Reims: A bubbly day trip from Paris
With its breathtaking Gothic cathedral, historic cityscape, and beloved Champagne cellars, Reims is intoxicating. My time here reminded me of how much fun it is to enjoy modern French culture in a sizeable city that isn't Paris.
IF YOU VISIT...
SLEEPING: On Place Drouet d'Erlon, try Grand Hotel Continental with rooms in every size, shape and price (moderate, www.grandhotelcontinental.com) or Grand Hotel du Nord with clean and modern comfort in surprisingly quiet rooms (budget, www.hotel-nord-reims.com).
EATING: Brasserie du Boulingrin -- one of the oldest brasseries in town -- serves traditional French cuisine at affordable prices (31 Rue de Mars, www.boulingrin.fr). Bistrot du Forum is an informal spot with hearty salads, bruschetta and burgers, as well as traditional dishes (6 Place Forum, tel. 03 26 47 56 58).
GETTING AROUND: Reims offers excellent public transportation, with a tramway and handy buses linking its major sights (www.citura.fr).
TOURIST INFORMATION: www.reims-tourism.com.
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Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.
(c)2014 RICK STEVES DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
