Welcome to Reims, city of coronations and jewel of Champagne
A city full of history and character, Reims invites you to step back in time through its majestic monuments and lively streets. With its royal heritage, Champagne sparkle, and cultural discoveries, it offers a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. As the coronation capital of French kings, it now enchants visitors with the diversity of its neighborhoods, the richness of its gourmet addresses, and the elegance of its atmosphere.
A city to discover neighborhood by neighborhood
The historic center concentrates most of Reims' architectural treasures. Stroll through lively squares, Art Deco facades, terrace cafés, and gourmet shops. Around the cathedral, each street reveals a unique ambiance, from Place Drouet-d’Erlon to the discreet alleys near the Forum. A little further, the Saint-Remi district immerses you in a more peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, under the shadow of its millennial basilica.
To the west, around the chalk pits, the Champagne houses present another face of Reims, where effervescence is rooted in underground cellars. Finally, the heights of the Saint-Nicaise hill provide a vantage point, both visually and sensorially, with stunning views over the city and its surroundings.
An exceptional open-air heritage
Reims impresses with its outstanding heritage. The unmissable Notre-Dame Cathedral astonishes with its Gothic architecture and modern stained glass windows, including those created by Chagall. Next door, the Palais du Tau recounts the grand history of royal coronations. Further down, the Saint-Remi Basilica and its abbey immerse you in a spiritual and historical atmosphere, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Among the hidden gems, the Villa Demoiselle embodies the elegance of a transitional period between Art Nouveau and Art Deco. The Fine Arts Museum, Gallo-Roman remains like the Porte de Mars, and the Museum of Surrender of 1945 further enrich this journey through time.
The secret mark of Art Deco
Partially rebuilt after World War I, Reims boasts one of the finest collections of Art Deco architecture in France. Beyond the Carnegie Library, you can admire the Boulingrin Market, buildings with geometric motifs along Lundy Boulevard or Cernay Street, and numerous public or private buildings with bold lines. A themed walk will allow you to fully appreciate its discreet yet rich heritage.
Unusual and underground Reims
Behind its orderly facades, Reims hides a fascinating underground city. The chalk pits, chalk galleries dug more than 20 meters deep, now house the prestigious cellars of major Champagne houses. But some former quarries or wartime shelters also bear witness to a discreet but rich history. Guided tours offer you the chance to explore this other Reims, more secretive and mineral.
The contemporary scene and alternative venues
Reims is not just about its past. It also fosters a vibrant artistic energy, showcased in innovative venues like La Fileuse, a cultural hub for contemporary creation, or La Cartonnerie, a flagship concert hall for modern music. Other spots like Le Cellier or The Shed host exhibitions and hybrid events, contributing to a dynamic and accessible cultural scene.
Champagne and culinary delights
A visit to Reims would not be complete without experiencing Champagne. Prestigious houses like Taittinger, Mumm, Veuve Clicquot, or Ruinart open their cellars for tours, but those seeking authenticity will equally enjoy independent winemakers offering more intimate tastings. Everywhere, food and Champagne pairings become an art in their own right, elevated by Reims' chefs.
Local gastronomy also holds pleasant surprises: Reims ham, Fossier pink biscuits, regional cheeses, artisanal terrines, and gingerbread can be discovered at the Boulingrin Markets or in fine grocery stores in the city center. Dining in Reims stands out for the quality of its restaurants, from Michelin-starred establishments to contemporary bistros, always showcasing regional products.
Events to experience all year round
Reims buzzes with numerous cultural and gastronomic events. In September, the Relais du Goût gathers chefs, producers, and winemakers for meetings and tastings. Other events, such as the Wine and Gastronomy Fair, music festivals, open-air shows, or the cathedral's light and sound shows, keep the city lively throughout the year. Each season offers its own set of discoveries.
Getaways and nature at the city’s doorstep
A few kilometers from the center, the Montagne de Reims opens up new horizons. This natural haven combines forests, vineyards, and charming Champagne villages. Verzy, with its famous Faux (trees with strange shapes), Hautvillers, the birthplace of Dom Pérignon, or the quirky lighthouse of Verzenay, offer great ideas for excursions. Ideal by bike or car, this area allows you to combine heritage, nature, and art de vivre.
Our best tips for a successful visit
To fully appreciate Reims, take your time to walk, lose yourself in its streets, and step through open doors into courtyards or small museums. Book your cellar or restaurant visits in advance, especially during the high season. Don’t hesitate to join a themed guided tour (Art Deco, Unusual Reims, Champagne and heritage), or meet locals through a workshop or shared dinner.
Finally, be curious and open-minded: Reims reveals itself as much through its major monuments as through its more intimate details. It’s a city to be savored like a glass of Champagne... slowly, with attention, and always with pleasure.
