10 Unforgettable things to do in Champagne, France

Hi everyone! I’m Sarah, and I’m thrilled to welcome you back to this article, where I’ll share the things to do (and MUST DO, to be honest) in the Champagne region, France.

If you’ve been following along, you know we’re passionate about sharing the magic of our beloved Champagne region. In my article outlining 12 fantastic activities in Champagne, we explored a range of experiences for every kind of traveler. But let’s be honest, if you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, celebrating something extraordinary, or gathering your best friends for an unforgettable girls’ getaway, you want to make sure you experience the absolute crème de la crème of Champagne, right?

That’s where this post comes in. Consider it your curated guide to the 6 most essential things to do in Champagne, France—a carefully selected collection of experiences guaranteed to create lasting memories. Whether you dream of losing yourself in breathtaking vineyard views or indulging in luxurious champagne tastings, this list has something special in store for you.

Ready to pop open a bottle of adventure and discover the heart of Champagne? Let’s dive right in!

Champagne on any budget: Sabrage experience is a must-do

No trip to Champagne is complete without experiencing the thrill of sabrage! This exhilarating tradition involves opening a champagne bottle with a saber – yes, you read that right! – and it’s an absolute must-do, no matter your budget. Imagine the satisfying swoosh of the blade, the celebratory pop of the cork (or should we say, the top of the bottle!), and the gasps of amazement from your fellow travelers. It’s a moment of pure joy and a quintessential Champagne experience.

Now, before you get any ideas about grabbing the nearest kitchen knife and a bottle of bubbly, a word of caution: while sabrage is incredibly fun, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Champagne bottles are under pressure, and attempting this technique without proper instruction and precautions can lead to accidents.

Here are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Always learn from an expert: Seek out a reputable Champagne house, local guide, or sabrage instructor who can teach you the correct technique.
• Identify the weak point on the bottle: There’s a specific seam along the neck of the bottle that you’ll target with the saber.
• Chill the champagne thoroughly: This helps reduce the pressure inside the bottle, making it safer to saber.

Trust me, every time I introduce friends and family to sabrage, it becomes a highlight of their trip. To help you find the perfect spot for your own sabrage adventure, I’ve put together a list of Champagne houses and local guides that offer this unforgettable experience, complete with expert instruction to ensure a safe and exciting experience. Don’t miss out!

Planning the ultimate girls’ trip to Champagne, France?

Bachelorette party in Champagne? Brilliant idea! Milestone birthday celebration? You’re in the right place! Anniversary getaway with your best friends in Champagne Region? Another excellent reason to visit! Champagne sets the stage for unforgettable moments.

Imagine this: you and your crew cruising through the picturesque vineyards of Champagne, sipping champagne, and even trying your hand at sabrage on a rooftop bus tour! Starting from either Reims or Epernay, this three-hour adventure offers stunning views of the vineyards, stops at iconic points of interest, and one of the most fun and memorable ways to experience the region with a group.

Perfect for creating unforgettable memories, this experience is a must for anyone planning a girls’ trip to Champagne!

Become a grape picker – Experience the harvest firsthand

Want to delve deeper into the heart of Champagne? Why not try a “Grape Picker for a day” experience! This increasingly popular activity gives you the unique opportunity to participate in the grape harvest alongside the experts.

From meeting the winemaker and harvesting grapes to exploring cellars, witnessing pressing, and savoring a well-earned tasting—complete with a diploma and fresh grapes as souvenirs.

Harvest typically occurs between mid-August and mid-September.

• Adults: €69
• Children (7 to 17 years): €19
• Free for children under 7 years old
• Duration: 3 hours
• Reims Tourisme

⫸ Wondering why harvest season is the absolute best time to experience Champagne? I explain everything here.

Soar above the vineyards in a hot air balloon is a thing to do in Champagne

Okay, I’ll admit it—this is one experience I’m dying to try myself!

Imagine yourself floating above the Champagne vineyards in a hot air balloon, gently rising into the sky. Below, the landscape stretches out like a living painting—rolling hills and perfectly aligned rows of vines. The panoramic views are absolutely breathtaking. Can you imagine a better way to experience the heart of Champagne?

For me, as a local, autumn is the perfect season for this kind of adventure. The vineyards turn into a patchwork of gold and crimson hues, creating a stunning backdrop for what can only be described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

This isn’t just about the views; it’s about truly connecting with the magic of the region in a way that’s unforgettable. A hot air balloon ride over Champagne is the kind of memory you’ll treasure forever. Wouldn’t you love to try it?

(P.S. My dearest darling, if you’re reading this, my birthday is just around the corner… hint, hint!)

Unlock the secrets of Champagne: Masterclass experiences for wine lovers

If you’re serious about your champagne, a masterclass is an absolute must. It’s easy to confuse tastings with masterclasses, but here’s the key difference: a tasting offers a delicious introduction to Champagne, while a masterclass takes you deep into the world of winemaking. They can even complement each other!

Here’s what you can expect from a Champagne masterclass:

• In-depth exploration of grape varietals, terroir, vintages, and specific production techniques.
• Comparative tastings of different cuvées or Champagnes from various houses.
• Expert guidance from an oenologist, sommelier, or winemaker.

Here is a list of Champagne masterclasses:

• 🤍 Discovery Master Class with an amazing Sommelier- Epernay
• Le Goût du Terroir – Reims
• Masterclass Champagne in Hautvillers

Enjoy a full day of tasting with a driver is one of best things to do in Champagne

One of my favorite things about Champagne is that you can fully enjoy the experience without the stress of driving. Whether you’re joining a guided tour or using local transportation, it’s all about making the most of your time here. My friends from Australia always say, “Champagne is for celebrating, not for rushing,” and I couldn’t agree more! The joy is in savoring each moment and discovering the region at a leisurely pace.

Here’s my advice for planning the perfect champagne tasting tour:

Hire a driver for the day

One of the best ways to fully enjoy your day in Champagne is by hiring a driver. You have two options:

• Personalized driver service: You provide your itinerary, the number of people, and the schedule in advance, and your driver ensures everything runs smoothly.
• Tour guide service: A guide can plan the entire day for you, including the visits and timing, based on their expertise. Don’t hesitate to share your preferences and must-visit spots to make the day truly personalized.

Book your visits in advance

Many of the smaller producers and Champagne Houses require reservations, so planning ahead is essential. To simplify the process, consider using platforms like Winalist or Rue des Vignerons. These websites let you input your preferred dates and location to see available tours and tastings nearby. It’s the best option for finding experiences that match your schedule while discovering hidden gems in the region.

Limit yourself to 2-3 visits

It might be tempting to fit in as many stops as possible, but pacing yourself is key to enjoying the day. Two visits are ideal, allowing you to truly savor each experience and tasting. If you’re feeling ambitious, three visits are the absolute maximum. Take the time to soak in the atmosphere, learn about the process, and enjoy the Champagne without feeling rushed.

Pack a picnic or plan for lunch at a winery

A lunch break can add so much charm to your day, especially if it includes local cuisine paired with Champagne. Some wineries offer Champagne lunches, giving you a 2-in-1 experience of fine dining and tasting. Here are a few options to consider:

• Monthelon
• Mareuil-sur-Aÿ
• Bruny Vaudancourt

For the ultimate experience, I recommend choosing a tour package that includes lunch, a visit to a prestigious Champagne house, and a stop at a smaller independent winegrower. It’s the perfect way to experience the full spectrum of Champagne!

Pressoria: discover Champagne with all five senses

Just a few minutes from Epernay, in the charming village of Aÿ-Champagne, Pressoria offers something truly different. Set in a former pressing centre, this interactive sensory museum invites you to experience Champagne through light, sound, smell, touch and of course… taste!

Perfect if you want a more immersive and educational Champagne experience. Whether it’s your first time in the region or you’ve been before, Pressoria is a top activity near Epernay that’s well worth a visit.

Cave aux Coquillages: fossils and Champagne under one roof

For something completely unexpected, head to La Cave aux Coquillages in Fleury-la-Rivière. This one-of-a-kind Champagne region activity mixes geology, history and wine in the most surprising way. You’ll explore a natural cave filled with incredibly well-preserved marine fossils from over 45 million years ago, back when the region was covered by the sea.

Your guide, Patrice, is full of passion and fascinating facts, and yes — Champagne is still being aged down there! It’s an off-the-beaten-path experience that’s great all year round (just don’t forget a sweater, the cave is naturally cool). A true hidden gem for curious minds.

Explore the vineyards in a vintage van

Want to explore Champagne in a vintage van? Climb aboard a restored 1980s Estafette van with this amazing, friendly brother and sister to discover the vineyards. This fun and quirky ride takes you through scenic vineyard roads, offering a relaxed way to enjoy the countryside.

Your guides, Maeva and Romain, share local stories, vineyard secrets and lots of good humour along the way. It’s definitely one of the most charming things to do around Epernay — perfect if you want to mix discovery with a bit of nostalgia and lots of smiles.

Cycle through Champagne’s vineyards with ease

If you’re looking for a more active yet peaceful experience, renting an electric bike is a fantastic way to explore the region. Whether you’re sporty or just love being outdoors, this is a lovely way to slow down and soak in the Champagne landscape.

You can rent e-bikes in Epernay, Reims or nearby villages, and either follow a GPS route at your own pace or join a guided tour. A pro will lead you safely through the vines, sharing insights about the seasons, the winemakers’ work, and local history. It’s a refreshing and enriching activity, ideal for connecting with nature — and with Champagne, of course!

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And there you have it – six unforgettable experiences that are sure to make your trip to the Champagne region of France absolutely magical! Whether you’re sipping bubbly on a rooftop tour, trying your hand at sabrage, or immersing yourself in the harvest season, there are so many incredible things to do in Champagne. From breathtaking vineyard views to world-class champagne houses, this region offers an abundance of places to visit and things to see that will captivate your senses and create lasting memories. So start planning your Champagne adventure today, and get ready to pop open a world of unforgettable experiences.

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Planning a trip to Champagne? These articles might interest you:

• The Ultimate Guide to Champagne Sabrage in Champagne, France
• Visiting Dom Pérignon in Hautvillers: What You Need to Know
• December in Champagne: Unique Winter Wonders
• Visit Winegrowers in Champagne: Top Small Producers
• Champagne House Cellar Visit: Reims & Epernay Guide
• Why Harvest is the Best Time to Visit the Champagne Region?