Reims

Palais du Tau: between royalty and heritage

Next door to the cathedral, the Palais du Tau, former residence of the archbishops of Reims and home to the kings of France associated with their coronations, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Now a museum, it traces the history of royal coronations and displays valuable artifacts such as the holy bulb and Charlemagne's talisman. Don't miss the Royal Banqueting Hall and the Palatine Chapel, adorned with 13th-century frescoes.

The Mars Gate: a Roman vestige

The Porte de Mars, dating from the 3rd or 4th century AD, is the oldest monument in Reims. The only remaining part of the Roman city wall, this gate—named after the nearby Temple of Mars—is the widest of the preserved Roman gates, measuring 33 meters wide. It is decorated with bas-reliefs depicting mythological scenes and Roman deities. Recently restored, the Gate of Mars is open to the public free of charge.

Reims culture: immerse yourself in life in Reims

Discover Reims in a whole new light: a city rich in culture, offering a variety of places and events where you can explore art and local life. Here are three must-see experiences to enrich your visit:

FRAC Champagne-Ardenne: Spotlight on Contemporary Art

Housed in the former Jesuit middle school, The FRAC Champagne-Ardenne is a space dedicated to contemporary art. It hosts temporary exhibitions by renowned French and international artists and has a permanent collection of more than 900 works. For a fully immersive experience, the FRAC organizes guided tours, workshops, lectures, and screenings.

Enjoy free admission on the first Sunday of every month.

The Carnegie Library: A Gem of Art Deco Architecture

The Carnegie Library, built between 1921 and 1928 thanks to the patronage of Andrew Carnegie, is an architectural masterpiece of the Art Deco style in Reims. Its exterior is adorned with sculptures and mosaics, while the interior features stained-glass windows, marble, and wood paneling. With more than 200,000 items, including rare books, manuscripts, and prints, the library also hosts exhibitions and cultural events.

Events not to be missed: from the Fête Johannique to the Flâneries Musicales

Reims comes alive all year round with festive events and accessible to everyone. The Fête Johannique, celebrated in June, reenacts the coronation of Charles VII with Joan of Arc through parades and medieval activities. The “Flâneries Musicales,” meanwhile, enchant the height of summer with a classical music festival held at iconic venues such as the cathedral, the Palais du Tau, and the Parc de Champagne.

Unusual getaways: discover the hidden face of Reims

Reims, a city renowned for its champagne, is full of surprises and hidden gems just waiting to be explored. For those who want to get off the beaten path, here are three ideas for unique getaways in Reims:

Champagne cellars: an underground journey

Reims and champagne are inextricably linked. Beneath this historic city lie kilometers of galleries dug into the chalk, housing millions of bottles of champagne. Once used as quarries or shelters during the wars, these cellars are now open to visitors. Here, you can learn about the champagne-making process, admire collections of vintage bottles and, of course, taste this world-famous sparkling wine. The cellars of Taittinger, Pommery, Veuve Clicquot and Mumm are among the most renowned.

The Cryptoporticus: Mysteries of Reims’ Ancient Past

The cryptoporticus, a remnant of the Gallo-Roman era dating from the 1st century A.D., is a U-shaped underground gallery that was part of the ancient forum, the city’s political and religious center. It likely served as a storage area or a covered market. Now open to the public, the cryptoporticus offers a glimpse of ancient murals, sculptures, and inscriptions. It also hosts various cultural events, such as exhibitions and concerts.

Street art and green spaces: another facet of Reims

Reims also stands out for its modernity and creativity, with its many green spaces and works of street art. The Saint-Remi neighborhood, in particular, is famous for the Reims Murmure festival, where the walls are adorned with urban art. The Champagne and Léo Lagrange parks, as well as the botanical garden, offer peaceful havens for relaxing, picnicking, strolling, or exercising, reflecting the richness and diversity of Reims.

Conclusion

Reims, with its rich historical, cultural, culinary, and natural heritage, offers an unforgettable experience for urban explorers. Whether your passion is champagne, majestic cathedrals, contemporary art, or street art, Reims promises discoveries that are sure to delight you. This dynamic city has successfully managed to modernize while preserving its rich heritage and unique identity.

Don't wait any longer—plan your trip to Reims, this iconic city of coronations and vibrancy, right now, and let yourself be enchanted by its incomparable charm!

FAQ

What are some places to visit in Reims?

Reims, a city steeped in history and culture, is world-renowned for its majestic Gothic cathedral—the site of the coronations of the kings of France—and for its champagne cellars, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Must-see sites include Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, the Veuve Clicquot champagne house, Saint-Remi Basilica, and the Salle de la Reddition, where the German surrender was signed in 1945.

Why is Reims famous?

Reims is renowned for its historical importance in the coronation of the kings of France, with the baptism of Clovis and the coronation of 33 sovereigns from the 11th to the 19th century, and for its central role in champagne production. The heart of the Champagne vineyards, Reims is home to prestigious trading houses and spectacular cellars carved out of the chalk.

Is Reims a beautiful city?

With a rich cultural and historical heritage—best exemplified by Notre-Dame Cathedral, the site of the coronations of the kings of France—Reims is undeniably a city of great beauty. As the capital of champagne, this exceptional wine, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the cellars of the great champagne houses.

Which river flows through Reims?

The Marne, the Seine's main tributary and France's largest river, flows majestically through Reims.