We will be in Paris in September and would like to see 3 or 4 different vineyards. We are wondering if we should take the train as i understand it is only 30 minutes to the region from Paris, then hire a tour guide to meet us at the train station? Or just get book a tour from Paris that takes us to the region via car & guide. We read reviews and understand that since the drive itself from Paris is 2 hours each way you only get to visit 2 vineyards then a church and lunch. We prefer to see more vineyards then visit the city for lunch. Any suggestions?
Thanks in advance.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
Yes, the TGV from Paris Est station to Reims only takes about 45 minutes because it's so fast. It's also much cheaper if booked ahead (might go on sale in May or June). I would look in to a tour that leaves from Reims, instead of Paris. Rick's France book suggests www.cris-event.fr and additional companies bookable through the Tourist Office.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thank you so much! We will look into that!
Posted by
Houston, TX, USA
51 posts
You can do this yourself and make it a day trip if you choose. There are several wineries in the city of Reims; Mumm, Pommery and Veuve (I would say are the big three in the city, most known to US consumers). You could conceivably train out to Reims in the AM, use a cab/uber (not sure if they have that in Reims) to get around in the city or walk in some cases to the various named wineries list above or others if you wish to remain close by. Remember, this is not like touring in California where you just show up at the winery and taste. Most will require reservations. Each winery will take about an hour to complete as each has a tour and tasting. Use google maps to show you the distances apart from the train station and several wineries.
Veuve requires a reservation which you can do on their website. I think the lowest tour/tasting is @40 euro.
The cathedral in Reims should not be missed either.
I am staying in Reims in late June and renting a car to also visit Epernay and tour Moet!
Posted by
OP
4 posts
A day trip is our plan, we just didn't want to drive, so a tour guide that could book these places and they can share lots of information with us!