From Paris: Champagne Day Trip with 7 Tastings and Lunch

If you’re dreaming of sipping bubbly in the land of Champagne, France, this small-group day trip from Paris might be just what you need. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience blending history, craftsmanship, and indulgence—perfect for wine lovers or curious travelers craving a taste of French elegance.

What we love about this tour? First, the opportunity to visit both big-name Champagne houses and intimate family-run vineyards—giving a well-rounded look at the region’s diverse production styles. Second, the 7 tastings ensure plenty of opportunities to discover your favorites and learn what makes Champagne so special. Third, the small group size (limited to 15 people) promises a more personal, engaging experience.

One consideration is the length of the day, which involves several hours of driving, walking, and tasting—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a longer, active day. This tour appeals most to those eager to understand the wine-making process, enjoy picturesque vineyard views, and indulge in delicious French cuisine with Champagne pairings.

This experience made our article of Paris’s 10 Top Lunch Experiences (With Prices).

Key Points

• Small-group experience with only 15 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• Visits to both a renowned Champagne house and a family-owned vineyard offer diverse insights.
• Seven tastings plus a local secret drink provide a thorough sampling.
• Gourmet two-course lunch in Épernay complements the tasting experience.
• Expert English-speaking guides enhance understanding and storytelling.
• Transportation is by air-conditioned coach, with a scenic drive through the Champagne region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Starting Point at Place des Antilles

The tour kicks off from a familiar Parisian meeting spot, Place des Antilles, at the intersection of Boulevard de Charonne and Avenue du Trône. Look for the large column topped with a statue and a City Wonders representative holding a sign. This is a good spot to arrive early, as the coach departs promptly, and you’ll want to be ready for the day ahead.

Reviewers mention the comfortable van, with one noting that the ride is about two hours long—setting the stage for a relaxed day of wine exploration without the hassle of self-driving.

First Champagne House Visit

Your first stop is at a prestigious producer, where you’ll explore historic cellars and learn about the meticulous art of Champagne making. Expect a guided tour that explains the different stages of production, from grape harvest to bottling. You’ll taste their top cuvées—likely a mix of flavors and styles—while discovering what distinguishes their Champagne.

The reviews point out that this visit offers a taste of the production process, which “gave lots of info” and “made sure we had something to eat before leaving.” Several reviewers mention the uniqueness of visiting a family-owned vineyard, like the Harlin vineyard, where you can see the craft in person, sometimes accompanied by dogs and traditional methods that keep the heritage alive.

Traveling to Épernay for Lunch and a Stroll

Next, the journey takes you to Épernay, the heart of Champagne country. Here, you’ll have free time to walk along the legendary Avenue de Champagne, home to some of the world’s most famous Champagne houses. The scenery is quintessentially French, with tree-lined streets and grand facades.

The highlight here is the gourmet lunch paired with Champagne. Reviewers note that the food surpasses expectations, with options like chicken, fish, or a veggie dish, and many mention that it’s a satisfying meal—important after several tastings. Some mention that the portions are on the lighter side, so hungry travelers might want to note that.

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Visiting a Family-Owned Vineyard

In the afternoon, you’ll visit a smaller, family-run estate—a key feature that sets this tour apart. These visits offer a behind-the-scenes look at small-batch production, emphasizing craftsmanship and tradition. Here, you’ll sample more Champagne, including a local secret drink that adds a fun surprise element, as confirmed by reviewers who appreciated the variety.

One reviewer appreciated seeing the “small vineyard” where they were welcomed by the Harlin family and their dogs, feeling like a guest in their home. The focus on craftsmanship is especially appealing for those interested in authentic, lesser-known producers.

Final Champagne House and Return Journey

Your last stop is at another well-known Champagne house, where you’ll tour their facilities and enjoy more tastings. Reviews mention that this part is more commercialized but equally educational, highlighting the contrast between large-scale and small-batch production.

The return journey to Paris takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Reviewers describe the coach as comfortable, but a few mention that the ride back can get warm—something to consider if you tend to get hot easily during long trips.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides and Personal Touches

Multiple reviews praise guides like Saeed, describing him as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. One reviewer mentioned that Saeed even took photos, ensuring memories last beyond the day. The guides’ storytelling and readiness to answer questions greatly enhance the experience.

Visits to Both Large and Small Producers

Travelers get a broad perspective—seeing a famous Champagne house with historic cellars and tasting a boutique vineyard that offers more intimate insights. This contrast helps understand the scale and craft behind each style of Champagne.

Food and Drink Pairings

The included 2-course lunch is often highlighted as better than expected, with good wine pairings. While some say portions could be slightly larger, most agree that the meal adds value, making the day feel balanced and satisfying.

Authentic, Intimate Experience

Limited to 15 people, this tour ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd. Many reviewers felt they had personalized interactions, which contributed to a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Walking down Avenue de Champagne or visiting Dom Perignon’s abbey (if included) adds a cultural layer to the tastes and visual delights. It’s not just about drinking wine but appreciating the history, scenery, and heritage of the Champagne region.

How Does the Pricing Stack Up?

While the price isn’t explicitly specified in the description, considering the inclusion of two guided Champagne house tours, 7 tastings, a gourmet lunch, and transportation, this experience offers good value. It’s especially appealing for those who want multiple tastings in a day, guided by experts, without the hassle of organizing transport and visits themselves.

The reviews emphasize the quality of tastings and guide as being worth the cost, with many describing the day as “great value for money.” The small group size and personalized approach also contribute to the perceived value.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a fair amount of walking, hills, and stairs involved.
• Bring a camera or smartphone—there are plenty of photo-worthy moments, especially with guides who help you capture memories.
• Prepare for a full day; lunch is satisfying but lighter than a big meal, so plan accordingly.
• If you have dietary restrictions, note that the tour isn’t suitable for halal or kosher diets, but you can specify dietary needs when booking.
• Be aware that the Moët & Chandon boutique will be closed during March and early April 2025.
• The coach back can get warm, so dress in layers and stay hydrated.

The Sum Up

This Champagne day trip from Paris offers a well-balanced mix of history, authentic craftsmanship, scenic views, and delicious tastings. The small-group format enhances the experience, making it intimate and engaging, especially with guides like Saeed who go above and beyond with their knowledge and personal touches. The inclusion of visits to both a large Champagne house and a family-run vineyard makes it ideal for those who want variety and depth in their tasting journey.

If you’re a wine lover eager to learn about Champagne’s production, enjoy picturesque French towns, and indulge in carefully paired meals, this tour provides excellent value. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate a behind-the-scenes look at traditional wine-making methods and admire regional scenery.

However, be prepared for a long day’s activity, and note that the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues or looking for a more relaxed, less walking-intensive experience. With its combination of educational insights and indulgence, this excursion promises a memorable day in one of France’s most iconic regions.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is generally best for adults, as it involves a lot of walking and tasting. Children over a certain age might enjoy the scenery and history but should be accompanied by an adult.

Are meals included?
Yes, a two-course lunch with Champagne pairings is included, providing a good balance of sustenance and indulgence.

How many tastings are there?
You will enjoy a total of 7 tastings, including one secret local drink, which adds a fun twist.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation from Paris is by air-conditioned coach, with scenic drives through the Champagne region.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I visit Moët & Chandon?
Yes, the tour includes shopping at Moët et Chandons boutique on the Avenue de Champagne; however, note that this boutique is closed during March and early April 2025.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it involves significant walking, hills, and stairs, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 10 hours, with travel, visits, tastings, and lunch included.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as there’s considerable walking; layers are advisable for varying indoor and outdoor environments.

What do I need to know about dietary restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for halal or kosher diets; please specify any dietary needs at booking.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Champagne beyond the bottle—offering a genuine look into its production, stunning scenery, and delicious flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler, it’s a day well spent in France’s most iconic wine region.

You can check availability for your dates here: