Paris to Reims: Private day trip

Begin your royal journey at Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned for over 800 years in elaborate ceremonies that legitimized royal power and connected earthly monarchy to divine authority through sacred rituals that shaped European political tradition. Marvel at the facade's Gallery of Kings with 2,300 statues depicting biblical and royal figures in intricate detail, and step inside to see the spectacular rose windows and Chagall's stunning modern stained glass windows that blend seamlessly with medieval architecture while telling the story of French Christianity and artistic evolution. Visit the adjacent Palace of Tau, the former archbishop's palace, to see coronation treasures including the Holy Ampulla containing sacred oil used in royal ceremonies and coronation robes that connect you to centuries of royal ceremonies and the mystique of divine kingship that shaped French political culture. Descend into the chalk cellars of prestigious Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, or Pommery for guided tastings and tours explaining the méthode champenoise that creates the world's finest sparkling wines through careful blending and aging in these ancient chalk quarries carved by Romans and perfected by generations of cellar masters. Walk through Reims' historic center to see Roman ruins including the impressive Porte de Mars triumphal arch that reminds visitors of the city's ancient importance, and end your visit sampling local specialties like biscuits roses de Reims, pink cookies traditionally dunked in Champagne that have been made here since 1756 and remain an essential part of Champagne culture and tradition. Travellers should be sure to verify opening hours and entry costs for sites such as the cathedral and palace.