10 tips for visiting Reims

1. Visit one of France's most beautiful cathedrals

Reims, a city that has flourished since Roman times, is dominated by the 13th-century cathedral, Notre-Dame de Reims. The building is one of France's most famous Gothic masterpieces, where no fewer than 33 French kings have been crowned and anointed. Not surprisingly, Unesco has recognised this monument as a World Heritage Site. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the cathedral is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows, huge arches and no fewer than 2,300 statues of saints, angels and kings embedded in the portals, vaults and window frames. Be sure to look for the statue of the Smiling Angel, which has become the symbol of the city.

2. Admire art deco masterpieces

During the First World War, Reims was badly damaged and had to be rebuilt. For this monumental task, the city council commissioned more than a hundred architects, most of whom rebuilt Reims in the Art Deco style that was popular at the time. Think bold, symmetrical shapes, often inspired by technology. Particularly beautiful houses from this period can be found on Boulevard Foch and Cours Jean-Baptiste Langlet. But the absolute highlight is the Bibliothèque Carnegie, named after US steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, who funded the construction. From the outside, the library is reminiscent of a Greek temple; inside, the mosaics, the chandelier in the entrance hall and the huge glass roof demand your attention.

3. Attend a masterful market

Those who love beautiful architecture as well as good food, should visit the Halles du Boulingrin, another architectural highlight in art deco style. The market hall, almost 100 metres long, is a listed building. It is notable for its spectacular high roof, but also for its wide range of fish and meat, fruit and vegetables and the finest specialities from the surrounding Champagne region. Dating back to 1929, this is the place to experience all the different culinary crafts and specialities of this part of France in one place. Of course, you will taste Champagne as well as the local chaource, a hearty, lightly salted cheese. The Boulingrin market is open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday morning.

4. Discover underground art

By far the city's most extraordinary (and inspiring) cultural hotspot can be found underground: Maison Pommery is a leading champagne producer on a nineteenth-century estate with very contemporary art in its cellars. Thirty metres underground you will find chalk quarries and tunnels with exhibitions including spectacular displays by dozens of artists from around the world. Afterwards, quench your thirst with a champagne tasting!

5. Step back in time at this stately townhouse

Another hidden gem is the Musée-Hôtel Le Vergeur. Housed in a perfectly restored historic mansion, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the city's wealthy merchant class. The museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts, furniture and decorative arts from various periods, including the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. One of the highlights is the collection of prints by the German artist Albrecht Dürer, including his famous Apocalypse series.

6. Make a road trip to champagne farmers

An absolute must on your city break to Reims is of course tasting Champagne, the drink named after the surrounding Champagne region. The recipe for Champagne, the queen of sparkling wines, is 300 years old and follows strict rules. Part of the production process is the same as for white wine, but an additional second fermentation creates the carbon dioxide in the wine. You can see (and taste) the process for yourself by visiting vineyards and champagne producers in the Reims area. You will be fully immersed during a Connexion Champagnoise guided four wheel drive excursion. Choose from a two, four or eight hour tour.

7. Immerse yourself in the Champagne cellar

Beneath Reims and the surrounding vineyards lies a labyrinth of cellars and corridors where Champagne is aged for years. The cool temperature, between 10 and 12 degrees, makes the flavour more complex and the bubbles more refined. During a one and a half hour tour of Champagne Grill & Fils, you can learn about this fascinating process. You will be guided through the chalk cellar where the Grill family have been storing their Champagne since the 1930s and finish the tour with a tasting.

8. Choose the perfect French terrace

There is no shortage of charming outdoor terraces in the historic heart of Reims. One popular spot is Place Drouet d'Erlon. Once the scene of important political and social gatherings, the square and boulevard are now the place to get a bite to eat and a drink. A little further north in the city, just opposite the covered market of Boulingrin, Le Clos is highly recommended. In addition to its outdoor terrace (take a seat at the wine barrels), this wine bar is popular for its tapas.

9. Walk or cycle through beautiful nature

Champagne-Ardenne is a patchwork of landscapes: green valleys, endless forests, vast plains and slopes covered in vineyards. The Montagne de Reims, with its mostly vineyard-covered slopes and occasional forest, offers a beautiful route from Hautvillers through the vineyards and forests of Champagne. If you cycle out of the city of Reims and choose the right roads, you can sometimes feel like you are the only one in the world. For the best routes, visit Champagne Toerisme.

10. Stock up on biscuits

Looking for a nice souvenir? Buy rose biscuits. Since the 17th century, kings have been greeted in Reims with these delicious pink biscuits that are dipped in their Champagne. Baked since 1756 by Maison Fossier, the oldest biscuit factory in France. Here, you can also enjoy macarons and gingerbread.