15 things to see and do in Reims

Reims Cathedral, also called the Cathedral of Notre-Dame at Reims, was the site of 25 coronations of the kings of France. This includes the crowning of Charles VII in 1429 with Joan of Arc herself in attendance. The cathedral took 80 years to initially construct, but thanks to damage and expansions, it has been in progress for centuries. With too many features to list here, the highlights include the L’Ange au Suorie (smiling angel) sculpture, stunning stained-glass windows in every colour of the rainbow, and the tour of the main tower which will take you up 250 steps.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the name of this palace is due to its T-shape structure. Unfortunately, most of the original building disappeared and had to be rebuilt, but the chapel dates back to 1207. As it was rebuilt between the 15th and 16th century, it has a distinct Gothic style. Like the cathedral, kings were coronated here and banquets held in their honour. Today you can visit it as a museum. Tour its sumptuously decorated rooms and look out for tapestries, statues and relics, including a gem-encrusted chalice from the 12th century.

This was previously a Benedictine abbey, but now provides an opportunity to marvel at its combination of Gothic and Romanesque architectural features, including a triforium gallery and 12th century style chandelier. The unique light uses 96 candles, one for each year St Remi lived. The saint’s tomb can also be visited in the choir. A museum dedicated to the saint is right next door to the basilica.

This museum dedicated to art is a treat for the eyes in itself, as it is an 18th century abbey. As well as over 20 works from Camille Corot and 2 Monet’ pieces, this is where you can see one of four versions of possibly one of the most famous paintings in the world, Kacques-Louis David’s The Death of Marat. After you have had your fill of the art, the museum is set within some wonderful gardens so you can take a stroll and discuss your favourite pieces.

This enormous three-arched gate was built in the 2nd century AD in honour of the Emperor Augustus. You can walk around and under it to see highly-detailed carvings and markings, including Roman Gods and Goddesses Jupiter, Leda, Romulus, and Remus. Named for a nearby temple to Mars God of War, it once served the city of Reims as a gateway until 1544.

This is for the lovers of World War history, as this fort is one of a few that were built around the city in and after 1870 for protection. Fort de la Pompelle was the only fort to remain in the hands of the allied forces during WWI and protected city of Reims. It saw the heaviest fighting of the Reims forts, being bombarded numerous times including during the Second Battle of the Marne in 1918. Now a fascinating museum, it reveals unique items like headgear worn by the German imperial army and military uniform collections.

Reims Royal Square has been a focal point of the city since Jean-Gabriel Legendre planned its design in 1760. With architectural features like balustraded roofs and arcades, there is also the impressive statue of King Louis XV at its centre. The statue is not the original however, as this was melted down to make cannons during the French Revolution.

If you’re in need of a little peace and quiet, head to the Bibliothèque. This art deco building is a public library, donated to the city by businessman Andrew Carnegie after WWI, hence its name. Its 1920s design makes it stand out against all the other Gothic buildings, and you should definitely head inside to see more. The reading room has two glorious stained-glass windows that feature a design of books and there are little gems of 20s design dotted about the entire building, including a hanging lantern by Jacques Simon in the main hall.

Another unusual piece of architecture, Japanese painter Léonard Foujita both designed and decorated the Lady of Peace Chapel in the refined Japanese tradition. He said he completed the work to “atone for 80 years of sin” and converted to Catholicism after studying at the School of Paris in 1913. He was baptised at Reims Cathedral.

Intricate frescos cover every wall under the beamed roof and even the stained-glass windows were included as part of Foujita’s design, despite being made by master-glassworker Charles Marq.

The Vranken-Pommery Champagne House is a unique one. Take a tour into its chalk caves and as well as bottles of bubbles, you’ll see modern art installations including light and sound exhibitions. Learn about the Vranken and Pommery families and the different styles of champagne they created.

The Villa Demoiselle is a treasure trove of art nouveau and art deco style. Bought by the Vranken family in 2004 and fully restored, you can wander through its rooms and champagne cellars, plus enjoy a glass in the gardens after your tour.

Tours of this house will take you back in time on a tour of the remnants of the old Saint Nicaise Abbey, dating back to the 13th century, then down to a depth of 18 metres to the Gallo-Roman chalk vaults carved out of the hillsides and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. With 288 hectares of vineyards at its disposal, Taittinger also uses the most environmentally friendly techniques to make its champagne.