10 Reasons to Visit Champagne in 2025

Champagne has long been celebrated for its heritage, international recognition, craftsmanship and excellence; and in 2015, the Champagne region was officially recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On the tenth anniversary of achieving this accolade, Champagne Bureau UK* has compiled a list of ten reasons for visiting Champagne this year - from the region’s historical significance and picturesque vineyards to the tasting experience itself.

A vineyard that has been granted UNESCO World Heritage status has to feature beautiful landscapes and a long-standing wine-growing tradition. On 4 July 2015, The Champagne Hillsides, Houses and Cellars were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. The Hillsides allude to the Champagne winegrowing landscape, the Houses represent the buildings with outstanding architecture that are dedicated to the production of Champagne wines, and the Cellars refer to underground – more than 100 km of cellars that are essential during the process of Champagne aging. There is much to see, taste and learn. With Champagne being synonymous with celebration, what better way to commemorate this milestone than to go and visit?

No visit to Champagne would be complete without going on a few tours and tastings – after all, Champagne only comes from Champagne. Experience a range of Champagne styles by visiting the various houses, growers, and cooperatives where expert guides are on hand to offer tours and tastings, as well as provide an insight into the intricate process of Champagne production. To note, there are 370 houses, 130 cooperatives and over 16,000 growers - though not all houses and growers offer tours and tastings, we recommend selecting and booking tastings in advance and visiting two/ max three a day. 

Champagne is undeniably a picturesque region – from the flowing rivers to the rolling hillsides that are filled with neat rows of vines. It is these vines that produce bountiful harvests of ripe grapes, thanks to the growers that spend all year pruning and protecting them from bad weather and disease. The lifecycle of the vineyards makes this ever-changing region an exciting place to visit, no matter the time of year.

Champagne spans over 34,000 hectares and is divided into four main regions: Côte des Blancs, Côte des Bars, Montagne de Reims, and Vallée de la Marne. Within the Champagne AOC, there are 319 charming villages scattered throughout these four regions. Depending on how long you are visiting for, we suggest sticking to one or two areas to start. You can always visit a second time to explore a new part of Champagne!

Located in Epernay, avenue de la Champagne is often referred to as the “capital of Champagne”, where many Champagne houses are located, as well as the SGV (Syndicat General des Vignerons) headquarters. It is definitely worth walking up this beautiful Avenue.

Avenue de la Champagne is also one of the “zones” that supported Champagne’s nomination as a UNESCO Heritage Site. The other two include the historic hillside vineyards in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ and Saint-Nicaise Hill in Reims; in addition to the 319 villages within Champagne AOC.

The Champagne region is steeped in history. From the coronation of almost all the Kings of France at the Cathedral in Reims, which dates back to 420 AD and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1991, to the pivotal role Champagne played in both World Wars, the area’s historical landmarks provide a journey through time for visitors. Places to visit include Reims Cathedral, the Museum of the Surrender, Fort de la Pompelle and Basilica of Saint-Remi, to name a few.

Visitors to Champagne can experience a wealth of unique culinary offerings – from bars and restaurants in the cities that will offer great wine pairings with different Champagne styles to wonderful local brasseries in the many surrounding villages that will allow you to discover some new Champagne producers. The region is full of different gastronomic experiences. There are also a number of local products to try, including Biscuit Rose de Reims at various independent shops!

Every year, there are several festivals and events that take place in Champagne. From the ‘Route du Champagne en Fête’ in July, which is dedicated to celebrating local Champagne producers, to the ‘Habits de Lumière’, a magical light festival hosted in Épernay in December, there is something for everyone all year round.  

For those looking to make the most of a full day in Champagne, why not take part in a wine tour? Whether it’s to tour a vineyard or join a Champagne masterclass, there are also special temporary exhibitions that take place in some of the wine cellars in Champagne. Visitors can discover all there is to know about the Champagne terroir and history of the region while also visiting pop-up exhibitions featuring various themes, from art to pop culture. Another great way to learn more about the Champagne region is by visiting Pressoria, a permanent exhibition that provides guests with a sensory journey to the heart of Champagne through sight, touch, smell, hearing and taste.

A visit to Champagne provides the perfect opportunity to learn all about the wine’s diverse flavours, palette and food pairings. From a bright, refreshing Champagne Blanc de Blancs and a full-bodied Champagne Blanc de Noirs to a vibrant Champagne Rosé and sophisticated Vintage, visitors will leave the region with a wealth of knowledge about Champagne, having discovered some new styles to further explore.

Champagne is the perfect destination for a trip in 2025, thanks to the region’s proximity to the UK. The quickest route takes just over four hours from London, starting with a journey on the Eurostar from St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. From here, visitors can get on a second train at Paris Gare de l’Est, which will take them directly to Reims – a journey that takes just 40 minutes.

*The Champagne Bureau UK serves as an extension of the Comité Champagne, the trade association representing houses and growers in Champagne.

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