We're traveling with another married couple for 8 nights total in October 2020 (3 of us are celebrating the big 5-0 this year). We've been to Paris (and Marseilles) before but this will be first time in France for other couple. The Champagne region is a must, but we also wish to visit other wine areas. We are experienced travelers that usually travel via trains only (but are not opposed to renting a car if needed.) We want to celebrate the wine, food, history and culture of the country, and we're fine with a lot of walking (and then find a café for a nice rest and glass of wine). Here is a first draft of itinerary:
10/8 - Arrive early morning in Paris and take train to Reims for 2 nights (1 day in Reims with 1 day trip to Epernay)
10/10 - Take train from Reims to Colmar for 2 nights (1 day in Colmar and 1 day trip to either Strasbourg and possibly black forest near German border OR travel to one of villages on route des vins via taxi or bus).
10/12 - Take train from Colmar to Beaune in Burgundy for 1 night.
10/13 - Take train from Beaune to Paris for remaining 4 nights. We have seen most of the highlights of Paris but will visit the major ones again with our friends (Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Sacra Coeur, etc) along with 1 day trip to Versailles.
If you have any suggestions, advice or alternatives, then please advise. Thank you!