If you are visiting France, you shouldn’t miss the charming town of Epernay, also known as the “capital of Champagne”. Here you will find the best recommendations for champagne tasting tours, activities and places to stay in Epernay.
Are you planning a trip to Epernay?
Check out the best tours and accommodations in Epernay for your perfect stay:
Best tours, experiences and champagne tasting in Epernay:
1. Vineyards tour and champagne tasting
2. Splurge on a visit to 3 top Champagne Houses plus lunch
3. E-bike tour through the vineyards and wineries plus tasting
Best hotels in Epernay:
1. Manoir Henri Giraud & Spa (High-end)
2. Chambre D’hôtes Les Epicuriens (Mid-range)
3. Chambres Privées Epernay (Budget)
If you’re a fan of bubbly, Epernay, “the capital of Champagne”, is the place to be. Epernay is home to some of the world’s most famous Champagne houses, including Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët. But there’s more to Epernay than just Champagne. From its picturesque streets to its vineayards and delicious local cuisine, this town has plenty to offer.
1. Explore the Avenue de Champagne, the “most expensive” avenue in the world
Start your trip to Epernay by strolling down the Avenue de Champagne.
This is considered the most expensive avenue in the world: they say the huge underground maze of chalk cellars, store a treasure of over 200 million bottles of champagne!
This iconic avenue is lined with grand mansions and stately buildings, many of which are home to the famous Maisons de Champagne, or Houses of Champagne.
You’ll see impressive buildings adorned with intricate details, such as the Moët & Chandon house, which was inspired by the Palace of Marie Antoinette at Versailles.
Along the way, you’ll also come across several other landmarks. For example, the statue of Dom Pérignon, the 17th-century Benedictine monk who is said to have invented Champagne.
Another notable building is the Pol Roger house, where Winston Churchill was known to be a frequent visitor.
Pro Tip: To beat the crowds and get the best pictures of the avenue, visit early in the morning or late in the evening when the light is soft and the buildings are illuminated.
2. Visit a Maison de Champagne
Of course, the top reason to visit Epernay would be for tasting not only the finest Champagne in France but in the whole world. And where better to do so than at the famous Maisons de Champagne (the Houses of Champagne)? From Moët & Chandon to Perrier-Jouët, these Champagne houses are renowned for their elegant blends and rich history.
A typical visit to a Maison de Champagne involves a guided tour of the cellars, where you’ll learn about the Champagne-making process and the history of the house. You’ll see rows upon rows of Champagne bottles slowly aging in the cool, dark cellars.
There, you will learn about the different stages of the production process, from pressing the grapes to disgorging the sediment.
After the tour, you’ll be treated to a Champagne tasting. Tastings usually include several different varieties, ranging from the house’s standard blend to more exclusive, aged bottles.
Many tours also include a visit to the gift shop, where you can purchase bottles of Champagne to take home as souvenirs or gifts. Prices vary depending on the house and the type of Champagne, but expect to pay anywhere from €30 to €100 or more per bottle.
The cost of a visit and tasting varies depending on the house and the level of experience you choose. Be sure to book ahead, as tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Take a Champagne Tasting Tour
If you want to make the most of your champagne tasting experiences in Epernay, besides or instead of visiting one or two Houses of Champagne, you could also take tours that involve different locations and activities.
These tours offer well-rated interesting options that you should take a look at:
Vineyards with Champagne Tasting Tour
If you are looking to get out of the town center and explore the beautiful surrounding Champagne vineyards, this is a great option.
The tours starts at the famous Avenue de Champagne. From there, you will drive along the Champagne Route, while you learn about the history of Champagne and its vineyards.
You will have the chance to stop at several vineyards, inlcluding stops for tasting at three different places. The tour ends with a stop at Hautvilliers, where the original creator of champagne lived as a monk.
You can check availability of this tour here.
Moet & Chandon plus 2 other big Champagne Houses in a day
If you want to make the most out of your visit to Epernay and have the budget to splurge in a great tour, this is the best option.
The tour starts at Moët & Chandon’s extensive cellars, where bottles are stored for miles. While exploring them, you will learn about the history of the family and their famous Brut Imperial. Sip on Champagne and learn from a sommelier how to appreciate its aromas fully.
Next, you will enjoy a traditional three-course French lunch with a Champagne aperitif.
After lunch, you get visit to the De Castellane Champagne house, the tallest tower in Epernay. There you will discover the Champagne-making process, see the tanks and labeling machines, and explore the cellars with a Champagne tasting.
Finally, you will take a a fun train ride through the cellars of a third Champagne house. You willl taste even more Champagne to end your day on a high note.
You can check the availability and book this tour here.
4. Explore Epernay and the Vineyards of Champagne by Electric Bike
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Epernay and the Champagne region in France is by exploring the vineyards on an electric bike. This eco-friendly mode of transportation allows you to easily navigate the hills and valleys of the region while enjoying the fresh air and stunning scenery.
You can book this popular e-bike tour which includes a leisurely full-day ride through the hillside vineyards. You will stop at traditional wine-growing villages like Mareuil-sur-Ay and the famous Abbey of Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, also known as the Church of Dom Pérignon.
During the tour, you’ll have the chance to learn about the Champagne-making process at a local winery, where you can witness the production and storage of the famous bubbly beverage. You’ll also get to sample at least six different Champagnes, giving you a true taste of the region.
But the tour isn’t just about Champagne – it also includes a delicious lunch of regional cuisine.
You can check the availability and book this e-bike tour here.
5. Fly over the Champagne vineyards on a hot air balloon
The reason why I visited Champagne in the first place was a hot air balloon event, where I had the opportunity to fly along dozens of other balloons over the breathtaking views of the vineyards. Believe me, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
While this events don’t happen all the time, there are companies that offer rides every day.
Drifting gently above the vineyards, you’ll see the patchwork of vines, the sprawling estates of the Maisons de Champagne, and the picturesque villages nestled among the hills. Enjoy the views while sipping a glass of bubbly!
Make sure to book in advance, especially during the high season.
6. Try the Famous Pink Biscuits of the Area
For a sweet treat, visit the Maison Fossier, a historic biscuit factory that has been producing delicious treats for over 250 years. It is actually the oldest buscuit factory in France.
Even though their main shop is at nearby Reims, they also have a branch at Epernay.
Try their famous pink biscuits, which are flavored with raspberry and almond, or their buttery Madeleines. I got a pack of pink biscuits and they were amazing. They are also great gifts to bring back home from the Champagne area.
7. Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions in Epernay
While the Maisons de Champagne and Avenue de Champagne are the main draws of Epernay, there are some hidden gems waiting to be discovered in this charming town and around.
A beautiful church you will see while walking around Epernay is the Notre Dame Church. But if you want to wander a little bit further away from the town’s center, head to the Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul church, located just a short walk away. With its beautiful stained glass windows and impressive architecture, it offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the town’s main tourist areas.
While the Maisons de Champagne are the most famous tasting rooms in town, I recommend you to branch out and explore some of the smaller, family-run wineries in the region. You’ll often find more personalized experiences and unique wines that are not available elsewhere.
For example, I suggest you to visit the Leclerc-Briant Champagne house. They are pioneers in the biodynamic and organic champagne production. You can take a tour of the vineyards and learn about their sustainable practices, then taste their delicious wines in a peaceful and intimate setting.
Best hotels in Epernay – Champagne
If you are looking for a place to stay in Epernay, here I have made a selection of the top hotels that will suit every budget:
Manoir Henri Giraud & Spa (High-end)
For those who love luxury. Recently renovated, this boutique hotel offers a contemporary feel with traditional elements. You can enjoy modern amenities, spacious and impeccably decorated rooms, and free on-site parking. Relax in the indoor pool and spa area while enjoying stunning vineyard views. It’s a 12-minute drive to the center of Epernay, so it’s perfect if you have a car or planned tours that will pick you up.
You can check availability and book here.
Chambre D’hôtes Les Epicuriens (Mid-range)
If you want to indulge in local delicacies, choose Chambre D’hôtes Les Epicuriens. You’ll receive a warm welcome with champagne and canapés upon arrival. The spacious and comfortable rooms offer modern amenities. The host is a great cook, who offers a great breakfast, and a delicious dinner if you choose to dine at the hotel. It’s located in the center of Epernay.
You can check availability and book here.
Chambres privées hyper-centre Epernay (Budget)
This is the best budget-friendly option in the center of Epernay. The cozy rooms offer everything you could need, including tea and coffee making facilities. There are four recently renovated rooms on the ground floor, and the key is in the box at the door with a number lock that you receive on the day of arrival. Plus, there’s a car park (pay by the hour) just 10 meters from the property.
You can check availability and book here.
What’s the best time to visit Epernay in Champagne?
The best time to visit Epernay is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and the vineyards between full bloom and the harvest season.
If you want to witness the harvest, the fall can be a good time to visit. Specifically late September or early October. The exact date can vary from year to year though, and it will depend on the amount of sunlight the vineyards have received during the summer.
The weather during the fall is not so warm but it’s not cold either. I myself visited the Champagne region during the early fall and a light jacket was all I needed if it got a bit cold. Make sure to take a scarve and dress in layers (and if you are wondering what else to pack, take a loook at what to pack for Europe in fall).
On the other hand, you can also time your visit to make it coincide with any of the seasonal events that celebrated throughout the year. Here are some of the highlights to look out for:
- Fêtes Henri IV: This annual festival takes place in August and celebrates the town’s rich history and heritage. You can expect live music, parades, street performers, and plenty of food and wine.
- Fête de la Gastronomie: Held in September, this event celebrates the region’s culinary delights with cooking demonstrations, tastings, and workshops.
- Christmas Markets: From late November to early January, Epernay is transformed into a winter wonderland with festive markets, decorations, and events. You can browse handmade gifts, sip mulled wine, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the town during the holiday season.
- Les Habits de Lumière: This annual event takes place in mid-December and is a celebration of all things Champagne. You can enjoy fireworks, parades, tastings, and more as the town lights up with festive decorations.
Hot to get to Epernay from Paris
Epernay is located in the heart of the Champagne region in northeastern France, making it easily accessible from several major cities in the area. Here are the most common transportation options for getting to Epernay:
Paris to Epernay by train
Epernay is well-connected to Paris and other major cities in France by train. The journey from Paris to Epernay takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the train you choose. Once you arrive in Epernay, the train station is just a short walk from the town center.
Paris to Epernay by car
If you prefer to drive, Epernay is easily accessible by car. The journey from Paris to Epernay takes about 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. You can rent a car here for your visit.
Final thoughts
If you’re a fan of bubbly, then this charming town in Champagne is an absolute must-visit. Visiting the Maisons de Champagne, doing some of the best wine tours in France, sampling some of the finest champagnes in the world and biking through the vineyards, will make an unforgettable journey.
Explore the area to experience some of the best of France! I recommend taking at least two days to really get to discover the best of the area. As you see, there’s enough to see and do in Epernay.
If you don’t have enough time, though, Epernay makes for a beautiful day trip from Paris, since it is just one a half hours away by train.
