Reims-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Friday

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to the iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, one of the most famous Gothic cathedrals in France. Take a moment to admire its stunning architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the adjacent Palace of Tau (free admission), which now serves as a museum showcasing art, sculptures, and tapestries from the cathedral’s collection.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Le Comptoir, a cozy bistro serving classic French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Try their famous Foie Gras or other seasonal dishes.
  • 1:30 PM: Head to the Reims Wine Cellars (entry fee around €10), where you can discover the art of winemaking and sample some fine champagne from the cellars’ vast collection.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at L’Auberge de la Reine Blanche, a lovely restaurant offering traditional dishes with a modern twist. Try their seasonal menu, which often features local produce.
  • 9:00 PM: Stroll along the picturesque streets of Reims’ historic center and visit the lively Place des Halles, where you can enjoy street performers and live music.

Accommodation

Consider staying at Hotel Le Prieure (mid-range), a comfortable hotel with elegant rooms and a peaceful atmosphere. Alternatively, for a more budget-friendly option, try Ibis Reims Centre.

Transportation

  • Getting There: The easiest way to reach Reims is by train from Paris or other nearby cities. Regular trains run from Gare de l’Est in Paris (around 45 minutes).
  • Local Transportation: Use the convenient tram system (Line 1) that runs through the city center.
  • Parking: Be aware that parking fees apply throughout the day.

Tips and Essentials

  • Weather: Summer can be warm, while winters are chilly. Pack accordingly!
  • Language: While many locals speak English, French is still the primary language spoken in Reims. Learn some basic phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Money: Credit cards are widely accepted; euros are the local currency.

Day 2: Saturday

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Reims (free admission), a beautiful art museum featuring an impressive collection of European and French art from ancient to modern times.
  • 11:30 AM: Head to the nearby Jardin botanique et arboretum, a peaceful oasis with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and scenic views.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at Le Grenier à Sel, a charming restaurant offering delicious burgers and salads in an intimate setting.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Basilique Saint-Remi (entry fee around €10), an impressive Romanesque church with stunning stained-glass windows.

Evening

  • 6:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Le Potager, a lovely restaurant serving creative dishes using local ingredients. Try their seasonal menu.
  • 8:00 PM: End the day by exploring Reims’ charming streets, perhaps stopping by the lively Place des Halles for some street entertainment and atmosphere.

Other Tips and Essentials

  • Reims is famous for its champagne! Consider taking a guided tour or visiting one of the local champagne cellars to taste some fine bubbly.
  • Get around with ease: Use Reims’ convenient public transportation system, including trams and buses, to get around the city.

Additional Recommendations

  • For an extra dose of history, visit the nearby Museum of the Great War (entry fee around €10) or explore the remnants of the old city walls.
  • Don’t miss out on Reims’ vibrant markets, especially the bustling Saturday market where you can find local produce and artisanal goods.

Enjoy your time in beautiful Reims!