Paris to Reims train with TGV INOUI

High-Speed Train to Champagne!

Introduction

There’s only one place in the world where Champagne can truly be made, and that’s in Champagne, in eastern France! The region’s largest town, Reims, is a beautiful discovery and just 45 minutes from Paris on a nonstop high-speed train. It would be rude not to go for a day trip…

Route Overview

The Paris to Reims train is operated by SNCF, the French state railways, under the “TGV InOui” brand, their flagship high-speed service. This is the shortest route on the TGV InOui network in both time and distance. Most of the journey is spent on the high-speed “LGV Est” line, which connects Paris and Strasbourg, and is where a TGV train set reached 574.8 km/h, setting the world rail speed record in 2007.

Trains run nonstop between the Cité des Sacres (or “coronation city,” as Reims is where French kings were crowned) and the French capital several times a day. I rode in the first train of the day at 07:39am, which took just 46 minutes to cover the 146-kilometer (91-mile) distance.

Transportation Experience

In France, you must book your tickets well in advance. Long-distance trains require a reservation and can sell out or become very expensive very quickly. Tickets generally go on sale 2–3 months prior to departure, except during holiday periods, when all tickets for that period are released on the same date (usually announced by SNCF).

Booking your Paris to Reims train ticket on Omio about two months before your planned travel date is my recommendation, as this route is especially popular with commuters. As such, be aware that evening trains toward Reims and morning trains toward Paris are often fully booked, even several days in advance.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Paris has seven principal railway terminals. TGV InOui trains to Reims depart from Paris Est (Paris East station), and it’s served by three metro lines with plenty of places to grab a snack or coffee before your trip. Many local buses stop right in front of the station, including the 91 bus that connects to most other Parisian rail stations. Be sure to arrive on time, as train doors close two minutes before departure.

Reims station couldn’t be more central. It’s located directly in front of Place Drouet d’Erlon, the city’s main square (the longest place in France!). To your left upon exiting the station, you’ll find the tram stop and, if you’re traveling in December, the city’s Christmas market.

Schedule & Frequency

TGV InOui trains to Reims run many times a day from Paris, with additional services during morning and evening peak hours, which also tend to be more crowded. I rode in the first train of the day, which departed at 7:39, and it was still very full for a morning departure. I sat in a Second Class window seat on the right-hand side, which gave me the best views of the stunning northern French vistas along the journey. Sailing past huge open fields and massive vineyards at 300km/h is quite something!

If no trains are available, try booking to Champagne-Ardenne TGV station instead. It’s connected to Reims’s tram network and is about a 25-minute tram ride or a 10-minute local train journey from the central Reims station.

Onboard Experience and Services

The Second Class seats on the train from Paris to Reims are excellent. They’re very comfortable and laid out in a 2+2 configuration, featuring power outlets, reading lights, and very large tables. Of course, the trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which is extremely fast on this section of the line, as well as air conditioning.

On this route, SNCF operates only single-decker trains. They offer plenty of space for luggage (up to two standard bags and one smaller hand item) and provide a smooth, enjoyable ride! Note that, although all TGV trains have a “Bistro” carriage, it’s closed on shorter routes, such as Paris to Reims.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

TGV fares rise with demand, so booking early usually gets you the best price. That said, I booked just one day before departure and still paid only €30, so last-minute deals are possible!

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Book in advance, and try to avoid peak times or holidays: trains can sell out quickly.
• If trains are sold out, book to Champagne-Ardenne TGV station instead.
• Bring your own snacks: the onboard bar is closed on this service.
• Sit on the right side of the train on arrival to catch a stunning view of Reims Cathedral.

Conclusion

A beautiful, fast, and frequent way to reach one of France’s most popular regions: Champagne. French high-speed trains are exceptionally comfortable, and I have to highlight the impressively fast and reliable internet connection throughout the entire journey. Thumbs up, SNCF!

If you’re visiting Paris, a day trip to Reims is easy, affordable, and absolutely worth it.

Job Title: Travel Blogger and Videomaker Bio: I create YouTube trip reports and reviews on trains, planes, buses and ferries within Europe—and all around the world—and also share blog posts and travel deals on my website.