Things To Do
in Épernay
Épernay sits in the heart of the Champagne region along the Marne River, blending vineyard vistas with elegant, small-town charm. The town is famous for the Avenue de Champagne, a UNESCO-listed stretch of palatial cellars and historic houses. Visitors come for guided tastings, refined dining, and scenic walks through vine-dappled countryside.
With its genteel atmosphere, easy walkability, and proximity to Reims and Paris, Épernay makes a perfect Champagne-centered break.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the charming town of Épernay, known as the Champagne capital of the world. Settle into your quaint hotel and enjoy a peaceful breakfast at a local café, indulging in fresh pastries and coffee. Stroll around the picturesque streets and familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
Visit the iconic Avenue de Champagne, where you can explore the grand Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Mercier. Participate in a guided tour to learn about the Champagne-making process and enjoy tasting exquisite samples. Take in the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere as you wander through the vineyards.
Savor a delightful dinner at a traditional French restaurant, where you can pair your meal with local Champagne. Enjoy the warm ambiance as you chat with fellow travelers and savor the regional specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll beneath the stars along the scenic streets.
Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast at your hotel, then prepare for a day dedicated to Champagne. Head to some of the lesser-known Champagne houses for an intimate experience and a more personalized tour. Enjoy the beautiful countryside views as you drive from winery to winery.
Engage in tastings at smaller, family-owned Champagne houses, experiencing the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. Learn about the unique growing techniques and blends that make each Champagne distinct. Don’t forget to purchase a bottle or two to take home as a wonderful souvenir.
Return to Épernay and unwind with a casual dinner at a bistro renowned for its local cuisine. Share stories about your day’s tastings and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the town in the evening light. Enjoy a nightcap of Champagne as you reflect on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-10 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class champagne culture and cellar touring on a compact, walkable scale
- Beautiful vineyard landscapes and easy access to nearby Reims and Paris
- High-quality dining options focused on regional produce and wine pairings
- Safe, friendly town with a relaxed atmosphere ideal for leisurely visits
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Crowds can surge during harvest and holiday periods
- Some cellar tours require advance booking and may have limited English guidance
- Smaller urban center means fewer big-city services on a weekend
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un endroit végétarien ?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian place?
Places to Visit in Épernay
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand, tree-lined avenue lined with historic champagne houses; ideal for architectural photography and reflections in windowed façades.
Historic church and charming town square offering interesting spires and stonework, especially during golden hour.
Scenic riverside paths with light reflections, perfect for sunset and candid street photography.
Rolling vineyard landscapes with sweeping vistas, especially striking during harvest season.
Food in Épernay
Épernay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chicken simmered with Champagne, cream, and mushrooms for a luscious, wine-paired main.
Must-Try!
Creamy Chaource cheese served with rustic bread and fruit chutney, a regional favorite.
A light dessert tart flavored with champagne zest and subtle sweetness.
A classic, comforting dish featuring pale sausage and earthy mushrooms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, charcuterie, and regional specialties.
Pop-up stalls and small eateries along the avenue offering crepes, pretzels, and quick patisseries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet with Bonjour or Bonsoir when entering shops or restaurants. Use 'S'il vous plaît' and 'Merci' in daily interactions.
Keep hands visible, avoid resting elbows on the table, and wait to be seated in some establishments.
Learning a few French phrases helps; many staff speak some English in tourist settings, but attempting French is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Épernay
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, a service charge is often included; if not, a tip of 5–10% for good service is customary in restaurants. For cafes and bars, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Vineyards awaken with fresh shoots; pleasant temperatures make outdoor tastings and walks enjoyable. Markets resume full outdoor activity, and flowers add color to photos.
Warm days and long evenings are ideal for terrace tastings and sunset vineyard walks; light showers can occur—pack a light layer and sunscreen.
Harvest season brings a bustle of winery activity and vivid grape-hued scenery; perfect for photography and winery tours, but can be crowded.
Chillier and quieter, with cozy cellars and festive lights around holidays; plan indoor tastings and ensure layering for cold days.
Épernay at Night
Hiking in Épernay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive vineyard-covered hills with marked trails, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife along gentle to moderate paths.
Waterfront and countryside trails along the Marne River, suitable for easy day hikes and photo strolls.
Airports
How to reach Épernay by plane.
A regional airport serving a handful of European routes; about 45–60 minutes by car from Épernay.
Major international hub with frequent connections; about 1.5–2 hours by high-speed train and road from Épernay.
Small regional airport useful for limited routes; approximately 1 hour by car from Épernay.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and retirees living in a peaceful town setting with strong ties to the wine industry.
Seasonal visitors and workers drawn to champagne production and winery tours, contributing to a vibrant, hospitality-focused economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region follows national leagues closely, with local clubs drawing fans to matches and gatherings around town.
A natural fit for touring the surrounding vineyards and countryside; many routes are popular with cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Épernay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants can offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pastas, cheese boards, legumes, and seasonal vegetable dishes. When in doubt, ask for a cheese board or a vegetable-forward plate.