Ah, Reims! The sparkling jewel of France’s Champagne region. Did you know that this enchanting city welcomes over 3 million visitors each year? Whether you’re a champagne enthusiast, history buff, or architecture aficionado, timing your visit to Reims can make all the difference. As someone who’s explored every nook and cranny of this effervescent city, I’m thrilled to share my insights on the best time to visit Reims in 2024. From sun-soaked summers to cozy winter festivities, let’s pop the cork on the perfect season for your Reims adventure!
Best Recommended Months to Visit
Having spent countless hours exploring the charming city of Reims, I can confidently say that the best months to visit are May, June, and September. These months offer a perfect blend of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a vibrant atmosphere that truly captures the essence of this historic French city.
Overview of the Best Recommended Months
During May and June, you’ll find Reims bursting with life as spring transitions into summer. The champagne vineyards are lush and green, and the city’s parks and gardens are in full bloom. September, on the other hand, brings the excitement of the grape harvest season, with a golden hue cast over the surrounding countryside.
- May: Mild temperatures, spring flowers, and the start of outdoor events
- June: Warm days, long evenings, and the perfect time for champagne terrace sipping
- September: Comfortable temperatures, harvest festivals, and a romantic autumnal atmosphere
Least Recommended Months to Visit
While Reims is beautiful year-round, I’ve found that November and February can be less ideal for visitors. These months often bring gloomy weather and shorter days, which can dampen the overall experience.
Overview of the Least Recommended Months
November is typically cold and wet, with many outdoor attractions closing for the winter season. February, while slightly warmer, can still be quite chilly and gray. However, if you don’t mind bundling up, you might enjoy having popular sites almost to yourself during these quieter months.
Season-by-Season Breakdown
Spring
Weather Conditions
Spring in Reims is a delightful time, with temperatures gradually warming up from March to May. You can expect average highs ranging from 12°C (54°F) in March to 19°C (66°F) in May. Rainfall is moderate, with occasional showers that keep the countryside lush and green.
Unique Events/Festivals
- Reims Jazz Festival (usually in April)
- Fêtes Johanniques (Joan of Arc Festival in June)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Blooming flowers and vibrant greenery
- Fewer tourists compared to summer
- Comfortable temperatures for sightseeing
Cons:
- Some rain showers
- Unpredictable weather patterns
Price Levels
Spring sees a gradual increase in prices as the tourist season begins to pick up. However, you can still find reasonable rates, especially in March and early April.
Summer
Weather Conditions
Summers in Reims are generally warm and pleasant, with average highs around 24°C (75°F) in July and August. It’s the perfect weather for outdoor activities and exploring the champagne houses.
Unique Events/Festivals
- Flâneries Musicales de Reims (classical music festival in June-July)
- Reims Vital’Été (summer activities program in July-August)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Warm, sunny days ideal for outdoor exploration
- Lively atmosphere with numerous events
- Extended opening hours for attractions
Cons:
- Peak tourist season with larger crowds
- Higher prices for accommodation and activities
Price Levels
Summer is the most expensive time to visit Reims, with hotels and tours often booking up well in advance. Expect to pay premium rates, especially in July and August.
Fall
Weather Conditions
Fall brings cooler temperatures and changing colors to Reims. September remains pleasant with highs around 20°C (68°F), while October and November see temperatures drop to 10-15°C (50-59°F).
Unique Events/Festivals
- Les Habits de Lumière (champagne and gastronomy festival in December)
- Reims en Selle (equestrian event in September)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful autumn colors in the vineyards
- Harvest season activities
- Fewer tourists than summer
Cons:
- Increasing chance of rain as the season progresses
- Some outdoor attractions may have reduced hours
Price Levels
Fall offers a good balance of value and experience. September can still be pricey, but October and November often see lower rates as the tourist season winds down.
Winter
Weather Conditions
Winters in Reims are cold and often gray, with average highs around 6°C (43°F) and lows near freezing. Snow is possible but not frequent in the city.
Unique Events/Festivals
- Reims Christmas Market (December)
- Regalia (sound and light show at the cathedral, usually runs through winter)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Festive atmosphere during Christmas season
- Fewer tourists and lower prices
- Cozy indoor experiences in champagne houses
Cons:
- Cold temperatures and short daylight hours
- Some attractions may have limited hours or be closed
Price Levels
Winter offers the best value for budget-conscious travelers, with the exception of the Christmas and New Year period when prices can spike.
Peak Season Analysis
When is it?
The peak season in Reims typically runs from mid-June to late August, coinciding with the summer holidays in France and many other European countries.
What to expect (crowds, prices)
During peak season, you can expect:
- Larger crowds at popular attractions like the Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral
- Longer wait times for champagne house tours
- Higher prices for accommodation, with some hotels charging up to 50% more than off-season rates
- Busier restaurants, often requiring reservations
Major attractions’ operating hours
Most attractions in Reims extend their hours during peak season:
- Champagne houses often offer more tours per day
- The Cathedral is usually open longer in the evenings
- Museums may have extended hours or special evening events
Booking requirements (how far ahead)
For peak season visits, I recommend booking:
- Accommodation: 3-4 months in advance
- Popular champagne house tours: 1-2 months ahead
- Restaurant reservations: At least a week in advance, more for high-end establishments
Is it worth visiting during peak?
While peak season brings crowds and higher prices, it can still be a wonderful time to visit Reims. The city buzzes with energy, and the warm weather is perfect for outdoor dining and exploring the champagne vineyards. If you don’t mind the bustle and plan ahead, you’ll still have an incredible experience.
Shoulder Season Opportunities
Best shoulder season months
The best shoulder season months in Reims are:
- May
- September
- Early October
Benefits (lower costs, fewer crowds)
Visiting during shoulder season offers several advantages:
- Hotel rates are often 20-30% lower than peak season
- Shorter queues at popular attractions
- More availability for champagne house tours
- A more relaxed atmosphere for exploring the city
Any weather considerations
While generally pleasant, shoulder season weather can be variable:
- May can see occasional rain showers
- September and October may have cooler evenings
- Always pack layers to accommodate temperature fluctuations
Special events during these times
Some exciting events during shoulder season include:
- La Magnifique Society (music festival in May)
- European Heritage Days (September)
- Champagne harvest activities (September)
Hidden advantages
One of my favorite things about visiting Reims in shoulder season is the opportunity to interact more with locals. With fewer tourists around, shopkeepers, vineyard workers, and residents are often more relaxed and eager to chat, providing a more authentic experience of the city’s culture.
Weather Patterns
Monthly temperature averages
Here’s a breakdown of average temperatures in Reims throughout the year:
| Month | High (°C/°F) | Low (°C/°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 6 / 43 | 1 / 34 |
| February | 8 / 46 | 1 / 34 |
| March | 12 / 54 | 3 / 37 |
| April | 16 / 61 | 5 / 41 |
| May | 19 / 66 | 8 / 46 |
| June | 23 / 73 | 11 / 52 |
| July | 25 / 77 | 13 / 55 |
| August | 25 / 77 | 13 / 55 |
| September | 21 / 70 | 10 / 50 |
| October | 16 / 61 | 7 / 45 |
| November | 10 / 50 | 4 / 39 |
| December | 7 / 45 | 2 / 36 |
Rainfall/precipitation patterns
Reims experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with slightly higher precipitation in late autumn and winter:
- Average annual rainfall: 617mm (24.3 inches)
- Wettest months: October to January
- Driest months: February to April
Humidity levels
Humidity in Reims is generally comfortable, ranging from 70-80% throughout the year. It’s slightly higher in the mornings and evenings, especially during autumn and winter.
Natural phenomena to consider
While Reims doesn’t experience extreme natural phenomena, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Fog can be common in autumn mornings, especially near the rivers and vineyards
- Spring can bring occasional thunderstorms
- Winter may see light snowfall, though heavy snow is rare
Extreme weather warnings
Reims rarely experiences severe weather, but it’s always good to be prepared:
- Heat waves can occur in July and August, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 35°C (95°F)
- Cold snaps in winter might bring temperatures below freezing, especially at night
- Always check local weather forecasts before outdoor activities or vineyard tours
Special Considerations
Major holidays and festivals
When planning your visit to Reims, keep these important dates in mind:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Easter (March/April, dates vary)
- Labor Day (May 1)
- Victory in Europe Day (May 8)
- Bastille Day (July 14)
- Assumption Day (August 15)
- All Saints’ Day (November 1)
- Armistice Day (November 11)
- Christmas (December 25)
School vacation periods
French school holidays can impact tourism in Reims:
- Winter break: February (2 weeks)
- Spring break: April (2 weeks)
- Summer holidays: July and August
- Fall break: Late October (2 weeks)
- Christmas break: Late December to early January
Business/conference seasons
Reims hosts various business events throughout the year, but the main conference season is typically:
- March to June
- September to November
During these times, business hotels may have higher occupancy and rates.
Local events impact
Some local events can significantly impact your visit:
- Reims Jazz Festival (April): Increased cultural activities and concerts
- Fêtes Johanniques (June): Historical reenactments and parades
- Champagne harvest (September): Bustling activity in vineyards and champagne houses
Religious observances
While France is a secular country, some religious observances may affect your visit:
- Easter weekend: Some businesses may have limited hours
- Christmas and New Year: Reduced public transport and closure of many restaurants and attractions
Budget Considerations
Price fluctuations by season
In my experience, prices in Reims can vary significantly depending on the season:
- Peak season (June-August): Expect prices to be 30-50% higher than off-season
- Shoulder season (May, September, early October): Prices are usually 10-20% higher than off-season
- Off-season (November-April, excluding holidays): Best value for money
Best months for deals
For budget-conscious travelers, I recommend visiting in:
- November (except during the wine release events)
- February
- Early March
These months offer the best combination of reasonable weather and lower prices.
When to book for best rates
To secure the best deals:
- Accommodation: Book 3-4 months in advance for summer, 1-2 months for other seasons
- Flights: Aim to book 2-3 months ahead for international flights
- Champagne tours: Book 1-2 weeks in advance during off-season, 1-2 months for peak season
Cost-saving opportunities
Some tips to save money in Reims:
- Use the Reims City Pass for discounts on attractions and public transport
- Visit champagne houses that offer free or low-cost tours
- Enjoy picnics in parks with local produce from markets
- Take advantage of set lunch menus, which are often great value
Price comparison by season
Here’s a rough guide to price differences by season:
| Item | Peak Season | Shoulder Season | Off-Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel (3-star) | €120-150 | €90-120 | €70-90 |
| Champagne tour | €25-40 | €20-35 | €15-30 |
| Restaurant meal | €30-50 | €25-40 | €20-35 |
| Museum entry | €10-15 | €8-12 | €6-10 |
Specific Activities Timing
Best months for outdoor activities
For outdoor enthusiasts, I recommend:
- Vineyard walks: May to October
- Cycling tours: April to October
- Picnics in parks: May to September
- Outdoor festivals: June to August
Indoor attraction considerations
Indoor attractions are great year-round, but consider:
- Champagne house tours: Less crowded in winter months
- Museums: Often have special exhibitions in spring and fall
- Cathedral visits: Beautiful light through stained glass windows in summer evenings
Special seasonal activities
Don’t miss these seasonal specialties:
- Spring: Cherry blossom viewing in the countryside
- Summer: Open-air cinema screenings
- Fall: Grape harvest experiences
- Winter: Christmas markets and light shows
Beach/skiing seasons
While Reims isn’t known for beaches or skiing, you can enjoy:
- Lake beaches at Lac du Der-Chantecoq (1.5 hours drive): Best from June to August
- Skiing in the Vosges Mountains (3 hours drive): Usually possible from December to March
Wildlife viewing times
For nature lovers:
- Bird watching in the Montagne de Reims Regional Park: Best in spring and fall
- Deer spotting in the forest: Dawn and dusk in autumn
Travel Tips by Time Period
What to pack per season
Spring:
- Light layers
- Waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
Summer:
- Light, breathable clothing
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Insect repellent for vineyard visits
Fall:
- Warm layers
- Light scarf and gloves
- Waterproof boots
Winter:
- Warm coat
- Thick scarf, hat, and gloves
- Thermal underlayers
Transportation considerations
- Spring/Summer: Bike rentals are a great way to explore
- Fall: Be cautious of leaf-covered roads when driving
- Winter: Allow extra time for potential weather-related delays
Booking strategies
- Spring: Book outdoor activities with flexible cancellation policies
- Summer: Reserve popular restaurants well in advance
- Fall: Look for harvest season packages at champagne houses
- Winter: Check for off-season discounts on accommodations
Accommodation availability
- Spring/Fall: Good availability, but book in advance for weekends
- Summer: Book at least 3 months ahead, especially for July and August
- Winter: Plenty of options, except around Christmas and New Year
Activity planning
- Spring: Focus on outdoor activities and flower-viewing
- Summer: Balance indoor and outdoor activities to avoid midday heat
- Fall: Prioritize harvest-related experiences
- Winter: Plan more indoor activities and cozy champagne tastings
Conclusion
Choosing the best time to visit Reims is like selecting the perfect bottle of champagne – it all depends on your taste! Whether you opt for the vibrant summer months, the cozy autumn harvest season, or the festive winter period, Reims has something special to offer year-round. Remember, the city’s charm lies not just in its world-famous champagne houses, but in its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm local culture. So, why wait? Start planning your Reims getaway today and prepare to toast to an unforgettable French experience. Santé!