The Best of Reims France
A Fun Day Trip from Paris
Are you looking for a good day trip from Paris? Look no further than the beautiful city of Reims. Reims is only 80 miles northeast of Paris and you can take a roundtrip high-speed train that will get you to Reims in only 40 minutes. Reim’s history goes back for centuries and the city was a very strategic location for the Roman Empire. The Cathedral Notre-Dame of Reims was also the traditional site for the coronations of the Kings of France. I recently spent three fun-filled days in Reims, and here are my top suggestions on what to see in the city.
Reims Cathedral
The cathedral’s foundation is believed to date back to the 5th century. The current cathedral began construction in the 13th century and it took two hundred years to complete. In 1481, a
fire in the roof of the cathedral caused extensive damage. However, both Kings Charles VIII and Louis XII made substantial donations to the cathedral’s refurbishment. During World War I, the cathedral served as a hospital, however in 1914, the German Army shelled the city causing considerable damage. The cathedral is open from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on weekdays and closes at 7:15 p.m. on Sundays and holidays. Entrance to the cathedral is free. Website: https://www.cathedrale-reims.com/
Palace of Tau
Next to the cathedral is the Palace of Tau, which is the palace of the archbishop. The palace is where the Kings resided before their coronation in the cathedral next door. After the coronations, the palace was used for large banquets to celebrate the crowning of the King. Entrance into the Place is 8 euros. You can enter for free during the European Heritage Days (the 3rd weekend in September) and also on the first Sunday of the month (from January 1 to
March 31 and from November 1 to December 31). For more information visit their website at http://www.palais-du-tau.fr/
Le Bistort du Forum
A good place for lunch or dinner is Le Bistro du Forum. Centrally located in the Place du Forum, the restaurant is a good spot for local cuisine and tasty wine. The staff was very helpful and the prices were reasonable.
Address: 6 Place du Forum, 51100 Reims, France
Café du Palais
A great place to rest from a full day of site seeing is Café du Palais. This famous café is a must-see when in Reims. If the weather is good, I suggest sitting outside and enjoying some tasty champagne. The café also serves breakfast and afternoon meals. If you are lucky, you can also catch a live performance by a local band while you enjoy your champagne.
Address: 14, Place Myron Herrick, 51100 Reims.
Hours: Tuesday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. (lunch only) and on Saturdays 9:00 a.m. – 9:30
p.m. (lunch & Dinner). Closed Mondays & Sundays. Visit their website at http://www.cafedupalais.fr/
La Cantine du Coq
Another place I recommend for dinner or lunch is La Cantine du Coq. This small restaurant
serves delicious dishes and has a nice wine selection.
Address: 3 rue de Elus, 51100 Reims, France
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Tuesdays 12:00
p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Closed Mondays & Saturdays
Champagne Taittinger
You cannot visit Reims without visiting one of the local champagne makers. I recommend Champagne Taittinger. I had a fun day exploring Taittinger and their tour guides were well-informed, helpful, and fun. I learned about the history of the family and their passion for champagne. There are several options to choose from when visiting Taittinger. I suggest visiting their website to select the best option for you.
Cellars-booking.taittinger.fr
Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Address: 9, Place St. Nicaise 51100 Reims, France
To learn more about Reims, watch Sam Garza take you through the city.
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