Reims, Champagne-Ardenne | Exploring France

Reims is a city in northeastern France, located in the Grand Est region. As the largest city in the Marne department, it sits on the banks of the Vesle River, a tributary of the Aisne. With a population of over 180,000 residents, Reims is a key cultural and economic center. Its location, approximately 145 kilometers east of Paris, places it in the heart of the world-renowned Champagne wine-growing region. The city is surrounded by prestigious vineyards and is home to many of the world’s most famous Champagne houses.

The character of Reims is defined by its deep historical significance as the traditional site for the coronation of French kings. This has earned it the informal title of the “City of Coronations.” Its urban landscape is a blend of major historical monuments, particularly its grand Gothic cathedral, and a significant amount of Art Deco architecture. This specific style is a result of the extensive rebuilding that was required after the city suffered widespread destruction during World War I.

As the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, the city’s identity is inextricably linked to the production and trade of the famous sparkling wine. This history is visible in the vast network of chalk cellars that lie beneath the city. Today, Reims combines its role as a major tourist destination, focused on its history and its Champagne houses, with its function as a modern university town and regional economic hub.

Good to Know When Visiting Reims

To help with planning a visit, here are several practical points covering daily essentials, timing, and efficient exploration of the city. Understanding these details can make a trip to Reims and the Champagne region more convenient. This information is intended to provide a general overview for travelers preparing to visit this major French city.

The Daily Essentials

The official currency used in Reims is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in almost all establishments, including restaurants, shops, and Champagne houses. However, it is always advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases at local markets or for smaller cafes. The official language is French. In tourist areas, hotels, and at the major Champagne houses, English is commonly spoken. Tipping is not obligatory, as a service charge (service compris) is typically included in the bill, but it is common to leave a small extra amount for exceptional service. The tap water in Reims is safe to drink. The electrical system uses Type E sockets with a standard voltage of 230V. As in any city, visitors should be mindful of their belongings in crowded areas.

Planning Your Calendar

Reims is a year-round destination, with four distinct seasons. The spring and autumn months are often considered the best time to visit. They offer mild weather suitable for exploring the city and the surrounding vineyards. The summer months are warm and are the peak tourist season. The winter is cool and can be damp. A key event is the Fêtes Johanniques in June, which celebrates the coronation of Charles VII with medieval parades and reenactments. The Christmas Market in December is also a major attraction. For a first visit, two to three full days is generally sufficient to see the main sights in the city and to visit one or two Champagne houses. A longer stay would allow for more extensive exploration of the Champagne region.

A Tourist’s Toolkit for Exploration

The historic center of Reims is relatively compact and many of the main sights are best explored on foot. For visiting the Champagne houses, some of which are located on the outskirts of the city, the local public transport system is useful. The Reims City Pass is an option for tourists, offering free access to public transport and free or discounted admission to many museums and monuments, including a tour of a major Champagne house. It is highly advisable to book tours and tastings at the major Champagne houses well in advance, especially for visits during the peak season, as they often sell out. It is also a good idea to check the opening hours for specific museums, as many are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays.

A Short History of Reims

The history of Reims spans over two millennia, from its origins as a major Gallo-Roman city to its pivotal role in the French monarchy and its resilience through two World Wars. Its historical narrative is deeply woven into the fabric of France itself. For centuries, it was the designated city for the coronation of French kings, a tradition that gave it immense political and religious importance. The city’s location in northeastern France has also placed it at the center of major European conflicts. This long and often turbulent history is reflected in its grand cathedral, its Roman ruins, and its 20th-century reconstruction.

Roman Origins and Royal Baptisms

The history of Reims dates back to pre-Roman times. Originally known as Durocortorum, it was the capital of the Remi tribe, a Gallic people who chose to ally with the Romans during the Gallic Wars. Under Roman rule, it flourished, becoming one of the most important cities in Roman Gaul. Its strategic location at a crossroads of the Roman road network made it a key administrative and commercial center. The Porte de Mars, a large Roman triumphal arch, still stands today as a testament to this period.

The city’s Christianization began early. A pivotal moment in French history occurred in Reims around the year 498 AD. Saint Remi, the Bishop of Reims, baptized Clovis I, the first King of the Franks, converting him to Christianity. This event established a powerful and enduring link between the French monarchy and the Catholic Church. This baptism set the precedent for Reims’ future role as the primary religious center of the kingdom.

The City of Coronations

From the 9th century onwards, Reims solidified its role as the traditional site for the coronation of French kings. Beginning with Louis the Pious in 816 AD, nearly every French monarch traveled to Reims to be crowned and anointed with holy oil in its cathedral. This tradition was deeply symbolic, linking each new king to the divine right of rule and the legacy of the first Christian king, Clovis.

One of the most famous events in the city’s history was the coronation of Charles VII in 1429. He was led to the city by Joan of Arc during a critical phase of the Hundred Years’ War. This event was a major moment of national triumph and a turning point in the war against the English. The tradition of coronations continued for centuries, cementing the importance of the Notre-Dame de Reims cathedral as the spiritual heart of the French monarchy.

Modern Challenges and Resilience

The 17th and 18th centuries saw continued development in the city, with new urban planning and architectural projects. However, the 20th century brought immense devastation. During World War I, Reims was located on the front lines. The city endured four years of relentless German bombardment. Approximately 80% of its structures were severely damaged or destroyed, including the cathedral, which became a symbol of the war’s cultural destruction.

This led to a significant Art Deco reconstruction period in the interwar years, which reshaped much of the city’s architecture. Iconic buildings like the Carnegie Library and the central market hall emerged from this era. Furthermore, Reims played a pivotal role in ending World War II in Europe. The German Instrument of Surrender was signed here on May 7, 1945, at the Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force (SHAEF), which was located in a local school building. Today, the city meticulously preserves its historical sites while embracing its role as a dynamic, modern hub.

Things to Do and See

Reims offers a range of historical and cultural landmarks, many of which are recognized with UNESCO World Heritage status. From its magnificent Gothic cathedral and ancient Roman gates to its world-renowned Champagne cellars and unique Art Deco architecture, the city presents a diverse array of attractions. These sights reflect its rich past as the city of coronations and the modern capital of the Champagne region.

The main attractions are concentrated in the city center and on the hills of Saint-Nicaise, where many of the Champagne houses are located. The three main UNESCO sites—the Cathedral, the Palace of Tau, and the former Saint-Remi Abbey—are all within the city. The vast network of underground chalk cellars also forms a key part of the city’s heritage. A visit to Reims provides a journey through French history, art, and gastronomy.

Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral

The Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral is a key example of High Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction on the current building began in 1211. It is known for its architectural unity and its extensive sculptural decoration, which includes an astonishing 2,303 statues. One of the most famous of these is the “Smiling Angel.” The cathedral’s stunning stained glass windows are another key feature. These include both medieval glass and modern windows designed by the artist Marc Chagall in the 20th century. The cathedral famously served as the coronation site for nearly every French king for centuries.

Palace of Tau

Adjacent to the Notre-Dame Cathedral is the Palace of Tau (Palais du Tau). This was the former palace of the Archbishop of Reims. The building played a crucial role in the coronation ceremonies. It was where the future king would stay before the ceremony and where the royal banquets and festivities were held afterwards. Today, the Palace of Tau operates as a national museum and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It showcases valuable treasures from the cathedral, including coronation relics like Charlemagne’s Talisman, tapestries, and original statues that were removed from the cathedral for preservation.

Saint-Remi Basilica and Museum

The Saint-Remi Basilica is a large Romanesque and Gothic church dedicated to Saint Remi, who baptized King Clovis. The basilica’s origins date back to the 6th century, though much of the current structure was built in the 11th century. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the adjacent former abbey. The basilica houses the tomb of Saint Remi. The former Saint-Remi Abbey, which is next to the basilica, now houses the Saint-Remi Museum. This museum provides deep insights into the history of the basilica and the city of Reims, exhibiting archaeological finds from the prehistoric, Gallo-Roman, and medieval periods.

Champagne Houses and Cellars

Reims is home to many prestigious Champagne Houses (Maisons de Champagne). These form the heart of the world’s most famous sparkling wine region. Houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Pommery, and Mumm offer guided tours of their historic facilities. Below the city, a vast network of ancient Gallo-Roman chalk tunnels, known as crayères, extends for over 200 kilometers. These cool and humid chalk quarries provide the ideal conditions for aging millions of bottles of champagne. Many sections of these Champagne Cellars are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are open to visitors for tours and tastings.

Porte de Mars

The Porte de Mars is an ancient Roman triumphal arch, dating back to the 3rd century AD. It is one of the widest Roman arches in the world, measuring 32 meters long and 13 meters high. This impressive structure once served as a city gate in the Roman wall of Durocortorum, the Roman predecessor of Reims. Its three arched passageways showcase intricate carvings, providing a direct link to the city’s deep Roman roots. The Porte de Mars is a powerful reminder of Reims’ importance as a major city in Roman Gaul.

Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum)

Housed in the former Saint-Denis Abbey, the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum) boasts an extensive collection spanning from the 16th to the 20th centuries. Its diverse holdings include European paintings, sculptures, and furniture. The museum is particularly known for its large collection of landscape paintings from the 19th century, including 27 works by Camille Corot. The museum also has a significant collection of works by the German Renaissance painter Lucas Cranach. It offers a rich cultural experience for art enthusiasts visiting Reims.

Foujita Chapel (Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Paix)

The Foujita Chapel (Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Paix) is a unique chapel that serves as a testament to the talent of the Japanese-French artist Léonard Tsuguharu Foujita. Built between 1965 and 1966, the chapel’s interior is entirely decorated with frescoes painted by Foujita himself. These vibrant murals depict religious scenes with a distinctive blend of Eastern and Western artistic styles. Foujita, who converted to Catholicism in Reims, designed the chapel as a gift to the city. He is also buried within the chapel, making it a place of both artistic and spiritual significance.

Carnegie Library

The Carnegie Library (Bibliothèque Carnegie) is a significant example of Art Deco architecture. It was built with funds generously donated by the American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie after World War I. Opened in 1928, it was a crucial part of Reims’ post-war reconstruction efforts. The library’s elegant design, with its distinctive stained-glass dome by Jacques Simon and intricate details, makes it a cultural landmark. Beyond its architectural value, the Carnegie Library serves as a functioning public library and a symbol of international solidarity.

Sports in Reims

Reims has a passionate sports scene, particularly in football. The city’s dedication to sports is evident in its active clubs and local competitions, which foster community engagement and athletic achievement. The city has a history of success in several sports, and its modern facilities allow it to host national-level events.

The city’s main football club has a legendary past, having been one of the top teams in Europe in the 1950s. Today, the club continues to compete at the highest level of French football. Other sports like basketball and running also have a strong presence in the city. The surrounding countryside of the Champagne region also provides a setting for recreational sports like cycling.

Football

Football holds a prominent place in Reims’ sports culture, with a strong local following and a rich history of professional success. Matches at the Stade Auguste Delaune draw significant crowds, creating an electric atmosphere for home games. The sport is deeply integrated into the city’s identity, providing a shared passion for residents. The club’s legacy from the golden age of French football is a major point of local pride.

Stade de Reims

The professional football club Stade de Reims is a cornerstone of the city’s sports identity. Founded in 1931, the team plays its home matches at Stade Auguste Delaune, a modern stadium with a capacity of over 20,000 spectators. Stade de Reims holds a significant place in French football history. They won six Ligue 1 titles and two Coupe de France trophies, with most of this success coming in the 1950s and early 1960s. They famously reached the European Cup final twice, in 1956 and 1959, competing against Real Madrid. The club’s legacy includes many talented players who represented the French national team, such as Raymond Kopa and Just Fontaine.

EF Reims Sainte-Anne

The Étoile de Football de Reims Sainte-Anne is another local football club with a strong community presence. Founded in 1974, this amateur club competes in the Championnat National 3, which is the fifth tier of French football. The club plays an important role in developing local talent and engaging the community at a grassroots level. Their matches provide a focal point for local football enthusiasts in the Sainte-Anne district of the city.

Rugby

Rugby union also enjoys a dedicated presence in Reims, cultivating a passionate community of players and fans. While perhaps not as dominant as in some southern French cities, the sport provides a strong athletic outlet and promotes teamwork and discipline. Local clubs offer opportunities for all ages to participate, from youth teams to senior squads, contributing to the diverse sporting landscape of the city.

Stade de Reims Rugby

The local rugby club is Stade de Reims Rugby. The club fields various teams, from youth categories to senior levels, participating in the regional leagues of the Ligue Grand Est de Rugby. Their focus is on developing players from a young age and competing effectively within the region. The club is a key institution for the sport in the city.

Basketball

Basketball has a notable profile in Reims. The city is represented by a professional club that was formed from a merger of the teams from Reims and the nearby town of Châlons-en-Champagne. The sport has a dedicated local following. Games at the local sports complex draw a committed audience, and the sport promotes active participation among the youth. The city’s commitment to basketball is visible through its facilities and community programs.

Champagne Basket

The professional basketball club Champagne Basket was established in 2010 through a merger between the clubs from Reims and Châlons-en-Champagne. The team represents both cities. They have competed in both the LNB Pro A (top tier) and LNB Pro B (second tier) of French basketball. Home games are split between the Complexe Sportif René Tys in Reims and the Palais des Sports Pierre de Coubertin in Châlons. This allows both communities to support the team.

Handball

Handball maintains a steady presence in Reims, with local clubs promoting the sport among different age groups and genders. It contributes to the city’s diverse sporting landscape, offering a fast-paced, tactical team sport enjoyed by many. The clubs are active in local and regional leagues, providing opportunities for both competitive and recreational play.

Reims Champagne Handball

The local club Reims Champagne Handball offers teams for various age categories, including senior and youth divisions. The club promotes both competitive play and recreational participation. They actively engage with schools and local communities to encourage new players to take up the sport. They are a key part of the local handball scene.

Running

The city of Reims hosts several popular running events throughout the year. These races attract both competitive athletes and recreational participants. The city’s varied landscape, from its historic urban streets to the rolling hills of the nearby vineyards, offers diverse opportunities for road running and trail running. These events are a key part of the city’s active lifestyle.

Reims Champagne Run

The Reims Champagne Run is a prominent event that typically takes place in October. The event offers various distances, including a 10km, a half-marathon, and a full marathon. It draws a wide range of runners from amateurs to experienced athletes. The routes for the races often take participants through the scenic landscape of the Montagne de Reims natural park and its famous Champagne vineyards.

La Foulée des Sacres

The La Foulée des Sacres is a popular annual road running event. It is usually held in late May or early June. The event often features an 8km course that takes participants through the historic parts of Reims at night. The route frequently passes by illuminated landmarks, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral. The nighttime setting and festive atmosphere make it a unique event in the city’s running calendar.

Cycling

The region surrounding Reims, with its rolling hills and vineyard routes, is ideal for cycling. This attracts both competitive athletes and recreational participants. The city serves as a hub for exploring the Champagne region on two wheels. Several organized cycling events take place annually, showcasing the area’s landscape.

Brevet Cyclotouriste de la Montagne de Reims

The Brevet Cyclotouriste de la Montagne de Reims is an annual cycling event, typically held in June. This is a non-competitive ride, known as a randonnée or brevet, which focuses on endurance and enjoyment rather than speed. The event offers several different route lengths through the scenic Montagne de Reims natural park and its vineyards. It is a popular event for local and regional cycling enthusiasts.

Getting Around in Reims

Navigating Reims is straightforward due to its compact city center and efficient public transport system. The main historic and commercial areas are highly walkable. For longer distances, a modern tram network and an extensive bus system connect all parts of the city. The public transport system is operated by Citura.

Tickets for public transport can be purchased from vending machines at tram stops, at official sales points, or via a mobile app. A variety of ticket options are available, from single journey tickets to day passes. Contactless payment is also an option. Remember to validate your ticket when you board the vehicle.

On Foot: The Historic Center

Walking is the best way to explore the central part of Reims. The area around the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Palace of Tau, and the main shopping streets is a large pedestrian-friendly zone. Many of the city’s main sights are located within a short walking distance of each other. This allows visitors to see the architecture and access local shops and cafes at their own pace. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the historic streets.

Riding the Tram

Reims has a modern tramway system that is a quick and efficient way to travel around the city. The network consists of two lines (Line A and Line B) that serve key corridors. The tram connects the city center with the main train station and the outer districts, including the university campus. The trams are frequent and reliable, operating from early morning until late evening. The stations are modern and provide clear information for passengers.

A Network Above Ground: Buses

In addition to the tram, Reims has a comprehensive bus network. The buses serve all parts of the city and its suburbs, reaching areas not covered by the tram lines. They are essential for local travel and connecting different neighborhoods. You can use the same ticket for both the bus and the tram network. Night bus services also operate on some routes.

How to Get to Reims

Reaching Reims, located in the heart of the Champagne region, is convenient. The city is a key transport hub in northeastern France, with excellent connections by high-speed rail and motorway. This makes it easily accessible from Paris and other major European cities.

Arriving by Air: Paris Gateways

Reims does not have its own commercial airport. The closest and most convenient major international airport is Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). It is located approximately 130 kilometers west of Reims. CDG offers extensive global connections. From CDG, there is a direct TGV high-speed train service to the Champagne-Ardenne TGV station, located just outside Reims, with a journey time of about 30 minutes. Paris-Orly Airport (ORY) is another option, though it requires a transfer in Paris to reach Reims.

The Open Road: Driving the Autoroutes

Driving to Reims offers flexibility for exploring the Champagne region. The city is located at the junction of several major motorways (autoroutes). The A4 motorway connects Reims directly with Paris to the west and Strasbourg to the east. The A26 motorway connects Reims with Calais in the north and with Lyon to the south. The drive from Paris is approximately 145 kilometers and typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Connecting by Coach

Long-distance bus services provide an economical way to reach Reims. Companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus operate routes to the city. They connect Reims with major French and European cities, including Paris, Brussels, and Luxembourg. The main bus station is located near the Gare de Reims Centre, the central train station. Bus journeys are generally longer than train travel but are often more affordable.

On Track: High-Speed and Regional Rail

Traveling to Reims by train is fast and efficient, particularly from Paris. The city has two main train stations. The Gare de Reims Centre is located in the heart of the city. The Champagne-Ardenne TGV station is located on the outskirts and serves the main high-speed lines. High-speed TGV trains connect Reims to Paris Est station in approximately 45 minutes. Direct TGV services also connect Reims to other major French cities like Strasbourg and Bordeaux. Regional TER trains offer connections to smaller towns in the Grand Est region.

Driving Distances

The driving distance from 10 regional cities, according to Google Maps:

• Paris, France – 145 kilometers (1 h 50 min)
• Lille, France – 208 kilometers (2 h 20 min)
• Luxembourg City, Luxembourg – 218 kilometers (2 h 20 min)
• Brussels, Belgium – 227 kilometers (2 h 30 min)
• Strasbourg, France – 349 kilometers (3 h 30 min)
• Cologne, Germany – 351 kilometers (3 h 40 min)
• Frankfurt, Germany – 388 kilometers (4 h 00 min)
• Lyon, France – 470 kilometers (4 h 40 min)
• Amsterdam, Netherlands – 491 kilometers (5 h 10 min)
• London, UK – 510 kilometers (6 h 10 min, includes ferry/tunnel)

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