Champagne Day tour with Veuve Clicquot and 2 other big wineries

Our review of the Champagne Day tour from Reims offers a detailed look at this popular experience, which includes visits to three of France’s most celebrated Champagne houses: Veuve Clicquot, Pommery, and Taittinger. Priced at around $561 per person, with an average booking time of 56 days in advance, this six-hour trip promises a comfortable, informative, and delicious adventure through the heart of Champagne country. The tour emphasizes a personal touch — small groups max out at 20 travelers — so you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd, and you’ll get plenty of opportunities to ask questions and savor the atmosphere.

What I really appreciate about this experience is the combination of historic cellars and modern displays. The visit to Veuve Clicquot showcases some of the most iconic underground tunnels, layered 30 meters deep, giving you a real sense of how Champagne has been stored and matured for centuries. The Pommery stop is equally fascinating, blending a glimpse into the Middle Ages with impressive modern art exhibitions, all on UNESCO-listed grounds. Lastly, the Taittinger visit features a guided tour of ancient cellars, ending with a tasting that caps off the visit nicely.

One aspect worth considering is the absence of private guides or pickup service; you’ll meet each location’s front desk assistant. However, with well-placed Uber options and the tour’s flexible pacing—most elements are self-guided after initial tours—this setup works well for independent-minded travelers. The included 3-course lunch with Champagne and a total of eight tastings across the different wineries make this tour fairly priced when considering the value of special access and guided insights.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Visit iconic Champagne houses with guided tours, particularly Veuve Clicquot’s extensive underground cellars and Taittinger’s medieval caves.
• Tasting Variety: Enjoy eight glasses of Champagne across three wineries, with knowledgeable staff explaining aromas and flavors.
• Cultural Mix: Experience the historic architecture of the cellars coupled with modern art exhibitions, especially at Pommery.
• Flexible Pace: The tour allows you to explore at your own speed, especially during Pommery’s self-guided components.
• Great for First-Timers: The focus on basic industry insights makes this perfect for newcomers to Champagne.
• Cost-Effective: The price includes all tastings and a gourmet lunch, providing good value for a full day of Champagne discovery.

In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting at Veuve Clicquot

The journey begins at the Veuve Clicquot Visitors Center in Reims, where you’ll meet your guide before heading underground into the famous 30-meter-deep cellars. This is where the magic of aging Champagne takes place. The guided tour here lasts about 1.5 hours and includes a tasting session focused on aromas, giving you a deeper understanding of what makes Veuve Clicquot’s bubbles so distinctive. The fact that the cellars have been used for centuries adds a tangible sense of history that’s hard to beat. Several reviews highlight the expert knowledge of the guides—they’re often praised for making the complex world of Champagne accessible and engaging.

Lunchtime at Brasserie Le Jardin

Next, the tour pauses for a three-course lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant’s brasserie, complemented by a glass of Champagne. This is a true highlight, allowing you to relax and enjoy high-quality regional cuisine paired with the region’s famous sparkling wine. It’s a good way to break up the day, especially if you’re not used to long tasting sessions. Several travelers remark on how well the meal is organized and how the friendly staff at the restaurant enhances the experience.

Pommery’s Modern Art and Cellars

After lunch, you’ll visit Pommery, which is famous not just for its Champagne but also for its blend of Gothic architecture, Middle-Age cellars, and contemporary art installations. The UNESCO-listed cellars are quite a sight, and your tour uses an app or printed materials to explore at your own pace. One reviewer noted, “The modern art exhibit inside Pommery is stunning—it’s a perfect blend of history and modern creativity.” While the self-guided aspect might seem a downside for some, many appreciate the freedom to linger and revisit favorite parts.

Taittinger’s Historic Cellars and Final Tasting

The last stop is Taittinger, which offers an engaging guided tour of its ancient, medieval-style cellars. The highlight here is the double tasting, where you can compare different styles and flavors of Champagne — a real treat for enthusiasts. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience personal and memorable.

What’s the Value for Travelers?

The tour price covers all tastings (eight glasses total), a guided experience at Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger, access to Pommery’s art exhibits and cellars, and a well-curated lunch. For about $561, this sums up to a comprehensive deep-dive into Champagne’s culture, history, and flavors, especially considering the premium access and the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable guides. Keep in mind, this is not a cheap experience, but it offers a lot in terms of quality, variety, and accessibility — perfect for those who want an overview of the big names without fuss.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors, lovers of wine and history, and anyone wanting an organized yet flexible experience. The small-group format fosters a more personal connection and allows the guide to tailor the day’s flow. If you’re comfortable with a bit of independence—using Uber for transportation and self-guided elements—you’ll find the balance between guided exploration and free time just right.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book well in advance—most travelers do so about two months ahead to secure their spot.
• Plan your transportation ahead of time, since there’s no pickup included. Uber is a practical option back to your hotel or the train station.
• Dress comfortably for walking and exploring underground cellars—temperatures can be cool below ground level.
• Bring a notebook or phone to jot down tasting notes or thoughts about each Champagne.
• Stay hydrated and have your camera ready—attractive views and memorable moments abound.
• Consider dietary needs; the lunch is set, but special requests aren’t mentioned, so contact the provider if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Champagne day tour from Reims offers a nicely balanced experience packed with historical insight, tastings from top houses, and a taste of regional cuisine. If you’re interested in exploring the biggest names in the Champagne world without the hassle of planning each visit separately, this is a dependable choice. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who often get glowing reviews for their friendliness and expertise, especially at Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger.

While the self-guided portions and absence of a private guide might not suit everyone, the overall structure—covering major houses, a gourmet lunch, and plenty of tastings—delivers solid value. You’ll come away with a good understanding of Champagne’s unique production process, a handful of delicious samples, and a deeper appreciation for why this sparkling wine is celebrated worldwide.

This experience is ideal for curious travelers eager to enjoy authentic Champagne culture, taste some of the finest wines, and enjoy the comfort of a well-organized, small-group outing. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in France’s bubbly heritage, you’ll find this tour offers a memorable day out with plenty of opportunities to learn, enjoy, and relax.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include pick-up or drop-off. However, Uber and other transport options are readily available in Reims to get to and from the meeting point and your hotel.

How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit three: Veuve Clicquot, Pommery, and Taittinger, each offering a unique perspective on Champagne’s history, production, and tasting culture.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes a total of eight glasses of Champagne across the three wineries, along with a 3-course lunch and a glass of Champagne with your meal.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The tour is designed as an introduction to Champagne, with guides explaining aromas and flavors in simple terms, making it perfect for first-time visitors.

How long does each stop last?
Stops are roughly 1.5 hours at Veuve Clicquot, Pommery, and Taittinger, with time allocated for lunch and travel between sites.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Not directly, as the schedule is pre-set, but the self-guided portions at Pommery allow you to explore at your own pace.

What should I wear for the underground cellar tours?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and consider layering since cellar temperatures are cooler than above ground, even in summer.

This detailed look hopefully helps you decide if this Champagne day tour matches your travel style. With its focus on top wineries, engaging guides, and a blend of history and tasting, it offers a taste of France’s iconic sparkling wine that’s hard to beat in terms of both quality and value.