Reims - The City of Kings 👑

Located near Paris, Reims is perfect for a day trip from the capital. � It’s also one of the world’s major Champagne vineyard regions, earning its title as the "Capital of Champagne." 🍾 Over 30 French monarchs were crowned at the Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Reims, rivaling Paris’s Notre-Dame in grandeur—hence its nickname, "The City of Kings." 👑 The adjacent Palais du Tau, where kings stayed before coronations, is under renovation and closed to visitors. 🚧 La Porte de Mars 🏛️, the widest surviving Roman arch, stands in Place de la République, close to the train station. Many people live here (cheaper than Paris) and commute to work in the city. For food, trendy restaurants are pricier, but standard ones offer great value. 🍽️ Tried veal kidneys with loads of cheese—no gaminess at all! Pair your meal with local Champagne—better than tastings at wine shops (€15-20 for two glasses). 🥂 Took a taxi to the UNESCO-listed Basilique Saint-Remi ⛪. The French driver was unusually friendly—slowed down for photos and pointed out Hôtel de la Cathédrale. The basilica’s spiritual aura was surreal: lights flicked on as my daughter asked why it was dim, and a locked door magically opened for us! ✨ Next door, Musée Saint-Remi 🏛️ has a striking building but exhibits mostly local history (may not wow everyone). Stayed at Holiday Inn Reims 🏨, right by Place Drouet d’Erlon (with the Victory Column). Their duplex suite (separate shower + tub) was spacious, and parking was just €15. Breakfast (worth the upgrade!) offered city views and a solid spread. ☕🍳 Don’t miss the Champagne cellars—though they close early. A famous one, Le Réfectoire Vranken-Pommery, is near Saint-Remi Basilica. 🍾 Bonus: Pharmacies here sell cosmetics cheaper than Paris, plus tax refunds! 💄✔️ (We spent €200 here after €200 in Paris…) #Reims #HiddenGems #Europe #Travel #Foodie #France #RoadTrip #Champagne #Paris #Explore