Top 9 Things To Do in Reims

Explore the top 9 things to do in Reims with this guide. From marveling at the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral to savoring world-renowned Champagne, discover the best activities in Reims that will make your trip unforgettable.

Located in France's stunning Champagne region, Reims is where French kings were crowned, battles were fought, and Gothic architecture reached new heights. But beyond the bubbly wines, plenty of exciting tours and experiences in Reims deserve a spot on your itinerary.

From the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral to the world-class champagne houses, Reims blends old-world charm with vibrant modern-day attractions. It offers a mix of the grand and the simple, making city breaks in Reims feel genuinely refreshing, especially if you're looking for a cultural escape without the crowds.

When it comes to where to stay, there are plenty of top accommodations in Reims to choose from. From elegant hotels near the cathedral to stylish stays in quieter corners, Reims makes it easy to feel at home.

Keep reading to uncover the top things to do in Reims, including hidden gems, historical landmarks, and everything you need to make the most of your time in this incredible city. If you want to make your visit count, this guide has everything you need to start planning.

9. Taste the Unique Flavors of Reims

Few experiences capture the spirit of Reims, such as diving into its food scene. From market stalls to bistros, every dish has roots in Reims’ traditions and Champagne flair.

Head to Halles du Boulingrin, the largest market in the city, where locals shop for produce, cheese, and fresh bread in a beautifully restored 1920s building. For more laid-back food tasting adventures in Reims, explore the bistros and bakeries on Rue de Mars, Rue de Vesle, or Place Drouet d’Erlon.

Be sure to try local staples like jambon de Reims (herbed ham served cold), potee champenoise (a rustic pork stew). Also, don't forget the iconic biscuit rose de Reims, a pink, lightly sweet cookie that locals love pairing with Champagne.

Planning Tip: Halles du Boulingrin turns into a food market on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Visit early in the morning for the best selection and a chance to see locals in their routine. Don’t forget to grab a box of biscuit rose de Reims as a souvenir.

8. Learn the Royal Side of Reims at the Palace of Tau

One of the most fascinating things to do in Reims is visiting the Palace of Tau, the former residence of the archbishops of Reims and the place where French kings stayed during their coronations. Sitting right next to Reims Cathedral, this UNESCO-listed site brings royal tradition, religious heritage, and centuries of French history under one roof.

The palace now functions as a museum, offering visitors a closer look at France’s royal past. Walking through Salle de Tau (Great Hall), you’ll be immersed in the lavish post-coronation banquets for French Kings. You’ll come across original cathedral statues, detailed coronation robes, and tapestries that withstood wars and revolutions.

Two of the most important medieval artifacts in France can be found at the Palace of Tau: the 9th-century talisman of Charlemagne and the gem-encrusted chalice of St. Remigius. You can also check out the eleventh scene from the Life of the Virgin tapestry series hanging at the palace.

For travelers interested in cultural tours in Reims, the Palais du Tau adds meaningful depth to the experience. Every room reveals another chapter in the city’s legacy as the historic seat of French kings.

Planning Tip: Visit the Palais du Tau right after exploring the Reims Cathedral next door. Seeing them together paints a full picture of the city’s coronation history. Arrive early to enjoy a quieter and more immersive visit.

7. Step Into History at Reims’ Fascinating Museums

If you think Reims is all about Champagne, think again. The city is home to several museums, and they're some of the most underrated things to do in Reims.

If you want to see a collection of European art, the Musee des Beaux-Arts is a must-visit in Reims. Housed in a former abbey, this art museum showcases works from the Renaissance to modern times, including Monet, Renoir, and Poussin pieces.

For those who want to explore the Roman history of Reims, Musee Saint-Remi showcases Gallo-Roman and medieval history. It's home to artifacts from the city's early Christian period, including relics from St. Remi, the bishop who converted Clovis I, the first king of the Franks.

Reims is also home to the Musee de la Reddition, a powerful reminder of Europe’s wartime history. Step into the very room where Germany officially surrendered to the Allies in 1945, marking the dramatic end of WWII.

Meanwhile, Musee Automobile Reims Champagne boasts over 200 classic cars. From retro Citroens and vintage motorcycles to rare sports cars, it's one of the top things to do in Reims.

You can explore these museums independently or as part of city sightseeing tours in Reims, which often include stops at key landmarks and insider context from a local guide.

Planning Tip: Many museums in Reims are closed on Tuesdays and have reduced hours in the off-season. Plan ahead and bundle two or three into a day for a deeper dive into the city's history and culture.

6. Uncover the Past at the Basilica of Saint-Remi

If you're looking for an unforgettable experience, exploring the Basilica of Saint-Remi is a must on your list of top things to do in Reims. This UNESCO-listed church is an architectural masterpiece and carries deep historical significance.

Built in Romanesque and Gothic styles, the basilica stuns visitors with its tall stone arches, colorful stained glass windows, and calm atmosphere. It's much quieter than the more famous Notre Dame Cathedral, making it a great place to slow down and take everything in.

Inside, you'll find the tomb of Saint Remi, the bishop who baptized Clovis I, the first king of the Franks to convert to Christianity. That moment changed the course of French history, and the basilica honors it beautifully.

Planning Tip: Pair your visit with the nearby Saint-Remi Museum in the former abbey buildings to learn more about the site's religious and military past. It's just a short walk from the basilica and adds more depth to your experience.

5. Marvel at the Grandeur of Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral

Step into history where nearly every French king was crowned for over a thousand years. The Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral is not just a church—it's one of the most iconic things to do in Reims.

As you approach, the soaring Gothic exterior stuns with over 2,000 statues, including the iconic "Smiling Angel." The cathedral's stained glass windows, particularly those designed by Marc Chagall, add a splash of color and light, enhancing the spiritual experience.

For a deeper look, join a guided tour of Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral to uncover royal ceremonies, architectural secrets, and the rich symbolism in its stained-glass windows.

Prefer to explore more of the city? A Reims private walking tour pairs perfectly with a cathedral visit. It takes you through popular sites like the Palace of Tau and Place Royale, and the city’s hidden gems such as the Ruines du Couvent des Cordeliers and Musee Le Vegur. It's an easy way to get a fuller picture of Reims' history at your own pace.

Planning Tip: The Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral is a popular attraction. Visit early in the day or near closing time for fewer crowds and the best photos. If you're up for it, climb the tower—your legs may protest, but the panoramic views of Reims are worth every step. Easily access the tower through guided tours. 

4. Take a Trip to the Champagne Vineyards

Journey into the craft, culture, and charm of the sparkling wine that has made Reims world-renowned. Pop the cork on one of the most unforgettable experiences in Reims—sip Champagne right where it’s made!

A morning Champagne tour and tastings from Reims is a perfect start to the day. Meet local wine growers, hear their stories firsthand, and learn about the centuries-old tradition of making this bubbly drink as you visit family-run wineries in Champagne.

For a more adventurous twist, pedal through rolling hills lined with vine-covered landscapes on an electric bike Champagne tour. If you prefer a slower pace, walking through the Champagne vineyards makes the tasting more meaningful.

If you want more flexibility, you can rent a car in Reims and go on a self-drive adventure in the Champagne region. Reims makes a perfect departure point for exploring nearby areas like Montagne de Reims and Cote des Blancs. These famous subregions are known for their scenic routes, charming wine villages, and world-class producers.

Planning Tip: If you're visiting during the harvest season (late summer to early autumn), consider booking a tour for a truly unique experience. Tours often sell out fast this time of year, so it's best to book at least a month in advance. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through vineyards and possibly along dirt paths.

3. Explore the Legendary Champagne Houses of Reims

If sipping world-famous Champagne straight from the source sounds like your kind of day, Reims is the place to be. Exploring its legendary Champagne houses is easily one of the top things to do in Reims. From iconic cellars to centuries-old traditions, this is where the magic of sparkling wine truly comes to life.

In Reims, you can explore the Champagne house made by Madame Clicquot, one of the most revolutionary women in wine history. A guided Veuve Clicquot tour takes you deep into the house's chalk cellars, where stories of innovation and resilience unfold. Finish with a tasting of the house's bold signature: Brut Yellow Label.

Then head to Taittinger, another beloved Champagne house in Reims. Here, you'll descend into UNESCO-listed Roman chalk quarries that now store millions of bottles aging quietly beneath the city.

You can also explore Maison Mumm, a prominent champagne house founded in 1827. Taste the winery's famed Cordon Rouge cuvee and get an inside look at its traditional and modern techniques on a wine-tasting tour at Maison Mumm from Reims.

Many travelers visit two Champagne houses in Reims in a day to get a feel for the variety behind each label. Whether you prefer the toasty notes of a vintage blend or something lighter and fruitier, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation of what makes Champagne special.

Planning Tip: Book your visits in advance, especially during the high season (May to September). Most tours include tastings, so pace yourself and leave the driving to someone else.

2. Discover the Historical Significance of Verdun

Want to learn about the longest and deadliest battles of World War I? Beneath the quiet forest lies the Verdun battlefield, where the traces of World War I history can be seen.

Exploring Verdun Battlefield is one of the top things to do in Reims. Verdun, known as "the hell of Verdun," is where French and German forces clashed for months in 1916. It's a place of tragedy, resilience, and a powerful reminder of the devastation and resilience that marked one of the bloodiest conflicts in history.

Start at the Verdun Memorial Museum to grasp the scale of the battle through artifacts, letters, and soldier stories. A chilling battlefield replica, with mud, shells, and trenches, is displayed under the glass floor, giving you a firsthand look at the conditions soldiers face.

Next, head to Fort Douaumont, where damp stone walls and narrow passages reveal the brutal realities of wartime life. Feel the weight of history as you walk through this massive structure, once at the heart of the battle.

Finally, visit the Douaumont Ossuary, the solemn resting place of over 130,000 unidentified soldiers. This sacred site serves as a powerful tribute to the fallen, set against the peaceful backdrop of the surrounding countryside.

Planning Tip: Join a guided tour or rent an audio guide to get deeper insight into Verdun’s battlefields and memorials. Guides often share personal stories, historical context, and lesser-known facts that bring the experience to life.

1. Stroll Through the Elegant Streets of Reims

If you're into slow-paced visual retreats, one of the top things to do in Reims is to stroll along its elegant streets. The city is full of elegant 19th and early 20th-century architecture, where sunburst patterns, wrought-iron balconies, dramatic glasswork, and detailed stonework set the scene.

Start your city tour in Reims at Place Drouet-d'Erlon, a pedestrian-only main square, where the Sube Fountain stands and cafes spill onto the pavement. From here, head to Place Royale, a peaceful square featuring a statue of Louis XV at its center.

Don't forget to look up as you explore! Reims is full of architectural gems like the Art Deco details on buildings, the half-timbered houses in the Cite-Jardin district, and the Roman triumphal arch, Porte de Mars, conveniently near the train station.

As you wander, you'll pass shops, cafes, and bakeries. Rue de Vesle, Reims' main shopping street, is where you'll find everything from everyday stores to high-end designer brands.

Want to turn your city stroll into a mini adventure? Try the Reims e-scavenger hunt, where your phone becomes your tour guide and quizmaster while exploring the city.

Planning Tip: For the best experience, visit during weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and take your time savoring the local flavors at a traditional brasserie.

What are the top things to do in Reims for couples?

The top things to do in Reims for couples include champagne tasting tours and cozy dinners in brasseries, a restaurant offering beer and wine with simple, hearty food. Start your day with a guided visit to Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger—both offer romantic settings in historic cellars and the chance to share a glass (or two) of bubbly.

Stroll hand-in-hand through Place Drouet-d'Erlon, where you can relax at a café or enjoy lunch al fresco. Visit the Reims Cathedral for a quiet, awe-inspiring moment together. As the sun sets, walk to the Porte de Mars or detour the Cité-Jardin neighborhood to spot Art Deco architecture and hidden gems.

End your day with a traditional French dinner and a final glass of Champagne. Whether celebrating something special or enjoying each other's company, Reims offers a relaxed but memorable getaway.

What to do in Reims for a day?

If you only have one day, focus on the top things to do in Reims: visit a Champagne house, see the Reims Cathedral, and enjoy the city's main squares. Start early with a tour and tasting at Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger. These visits take around 1.5 hours and offer great insight into Champagne-making.

Next, walk to the Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral—this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning Gothic architecture. Have lunch at Place Drouet-d'Erlon, where restaurants and cafes line the square.

In the afternoon, visit Palais du Tau or stroll through Rue de Vesle for shopping. If time allows, visit the Roman triumphal arch, Porte de Mars, before heading out. One day is short, but it's enough to catch the essence of Reims.

What are the top things to do in Reims for families?

You can choose from plenty of family-friendly activities in Reims, like interactive museums, relaxed city strolls, and fun scavenger hunts. The Reims Champagne Automobile Museum is a hit with kids, with over 200 vintage cars and quirky collectibles. For a historic twist, the Reims Planetarium also offers family-friendly shows and activities.

Take a self-guided walking tour around the city center or join a Reims e-scavenger hunt—these interactive games use your phone to guide you through fun landmarks. Stop at Place Drouet-d’Erlon for crepes or ice cream, and explore the nearby Reims Cathedral together.

For families with older children, one of the top things to do in Reims is to enjoy a short champagne cellar visit at a house like Taittinger, where the underground tunnels fascinate curious minds. Reims is easy to explore on foot, and its calm pace makes it a family-friendly destination.