6 Most Famous Reims Landmarks to Visit in 2025

The city of Reims offers many amazing sights for travelers visiting France in the year 2025. You will find incredible gothic churches and ancient Roman arches throughout this beautiful and historic city. Many people visit to see the holy place where French kings were crowned for many centuries. This guide helps you discover the most famous Reims landmarks for your next big holiday trip.

Famous Reims Landmarks: Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral

The Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral stands as a masterpiece of High Gothic architecture in northern France. This stunning building remains one of the most significant and famous Reims landmarks for every traveler. It served as the traditional site for the coronation of French kings for many hundreds of years. Visitors in 2025 can admire the intricate stone carvings and the beautiful stained glass windows inside.

The cathedral features a west facade decorated with hundreds of detailed statues and religious figures. One of the most popular carvings is the Smiling Angel located near the north portal entry. You should take some time to view the vibrant windows designed by the famous artist Marc Chagall. These modern additions blend perfectly with the ancient medieval glass found throughout the large nave.

Check the official schedule for the Reims Cathedral visiting hours 2025 before you plan your daily trip. The cathedral is generally open every day from early morning until the sun sets in the evening. Entry to the main floor is free but climbing the towers requires a small paid ticket. The view from the top of the towers offers a breathtaking look over the entire city landscape.

The interior of the church feels massive and grand because of the very high vaulted ceilings. You can see the spot where Joan of Arc stood during the coronation of King Charles VII. The history within these walls makes the cathedral a top destination for history lovers and art fans. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that everyone must see during their time in France.

The Historic Palais du Tau and Royal History

The Palais du Tau sits right next to the cathedral in the heart of the city center. It once served as the palace for the Archbishop of Reims during the coronation ceremonies. The kings of France would stay and feast in this grand building before their official crowning. Today it houses a museum that displays the rich history of the cathedral and the monarchy.

Inside the museum you will find original statues that were moved from the cathedral facade. The collections include royal tapestries and the holy ampulla used to anoint the French kings. You can see the Talisman of Charlemagne and other precious items from the royal treasury here. The large Great Hall is where the massive coronation banquets took place after the religious ceremony.

You should look up the Palais du Tau entrance fees to prepare for your budget during your stay. Discounts are often available for students and large families who visit the museum during the week. Buying a combined ticket for several sites can save you money while you explore the city. The museum is open throughout the year but check for local holiday closures before you arrive.

The architecture of the palace shows a mix of medieval and early modern styles and designs. Walking through the rooms gives you a sense of the power held by the French royalty. The gift shop offers unique books and souvenirs that explain the history of the royal family. It is a quiet place to escape the crowds while learning about the deep past of Reims.

Exploring the Ancient Basilica of Saint-Remi

The Basilica of Saint-Remi is another essential stop for anyone looking for famous Reims landmarks. It is the oldest church in the city and holds the remains of Saint Remi himself. The building combines Romanesque and Gothic styles to create a unique and very peaceful atmosphere. It is located a short distance south from the main cathedral in a quieter neighborhood.

The nave of the basilica is very long and features impressive stone arches and light. You can visit the tomb of Saint Remi which is located behind the main high altar. This church was built in the eleventh century and has survived many wars over the years. The abbey museum next door offers more insight into the religious life of the local monks.

Plan to visit Saint Remi Basilica Reims to experience the spiritual side of this French city. The basilica is often less crowded than the cathedral which allows for a more private visit. It is open to the public for free but donations are always welcome for its upkeep. You will enjoy the beautiful architecture and the calm park that surrounds this historic religious site.

The stained glass windows here date back to the twelfth century and are very beautiful. You should listen for the bells ringing during the day as you explore the nearby streets. The area around the basilica is perfect for a slow walk and taking some nice photos. This site is a hidden gem that many tourists overlook during their short stay in Reims.

The Roman Porte de Mars Triumphal Arch

The Porte de Mars is an ancient Roman triumphal arch that dates back to the third century. It is the widest Roman arch in the world and stands as a symbol of history. The arch has three openings and is decorated with detailed carvings of the Roman god Mars. This landmark reminds visitors that this is one of the most famous Reims landmarks in France.

You can find this impressive stone structure near the modern train station and the city park. The carvings on the ceiling of the arch show scenes from the legend of Romulus and Remus. It is free to visit and you can walk under the arches to see the details. The surrounding gardens provide a great place to sit and admire this piece of ancient history.

Learning about historical architecture Reims helps you appreciate the many layers of this French city. The city has preserved this arch despite many changes to the urban layout over the centuries. It serves as a gateway to the older parts of the city and its Roman past. You will see many locals walking through the park near the arch during the sunny afternoons.

The stone has weathered over time but the strength of the Roman design is still clear. It is best to visit during the golden hour to see the sun hit the carvings. Photographers often come here to capture the contrast between the old stone and the green grass. This arch is a must for anyone interested in the Roman roots of modern western Europe.

Place Royale and the Beautiful Art Deco Streets

Place Royale is a classic French square that shows the elegant design of the eighteenth century. It features a statue of King Louis XV standing proudly in the middle of the square. The surrounding buildings are built in the neoclassical style with many uniform stone facades. This square connects travelers with several other famous Reims landmarks in the local city area.

After the first world war the city was rebuilt with many beautiful and unique Art Deco buildings. You can see these colorful and geometric designs as you walk through the main city streets. The Carnegie Library is a famous example of this style with its stunning glass and metal. Check out some Reims Art Deco buildings to see the creative spirit of the local community.

The city center is easy to navigate on foot because most landmarks are close to each other. You will find many cafes and shops along the streets that lead away from Place Royale. It is a great spot to stop for a coffee and watch the daily life of Reims. The square looks especially beautiful at night when the old buildings are lit by yellow lights.

The harmony of the architecture makes this square one of the most attractive places in town. Many local events and markets are held in this open space throughout the busy calendar year. You should pay attention to the small details on the balconies and the iron street lamps. This area perfectly represents the classic French charm that many tourists hope to find in Reims.

The Iconic Champagne Houses and Deep Chalk Cellars

Reims is world famous for its champagne houses which are part of the UNESCO heritage list. Many of these houses are located in historic mansions with deep chalk cellars called crayeres. These underground tunnels were used to store and age millions of bottles of sparkling wine. Visiting a champagne house is a top priority for most people traveling to the Champagne region.

You can tour famous houses like Taittinger or Veuve Clicquot to learn about the wine process. The tours usually include a walk through the cold cellars and a tasting at the end. It is important to book your tour months in advance especially during the busy summer season. You will see the mix of street art and architecture in Reims near these famous estates.

The champagne houses are often set in beautiful parks with large gates and decorative gardens. They represent the luxury and the global success of the local wine industry over many years. You can learn about the history of the families who started these famous international brands. Some houses also offer modern art galleries within their historical buildings for visitors to enjoy.

Prices for tours vary but usually include at least one glass of champagne for each guest. Make sure to bring a jacket because the underground cellars remain cool throughout the entire year. The experience of drinking champagne in the city where it is made is truly very special. This industry continues to drive the economy and the fame of Reims across the whole world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Reims is a city that offers a perfect mix of ancient history and modern French culture. Exploring these famous Reims landmarks will provide you with memories that last a lifetime in 2025. Plan your trip today to see the stunning architecture and taste the world's best champagne. You should visit the official tourism office for more tips on your next visit to France.

Key Takeaways

• Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral to see where French kings were crowned.
• Book your champagne house cellar tours at least three months in advance.
• Walk through the city center to admire the unique Art Deco architecture.