Discover The Charm, Character And Champagne Of Reims

The gothic splendour of Reims has charmed people for hundreds of years, and tourists flockto this glittering capital of the Champagne region time after time for its culture, art,architecture and, of course, its wine. For those on a French canal holiday, a stop in this citycan be a wonderful way to spend a day, with its fantastic restaurants and stunning sightsoffering a combination of experiences that few European cities can match.

Of course, one of the major attractions of this part of the country is its champagne, and youwill not be disappointed sampling this wonderful drink in its home region; a taste so distinctlyFrench. Canal holidays that take you through the area will undoubtedly incorporate tastingsessions, but there is more to see and do in Reims than just drink champagne. Below aresome of our top suggestions for a day on shore.

The Cathedral

More than any other attraction in the city, Reims cathedral was always going to be numberone on this list. It’s a stunning architectural and historical marvel, with almost a millennium’sworth of regal past. It is not just a building, however, with plenty of art for fans of sculpture,

stained glass and frescoes. The space inside is enormous and quite awe inspiring, perfectlymatching the grandeur of the exterior. Finding the cathedral is not hard, since its towers arevisible from almost anywhere.

Musée Saint-Rémi

This museum is housed in a wonderful old building that was the former royal abbey inReims. Like the cathedral, it is a UNESCO heritage site and it is full of antiquities and art thatwill leave you captivated for hours. Even the interior of the building is artwork itself;something stunning around almost every corner.

Porte de Mars

You might expect that all the historic artefacts in Reims would be French. Canal holiday-makers can, in fact, expect to enjoy seeing the largest Roman arch anywhere on earth whilethey’re off exploring on land The Porte de Mars was built around 1800 years ago and is stillstanding proudly. Roman history buffs can expect to find reliefs of famous myths on thestone structure.

Place Drouet d’Erlon

One of many fabulous squares in the city, the Place Drouet d’Erlon is lined with trees and fullof excellent restaurants. If you’re looking for a relaxing spot for lunch then this is a greatplace to come, eat and still be surrounded by the culture of this wonderful city.

The Trip of a Lifetime

Whether French canal holidays are a yearly event for you, or if this is your first one, you’ll beable to enjoy fantastic cities in a relaxed and comfortable way. It is definitely worth bookingyour trip with a reputable tour operator, as they will make sure you get the most out of yourbarging experience.

No matter what it is you want to get from your trip along the waterway, Reims has somethingthat will suit. It’s a city like no other and being perfectly positioned on the water makes it anideal stop for those taking a relaxing French canal holiday.

Author Plate

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK'smost respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury French canal holiday itineraries. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in lineto endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holidayexperience.