Private tour: Full Day Veuve Clicquot to Reims or Epernay region

If you’re a champagne enthusiast dreaming of spending a day touring the most famous houses and charming villages of France’s Champagne region, this private tour offers a polished yet authentic experience. In about nine hours, you’ll visit the legendary Maison Veuve Clicquot, stroll down the iconic Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, explore the quaint Hautvillers village where Dom Pérignon is laid to rest, and enjoy a delicious 3-course French lunch paired with champagne.

One thing to consider is the price tag of roughly $830 per person, which might seem steep for some, especially if you’re traveling solo; however, the focus on smaller group sizes, personalized guides, and a full day of sights and tastings often make it worth the investment. Plus, booking 110 days in advance shows this experience is in high demand among dedicated travelers.

What we love most: the expert guidance that makes each visit educational and fun, and the comfort of private transportation that makes navigation through the region seamless and stress-free. On the flip side, the tour’s price might be a barrier for budget-conscious travelers, but the inclusion of 9 tastings, luxury transport, and a meal certainly adds to the value.

Highlights

• Expert-led private tour accommodating up to 8 travelers for a more tailored experience
• Visit and taste at Veuve Clicquot, one of the most iconic champagne houses
• Drive along the famous Avenue de Champagne with a chance to admire the grand Champagne houses
• Discover the village of Hautvillers, home of Dom Pérignon and scenic vineyards
• Enjoy a traditional 3-course lunch paired with champagne, in a beautiful setting
• Sample nine different champagnes, tasting a variety of styles and brands

A Comfortable Start with Private Pickup

The tour begins in Reims with hotel pickup, removing the hassle of organizing transportation once you arrive in France. Traveling in an air-conditioned minivan, you’ll be in a small group of no more than 8 people, allowing for personalized attention from your guide. With pick-up at 9:00 am, your day is set with a relaxed start, giving you time to soak in the French countryside as you head toward some of the region’s most treasured spots.

Visiting Veuve Clicquot

The day kicks off with a visit to the prestigious Veuve Clicquot. Here, your guide takes you underground into their famous cellars, where aging bottles sit patiently awaiting their moment. This private visit lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes and involves admission fees included, making it a hassle-free experience.

History buffs and wine lovers alike will appreciate learning about the house’s century-old techniques and its unique terroir. The tastings that follow guarantee you sample some of their exquisite champagnes, with a total of nine different wines during the full day. One recurring praise from travelers is how knowledgeable guides make the cellar tours both interesting and accessible. As one reviewer put it, they were “extremely helpful and knowledgeable,” which made the whole experience more engaging.

Wandering the Avenue de Champagne

Next, with only about 10 minutes of driving, you’ll arrive in Épernay to stroll down the famous Avenue de Champagne. This street is lined with grand champagne houses, each with their own distinct architecture and history. While the visit here is a quick stop, it’s an excellent photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate how the global reputation of Champagne was built on this very street.

Travelers often comment on how cool it is to see the facades of legendary brands and imagine the history behind each building. It’s a scenic way to understand how the region’s winemaking industry shaped this picturesque corner of France.

Exploring Hautvillers, the Village of Dom Pérignon

From Épernay, your journey takes you to Hautvillers, a charming village just a short drive away. Here, you’ll wander through vineyards and narrow streets, discovering why this spot is considered the “birthplace of Champagne.” You’ll visit the church where Dom Pérignon is buried, gaining insight into the man whose name has become synonymous with luxury bubbles.

Reviewers frequently highlight how special this stop is. One said, “The village and vineyards were beautiful, making the history come alive,” which shows how this peaceful spot offers both scenic beauty and a taste of tradition.

French Lunch Paired with Champagne

After a morning of sightseeing, you’ll settle into a lovely restaurant for a 3-course lunch that celebrates French cuisine. It’s not gimmicky; the meal is typically beautifully prepared and includes a pairing of Champagne wines to complement each course. This moment offers a true taste of local gastronomy in a relaxed, elegant setting. Multiple reviews praised the delicious food and generous pours — one guest even raved about the quiche being “to die for,” and expressed hope for the recipe!

The lunch duration is about 2 hours 30 minutes, giving you ample time to savor the flavors and engage with your guide and fellow travelers.

Afternoon Tasting at a Small Producer

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to a smaller Champagne producer. Here, you’ll observe the production process up close, taste several of their own wines, and deepen your understanding of the different styles available beyond the big-name houses. Many reviews noted how meaningful and intimate this part of the day is. One traveler called it a “great experience” and appreciated the chance to taste less commercial, more handcrafted champagnes.

Final Tasting and Reflection

The last stop allows additional tastings, often at another boutique house, which means you end your day with a solid sample of various styles and brands. This variety is one of the tour’s highlights, especially for those wanting to explore beyond the most famous names.

Benefits of the Small Group and Guided Approach

Throughout the day, your guide’s extensive knowledge makes everything more enjoyable—be it understanding the champagne-making process, learning about regional history, or getting insider tips on bottles to buy. Many reviews highlighted guides like Jerome, Clara, Thomas, and Chloe for their friendly, professional attitude, making the day interactive and fun.

While the ticket price of $829.99 might seem high, consider what’s included: transportation, 9 tastings, a 10-minute walk, a three-course lunch, admission fees, and expert guidance. Plus, the experience is private, ensuring a personalized touch no large tour can deliver. For wine lovers eager to understand Champagne on a deeper level and enjoy top-notch hospitality, this often translates into excellent value.

Others might find cheaper options, but few offer such an in-depth, all-inclusive, small-group experience. Reviews reflect this sentiment, with many callers mentioning the generosity of tastings, the knowledgeable guides, and the beautiful scenery as adding up to a memorable day.

This experience suits those passionate about champagne — whether seasoned connoisseurs or curious travelers wanting to understand what makes Champagne special. It’s ideal if you’re after a luxurious, educational, and relaxed day exploring historic houses, scenic villages, and enjoying fine French cuisine.

It’s also perfect for small groups who appreciate personalized attention, or for travelers who want a convivial atmosphere where they can ask questions and fully indulge in the region’s delights. Be aware that for budget travelers or those with mobility issues, this might not be the best choice; the focus is on quality and depth over affordability.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not compatible with children under 10, and the experience is geared toward adults interested in wine and history.

Can I book this tour on short notice?
Most travelers book about 110 days in advance, so last-minute bookings might be challenging, especially during peak seasons.

What is the group size?
Max 8 passengers, which creates an intimate atmosphere and allows for personal interaction with your guide.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reims, making the logistics smooth.

What is the duration of the entire day?
About 9 hours, from 9:00 am start to return in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, please advise any specific dietary requirements at booking time.

What is the best part of the experience?
Most reviewers praise the guided cellar visits, the chance to learn from specialists, and tasting at both big houses and smaller producers.

Can I visit the Champagne houses if I don’t pre-book?
No, pre-booking and included admission fees are essential, especially for this private experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, with air-conditioning and a small group size, the minivan offers a pleasant, hassle-free ride.

How does this tour compare to other Champagne experiences?
It uniquely combines large house visits, small producer tastings, scenic villages, and a French lunch, making it well-rounded and highly praised.

If you’re craving a well-rounded, intimate exploration of the Champagne region with plenty of tastings, local insights, and a touch of luxury, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially geared toward those who value a personalized experience and a blend of history, scenery, and fine wine. While the price may seem steep, the inclusions and high-quality guides make it a worthwhile choice for passionate travelers seeking a memorable day in France. For anyone with a keen interest in Champagne’s legacy and craft, this tour promises a satisfying and flavorful journey.