Getting to Champagne and Getting Around Champagne

Getting to Champagne

By Air

• Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): The main international gateway to Champagne. From CDG, you can take a direct train (TGV) to Reims, which takes about an hour.

• Paris Orly Airport (ORY): Another major airport with connections to Reims and other parts of Champagne via train or car rental.

• Vatry International Airport (XCR): A smaller airport closer to the region, with some low-cost flights. It’s about an hour’s drive from Reims.

By Train

• High-Speed Trains (TGV): The TGV connects Paris (Gare de l'Est) to Reims in about 1 hour. Épernay is also accessible from Paris in about 1.5 hours.

• Regional Trains (TER): Regional trains connect various towns within the Champagne region and are convenient for traveling between smaller cities and villages.

By Car

• From Paris: Champagne is about 90 miles (145 km) east of Paris. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via the A4 motorway.

• Car Rentals: Available at airports and major cities like Paris, Reims, and Épernay, providing flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.

Getting Around Champagne

By Car

• Driving: The most convenient way to explore Champagne’s rural areas and vineyards. Roads are well-maintained, and scenic drives through the countryside are a highlight.

• Car Rentals: Available in major towns and cities. Ensure you have GPS or maps for navigating rural areas.

By Train

• Regional Trains (TER): Connect major towns like Reims, Épernay, Châlons-en-Champagne, and Troyes. It’s a comfortable and efficient way to travel between these destinations.

By Bus

• Local Buses: Operate within towns and between nearby villages. They can be slower and less frequent but are a budget-friendly option.

• Tourist Buses: Some companies offer hop-on-hop-off bus services around key tourist areas, especially during the peak season.

By Bike

• Bike Rentals: Available in towns like Reims and Épernay. Biking through the vineyards and along the designated bike routes is a popular and scenic way to explore.

• Cycling Routes: The Champagne region has well-marked cycling paths, including the famous "Route Touristique du Champagne."

By Taxi and Ride-Sharing

• Taxis: Readily available in larger towns and cities. They can be expensive for longer journeys or rural areas.

• Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber operate in larger cities, providing a convenient alternative to taxis.

Guided Tours

• Wine Tours: Many companies offer guided tours of the vineyards and champagne houses, which include transportation.

• City Tours: Guided tours in Reims, Épernay, and Troyes often include transportation between major sites.

Practical Tips

• Plan Ahead: Especially during peak seasons and festivals, transportation can be busy, so book trains and tours in advance.

• Local Transport Passes: Consider purchasing local transport passes for cost-effective and unlimited travel within certain zones.

• Parking: If driving, be aware of parking regulations and availability, particularly in historic town centers where spaces can be limited.