City Break : Reims, Effervescent and Charming

Written by Nadia Hamam; Cover Image: Cathedral (c) Carmen Moya Grand Reims Tourism Office

Gone is the once stiff, provincial town where theater troupes from across France tested their works before facing Parisian audiences. Now, with celebrated vineyards, lesser-known but exquisite dining, art, and open spaces, Reims has turned itself into a lively, welcoming place. Just an hour by train from Paris, it’s an ideal escape. In this article, explore Reims for your next city break.

A Story of Chalk, People, and Wine

Visitors from all over the world are drawn to Champagne, a region built on a deep layer of chalk that gives its renowned wines their distinctive finesse and identity. Champagne enthusiast flock to its prestigious houses, including the Vranken Pommery estate. Founded in 1836, it’s one of the most spectacular in the world, with monumental cellars, known as crayères, reaching 30 meters underground and stretching across 18 kilometers.

The region is also home to smaller, distinguished champagne house, such as Duval-Leroy in Vertus, crafting exceptional champagnes on the Côte des Blancs since 1859. As visitors explore, they encounter ‘living, evolving cultural landscapes,‘ which gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 2015. To fully embrace this unique tapestry, follow the 600-kilometer Champagne Route or take in the sights from a hot-air balloon. Each property presents new, creative ways to savor champagne: Pommery unveils an annual ‘Experience’ exhibition by a celebrated contemporary artist, while other options invite visitors to try their hand at grape picking, master the art of sabrage, or sipping champagne high above the forest in Verzy.

Between Gothic, Art Deco, and Street Art

With a smooth tramway expansion and well-done renovations, Reims’ city center has become more elegant and comfortable to explore. Among its many historic sites, don’t miss Reims’ Notre-Dame Cathedral, adorned with 2,303 statues and witness to 33 coronations. Nearby is the Palais du Tau, the former archbishop’s residence, and the former Saint-Remi Abbey, now a museum.

While you take your city break in Reims go visit, near Place de la République, the Foujita Chapel (Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix). Its interior was designed and decorated by Franco-Japanese artist Tsuguharu Foujita between 1965 and 1966. Converted to Catholicism in Reims in 1959, this eclectic artist of the École de Paris merged Japanese aesthetics with Italian Renaissance influences in his unique style.

Whether architecture captivates you or not, Reims’ Art Deco charm is undeniable. From the Carnegie Library to the old Opéra cinema façade, Saint-Nicaise Church, and the Grand Theatre, Art Deco gems are scattered throughout the city. The IDVizit app offers two free walking tours dedicated to this theme. Many Champagne houses embraced this architectural style in the 1920s and 1930s, like Mumm’s shipping cellars and Vranken-Pommery’s Villa Demoiselle. Contemporary art also finds its place here, with monumental sculptures and street art pieces by talented creators like the inimitable Iemza, C215, and Céz Art.

Exhibitions and Culinary Delights

With its numerous Michelin-starred and acclaimed restaurants, Champagne doesn’t take its cuisine lightly. Plates here are made to match the prestige of the local champagnes! Each restaurant offers a unique style and personality, from casual to classic. Depending on your mood, head to one of the many dning bars around Place d’Erlon or in the Boulingrin district, where food markets sit side by side with antique shops.

Local specialties not to miss at the Boulingrin market include rose biscuits and croquignoles (ideal for dipping in champagne!), lentils, Reims’ ham, and the famous Clovis mustard. Adding to the Reims experience are the locals, affectionately known as “Cornichons.” To meet them, head to Quartier Libre, a hybrid space within a former industrial site that hosts exhibitions, events, and a business incubator. Or visit the Shed, a factory transformed by an inspired local into a vibrant space with a microbrewery, jazz club, photography exhibits, family areas, and a brunch spot. These creative hubs contrast beautifully with Reims’ rich 2,000-year history.

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