Reims Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the Champagne region, Reims is a city that embodies the essence of French culture and history. Known primarily for its role in the production of the world's most celebrated sparkling wine, Reims is a destination that offers much more than just a taste of luxury.
The city is home to the magnificent Reims Cathedral, a Gothic architectural masterpiece where French kings were once crowned. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts stunning stained glass windows and detailed sculptures that draw visitors from around the globe. The cathedral's history is intertwined with that of the nation, making it a pivotal landmark for anyone interested in France's regal past.
Reims also played a significant role in 20th-century history, as it was here that the Germans surrendered to the Allies in World War II, marking the end of the conflict in Europe. The Musée de la Reddition, located in the very room where the surrender was signed, offers a fascinating glimpse into this momentous event.
For those keen on exploring France's gastronomic delights, Reims does not disappoint. The city is surrounded by vineyards that produce the champagne that bears its name. Visitors can tour various champagne houses, from historic brands like Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger to smaller, boutique producers. These tours often culminate in tastings where one can savor the nuanced flavors of this celebrated beverage.
Reims is also a place where gourmands can indulge in the region's culinary offerings. Local specialties include pink biscuits, which are traditionally dipped in champagne, and decadent dishes such as jambon de Reims, a unique type of ham seasoned with spices and cooked in champagne.
Beyond its champagne and cuisine, Reims offers a range of cultural experiences. The Palais du Tau, another UNESCO World Heritage site, houses an impressive collection of artifacts and tapestries related to the cathedral and the coronations that took place there. Additionally, the city's museums and galleries provide a deeper understanding of the region's art and history.
Reims Attractions - What to See and Explore
Reims offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Reims Cathedral, Palace of Tau, Abbey of Saint-Remi, Fort de la Pompelle. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Reims – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Reims, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Faux de Verzy, Château de Montcornet, Château de Condé (Condé-en-Brie).
Best Time To Visit Reims
Learn when is the best time to travel to Reims weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience Reims
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Duck
Duck meat, sourced from various species within the Anatidae family, is a cherished ingredient in kitchens worldwide. Renowned for its rich flavor, the meat is primarily obtained from the bird's breasts and legs. Unlike other poultry, duck meat is considered white meat...
Meat
Gratin
Gratin is a delectable cooking technique originating from French cuisine. It entails topping your dish with a browned, crispy crust made from ingredients such as breadcrumbs, grated cheese, eggs, or butter. Typically prepared in a shallow dish, the dish is then either...
Dish
Croissant
A croissant is a buttery, flaky pastry that originated in Austria and is cherished worldwide for its distinctive crescent shape. Made from layered, yeast-leavened dough, croissants achieve their flaky texture through a process called laminating, where butter is folded...
Bread
French cuisine
French cuisine is a treasure trove of culinary delights that have evolved over centuries, drawing influences from various cultures and regions within France. It represents a harmonious fusion of local culinary traditions and flavors from neighboring countries such as...
Cuisine
Escargot
Escargots, or cooked edible land snails, are a cherished hors d'oeuvre in France and are also enjoyed in many other countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Cyprus, Greece, and North African nations such as Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco.
Dish
Grand Est