12 Amazingly Beautiful Places in Champagne (Wine Region of France) That Feel Unreal

Champagne isn’t just about the bubbles, trust me. When I first wandered through the underground cellars of Reims, where millions of bottles age in chalk tunnels carved by Romans, I realized this place was way more epic than I imagined. Standing in the middle of Hautvillers vineyard, where Dom Pérignon supposedly yelled, “Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!” I finally got why this region is so special.

From the jaw-dropping Gothic cathedral of Reims (where French kings were crowned for centuries) to the endless rows of vines in the Côte des Blancs, these are the most beautiful places in Champagne that’ll make you fall in love with more than just the wine. Let me show you my favorite spots in this incredible region where every view comes with a side of world-class bubbly!

Best Things to Do in Champagne

Visiting Champagne? Spend the day exploring the historic Abbey of Hautvillers, stroll along the prestigious Avenue de Champagne, or marvel at the stunning Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims. Discover the renowned vineyards of Côte des Blancs, indulge in world-class champagne tastings, or enjoy fine dining in the heart of the region. Whether you’re into history, wine culture, or scenic landscapes, Champagne has plenty to offer!

1. Abbey of Hautvillers

• 📍 Location: Northern France, about 30 minutes south of Reims in the Marne department of Champagne
• 🏆 Best For: Wine enthusiasts 🍾, history lovers 🏛️, architecture admirers 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Dom Pérignon’s tomb, touring the historic abbey grounds, enjoying panoramic vineyard views
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for optimal vineyard views, harvest season (September) for full wine experience 🍇
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Nearby village of Hautvillers offers charming B&Bs – Traditional champagne houses with authentic atmosphere

The legendary Abbey of Hautvillers towers above rolling vineyards as the birthplace of champagne itself. Here, the monk Dom Pérignon perfected the method of creating sparkling wine in the 17th century. His tomb rests inside the abbey church, drawing pilgrims from the wine world.

Walking through the quaint village of Hautvillers reveals charming champagne houses and artisanal shops along flower-lined streets. I could spend hours on the abbey terrace photographing the patchwork of vineyards below. The perfect visit includes exploring both the historic buildings and enjoying tastings at local producers who continue the abbey’s sparkling legacy.

2. Avenue de Champagne

• 📍 Location: Épernay, heart of the Champagne region, about 2 hours east of Paris
• 🏆 Best For: Luxury seekers 💎, champagne connoisseurs 🥂, architecture enthusiasts 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring prestigious champagne houses, exploring underground cellars, strolling the grand boulevard
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round for cellar tours (constant cool temperatures), summer for garden events 🌳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Jean Moët – Elegant boutique hotel in a historic mansion on Avenue de Champagne

The magnificent Avenue de Champagne houses billions in bubbly beneath its elegant streets. Over 110km of underground cellars store more than 200 million bottles, while grand mansions showcase stunning 19th-century architecture above ground. Famous houses, including Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët, welcome visitors for tours.

Most tours take you deep into chalk cellars before tastings in opulent salons. The spectacular gardens behind Moët & Chandon offer peaceful retreats after exploring. My favorite experience was simply strolling the avenue at sunset when golden light bathes the limestone facades. Book tours at two houses and allow time to absorb the atmosphere of this legendary street.

3. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims

• 📍 Location: Center of Reims, the largest city in Champagne, about 45 minutes from Épernay
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture admirers 🏛️, history buffs 👑, art lovers 🎨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Marveling at the stunning Gothic facade, seeing the Chagall stained glass windows, learning about royal coronations
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round (interior), spring and summer for best exterior light and facade details ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa – Luxury hotel with cathedral views from its rooftop terrace

The majestic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims witnessed the coronation of nearly every French king for over 1,000 years. Its stunning facade features 2,303 statues, including the famous Smiling Angel that symbolizes the region. Step inside to discover soaring 38-meter vaults and exceptional blue and gold stained glass windows created by Marc Chagall.

The dramatic rose window and original 13th-century labyrinth transport visitors to medieval times. After admiring the interior, circle the exterior to appreciate the flying buttresses from multiple angles. Nothing compares to seeing the evening light show in summer when colorful projections bring the cathedral’s history to life.

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4. Côte des Blancs

• 📍 Location: South of Épernay, stretching from Chouilly to Vertus in the Marne department
• 🏆 Best For: Chardonnay lovers 🍇, scenic drive enthusiasts 🚗, photography buffs 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Grand Cru villages, tasting prestigious blanc de blancs champagnes, hiking vineyard trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring for flowering vines, September for harvest activity, autumn for golden foliage 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hostellerie La Briqueterie – Luxurious country retreat with vineyard views and spa

The stunning Côte des Blancs produces champagne’s most elegant Chardonnay on bright chalky soil. This gentle east-facing slope connects prestigious Grand Cru villages, including Avize, Cramant, and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, each creating distinctively different expressions of the white grape.

The landscape mesmerizes with perfectly manicured rows of vines stretching across rolling hills. Smaller family producers offer intimate tasting experiences that showcase terroir differences. Walking trails through the vineyards provide spectacular vistas that I captured in countless photos. Plan a full day exploring villages and stopping for lunch at a local bistro serving regional specialties with crisp blanc de blancs.

5. Côtes de Sezzane

• 📍 Location: Southwest extension of the Côte des Blancs, about 30 minutes south of Épernay
• 🏆 Best For: Off-the-beaten-path explorers 🧭, value seekers 💰, authenticity hunters 🔍
• 📸 Top Experiences: Discovering boutique producers, exploring the historic town of Sézanne, enjoying intimate tastings
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for flowering orchards, autumn for colorful foliage and less tourism 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Les Grains d’Argent – Charming country inn with vineyard views and gourmet restaurant

The picturesque Côtes de Sezzane delivers authentic champagne experiences without crowds. A new generation of innovative winemakers creates exceptional bubbles while maintaining traditions. The medieval town of Sézanne anchors the region with timbered buildings, a charming central square, and a magnificent 16th-century church.

Surrounding countryside blends vineyards with orchards and woodlands. Meeting winemakers personally makes visits special, as they often guide tours themselves. You can taste directly with the people who grow the grapes and make the wine. The area offers excellent value compared to famous regions, making it perfect for discovering hidden gems in a relaxed setting.

6. Côtes des Bar

• 📍 Location: Southern Champagne region in the Aube department, about 2 hours south of Reims
• 🏆 Best For: Pinot Noir enthusiasts 🍷, scenery lovers 🏞️, budget-conscious travelers 💸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring boutique producers, visiting medieval Troyes, enjoying pastoral landscapes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through October for optimal countryside views; avoid winter as many producers close ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Le Domaine du Tournefou – Artist-run guesthouse in a renovated farm complex

The distinctive Côtes des Bar feels more like Burgundy than traditional Champagne. Bold, fruit-forward wines from Pinot Noir grapes grow on unique Kimmeridgian limestone soils. The picturesque region surprises with vineyards interspersed among forests, meadows, and sleepy villages.

The historic city of Troyes captivates visitors with its remarkable collection of half-timbered houses and Gothic cathedral. Small producers like Cédric Bouchard have earned cult status for terroir-focused champagnes. When visiting these wineries, appointments feel refreshingly casual compared to grand houses. I cherished conversations with passionate vintners who balance tradition with innovation in this underappreciated region.

7. Jardin d’Horticulture Pierre Schneiter

• 📍 Location: Southern Reims, about 20 minutes walking from the city center
• 🏆 Best For: Garden lovers 🌷, peaceful strollers 🚶‍♀️, photography enthusiasts 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Admiring seasonal blooms, exploring the Chinese-style pavilion, relaxing by the ornamental lake
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for flowers in bloom, autumn for colorful foliage 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hôtel de la Paix – Elegant accommodation just a short walk from the gardens

Step into a botanical wonderland spanning over 5 hectares at Jardin d’Horticulture Pierre Schneiter. This English-style garden features meandering pathways, meticulously landscaped flowerbeds, and trees from around the world. The garden’s centerpiece is the charming Chinese-inspired pavilion overlooking a serene ornamental lake where water lilies bloom in summer.

Throughout the year, the garden transforms with the seasons from spring tulips to summer roses. I could spend hours photographing the greenhouse filled with exotic plants. For the perfect afternoon, find a hidden bench perfect for contemplation or enjoy a quiet picnic under the shade of century-old trees.

8. Marne Valley

• 📍 Location: Southeast of Reims, extending about 30 minutes to 1 hour driving from the city
• 🏆 Best For: Wine enthusiasts 🍾, countryside explorers 🌄, gastronomy lovers 🍽️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring prestigious champagne houses, biking through vineyards, river cruising
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September during harvest season or May-August for lush green vineyards
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa – Luxury accommodations with panoramic views of the vineyards

The rolling landscape of the Marne Valley showcases endless vineyards where the world’s most celebrated bubbly is born. This beautiful region follows the meandering Marne River through a patchwork of premier vineyard plots and picturesque villages. The valley hosts both famous champagne houses and small family producers, all offering unique tasting experiences.

Follow the Route du Champagne to discover villages like Hautvillers, where Dom Pérignon perfected champagne-making. My favorite way to explore is renting bikes to pedal through vineyards between tastings. Local restaurants serve regional specialties perfectly paired with the local sparkling wine, making this area a must-visit for wine lovers.

9. Palais du Tau

• 📍 Location: Central Reims, adjacent to the Cathedral
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, architecture enthusiasts 🏰, art lovers 🎨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the royal coronation treasures, exploring the medieval banquet hall, admiring tapestries
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with fewer crowds during weekday mornings
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hôtel de la Cathédrale – Boutique accommodation steps away from the Palais

Walk in the footsteps of French kings at Palais du Tau, the former archbishop’s residence where monarchs stayed before their coronations. This magnificent palace houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including original cathedral sculptures, coronation regalia, and stunning tapestries. The massive Banquet Hall once hosted lavish post-coronation feasts with royal splendor.

The museum’s most precious items include Charlemagne’s talisman and the Holy Ampulla used to anoint kings. I was amazed by the 15th-century Flemish tapestries telling biblical stories in vibrant threads. The palace layout follows the traditional coronation route, creating a journey through 800 years of French royal history.

10. Parc de Champagne

• 📍 Location: Eastern Reims, about 15 minutes driving from the city center
• 🏆 Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts 🌳, families 👨‍👩‍👦, sports lovers 🏃‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking woodland trails, enjoying sporting facilities, attending summer concerts
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for outdoor activities and events 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Best Western Hôtel de la Paix – Comfortable lodging with easy access to the park

Discover a sprawling 22-hectare recreational wonderland at Parc de Champagne, created in 1910 by the Pommery champagne family. This English-style park offers extensive sports facilities, including tennis courts, football fields, and jogging paths winding through mature woodlands. Families love the dedicated children’s play areas and wide open spaces perfect for picnicking under ancient trees.

During summer months, the park hosts concerts, festivals, and open-air cinema events. I’ve never seen a more perfect spot for morning jogs among the diverse collection of trees in the arboretum. The historic pavilions throughout the grounds provide glimpses into Reims’ champagne heritage while offering shelter on rainy days.

11. Porte Mars

• 📍 Location: Northern edge of central Reims
• 🏆 Best For: Ancient history enthusiasts 🏛️, architecture photographers 📸, Roman civilization buffs 🗿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Examining the detailed Roman reliefs, walking through the massive triple archway, joining a guided historical tour
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, early morning for best photography light 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Continental Hôtel – Classic accommodation within walking distance

Marvel at the largest remaining Roman arch in the world at Porte Mars, a magnificent testament to Reims’ ancient past. This imposing triumphal gate stands 13 meters high and 32 meters wide, featuring three monumental arches that once served as the city entrance. Dating from the 3rd century AD, the arch displays remarkably preserved reliefs depicting Roman mythology and scenes of daily life.

Look closely to spot Romulus and Remus, agricultural calendars, and figures representing the months. I found it mind-boggling that this structure has witnessed nearly two millennia of history. The central arch originally accommodated vehicle traffic, while the smaller arches served pedestrians, showing Roman urban planning at its finest.

12. Reims

• 📍 Location: Northeastern France, 45 minutes by high-speed train from Paris
• 🏆 Best For: Champagne connoisseurs 🥂, cathedral admirers 🏛️, history enthusiasts 🕰️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the UNESCO-listed cathedral, touring champagne cellars, exploring Art Deco architecture
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through October for pleasant weather and vineyard activities 🍇
• 🏨 Where to Stay: La Caserne Chanzy – Luxury hotel with cathedral views

Explore the unofficial capital of the Champagne region in Reims, where 2,000 years of history blend with sophisticated wine culture. The city’s crown jewel is the breathtaking Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece where 25 French monarchs were crowned. Its facade features over 2,300 statues, complemented by stunning stained glass windows, including contemporary designs by Marc Chagall.

Tour prestigious champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger, where underground chalk cellars reveal the secrets of bubbly production. I consider the city’s remarkable Art Deco architecture unmissable, rebuilt beautifully after WWI destruction. The pedestrian-friendly center makes it easy to discover local gastronomy at the covered market while soaking in the royal heritage of this compact but magnificent city.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Champagne 

Want to deepen your understanding of Champagne ‘s most beautiful places? Here are some questions that often come up regarding the best sites to visit in Champagne.

Where is the best Champagne region in France?

The term “best” is subjective when it comes to the Champagne regions in France, as each offers its own unique characteristics and experiences. However, the Montagne de Reims is often the best region for its high-quality Pinot Noir grapes and its close proximity to Reims, a city rich in history and culture. This region is renowned for its terroir, which contributes to the distinctive flavors of its Champagne.

What is the most beautiful village in Champagne?

The village of Hautvillers is frequently lauded as the most beautiful in Champagne. Known as the “Cradle of Champagne,” it’s where Dom Pérignon, a Benedictine monk, made significant contributions to the method of Champagne production. The village is picturesque, with its cobblestone streets, historic abbey, and stunning views over the vineyards.

Which city in France is famous for Champagne?

Reims is the city most famously associated with Champagne. Often considered the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, Reims is home to some of the most prestigious Champagne houses, including Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger. The city’s iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims is also a must-see.

What is the Champagne region in France famous for?

The Champagne region in France is globally famous for producing Champagne, the sparkling wine that can only be called “Champagne” if it comes from this specific region. The area has a rich history, including landmarks like the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, and its beautiful landscapes, such as the Marne Valley.

Which region is famous for wine and Champagne?

While the Champagne region is famous for its sparkling wines, the Bordeaux region is globally renowned for its red wines. Both regions are iconic in the world of viticulture but specialize in different types of wine. Bordeaux offers complex red blends, while Champagne has lots of unique sparkling wines.

What are the three main regions in Champagne?

The three main regions in Champagne are:

• Montagne de Reims: Known for its Pinot Noir grapes, this region offers a variety of landscapes, including forests and vineyards. It’s close to the city of Reims, making it easily accessible for tourists.
• Côte des Blancs: This region is famous for its Chardonnay grapes. It’s named for the “white” hillsides that are covered in Chardonnay vineyards.
• Vallée de la Marne: This region is famous for its Pinot Meunier grapes. It offers a diverse range of landscapes and is particularly beautiful, with the Marne River running through it.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Champagne

Ah, Champagne, a region that bubbles over with more than just its iconic sparkling wine. From the ancient arches of Porte Mars to the serene landscapes of Parc de Champagne, this French gem offers a diverse array of experiences that go beyond the vineyard. Whether you’re a history aficionado, a nature lover, or a connoisseur of fine bubbles, Champagne has something to captivate every traveler’s heart.

It’s not just a place to visit in Champagne; it’s a destination to experience, to savor, and to remember. Each village, each city, and each scenic vista tells a story—a story of culture, of history, and of the Earth’s natural splendor. And let’s not forget the liquid gold that flows generously, elevating every moment spent here.

So, the next time you find yourself dreaming of a getaway that offers both cultural richness and natural beauty, remember that some of the most beautiful places in Champagne are waiting to fill your days with wonder and your glasses with sparkle.

Cheers to your next adventure in this enchanting region of France, where every sip and every sight is a celebration of life’s finest offerings.