Épernay

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Épernay's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrive in Épernay
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Champagne House Tours
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Explore Épernay's History
morning
:

After breakfast, visit the Épernay Tourist Office for insights into the historical significance of the region. Take a guided walking tour that showcases key historical sites, including the stunning Église Notre-Dame and the town's impressive architecture. Capture memorable moments with photographs of the landmarks.

afternoon
:

Explore the local museum, known for its exhibitions about the Champagne industry and its impact on the town. Engage with interactive displays to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of Épernay. Grab lunch at a nearby café to refuel for the afternoon's adventures.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a gourmet restaurant featuring a menu crafted with fresh, local ingredients, complemented by exceptional wine pairings. As you dine, listen to live music or participate in a unique dining experience, possibly with a themed Champagne tasting. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk, soaking up the night-time charm of Épernay.

day 4
Visit Nearby Vineyards
morning
:

Spend the morning driving to nearby picturesque vineyards located in the Montagne de Reims region. Stop at a local bakery for a traditional French breakfast, enjoying fresh bread and pastries along the way. The scenic drive offers breathtaking views of endless vineyards and rolling hills.

afternoon
:

Arrive at a notable vineyard for a guided exploration, where you can learn about the vineyard's unique terroir. Enjoy a private tasting session with the vineyard’s owner, indulging in rare finds not available elsewhere. Grab a picnic lunch to savor amidst the stunning landscapes.

evening
:

Head back to Épernay and prepare for an exquisite dinner at a Michelin-starred establishment known for its seasonal dishes. Enjoy a multi-course meal, each paired with specially selected Champagnes to highlight the flavors. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy wine bar celebrating local artisans.

day 5
Scenic Champagne Route
morning
:

Embark on a self-guided tour along the scenic Champagne Route, where you can stop at various picturesque villages. Enjoy breakfast at a charming village café, savoring the local delicacies. Marvel at the scenic vineyards and countryside views as you make your way through the charming towns.

afternoon
:

Visit historic villages like Hautvillers, where the monk Dom Pérignon discovered the méthode champenoise. Explore the narrow streets and stop by some boutique Champagne houses for tastings. Have lunch at a local eatery, trying regional specialties paired with local wines.

evening
:

Return to Épernay and indulge in dinner at an outdoor terrace, enjoying the beautiful evening breeze. Select from a menu that emphasizes local seafood and seasonal produce. After dinner, consider visiting a jazz club for live music to dance the night away.

day 6
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

After a leisurely breakfast, explore Épernay’s cultural scene by visiting local art galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional works. Engage with artists and learn about their inspirations and mediums. Spend some time at the town's library or a bookshop, soaking up the local literary culture.

afternoon
:

Attend a cooking class or workshop where you can learn to create traditional French dishes using Champagne as an ingredient. Enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow participants as you share recipes and techniques. Have lunch featuring your culinary creations paired with a glass of Champagne.

evening
:

Dine at a local hotel restaurant, enjoying a menu inspired by the day’s cooking class. Experience the flavors you learned to create, paired with various styles of Champagne. End the evening with a casual walk along the Marne River, reflecting on a day filled with art and flavor.

day 7
Relax in Nature
morning
:

Enjoy a slow morning with breakfast in the garden of your hotel, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Spend the morning hiking or cycling in the nearby Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, where lush landscapes and peaceful sounds abound. Capture beautiful photographs of the vibrant green surroundings.

afternoon
:

Settle in for a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint in the park, taking in the panoramic views while enjoying local specialties. Spend the afternoon exploring walking trails and enjoying the natural beauty, perhaps even spotting local wildlife. Visit an organic vineyard for a unique farm-to-table experience.

evening
:

Return to Épernay and enjoy a tranquil dinner at an outdoor terrace overlooking the vineyards. Gather around a cozy fire pit with friends, sharing stories of your adventures while enjoying a glass of Champagne. Wrap up the evening by watching the sunset over the vineyards.

day 8
Final Day in Épernay
morning
:

For your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast filled with pastries and local cheeses, taking time to reflect on your adventure. Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs, from Champagne to local crafts, to remember your trip. Explore any remaining sites or attractions that piqued your interest.

afternoon
:

Savor a farewell lunch at a charming café, relishing the memorable flavors of your trip. Take a last stroll through the picturesque streets for those final photos of Épernay. Consider a last-minute visit to a nearby vineyard or Champagne house for a final tasting.

evening
:

As your journey comes to an end, indulge in a farewell dinner at a top-notch restaurant, celebrating your time in Épernay. Share laughter and memories with fellow travelers over exquisite dishes and a toast of Champagne. Conclude with a walk along the illuminated streets, cherishing the experiences of the past 10 days.

Discover Épernay

Read more in our Épernay 2025 Travel Guide.

Épernay Travel Guide