A trip to Champagne is always a good idea. Between big names, small winemakers, and plenty of French savoir-vivre, there is an incredible amount to discover here. We’ve put together our (and your!) favourite places. From relaxed bars and outstanding restaurants to unique experiences. If something is missing or you have a hidden gem to share: feel free to write to us. This list is meant to keep growing.
📚 Reading tip: The book “111 Places in Champagne You Must Not Miss” is a great companion – from classics to real hidden gems.
Important notes before you go
Before you start planning, a few things to keep in mind:
Winery visits: preferably not on weekends (many are closed on Sat/Sun)
Restaurants: Sundays & Mondays are often difficult
August: better to avoid – many businesses are on holiday
Reims – the heart of Champagne
Reims is our favourite base: lively, lots of great restaurants and bars. Compared to Épernay, there is much more happening in the evenings.
Atmosphere & neighbourhoods
The area around Place du Forum is especially atmospheric – perfect for a relaxed evening with Champagne. Around the market hall Halles du Boulingrin, you’ll also find many exciting spots: restaurants, pâtisseries, cheesemongers, and bars.
Bars & relaxed restaurants
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Winebar by Le Vintage – large selection of Champagne at fair prices, popular meeting point
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Au Bon Manger – currently evolving: more of an experience concept than a delicatessen (worth a visit)
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Cave du Forum – exciting Champagne selection right opposite
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Glue Pot – unassuming but a hotspot for grower Champagne
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Sacré Burger – burgers & Champagne (surprisingly good combination)
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Le Coq Rouge – lively, down-to-earth, great atmosphere
Fine dining in Reims
For special evenings, Reims offers excellent culinary experiences:
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Les Crayères – 2 Michelin stars, classic fine dining address (including hotel & bar)
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Racine – modern cuisine between Japan & France by chef Kazuyuki Tanaka
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L’Assiette Champenoise – 3 Michelin stars, a true highlight
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Le Grand Cerf – slightly outside, 1 star, charming & calm
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Royal Champagne – luxury, breathtaking views, combining bistro & fine dining
Épernay – the Avenue de Champagne
A visit to Épernay is essential – especially for the famous Avenue de Champagne with its iconic houses.
Our tips
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Le 520 – probably one of the best Champagne selections in the region
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Janisson-Baradon Boutique – beautiful stop at one of our winemakers
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Sacré Bistro – solid spot for relaxed dining
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La Banque – many Champagnes by the glass (food is secondary)
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Table Kobus – reliable fine dining address
Côte des Bar / Aube – underrated & absolutely worth it
If you head south, make sure to stop in Troyes. The city with its colourful half-timbered houses is unique and historically very rich.
Restaurants in Troyes
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Bar au Manger – simple & good
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Aux Crieurs de Vin – rustic & authentic
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Garde Champêtre – special farm-to-table concept with great atmosphere
Winemakers – our recommendations
If you truly want to understand Champagne, you should absolutely visit winemakers directly. Here is a selection of estates that welcome guests:
Montagne de Reims
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JM Goulard Massonnot
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Labruyère
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Henriet-Bazin
Côte des Blancs
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Doyard (including a charming B&B in Vertus)
Vallée de la Marne
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Grumier
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Eric Taillet
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Orban
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Geoffroy
Aube
Important: always book in advance and avoid weekends.
Culture & experiences
Beyond food and wine, there is also plenty to explore culturally:
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The cathedral of Reims with stained glass by Marc Chagall
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A walk along the Avenue de Champagne in Épernay
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The museum in Château Perrier (Champagne & archaeology)
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Sensory experience in an old press house in Aÿ
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Phare de Verzenay – walk through the vineyards
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Hautvillers – charming village closely linked to Dom Pérignon
Special experiences & hidden gems
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Champagne bar in a treehouse (reservation required)
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Guided tours & programs by Delectabulles – very individual and in-depth
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Trips & events with Carolin Derler
Conclusion
Champagne is far more than big houses and famous labels. It’s the mix of small winemakers, outstanding gastronomy, and relaxed French lifestyle that makes the region so special. Take your time, don’t overplan – and always leave room for spontaneous discoveries.
