Reims Travel Tips

In Reims, a beautiful city in the Champagne region of France, here are some essential travel and cultural etiquettes to enhance your experience:

  1. Greetings: The standard French greeting is “Bonjour” (Good day) or “Salut” for friends. When leaving a store or business, always say “Au revoir”. It shows respect for the local culture.

  2. Dining Etiquette: Dining in Reims is a delightful experience. Waiters may seem brusque, but it’s part of French service etiquette and doesn’t reflect rudeness. Table manners are formal, so use your cutlery correctly, and wait to be told where to sit.

  3. Tipping: In restaurants, a service charge is often included in the bill (service compris), but it’s customary to leave some change if you’re satisfied with the service. 5-10% is appreciated. For taxi rides, round up to the nearest euro.

  4. Champagne Etiquette: Reims is renowned for its champagne, and visiting a champagne house is a must. When tasting, hold your glass by the stem (never the bowl) and swirl it gently. If offered a top-up during a tour, it’s polite to accept.

  5. Queuing: French people are punctual and take queuing seriously. If you’re in line, don’t skip ahead. This is also true for public transportation and ticket lines.

  6. Dress Code: In churches, such as the stunning Notre-Dame de Reims, modest dress is expected. Shoulders and knees should be covered.

  7. Smoking: Smoking laws in France are strict, with smoking only allowed in designated areas. Be mindful of this when you’re out and about.

  8. Public Behavior: Public displays of affection might be frowned upon compared to some other countries. Use common sense and respect local customs.

  9. Respecting Monuments: Treat historical sites with care. Don’t touch the monuments, and always follow any signs or instructions provided.

  10. Language: While many people in Reims speak English, especially those who work in tourism, it’s always appreciated when tourists make an effort to use some French phrases. A simple “Je suis désolé/e” (I’m sorry) can go a long way if you accidentally offend someone or make a mistake.