Where to go shopping in Reims, France ?
Reims is world-famous for its Gothic cathedral and champagne heritage but the city also offers a surprisingly rich shopping scene.
Between pedestrian streets lined with fashion boutiques, gourmet shops brimming with regional specialties, and unique artisan addresses, there is plenty to discover beyond the bubbles.
This guide covers the best shopping areas and boutiques in Reims and explains how non-EU visitors can claim a VAT refund on their purchases.
Estimate your tax-free savings with the Zapptax VAT refund calculator before you go.
Key takeaways
- Reims city centre hosts over 400 shops, from fashion brands to artisan boutiques, mostly within walking distance of the cathedral.
- Specialty boutiques (beauty, knives, gifts, etc) offer unique souvenirs eligible for tax-free shopping.
- Champagne and gourmet products (biscuits roses, chocolates, local cheeses) are among the most popular items to bring home.
- Non-EU residents can claim a VAT refund on eligible purchases using the Zapptax app.
Where to shop in Reims ?
The heart of shopping in Reims stretches along Rue de Vesle and Place d'Erlon, the city's main pedestrian area. Here, visitors will find a mix of well-known fashion retailers, cosmetics stores, and cosy cafés, all set against beautiful 18th-century architecture.
Just off Place d'Erlon, the Espace d'Erlon shopping arcade gathers several popular brands under one roof, making it a convenient stop for everyday fashion and accessories.
For a more upscale experience, Galeries Lafayette Reims is the city's flagship department store. Housed in a converted historic building, it offers a curated selection of fashion, beauty, and home décor. A very good place to browse French and international labels in a refined setting.
And last, around Place Royale and the streets near the cathedral, smaller boutiques offer trendy clothing, home décor, and unique gifts worth exploring on foot.
Champagne, wine & gourmet souvenirs
No shopping trip in Reims would be complete without picking up a bottle (or several) of champagne !
Find excellent specialty shops such as Trésors de Champagne, near the Boulingrin market, which focuses entirely on small, independent producers from the region. Tastings are often available on Saturdays.
Wine lovers can also explore Cave Colbert or La Vinocave, both well-regarded for their knowledgeable staff and carefully selected bottles.
Planning to bring wine or champagne home ? Check out our guide on how much wine you can bring back from France & VAT refund to make sure everything goes smoothly at Customs.
For edible souvenirs, Maison Fossier is an absolute must. Founded in 1756, it is one of the oldest bakeries in France, famous for its delicate pink biscuits (the iconic biscuits roses de Reims), traditionally dipped in champagne. Chocolates, nougat, and regional confectionery also make for perfect gifts.
Boutiques to explore in Reims, France
Beyond department stores and high-street chains, Reims is home to specialty boutiques that make for memorable shopping stops. And all of them can issue invoices eligible for a VAT refund.
BHV Reims (33-45 Rue de Vesle) is a sophisticated department store offering clothing, shoes, homeware, makeup and other accessories.
L'Occitane (22 Rue Condorcet) is a go-to for beauty lovers, offering Provençal-inspired skincare and fragrances, perfect for gift shopping.
For something truly unique, Coutellerie Champenoise (30 Rue Colbert) is a destination in itself. This specialist knife shop showcases high-end kitchen knives, including Japanese blades, as well as handcrafted regional pieces and champagne sabres. A favourite among food enthusiasts and collectors alike.
How to get a VAT refund on purchases in Reims ?
With the Zapptax app, the process is fully digital.
Shop anywhere in Reims, from Galeries Lafayette to a small champagne cellar, and simply ask for an invoice in the name of Zapptax. Then, upload it in the app, and Zapptax generates a compliant tax-free form. Validate it at Customs before departure, and receive a refund of up to 90% of the VAT.
For a full walkthrough, read the complete VAT refund France guide for non-EU residents.
Conclusion
With its walkable city centre, curated department stores and world-renowned gourmet shops, the capital of the Champagne region is a genuine shopping destination.
Whether picking up a bottle from an independent producer, treating yourself to French beauty products, or hunting for the perfect artisan souvenir, every purchase can become part of the trip.
FAQ
1. Where can I go shopping in Reims ?
The main shopping areas are concentrated in the city centre, around Rue de Vesle, Place d'Erlon, and Place Royale. Galeries Lafayette, the Espace d'Erlon arcade, and dozens of independent boutiques are all within walking distance of the cathedral.
2. What is the biggest shopping centre in Reims ?
The Cernay shopping centre, located on the outskirts of the city, is the largest in Reims with over 100 stores and restaurants. In the city centre, Galeries Lafayette and Espace d'Erlon are the main retail hubs.
3. What is the main shopping street in Reims ?
Rue de Vesle is the primary shopping street, running through the city centre with a wide variety of stores, boutiques, and restaurants. Place d'Erlon, nearby, is the main pedestrian square for shopping and dining.
