When most people hear Champagne, they think of celebrations, weddings, and that unmistakable pop of a cork.
After recently spending time in Champagne connecting with winemakers, hoteliers, and guides on the ground, I can confidently say, what makes this region unforgettable is the feeling of it all. The storybook villages, the history, the miles of cellars hidden underground, and the unmistakable sense of pride from the people who have been perfecting this craft for generations.
And whether you’re a wine lover or not, Champagne has a way of winning people over (just ask our team!).
Where you stay in Champagne really shapes your experience here—and this is one of those destinations where the right hotel makes all the difference.
These are a few of our favorite properties we love recommending to clients:
Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa
Set above the vineyards with sweeping views, this is one of the most iconic stays in the region. It’s modern, design-forward, and has one of the best spas in Champagne. Perfect if you want something elevated, relaxing, and quietly luxurious. This is where we stayed, and every moment was divine.
Domaine Les Crayères
A classic French château experience in the heart of Reims. This is timeless, elegant, and ideal for clients who love tradition, history, and a more formal, refined stay. The dining here is also exceptional.
La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa
If you want to be right in the center of it all, this is such a great option. Located just steps from the cathedral, it’s stylish, comfortable, and perfectly positioned for exploring the city between tastings.
Manoir Henri Giraud
For something more intimate and experience-driven, this is a hidden gem. Staying here feels personal and immersive, with a deeper connection to the craftsmanship behind Champagne.
When to Visit Champagne (And Why Shoulder Season Wins)
Champagne is truly a year-round destination, but each season offers something a little different:
- Spring (April – May): Fresh, green, and starting to bloom. Fewer crowds and a beautiful time to explore.
- Summer (June – July): Lively and vibrant with long days—perfect for tastings and slow lunches outdoors.
- Harvest (August – September): One of the most special times to visit. The energy is incredible as the region comes alive.
- Winter (October – March): Quieter, moodier, and honestly so charming—especially around the holidays.
If I had to pick? Late spring or early fall feels like the sweet spot. We visited late March; while we had beautiful 60 degree days with sun, the week turned cold and there was a threat of snow. This was obviously not ideal for vines that thought Spring had arrived, but it did make for a great learning experience on how they protect the growing vines when the weather is cold.
Who Champagne Is Perfect For
Champagne works for more people than you might think:
- Couples looking for something romantic but low-key
- Friends who want a fun, elevated getaway
- Food and wine lovers (of course)
- Clients celebrating something special
- Travelers who have “done Paris” and want something different
It’s also incredibly easy to pair with a Paris itinerary—it’s just about 45 minutes away by train, but feels like a completely different world.
What Make Champagne So Special
There’s a reason this region is so iconic—and it goes far beyond the name.
- The chalky soil and cool climate create wines you truly can’t replicate anywhere else.
- The historic maisons have been perfecting their craft for centuries, think Tattinger and Ruinart.
- The underground cellars (miles and miles of them) are unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere. They are called “crayères” and are UNESCO-listed.
- And then there are the small, family-run growers who offer a completely different, more intimate experience like Pierre Pillard and Henri Giraud.
Taking one day to enjoy tastings at the large, well-known houses and a day to experience more intimate tastings at small houses was the perfect way to enjoy the region. It’s this blend of heritage and craftsmanship that makes Champagne feel so distinct.
Experiences We Can Plan in Champagne, France
This is where Champagne really shines—and where we love getting creative for our clients.
Some of our favorite experiences:
- Private tastings inside historic cellars (think behind-the-scenes access)
- Multi-course lunches prepared by renowned chefs that are paired perfectly with champagne
- Bike (or horseback) rides through the vineyards
- Barrel-making experiences
- History and Food tours in Reims
- Even hot air balloon rides over the vineyards if you want something truly spectacular
It can be as relaxed or as elevated as you want—but either way, it’s never cookie-cutter.
Let's Talk About Food
The food in Champagne deserves just as much attention as the wine.
Think:
- Beautiful, seasonal French cuisine that leans into the region
- Incredible cheeses and charcuterie
- Cozy bistros and elegant Michelin-starred restaurants, like Le Royal at Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa
And here’s the thing—champagne pairs with everything. Not just celebrations.
Even if you didn’t step foot in a single tasting room, Champagne would still be worth the trip.
- Explore the stunning cathedral in Reims
- Wander the elegant streets of Épernay
- Visit Hautvillers, where Dom Pérignon once lived
- Bike through vineyard-lined roads that feel straight out of a movie
- Or simply slow down and enjoy the rhythm of the countryside
It’s peaceful, beautiful, and just the right amount of indulgent.
Is Champagne Worth It?
Absolutely.
Champagne is one of the most accessible yet elevated destinations in France. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of luxury, culture, and authentic experiences.
And when planned well, it becomes so much more than a wine trip—and every sip of champagne will forever take you back to this spectactular place.
A special thank you to Andy Swann Voyage for hosting us on an unforgettable familiarization trip through Champagne. The access, insight, and experiences you shared made this journey truly exceptional—and we’re so grateful to bring what we learned back to our clients.
Kaleigh Kirkpatrick
Kaleigh Kirkpatrick is the founder and CEO of The Shameless Tourist, a luxury travel agency specializing in bespoke, culturally immersive itineraries worldwide. She is a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor and Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist, recognized among the top travel experts globally.
Known for her firsthand destination knowledge and trusted global partnerships, Kaleigh regularly travels to vet hotels, guides, and experiences—ensuring her clients receive seamless, highly personalized journeys with exclusive access. Her expertise has been featured in Travel + Leisure, Food & Wine, and many other publications.
