims there is one feature of this city that you cannot ignore, learning and tasting its champagne. It is the French capital of champagne after all. Two of the most famous Reims champagnes are Mumm and Veuve Cliquot-Ponsardin. A great way to experience Reims champagne making is by taking a tour.
One quirky family orientated tour is located at Piper Heidsieck. This tour will give you a great view of the areas champagne making business in a fun and fast paced way. If you would like a sophisticated guided tour then visit Taittinger House.
In the evening the best place in Reims to go is the place d’Erlon. It is the location of many of Reims best restaurants and bars. There is no shortage of happening nightlife in Reims to enjoy if that is what you like.
Another excellent attraction in Reims is the Reims Fine Arts Museum. This museum is home to a good number of excellent French works of art. If you enjoy historically significant architecture there are sites few worth noting in Reims. Located on the Place de La Republic you will find Porte de Mars.
This is the former Roman entrance to Reims and it dates back to the third century AD. For beautiful gothic architecture and stained glass examples dating back to the twelfth century pay a visit to Basilique Saint Remi
The shopping in Reims won’t let you down. In fact because this is a wealthy city you will find not shortage of French and international haute couture. One shop you won’t want to miss while visiting Reims is Galleries Lafayette. It is very similar to its famous sister store located in Paris. You will find this excellent department store near the Notre Dame Cathedral.
If you would like to experience some French market culture make sure to visit Reims on a Wednesday or Saturday. On both of these days running from early morning until lunchtime you will find a bustling market near the Porte de Mars.
So you see there is more to Reims than its famous champagne. The long history and location near Paris make Reims a perfect addition to any French trip. While in Reims of course make sure to visit its champagne houses but also make sure to explore some of its is excellent food, history and culture.
Reference:
- www.tripadvisor.com travel guide
