If Reims is the grand capital of Champagne, Épernay is its beating heart. This elegant town is built around one extraordinary street where the world’s most famous Champagne houses line up behind grand facades, with millions of bottles resting in the chalk beneath. For anyone exploring the region, a day here is a must. Here is what to see in Épernay, from the celebrated Avenue de Champagne to the best of the town, 45 minutes from Le Domaine d’Ailleurs.
The Avenue de Champagne
The Avenue de Champagne is the reason most people come. Along this grand boulevard stand the mansions of the great houses, among them Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët, their names a roll-call of Champagne history. Beneath the street run more than 100 kilometres of cellars holding many millions of bottles, which is why it is often called one of the richest streets in the world. Even a simple stroll along it, admiring the architecture, is a pleasure.
Cellar tours and tastings
The avenue is best experienced underground. Moët & Chandon, the largest house of all, offers tours of its vast cellars past the statue of Dom Pérignon. Mercier is a favourite for families and first-timers, with a little train that carries you through the galleries and a famously giant oak tun. De Castellane offers a tour topped by a climb up its landmark tower for sweeping views over the rooftops and vineyards. Booking ahead is wise, especially in high season.
The town beyond the bubbles
Épernay is pleasant to wander beyond the avenue. The town hall and its gardens make a green pause, the shopping streets are good for a browse, and there are plenty of wine bars and bistros for a glass and a bite. Its compact size is part of the charm: everything is within an easy walk, which makes it a relaxed contrast to a bigger city.
An easy day out from the estate
Épernay sits about 45 minutes from Le Domaine d’Ailleurs, which makes it a natural day out during a stay. Spend the day on the Avenue de Champagne and among the vineyards, then return to the calm of a private estate and a swim in the heated indoor pool. Épernay also pairs beautifully with the surrounding wine villages, so it slots easily into a wider exploration of Champagne.
Stay in Champagne near Épernay
Explore the Avenue de Champagne by day and return to a private estate with a heated indoor pool, 45 minutes away and 1h30 from Paris.
Check availability Request a quoteFrequently asked questions about visiting Épernay
What is Épernay famous for?
Épernay is the self-styled capital of Champagne, famous for the Avenue de Champagne, a grand street lined with the mansions of great houses such as Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët, beneath which run more than 100 kilometres of cellars holding millions of bottles.
Can you tour Champagne houses in Épernay?
Yes. Several houses on and around the Avenue de Champagne offer cellar tours and tastings, including Moët & Chandon, Mercier, whose cellars you tour by little train, and De Castellane, with a tower giving fine views over the town and vineyards.
How does Épernay compare to Reims?
Reims is the larger city, with the coronation cathedral and grand history. Épernay is smaller and more concentrated around Champagne itself, with the Avenue de Champagne at its heart. Many visitors enjoy both on a stay in the region.
How far is Épernay from Le Domaine d’Ailleurs?
Épernay is about 45 minutes by car from Le Domaine d’Ailleurs at Coulonges-Cohan, making it an easy day out, with a swim in the heated indoor pool waiting back at the estate.
Is Épernay worth a full day?
Yes. A day lets you stroll the Avenue de Champagne, tour a house or two and enjoy the town centre and gardens. It pairs naturally with a wider exploration of the Champagne vineyards and villages nearby.
