16 Best Things to Do in Reims Champagne

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Best Things to Do in Reims Champagne

During my long weekend getaway to Reims, I discovered a whole host of activities that made my trip unforgettable. Here’s my list of the Reims things to do that you can pull from for inspiration for your next trip.

1. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral

I started my trip here, at the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of France’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. This Gothic cathedral left me in awe with its 2,303 sculpted figures adorning the facades. 

I learned that it was the coronation place for French kings for centuries, including Charles X in 1825. History buffs will love the cathedral’s past, dating back to the baptism of Clovis in 496.

2. Explore the Palais du Tau

Next door to the cathedral, I found the Palais du Tau, the former residence of French kings during their coronation ceremonies. It’s now a museum showcasing treasures from the cathedral and royal artifacts. I particularly enjoyed seeing the coronation robes and learning about the lavish banquets held here.

3. Tour a Champagne House

No trip to Reims is complete without visiting at least one champagne house, although it’s fun to explore more! If you only go to one, I recommend the Taittinger Champagne House. It is the only UNESCO World Heritage site cave in Reims so I just knew I needed to see it! The Benedictine monks were among the first to produce sparkling wines in the caves where Taittinger now stands since 1734.

Check out my round-up of recommended Champagne House tours. I chose to visit in the Autumn and think I timed it right, as tours emphasized what they specifically do during harvest time.

4. Admire the Porte de Mars

When I learned there was a Roman gate from the 2nd century AD, I knew I needed to see it! I was impressed by this massive three-arched Roman gate and walking around it, I saw intricate carvings of Roman gods and goddesses. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history and architecture.

5. Wander Through Place Drouet-d’Erlon Sube Fountain

On a visit to the city’s main square, I found it was the hub of activity. It’s lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for people-watching. I treated myself to a biscuit rose de Reims, a local specialty often paired with champagne.

One of the focal points is the Sube Fountain from 1906. It’s a symbol of the city. Around the base represents the Champagne region’s four rivers: Marne, Vesle, Suippe, and Aisne rivers. Come nightfall, bright pink lights light up the fountain. This fountain and square are not to be missed!

6. Shop in Passage Sube

Shopaholics will want to head to the Passage Sube, inspired by the 19th-century covered passages in Paris. Although it may not be as elegant as the arcades in Paris, it’s still worth visiting, whether it’s just for window shopping.

7. Catch a Performance at Reims Opera House

I stumbled upon the Reims Opera House during my walk through the city center. Built in 1873, it’s an eye-catching Art Deco design and architecture and was inspired by the famous Paris Opera House. I was eager to see a performance, but unfortunately, tickets were sold out for their Friday to Sunday evenings, with no tours available of the interior. If you’re into architecture or performing arts, you’ll love this place.

8. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts

Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Housed in an 18th-century abbey, it features works by Corot and Monet. The highlight for me was seeing one of the four versions of Jacques-Louis David’s “The Death of Marat”.

9. Pop into the Carnegie Library

Those who love Art Deco architecture will appreciate the fine details found here. The stained glass windows, interior fountain, and wood detailing are all well preserved.

I was surprised to find an American connection in Reims at the Carnegie Library. Andrew Carnegie, the American tycoon, donated it to help rebuild the city after World War I.

Travel Tip: You can enter the library without being a citizen or cardholder with access to the main lobby only. Being a solo traveller in the non-peak tourist season and asking politely en francais, I was able to take a quick peek inside the Salle de Lecture. And, was it ever worth it! Take note: book and architecture enthusiasts, this is a top site to visit in Reims. 

10. Eat at the Boulingrin Covered Market

My favourite discovery was the Boulingrin Covered Market. I love local markets, and this one didn’t disappoint. I wandered through stalls filled with fresh produce, cheeses, and pretty flowers.

This large market, built in the 1920s, is a stunning Art Deco design, making it a top site to visit for that reason alone! The market is open on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only. If you’re a foodie or just want to experience daily life in Reims, make sure to stop by here.

11. Walk Through Place Royale

I made a point of walking through the 18th-century Royal Square or Place Royale as I wanted to see the square that was in honour of Louis XV. At the centre is a monument of King Louis with the perimeter of the former Hotel des Fermes. This is a busy roundabout for cars and pedestrians getting you from one area of the city to another. I loved admiring the grandeur of all the historic buildings that frame this busy square. 

12. Venture Underground at the Cryptoportique

I discovered the Cryptoportique, a Roman gallery from nearly 2,000 years ago. It was hidden until the 1920s when someone stumbled upon it during construction. The building is partially buried where beans were stored all those centuries ago. There are only five Gallo Roman cryptoporticus registered in the world, and one of those five is found in Reims.

It sits on Place du Forum, which once served as a large market, but today it serves as a parking lot and is home to popular festivals in Reims, like the Christmas market. Take a free tour of this historical site to learn about the excavations and objects found here.

13. Enjoy a Small Museum at Le Vergeur Hotel & Museum

I was amazed to discover the long history of Le Vergeur Hotel & Museum. Dating back to the 13th century, this is one of the city’s historical monuments. It was once owned by the Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin champagne house in the 19th century. 

In 1910, Hugues Krafft bought it and turned it into a small private museum with a growing collection of decorative arts, furnishings, fine prints, and paintings. The tiny Vergeur Garden was especially a highlight.

14. Discover Square Charles Sarazin

If you love quiet and beautiful places as much as I do, discover Square Charles Sarazin. It’s around the corner from the Vergeur Museum on a tiny street called Rue Pluche. It’s actually built on the remains of an old house with a beautiful Wallace fountain in the center, which adds a touch of Parisian charm. I noticed a plaque mentioning Antoine Pluche, a local historical figure born there in 1688. It’s a peaceful spot for a quick break, especially if you’re interested in local history.

15. Stroll Les Hautes Promenades to Square de la Patte d’Oie

As soon as you exit the Reims train station you can’t help but notice a city square and a long green space stretching to opposite sides. It’s beautifully designed as it separates the train station from the entry to the city.

Most travellers just cut through it, I didn’t, I walked its entirety and loved it. One end is Les Hautes Promenades, a leafy green space with wide boulevards for walking and benches for sitting. At the centre is Square Cobert with a large lawn and a statue in the middle.

Continue in the opposite direction to a park called Basses Promenades. This is a whimsical space full of outdoor activities like a giant swing, hammocks, and rope climbing amongst the tall trees. The walking path cuts through the middle making it a lovely view on either side. Small A-frame cedar huts resembling ski chalets you might find in the Alpes offer snacks to create an impromptu picnic. 

Next, you’ll come upon Porte de Paris which leads you into Square de la Patte d’Oie. Porte de Paris is a large black iron gate that is a smaller version of the gates you find at Chateau Versailles built for King Louis XVI entry into Reims. This park, built in 1733, features ponds, a bandstand, and landscaped gardens. And on its edge is Cirque de Reims, a round building that was a former circus in 1865 and now houses a performing arts theatre. Don’t overlook this area as just another city park or green space. 

16. Rue de Tambour

If you love to stroll pretty streets, Reims is the city to do just that! One of my favourites was Rue de Tambour. Each spring, the cobblestones of La rue de Tambour are painted in an array of colours making it extra photogenic.

This street got its name from a statue of a musician holding a drum on the facade of the Maison des Musiciens, which sadly was destroyed in World War I. On the corner is a cute flower shop, Centaurea, followed by a couple of amazing antique shops, so I had to stop in (and yes, buy something too!). If you are hungry, I recommend you dine at Le Riad restaurant. 

Final Thoughts

After exploring these 16 incredible spots in Reims, I realized something important: travel isn’t about checking boxes, it’s about experiencing a place deeply.

You won’t be able to see everything in one trip – and that’s perfectly okay. My advice? Choose the experiences that truly spark your curiosity. Reims isn’t a destination to rush through, but a place to savour.

Some travellers might be drawn to the champagne houses, while others will lose themselves in architecture. Some will love the museums, others the local markets.

The beauty of travel is that it’s personal.

Don’t stress about seeing everything. Pick 4-5 experiences that genuinely excite you and immerse yourself fully.

Want more France travel inspiration and detailed trip planning resources? Head over to my France travel page where I share insider tips, recommended itineraries, and personal stories from my adventures across this incredible country.