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Reims, a city steeped in French history, sits at the heart of the Champagne region. Known globally for its eponymous sparkling wine, the city's cellars, many of which are centuries old, offer an insightful look into the production of this celebrated beverage. Beyond its vinicultural legacy, Reims holds significant historical weight, notably as the site where French kings were crowned for over a millennium.
Visitors often gravitate towards the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, a grand Gothic structure that has witnessed numerous royal coronations. Nearby, the Palais du Tau, formerly the archbishop's palace, exhibits artefacts connected to the cathedral and the coronation ceremonies. For a glimpse into Roman antiquity, the Porte de Mars, an ancient triumphal arch, provides a striking contrast to the city's medieval and modern architecture.
For most visitors, the area around the city centre of Reims is the most practical choice for booking accommodation, offering excellent access to many of the city's main attractions and convenient transport links.
Staying within the city centre, particularly around the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims and the Place Drouet d'Erlon, places you right amidst the buzz. Here, you'll find a good selection of hotels ranging from well-known chains to independent establishments. This central zone offers an abundance of brasseries and restaurants, such as Le Boulingrin, and is home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The area is highly walkable, allowing you to easily reach the Palais de Tau and explore the shopping streets.
Just south-east of the centre, the Boulevard Lundy and Cour Jeanne d'Arc area provides a slightly more refined atmosphere, with some elegant hotels and a quieter ambiance, while still being a short stroll from the cathedral. This district is also where you'll find some of the larger Champagne houses, like Maison Ruinart, offering tours and tastings. Further out, towards the Chemin Vert district, particularly around the Parc de Champagne, accommodation tends to be more budget-friendly, often featuring modern hotels aimed at business travellers or those with a car.
When choosing a hotel, consider Reims's transport connections. The Gare de Reims Centre train station, located centrally, is a hub for regional and high-speed TGV services, making it easy to arrive by rail. From there, many central hotels are within walking distance or a short tram ride. The nearest airports are Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Paris-Orly, both offering direct TGV connections or bus links to Reims, so proximity to the train station can be advantageous for onward travel.
To secure better value on hotel stays in Reims, consider the timing of your visit. Prices tend to be higher during the summer months, particularly July and August, coinciding with peak tourist season. This period also often overlaps with the city's significant Champagne festivities, which can drive up demand. For more economical rates, aim for the winter months, from November to February, excluding the Christmas and New Year period, when fewer visitors are exploring the region.
Another strategy is to book well in advance, especially if your trip coincides with major events like the Johannine Fêtes in mid-June or the Habits de Lumière in December. These local celebrations attract many visitors, so early booking can help avoid last-minute price surges. Additionally, explore hotels slightly outside the immediate city centre; you might find more affordable options within easy reach of public transport.