The French know how to do things well – From fashion to food, the French have a reputation for being the best in the world at what they do.
When it comes to wine, there is no better place to experience than in the heart of champagne country – Epernay.
Épernay is a charming city in the heart of France’s Champagne region and is the perfect place to spend a day exploring everything the region has to offer.
If you’re looking for a charming European town with top-notch restaurants and vineyards galore, then look no further than Epernay, France.
Here are some tips on how to spend a day in Epernay, France: What to do in Épernay, see, eat and drink around the city. From touring champagne cellars to wandering through medieval streets, spending a day in Epernay is sure to be enjoyable!
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Where is Épernay?
This town is situated in the Champagne-Ardenne region of northeastern France and is known as the world’s capital of champagne.
Épernay is about 2.5 hours by train from Paris and is easily accessible by car, as it is well connected to the French autoroute system.
What to do in Épernay
There is no shortage of things to do in this charming town. Here are some of the best:
– Take a tour of one of the many champagne cellars in the area. Famous names such as Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger all have cellars in Épernay.
– Wander through the historic streets of the old town. There is plenty of medieval architecture to be seen, along with many lovely boutiques and restaurants.
– Stop in at one of the many champagne tasting bars in town. This is a great way to learn about the different types of champagne and taste some of the best that Épernay has to offer.
– Visit the Champagne World Exhibition Center. This museum is dedicated to all things champagne and is a must-see for anyone interested in this drink.
– Take a walk or bike ride through the vineyards that surround Épernay. There is no better way to experience the beauty of this region than by seeing it from above.
How to get around Épernay
The best way to get around Épernay is on foot or by bicycle. The city is very compact and most of the attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. There is also a good cycling infrastructure in place, so renting a bike is a great way to see the town.
Where to eat in Épernay
Épernay is home to some of the best restaurants in France. Here are a few of our favourites:
– La Villa Clicquot: This is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of Épernay. The food here is excellent and the wine list is one of the best in town.
– L’Ambroisie: Another Michelin-starred restaurant, this time in the heart of the old town. The food is traditional French cuisine with a modern twist, and the wine list is extensive.
– Au Petit Riche: This bistro offers excellent value for money, with a three-course menu for under €30. The food is classic French bistro fare and is very tasty.
– L’Atelier: This is a great place to go for a casual meal. The food is tapas-style and there is a good selection of wines by the glass.
Where to drink in Épernay
Épernay is home to some excellent wine bars, where you can taste some of the best champagne in the world. Here are a few of my favorites:
– La Cave du Vin: This wine bar offers a large selection of champagnes, along with a few rare bottles that are not usually available to the public.
– Le Comptoir du Vin: This wine bar is located in the heart of the old town and has a very intimate atmosphere. The focus here is on wine, with a large selection of champagnes and other wines from around the world.
– La Part des Anges: This wine bar is located in an old chapel and has a very unique atmosphere. It offers a large selection of champagnes, along with a few rare bottles that are not usually available to the public.
– L’Instant T: This wine bar is a great place to go for a casual drink. It has a large selection of champagnes, as well as a few beers and cocktails.
What to do in Épernay for one day
Only in Épernay for a day? No problem!
Epernay is a smaller city, so it’s pretty easy to see what most of the city has to offer in just a few hours.
Here is what you should do:
Visit a few of the local champagne houses and taste some of their finest bubbly
Start your day with a tour of one of the champagne cellars in town. Head to Avenue de Champagne and spend some time exploring the many champagne cellars and tasting rooms in this area. This is the heart of Épernay’s wine industry and is a must-see for any wine lover!
Definitely a great way to learn about the history and process of making champagne.
Take a walk through the vineyards and learn about the history of champagne production
After visiting the champagne cellars, take a walk or bike ride through the vineyards that surround Épernay. This is a great way to see the beautiful countryside and learn about the history of champagne production.
There are several bike rental shops in town, so it’s easy to get around.
Another great way to spend the day in Epernay is to visit the Champagne World Exhibition Center. This museum is dedicated to all things champagne and is a great place to learn about the history and process of making champagne.
A must-see for anyone interested in this drink!
Stroll through the city’s old streets and admire the historic architecture
Spend your morning wandering through the charming medieval streets of the city, stopping in at some of the charming boutiques and restaurants.
Be sure to check out the Hôtel de Ville (town hall), which is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture.
Indulge in a decadent lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant
After you’ve worked up an appetite exploring the city and learning all about the world’s finest champagne, head to one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in town for a decadent lunch.
Some of my favorites include: La Villa Clicquot, L’Ambroisie, and Au Petit Riche.
Épernay is home to some of the best restaurants in France, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs or relax in one of the city’s parks
After lunch, take it easy and spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs in one of the city’s many boutiques and gift shops.
Or, on a sunny day, relax in one of the city’s parks.
There are several beautiful parks in town, including Parc de la Victoire and Parc du Château.
End your day with dinner and drinks at a cozy bistro
Finish your day in Épernay with a delicious dinner and drinks at a cozy bistro.
There are plenty of great options in town, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
Some great local foods to try in Épernay include: foie gras, escargots, and of course, champagne!
Épernay also has a huge selection of wine bars around the city, so you can continue to sample some of the best champagnes in the world.
Épernay is a charming little city and is definitely worth a visit for any wine lover or history buff.
Whether you plan to spend a few days here or just a day, there is no shortage of things to see and do.
Whatever your interests, Épernay has something for everyone! Be sure to put this charming city on your list for your next trip to France.
Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!