Skip the Crowds: Lesser-Known Summer Destinations Worth Exploring – Reims, France

Looking to bypass the summer hustle of Paris without missing out on French elegance, culture, and unforgettable food and wine? Reims, France is your underrated summer gem. Just under an hour from Paris by high-speed train, Reims offers gothic grandeur, world-renowned Champagne houses, and tranquil streets that feel far removed from the chaos of typical tourist hotspots.

Whether you’re a culture lover, wine enthusiast, or slow traveler, Reims is the perfect summer destination for those in-the-know.

Best Things to Do in Reims: Champagne Houses & Cathedrals

1. Explore UNESCO-listed Reims Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Reims)
This 13th-century Gothic masterpiece hosted the coronation of French kings for centuries. With towering stained-glass windows and intricate sculptures, it’s a quieter but equally majestic alternative to Notre-Dame in Paris.

2. Tour Iconic Champagne Houses
Reims is the capital of Champagne, and many of the world’s most prestigious labels—Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Pommery, and Ruinart—are based here. Book a cellar tour to learn about the méthode champenoise and sip your way through elegant tastings.

3. Wander Through the Palais du Tau
This former archbishop’s palace is now a museum, offering a glimpse into the royal ceremonies and historical artifacts linked to Reims’ royal past.

4. Relax in Parc de Champagne or Les Hautes Promenades
Perfect for a summer picnic or a relaxing stroll, these green spaces provide shade, serenity, and local atmosphere.

Travel Tip: Stay connected while navigating Reims with an eSIM for France from Voye Global—no need to rely on public Wi-Fi or pay hefty roaming charges.

Traveling in June? Read our blog – Nice, France (Côte d’Azur) – Gorgeous Beaches and Mediterranean Charm

Day Trips from Paris to Reims: How to Get There

Reims is the ideal day trip (or longer stay) from Paris, with multiple easy travel options:

By Train:
Take a TGV from Gare de l’Est in Paris. The journey is just 45–50 minutes, making it perfect for a Champagne day tour.

By Car:
Driving takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, and gives you flexibility to explore nearby vineyards and towns like Épernay or Hautvillers.

By Tour Bus:
There are Champagne tasting day tours that include travel from Paris, often stopping at multiple houses and lunch in a vineyard.

Don’t let roaming fees ruin your Reims rendezvous—activate your France eSIM by Voye Global before boarding the train.

Where to Stay in Reims: Hotels for Culture & Comfort

1. Domaine Les Crayères
A luxurious château hotel set in lush gardens with a Michelin-starred restaurant. Ideal for couples seeking romance and refined service.

2. Hôtel Azur
A centrally located boutique hotel perfect for city explorers. It’s close to major attractions and budget-friendly.

3. Novotel Suites Reims Centre
Modern, spacious rooms with easy access to the train station and Champagne houses.

4. La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa
Located right across from the cathedral, this 5-star hotel offers elegance, wellness amenities, and cathedral views.

Need to work remotely or keep the kids entertained? Voye Global’s eSIM for France keeps all your devices online, hassle-free.

Summer Events in Reims: What’s On in July & August

1. Flâneries Musicales de Reims (July)
A celebrated classical music festival with over 50 concerts across parks, cathedrals, and open-air venues.

2. Fêtes Johanniques (June–July)
This medieval-style festival commemorates Joan of Arc with parades, costumes, reenactments, and a lively medieval market.

Traveling in July? Read our guide – Festival d Avignon 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to France’s Theatrical Heart

3. Champagne Tasting Evenings
Many Champagne houses host sunset summer tastings, some paired with jazz nights or gourmet menus.

4. Local Markets & Food Fairs
Summer brings vibrant food markets and artisan stalls to Reims’ city squares—perfect for tasting local cheese, pastries, and, of course, Champagne.

SIM Card vs eSIM: What’s Best for Reims Travelers?

eSIMs offer greater flexibility, especially in destinations like Reims where Wi-Fi isn’t always reliable. With Voye Global, you can activate your eSIM even before landing in France, making your arrival smooth and stress-free.

Still having doubts? Read our blog on – How to Stay Connected in France During Your April Vacation?

Trusted eSIM Provider in France – Voye Global

Skip SIM card hunts at the airport. With Voye Global’s eSIM for France, you’ll enjoy:

• Instant activation via QR code
• High-speed 4G/5G coverage across France
• No contracts or roaming surprises
• Eco-conscious travel (zero plastic, paperless setup)
• Great for Champagne tours & GPS navigation

Visit Voye Global France eSIM to choose your plan today.

Reims is Where Summer Slows Down

While the world rushes to Paris, Reims waits quietly with cobbled lanes, creamy Champagnes, and cathedral bells ringing under the summer sun. It’s a place to skip the crowd, sip slowly, and savor everything France offers—without the Parisian price tags or chaos.

For a well-connected journey from Paris to the Champagne capital and beyond, Voye Global’s eSIM ensures you stay online, no matter how offbeat your travel path becomes.

FAQs for Summer Travel to Reims

1. Is Reims worth visiting over Paris in summer?
Yes. If you prefer fewer crowds, local experiences, and excellent wine culture, Reims offers a quieter, elegant alternative to Paris.

2. Can I visit Reims in a day trip from Paris?
Absolutely. High-speed trains make Reims reachable in under 1 hour. But we recommend staying overnight to fully explore.

3. Do I need internet access in Reims?
For booking tastings, navigating to Champagne houses, and using maps, yes. Use an eSIM from Voye Global to stay connected affordably.

4. Which is better for tourists—SIM card or eSIM?
eSIMs are more convenient, eco-friendly, and ideal for multi-city or multi-country European travel.

5. What is Reims best known for?
Reims is known for its grand cathedral and for being the Champagne capital of the world.

Want to explore more of France? Read our guide – Top Places to Visit in France: A Traveler’s Dream Destination