Famous for its cathedral, where French kings were traditionally crowned, Reims (pronounced ‘Rance’ with a nasal twang and a guttural roll on the R if you can manage that!), is a lovely city on the banks of the River Vesle. This vibrant city offers a wealth of interesting buildings, good hotels, excellent restaurants, and of course, an abundance of delightful Champagne to sample at the various Champagne houses in the area.

Reims is recognized as one of France’s most popular destinations for international visitors.

General Information

• Capital of the Champagne Region
• Population: 215,500
• Tourist Office:
  2 rue Guillaume de Machault

Getting There

• By Train: Trains leave Paris Est station regularly throughout the day, taking approximately 45 minutes to reach Reims via the high-speed TGV.
• By Road: From Paris, take the A4/E50 directly to Reims (143 kms, 89 miles). If you’re heading from Calais, take the A26/E15 towards Arras, then the A26/E17 directly to Reims (275 km/171 miles).

Hotels

Château les Crayères
64 bd Henry Vasnier
Set in its own parkland with wonderful views from the terrace, this chateau provides a peaceful atmosphere for luxury visits. Built in 1904, its stone façade appears more historic, while inside offers luxurious and comfortable accommodations with elegant fittings. Two dining options are available on site.

Grand Hotel des Templiers
22 rue des Templiers
Housed in a 19th-century building once owned by a champagne agent, this hotel is located just outside the main center. Comfortable rooms and well-equipped bathrooms offer a pleasant stay, complemented by a heated swimming pool. Note that breakfast is the only meal served.

Hotel de la Cathedrale
20 rue Libergier
A great choice for those seeking a basic stay near the cathedral, featuring small, brightly decorated rooms. Breakfast is the only meal served.

Latino Cafe Hotel
33 place Drouet-d’Erlon
This central hotel provides a lively atmosphere, offering a friendly welcome, basic yet colorful rooms, and an inexpensive restaurant ideal for a quick meal.

Where to Eat

The dining scene in Reims is diverse, particularly around the main Place Drouet-d’Erlon, which is perfect for a light lunch. You can find plenty of excellent food at various restaurants, brasseries, and bistros throughout the city.

Specialties

While Reims is synonymous with Champagne, it is also known for its edible treats. Since the 15th century, it has been recognized as the capital of gingerbread making after King Henry IV legalized the Gingerbread Makers’ Guild.

Be sure to try the traditional Biscuit Rose (pink biscuits) of Reims, one of the oldest French biscuits. You might also opt for the twice-baked biscuits that have been a delightful treat for over 300 years. These treats were created in the 1690s by bakers who sought to maximize their use of cooling bread ovens. A visit to any four branches of Maison Fossier, established in 1845, is a must for these delicacies. Their most central location can be found at 25 cours Jean-Baptiste-Langlet.

Attractions

Reims has no shortage of attractions, especially in the city center. Make sure to explore the magnificent Gothic cathedral, one of France’s great treasures. Among other notable sites are the Palais du Tau, a former palace of the powerful bishops of Reims built in 1690, and the Basilique St-Remi, which dates back to the year 1007.

Additionally, do not overlook the Musé des Beaux-Arts, housing a fascinating collection featuring two Gauguin still lifes and a range of German portraits. Another interesting site is the Musée de la Reddition, Eisenhower’s headquarters from February 1945.

Champagne Houses to Visit

Many prestigious Champagne producers offer tours at their houses and caves. Notably, in the southern part of the city center near Abbaye St-Remi, the cellars are particularly stunning and some were carved from the Gallo-Roman quarries that built the city.

You can often visit many producers without a prior reservation, especially in summer when their hours are extended. However, certain tours may require a reservation, which typically includes a guided tour in English.

Markets

• Flea Market: 1st Sunday of each month at the Reims Exhibition Centre, Site Henri Farman
• Markets: Daily from 6 am to 1 pm in various parts of the city (details available at the Tourist Office).