How to Spend 2 Days in Reims

From world-famous Gothic architecture to renowned Champagne houses, Reims’ attractions should tempt history buffs, culture vultures, and hedonists alike. Two days is enough time to get acquainted with the petite city’s top attractions, with time for idle flânerie left over—here’s how to plan the perfect stay.

Day 1: Sightseeing and History

Morning: Reims is an approachable city, which means you can discover many of its top landmarks in the space of a single day. Begin your explorations with a speedy Segway tour: Spy ancient Roman monuments like the Porte de Mars and glimpse the Boulingrin covered market. If you’re getting hungry, you can wander in for a quick bite at tour’s end.

Afternoon: After your city introduction, spend the afternoon getting up close and personal with an elegant palace or millennia-old church. Venture into the opulent Palais du Tau (the former residence of the Archbishop of Reims), which dates to the 17th century, or explore the Abbey of Saint-Remi (Basilique Saint-Remi), consecrated all the way back in 1049. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Evening: As the sun starts to set, make your way to Reims’ most famous landmark of all: its wondrous, soaring cathedral. A masterpiece of the high Gothic, the UNESCO-listed cathedral is where France’s kings were once coronated. Time your visit right, and you’ll see the stained glass windows glow with light.

Day 2: Bubbles and Bites

Morning: If day one was about discovering Reims’ architectural highlights, spend your second day in town exploring its gastronomic temptations. As you’ll be indulging throughout the day, begin with a gentle neighborhood stroll, and duck into a café for a light breakfast à la francaise: a croissant and café crème is just the thing.

Afternoon: Surrounded as it is by world-renowned Champagne houses, Reims is a dream destination for oenophiles. In the afternoon, book a tour to visit the famed Champagne Avenue at Épernay, or drop by houses the likes of Taittinger, Mumm, or Veuve Clicquot. Whichever you choose, come prepared to savor numerous glasses of bubbly.

Evening: Despite its small size, Reims has several destination-worthy, Michelin-starred restaurants to its name, including high-end favorites like L’Assiette Champenoise and Le Parc at Domaine Les Crayères. After arriving back in the city center, end your day on a decadent note, and treat yourself to a dinner to remember.