Champagne & Reims Day Trip From Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris sits closer to the Champagne region than many visitors realise, which makes a day trip to Reims and the surrounding vineyards a tempting break from the rides. The resort is on the eastern edge of greater Paris, and the famous Champagne houses are a straightforward motorway run further east. With an early start you can swap roller coasters for cathedral spires and cellar tastings, then be back for dinner at the resort.

This guide covers how far Reims is, what to see and taste, and why a private driver is the relaxed way to explore a wine region where nobody wants to be the designated driver. It is a grown-up day out that complements a family Disney holiday perfectly.

How far is Reims and how long does it take?

Reims lies around 130 km east of the resort, roughly an hour and a half by road on the motorway in normal conditions. That is comfortable for a day trip with time to spare at the other end. Because the journey is longer than our standard airport runs, it is priced on request, with a fixed quote agreed before you set off so there are no surprises. A private car also lets you set your own departure and return times rather than working to a train timetable.

What to see in Reims

Reims is crowned by its magnificent Gothic cathedral, where French kings were once crowned, and the city centre rewards a wander on foot. The real draw, though, is Champagne itself: several prestigious houses offer cellar tours that descend into chalk caves where the bottles age, followed by a tasting. Booking these in advance is sensible, especially in peak season, so you can line up your day around confirmed slots.

Exploring the Champagne villages

Beyond Reims, the Champagne countryside is dotted with pretty villages and smaller growers, many along the scenic Montagne de Reims and the Marne valley. With a private driver you can string several stops together at your own pace, taking in vineyard views and family-run producers that public transport simply cannot reach. It turns a single city visit into a proper tour of the region.

Why a private driver beats the train

You can reach Reims by train, but a wine-focused day out is awkward without a car at the far end, and someone always has to stay sober to drive a hire vehicle. A private driver solves both: everyone can taste freely, the rural villages become accessible, and there are no connections to juggle with tired feet at the end of the day. It is the difference between seeing one cellar and touring the region. If you also plan time in the capital, our Disneyland to central Paris guide covers that trip.

Planning your day

Start early to make the most of the daylight and the cellar opening hours, and pre-book any house tours you have your heart set on. Travelling as a group keeps the per-person cost reasonable, and a single minivan seating up to seven or eight means everyone stays together — see our group transfer service. Share your itinerary when you request a quote so the timings and stops are built into the day from the start.

Frequently asked questions