Reims Christmas market is one of the best in France and attracts a lot of visitors. There’s a reason for that, not only is it truly festive and incredibly pretty, it’s also fun. And, let’s not forget the Champagne connection!
What’s on at Reims Christmas Market 2018
Just 45 minutes from Paris by train, Reims Christmas market is an easy day trip from the city and well worth the quick journey.
The Christmas market takes place in the tree-lined pedestrian streets around Cathedral Square in the city centre. It’s beautifully illuminated and decorated; there are more than 130 traditional ‘chalet’ stalls boasting a wide range of gourmet products, arts and crafts and festive gift ideas. The festive programme for 2018 runs from 21 November – 28 December 2018. It includes visits from Santa, an ice rink, concerts, street music and exhibitions. There are events at various locations around the centre of the city. Reims’ 13th Century Cathedral is one of three UNESCO sites in the city and offers visitors a sensational sound and light show.
The Christmas market is open daily 10.30am – 8.00pm (Friday and Saturday 10pm and Mondays 2.00 – 8.00pm)
Of course it’s an excellent opportunity to stock up on exquisite regional produce and unique gifts, not to mention excellent value champagne and wines from local producers. As you’d expect there are loads of places to buy in the town and lots of lush restaurants to take a break at.
Highlights include:
- Gourmet food market with a range of local specialist products such as Rose de Reims biscuits, foie gras, truffles, marc de champagne liqueurs and many more
- Cathedral sound & light show
- 42m Giant Wheel on the Forum Square
- Craft village in front of the legendary Reims Cathedral
Champagne Tasting in Reims
While you’re in Reims, it’s the perfect time to do a Champagne tasting and there’s plenty of choice. Our top three are:
Ruinart: The oldest Champagne house in existence, based about a mile at of the city in the famous quarry district. Their Champagne is elegant and memorable and makes for the most perfect celebratory fizz. You can take a great tour, it’s a little pricier than the rest but it’s well worth it. www.ruinart.com
Mumm: The tour and tasting are superb and you’ll get a fascinating insight into the world of Champagne making. They make several Champagnes – all of them fabulous. www.mumm.com
Pol Couronne: With a boutique in the shadow of Reims Cathedral where you can do a tasting, workshop, learn the art of Sabrage and buy their truly superb Champagnes. Knowledgeable, English speaking staff, this place is really special. www.champagne-polcouronne.com
For loads of Champagne experiences from tours to tasting see: www.champagne-booking.com
More on Reims
How to spend 48 hours in Reims
Day trip from Paris to Reims
Visit www.reims.fr to confirm times and details.
for more information on the region and numerous short break suggestions and activities see: www.champagne-ardenne-tourism.co.uk
