After nine years of living in France and tons of trips to Reims, I’m still surprised by how much this city has to offer in just a single day.
Every visit feels a little bit different—maybe it’s the sparkle of a new champagne house, or a new exhibit at one of the museums.
I love the history, elegance, and how easy it is to get to without a car. When I lived in Paris, it was less than an hour by train, and now that I am in Strasbourg, the train ride is only two hours.
In this guide, I’ll share my favorite ways to spend one day in Reims. These are the places that make this city special to me, and I hope they’ll do the same for you.
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Morning
Marvel at the Reims Cathedral
Built in the 12th century, the Reims Cathedral (or the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims) is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture.
And, in 1991, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At first glance, it’s easy to see why the kings of France were crowned here. The outside is adorned with intricate carvings. Then, there’s the inside.
The ceiling stretches to the heavens, and the giant stained-glass windows light up the entire church.
This church alone is one of the main reasons I first decided to visit Reims.
Address: Place du Cardinal Luçon
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Visit Palais du Tau
The Palais du Tau is in the former palace of the Bishop of Reims, next to the Reims Cathedral.
During the French monarchy, it served as the banquet hall after the coronation ceremony.
Today, it houses some of the most magnificent artifacts in French history, including tapestries, crowns, and more.
Address: 2 Place du Cardinal Luçon
Tour the Musée de la Reddition
Located in the former Allied headquarters, the Musée de la Reddition tells the story of the German surrender at the end of World War II.
There’s even a short documentary film (offered in French and English) as well as photographs, documents, uniforms, and other war replicas.
Then, there is the ‘map room’ where Nazi Germany surrendered on 07 May 1945.
So far, it’s my favorite museum in the country, and this is coming from someone who has been living in France for a long time.
Address: 12 Rue du Président Franklin Roosevelt
Helpful Tip: The Musée de la Reddition is undergoing renovations until March 2026. The Carnegie Library of Reims is an alternative.
Gaze at La Porte de Mars
La Porte de Mars is one of four gates that served as an entrance to Reims during the Roman era.
It dates to the third century and is said to be the widest arch ever built by the Romans.
This marvelous gate is at the northern entrance of Les Hautes Promenades, which is a beautiful place to go for a stroll.
Address: Place de la République
Afternoon
Stop by the Maison Fossier Shop
Biscuits Fossier is the oldest biscuit maker in France. They are famed for their bright pink color. But they are also really good, especially if you like buttery cookies.
They were founded in 1756 and served at the coronation ceremony of Louis XVI. Afterwards, they became the only producer of biscuits for the king of France.
Today, you can visit their shop and try some of these pink treats.
Addresses:
- Shop: 25 Cours Jean-Baptiste Langlet
- Factory Visits: 20 Rue Maurice Prévoteau
Helpful Tip: You can tour their facilities, learn about their history, and see how they are made. However, the factory is on the outskirts of Reims. A visit here would limit the other activities you could do on this list.
Free Printable Guide
Sign up for a free copy of my guide. It’s 19 pages of things to do, places to eat, and other insider tips.
Visit the Basilique Saint-Remi
It’s no secret that the Reims Cathedral is the main attraction, but Basilique Saint-Remi holds its own.
Stone-carved statues on the outside of the church are nothing short of impressive. And the interior is just as beautiful.
Here, stained glass windows, dating back to the 12th century, light up the church. It’s also where Saint Remi, himself, is buried.
As you walk around the church, detailed descriptions of the church’s history are offered in both French and English.
Helpful Tip: After you’ve toured the church, head to the Musée Saint-Remi for more history and artifacts.
Address: Rue Saint-Julien
Tour a Champagne House
No trip to Reims is complete without sampling some champagne. After all, this is the region where it’s produced.
There are tons of champagne houses to choose from. They all offer visits that include a guided tour of their facilities and an overview of their production process.
Then, at the end of the visit, you can sample some of their champagnes (at least three).
Below are the champagne houses that I recommend:
Helpful Tip: Champagne tours are very popular, so it’s best to book in advance.
Evening
Hang out in Place Drouet d’Erlon
This beautiful square is full of restaurants, bars, cafés, and shops.
Then, in the center lies a statue topped with a golden Wing of Victory.
Stop by for a bite to eat or enjoy an espresso in one of the cafés. My favorite restaurant here is L’Atelier Entrecôte et Volaille.
Address: Place Drouet d’Erlon
Where to Stay
Reims is small, but there are a lot of accommodation options. Below are the places that I recommend:
- Continental Hotel: Located in the center of Reims next to the train station, this hotel offers comfortable beds, helpful staff, and a great breakfast. It’s also near lots of restaurants and shops.
- Novotel Suites Reims Centre: One of the most affordable hotels in Reims. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the breakfast is delicious. It’s also conveniently located next to the train station.
- La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection: A beautiful modern hotel in the center of Reims. They have an excellent restaurant, and the view of the cathedral is incredible.
Where to Eat
In addition to the restaurants I mentioned above, there are a few other places worth trying in Reims. Below are my recommendations:
- Le Condorcet: An elegant brasserie with reasonable prices. They have a variety of dishes, including vegetarian options.
- L’Alambic: Traditional French food served with style. Make sure to save room for dessert; their Crème brûlée is the best in town.
- Harold Le Restaurant: A modern restaurant offering gourmet menus. But the true star of this show is their Sunday brunch.
Free Printable Guide
Sign up for a free copy of my guide. It’s 19 pages of things to do, places to eat, and other insider tips.
Conclusion
Steeped in rich history and filled with jaw-dropping architecture, Reims is the perfect destination.
The city is home to world-renowned museums and champagne, so what more can you ask for?
Spend the day touring cathedrals, indulging in history, and sipping some bubbly.
Make it a day trip or longer if you have more time. I recommend adding it to a part of a two-week tour of the eastern part of France.
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