Traveling from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to the Champagne region is easier than many visitors expect.

Many travelers assume they need to go into Paris first — but that is not necessary.
Reims and Épernay are both located about 90 minutes directly from the airport.

However, the way you choose to travel can significantly affect the start of your trip.

After a long international flight, comfort and simplicity matter.
In this guide, I will explain the best way to reach Reims and Épernay from CDG — including travel time, costs, and which option I personally recommend.

Quick Comparison: CDG to Champagne

Transport	Destination Travel Time	Approx. Comfort Level Best for
Private Transfer	to Reims 1h30-1h45	Around €300 per vehicle ★★★★★ First visit, stress-free arrival
	to Epernay 1h40-1h50
Rental Car	to Reims	€50–120/day ★★★★☆ Exploring the region
	to Epernay
TGV	to Champagne-Ardenne TGV	€30–80 ★★★☆☆ Light luggage, flexible timing

1. Traveling by Car: The Most Comfortable Option

For most international visitors, traveling by car is the most comfortable and reliable way to reach Champagne.

The journey takes approximately 90 minutes by road, depending on traffic.

Why Many Visitors Prefer a Car

Door-to-door convenience
You go directly from arrivals to your hotel in Reims or Épernay.
No platforms, stairs, or ticket machines.

Comfort after a long flight
After crossing time zones, minimizing transfers makes a real difference.

Easier with luggage
If you plan to bring Champagne home, a car makes everything simpler.

Private Transfer (Ideal for a Seamless Arrival)

With a private transfer, a driver meets you at arrivals, assists with your luggage, and takes you directly to your destination.

Flight tracking and English-speaking drivers are usually included with established providers.

One reliable service frequently used by international travelers is Welcome Pickups.

For larger groups, a private transfer can also be surprisingly cost-effective, as the price is per vehicle rather than per person.

This option is especially reassuring for first-time visitors.

Rental Car (Best for Flexibility During Your Stay)

If you plan to visit smaller villages such as Hautvillers or explore independent grower producers, renting a car offers greater flexibility.

Car rental desks are located at CDG Terminal 2.

To compare major rental companies easily, DiscoverCars is a practical platform many travelers use.

A rental car is ideal if you prefer independence throughout your stay.

2. Taking the TGV Train from CDG

The high-speed TGV connects CDG Airport to Champagne in about 30 minutes once the train departs.

However, the overall journey requires coordination.

CDG to Champagne-Ardenne TGV

The train station is located inside Terminal 2.

Tickets can be purchased via:

• Trainline (English-friendly interface)
• SNCF (official French railway website)

Important: Champagne-Ardenne TGV Is Not Reims City Center

Most trains from CDG stop at Champagne-Ardenne TGV, located outside central Reims.

From there, you must:

• Take a regional TER train, or
• Take a tram into the city center

This adds time and an additional step after your flight.

Traveling to Épernay by Train from CDG

If your final destination is Épernay, the train route becomes significantly more complex.

Typical journey:

CDG → Champagne-Ardenne TGV → Reims → Épernay

Points to consider:

• Limited regional train frequency
• Transfers can be inconvenient
• Total travel time often exceeds 2 hours
• Delayed flights may cause missed connections

For Épernay especially, traveling by car is generally the smoother option.

Things to Consider When Taking the Train

• Direct departures from CDG are limited
• Some tickets are non-refundable
• Missed trains may require purchasing a new ticket
• Occasional schedule changes can occur

The train can work well for confident travelers with light luggage and flexible timing.

3. Arriving at CDG Airport

If you land at Terminal 2, you are already at the train station and car rental area.

If you land at Terminal 1 or 3, take the free CDGVAL shuttle train to Terminal 2.

4. Considering the SNCF “Carte Avantage”

If you plan to take multiple long-distance trains during your stay in France, you may consider purchasing the SNCF discount card called Carte Avantage.

It offers:

• Discounted fares
• Price caps on certain routes
• Reduced rates for companions (depending on card type)

It can be worthwhile if you plan additional TGV trips to cities such as Paris, Strasbourg, or Lyon.

For a single airport transfer, it is usually not necessary.

Final Recommendation

If this is your first visit to Champagne and you would like a calm and uncomplicated start to your trip, arranging transportation by car in advance is often the simplest choice.

The region is close to CDG — about 90 minutes by road.

Beginning your stay comfortably allows you to focus on what truly matters: discovering Champagne.