Start your tour at Place Drouet d’Erlon, Reims’ lively central square, buzzing with cafés and restaurants, framed by elegant 19th-century buildings. Admire the ornate Fontaine Subé, a golden monument celebrating the city’s Champagne heritage. From here, stroll south along Rue de Vesle, a bustling street lined with shops and patisseries, capturing Reims’ charming blend of history and modernity.
After about 10 minutes, stop at Café du Palais (14 Place Myron Herrick), a historic Art Deco brasserie since 1930. Enjoy a quick lunch of a croque-monsieur or quiche Lorraine, affordable, no reservations needed, but arrive early to secure a table in this popular spot. A glass of local Champagne adds a festive touch.
Continue south towards Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, a Gothic masterpiece where French kings were crowned. Marvel at its intricate façade, rose window, and Marc Chagall’s stained-glass windows inside (free entry). Spend a moment soaking in its grandeur, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Head west along Rue de l’Étape to Place Royale, a serene square with a statue of Louis XV and elegant 18th-century architecture. Nearby, explore Rue du Trésor, a quaint street with boutique shops. Pop into Maison Fossier (25 Cours Jean-Baptiste Langlet), Reims’ oldest biscuit maker since 1756, for a quick browse of their famous pink biscuits de Reims, perfect for dipping in Champagne.
Loop north towards Porte Mars, a 3rd-century Roman triumphal arch, one of Reims’ oldest monuments, offering a glimpse of its ancient past. From here, head east to Halles du Boulingrin, a 1920s covered market with a striking concrete dome (check for opening hours; if closed, admire its exterior). For a sweet treat, stop at Pâtisserie Christian (12 Rue Carnot), a beloved local bakery, for a coffee or hot chocolate with a macaron or pain au chocolat, no reservations, so arrive promptly.
Continue south to Musée des Beaux-Arts (8 Rue Chanzy), housed in a former abbey, where a quick 20-minute visit showcases French paintings from the 17th to 20th centuries (small entry fee). Alternatively, wander the nearby Jardin de la Patte d’Oie, a small park with views of the cathedral’s spires, for a peaceful moment.
End your tour at Place du Forum, a charming square with Roman roots, now lined with cafés. Pop into Le Clos (25 Place du Forum), a cosy wine bar, for a glass of Champagne or a light dessert like tarte tatin, soaking up Reims’ convivial atmosphere. Alternatively, relax at Café Pétrus (15 Place du Forum) with a view of the square, savouring the city’s effervescent charm.This 3-4 km route captures Reims’ Gothic splendour, Champagne-infused cuisine, and historic allure, perfect for a four-hour stroll. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets around the cathedral and bring a light jacket for Reims’ often cool weather
