Rent a Motorhome in Reims and Explore the Heart of Champagne

Discover Reims: Your Campervan Adventure in the Heart of Champagne

Welcome to Reims, the unofficial capital of the Champagne region and a city steeped in history and effervescence! When you decide to rent a motorhome Reims, you’re not just hiring a vehicle; you're unlocking a gateway to rolling vineyards, regal history, and unparalleled gastronomic delights. To truly explore this magnificent area, choosing to rent a campervan Reims gives you the ultimate freedom and flexibility. For those looking to venture off the beaten path, you can even rent a 4x4 camper Reims and discover the hidden gems of the French countryside.

Geography and Location

Nestled in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, Reims is strategically located about 129 kilometers (80 miles) east-northeast of Paris. The city lies on the Vesle river, a tributary of the Aisne, and is the most populous city in the Marne department. Its landscape is defined by the gentle slopes of the Montagne de Reims, a vast regional park whose chalky soils are the secret behind the world's most famous sparkling wine. This unique terroir makes the decision to rent a motorhome Reims a perfect choice for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Your adventure begins the moment you pick up the keys.

A Dive into History

Reims has a history as rich and sparkling as its champagne. Before the Roman conquest, it was the capital of a Gallic tribe known as the Remi. Under the Romans, it became a major city, but its true significance blossomed with the baptism of King Clovis I by Saint Remi in 496 AD. This event established Reims as the traditional site for the coronation of French kings. For over 1,000 years, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims witnessed these grand ceremonies, cementing the city's place as the royal heart of France. The city suffered heavy damage during World War I but was meticulously rebuilt. This resilient spirit is palpable as you wander its streets. Exploring this history is so much more profound when you have a mobile base; to rent a campervan Reims allows you to visit battlefields, memorials, and historic sites at your own leisure.

People and Culture

With a population of around 180,000 inhabitants, Reims is a vibrant and bustling city that blends its historical gravitas with a youthful energy, partly thanks to its university. The Rémois are proud of their heritage and are known for their warm hospitality. The city's culture is inextricably linked to champagne. Life here revolves around the seasons of the vine, from the budding in spring to the harvest in autumn. When you rent a motorhome Reims, you become part of this rhythm. You can visit local markets, chat with winemakers, and immerse yourself in a culture that celebrates life's finest pleasures.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Reims experiences a temperate oceanic climate. Summers (June to August) are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it the peak season to rent a campervan Reims. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are also fantastic times to visit. You'll enjoy milder weather, fewer crowds, and the stunning beauty of the vineyards in bloom or during the harvest. For the ultimate experience, consider planning your trip around the grape harvest in September. If you're looking for an off-road adventure through the regional parks, you might want to rent a 4x4 camper Reims to handle any terrain with ease. Winter can be cold, but the city's Christmas markets add a festive charm. No matter the season, Reims offers a unique experience, and having a motorhome ensures you’re comfortable and ready for whatever the day brings. Your decision to rent a motorhome Reims is your ticket to an unforgettable journey through the heart of France.

Sights and Activities: Exploring Reims and its Surroundings

Once you've decided to rent a campervan Reims, a world of incredible sights and activities opens up to you. Reims and its surroundings are a treasure trove of cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and, of course, champagne-related experiences. Your motorhome is the perfect key to unlock it all.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims
You cannot visit Reims without marveling at its cathedral. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Gothic masterpiece is famous as the coronation church of French kings. Take your time to admire the stunning facade with its thousands of statues, including the famous 'Smiling Angel'. The interior is just as breathtaking, especially the stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall. Parking your campervan on the city's edge and taking a short bus ride in is the best way to enjoy a stress-free visit.

Palace of Tau
Located right next to the cathedral, the Palais du Tau was the former residence of the Archbishop of Reims and the place where French kings stayed before their coronation. Today, it's a museum housing incredible treasures from the cathedral, including tapestries, sculptures, and the original coronation regalia. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the royal history you're surrounded by.

Saint-Remi Basilica and Museum
Another UNESCO site, the Basilica of Saint-Remi is almost as impressive as the cathedral. It holds the relics of Saint Remi, who baptised King Clovis. The adjoining museum, housed in the former Royal Abbey, showcases the history of the city from prehistory to the Renaissance. Having your campervan means you can easily drive between these major historical sites.

The Great Champagne Houses
Your trip isn't complete without visiting a world-renowned Champagne house. Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Mumm, and Pommery all offer guided tours of their ancient Roman chalk cellars (crayères) and, most importantly, tastings. Booking in advance is highly recommended. To rent a motorhome Reims allows you to visit several houses over a few days without worrying about accommodation.

Place Drouet d'Erlon
This is the vibrant heart of Reims. The main square is lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants. It's the perfect place to relax, people-watch, and soak up the local atmosphere after a day of sightseeing. In the evening, it comes alive with a bustling energy.

Parc de la Patte d'Oie & Parc de Champagne
Need a break in nature? These parks offer beautiful green spaces for a relaxing walk or a picnic. The Parc de Champagne, in particular, is a vast park perfect for families and those wanting to unwind. Driving your camper there for an afternoon is a breeze, especially if you chose to rent a 4x4 camper Reims for easy access to more natural areas.

The Lighthouse of Verzenay
For a unique panoramic view, drive your campervan out to the Phare de Verzenay. This lighthouse, bizarrely situated in the middle of a 'sea' of vineyards, offers an incredible perspective of the Champagne countryside. It also has an interesting wine museum. This is an easy and rewarding day trip when you rent a motorhome Reims.

Unforgettable Road Trips: Tour Recommendations from Reims

With Reims as your starting point, your campervan is your ticket to some of the most scenic and historic routes in France. Here are a couple of tour suggestions to get your adventure started.

🍾 The Champagne Route Discovery (3-4 Days)

🏰 The Historical Kings and Battles Route (2-3 Days)

Returning Your Campervan: Cleaning Stations in Reims

After an amazing trip, you'll need to return your campervan clean, just as you received it. The challenge with motorhomes is their height; most standard car washes are simply not tall enough. You need to find a washing station designed for trucks (poids lourds) or large vehicles. Don't risk getting stuck or damaging the roof of the vehicle you chose when you decided to rent a motorhome Reims!

To make it easy for you, here are a few suitable high-vehicle washing stations in and around Reims where you can get your campervan sparkling clean before drop-off:

1. Eléphant Bleu - Reims La Neuvillette
Known for its high-pressure lances and dedicated high-vehicle bays. A reliable choice for getting the job done efficiently.
Address: 1 Rue des Essilards, 51100 Reims, France

2. Lavage Poids Lourds TotalEnergies - La Pompelle
This station is part of a larger truck stop, so it's perfectly equipped for large vehicles. It's located southeast of the city, convenient if you're returning from that direction.
Address: A4, Aire de Service de La Pompelle, 51360 Prunay, France

3. OKI - Lavage Auto
Often has at least one bay suitable for campervans and utility vehicles. It’s a good idea to check the height clearance upon arrival, but they are generally well-equipped.
Address: 12 Rue de la Démocratie, 51350 Cormontreuil, France

Always check the opening hours before you go. Planning this final step will ensure a smooth and stress-free end to your fantastic trip when you rent a campervan Reims.

Getting to Reims: Your Arrival Guide

Your adventure to rent a motorhome Reims begins with your journey to the city itself. Reims is easily accessible, especially for international travelers from English-speaking countries. Here’s how you can get here.

By Air:
The main international gateway for Reims is Paris. You will most likely fly into one of Paris's two major airports:

• Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG): This is the largest international airport in France and the most convenient for reaching Reims.
• Paris Orly (ORY): Another major international airport, located south of Paris.

From the UK & Ireland:
Direct flights to CDG are frequent and quick from London (Heathrow, Gatwick, City), Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Dublin with airlines like British Airways, Air France, easyJet, and Aer Lingus.

From the USA & Canada:
Major hubs like New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD), Atlanta (ATL), Toronto (YYZ), and Montreal (YUL) offer direct, non-stop flights to Paris (CDG) with carriers such as Air France, Delta, United, and Air Canada.

From Australia, New Zealand & South Africa:
There are no direct flights. Your journey will typically involve one stop. Common layover cities from Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Auckland (AKL), and Johannesburg (JNB) include Dubai (DXB) with Emirates, Doha (DOH) with Qatar Airways, or Singapore (SIN) with Singapore Airlines.

From the Airport to Reims:
This is where it gets incredibly easy. There is a high-speed train (TGV) station located directly within Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (at Terminal 2). From here, you can take a direct TGV train to the center of Reims in just 45 minutes! It’s the fastest and most efficient way to travel. From Paris Orly, you'll need to take a shuttle to a Parisian train station to catch a train to Reims.

By Car (for UK travellers):
If you prefer to drive, the journey is straightforward. Take the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais. From Calais, Reims is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive via the A26 motorway. This is an excellent option if you want to start your road trip immediately. The journey is perfectly suited for those who decided to rent a campervan Reims and want to hit the road right away.