Reims Cathedral
Religious Site Gothic cathedral in Reims famed for royal coronations
Gothic cathedral in Reims known for its sculpted façade, stained glass and role in French coronations; visitors study the nave, medieval art and nearby Champagne houses.
Reims Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Reims) is a major Gothic cathedral in Reims, northeastern France, principally built from the early 13th century. It is historically significant as the traditional coronation church for French kings and as an outstanding example of High Gothic architecture.
The cathedral’s West Façade is notable for its sculptural program, including a gallery of kings and a large rose window, while the interior features soaring 13th-century vaults and extensive stained glass. The building attracts visitors for its architecture, sculpture and the chance to see Gothic structural and decorative elements up close.
Construction of the present cathedral began in the 13th century, replacing earlier church buildings on the site; major building campaigns took place in the 1200s. The cathedral sustained severe damage during World War I and was the subject of extensive 20th-century restoration work.
The cathedral sits in central Reims in the Grand Est region, adjacent to the city’s principal squares and near other heritage sites such as the Palace of Tau and the Saint-Remi Basilica. Reims is northeast of Paris and is one of the main cities of France’s Champagne region.
- UNESCO site: Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site along with the Palace of Tau and the Abbey of Saint-Remi for its role in the coronation of French kings.
- Art and stained glass: Interior contains a large collection of medieval sculpture and extensive stained glass, including 20th-century windows by noted artists.
What to See #
- West Façade: The ornate West Façade with its gallery of kings and large rose window forms the cathedral's principal frontage and is the classic view approached from the square in front.
- Nave and choir: The nave and choir contain high Gothic vaulting from the 13th century, extensive medieval sculpture and large stained-glass windows including 20th-century additions.
- Crypt and chapels: The crypt and chapels house relics and older architectural layers predating the principal Gothic rebuilding of the 13th century.
How to Get to Reims Cathedral #
Reims Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre‑Dame de Reims) is in central Reims. The fastest public route from Paris is the SNCF TGV from Paris Gare de l’Est to Reims station (about 45 minutes); from Reims station the cathedral is an easy 10-15 minute walk (roughly 800-1,000 m) through the city centre. By car use the A4 motorway toward Reims and follow local signs to the city centre and cathedral parking areas.
Tips for Visiting Reims Cathedral #
- Visit first thing in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest tour times and to see the stained glass and façade details in softer light; check the cathedral's schedule because access may be limited during services.
- Enter via the western façade to appreciate the sculpted portals, then allow time to see the adjacent Palais du Tau museum (nearby) which houses coronation regalia and historical exhibits many visitors skip.
- If you want guided context on the sculptures and stained glass (including modern additions), join one of the cathedral's guided tours or pick up an audio guide at the entrance-these explain details that are easy to miss on a quick walk-through.
Best Time to Visit Reims Cathedral #
For Reims Cathedral aim for weekday visits in the low season (November-February) to avoid crowds; expect peak visitor numbers in summer, weekends and around major religious holidays.
Weather & Climate near Reims Cathedral #
Reims Cathedral's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 0°C to 25°C. Moderate rainfall (615 mm/year), distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 8°C. The wettest month with 59 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 11°C. The wettest month with 59 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 25°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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