Champagne-Ardenne TGV

It is extremely important for passengers not to confuse this station with the central "Reims" station (Gare de Reims), which is located in the city centre. Champagne-Ardenne TGV is a separate station on the outskirts. The station is compact and intuitive: exits to taxis and public transport stops are easy to find. Platforms are located on the lower level or accessible via walkways, with clear signage installed everywhere for transfers to local TER trains.

• Official website: garesetconnexions.sncf (Champagne-Ardenne TGV section)
• Information phone: 3635 (unified SNCF inquiry service, accessible from France)
• Address: Place de la Gare, 51430 Bezannes, France
• Opening hours: Daily from 05:30 to 22:00 (timings may vary on public holidays)
• Luggage storage information: Automatic lockers are generally not available at the station (it is recommended to verify current information before travelling)
• Accessibility information: The Accès Plus service operates to assist passengers with reduced mobility (meeting point in the station hall)

Getting to Champagne-Ardenne TGV station from the centre of Reims is quick and convenient, despite its location on the outskirts. The most popular method is using Tram Line B, which connects the station with the city centre and the Reims railway station. The journey time by tram is approximately 20–30 minutes.

An alternative and the fastest option is to use the regional shuttle train (TER) that runs between Reims Central Station and Champagne-Ardenne TGV station. Such a trip will take just 10–12 minutes. Tickets for the shuttle can be purchased at the machines.

A trip by taxi from the city centre will take about 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. Walking from the centre of Reims is not recommended, as the distance exceeds 5 km and passes through suburban zones, which is inconvenient for tourists with luggage.

Champagne-Ardenne TGV station offers passengers a modern set of services for a comfortable stay. The building houses spacious waiting lounges, sheltered from the weather. For ticket purchases, both counters with operators (please note the opening hours) and 24-hour automatic terminals for domestic and international trips are available.

Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the station area (network _SNCF GARE_GRATUIT_). Passengers can use electrical outlets to charge gadgets, which are often located in rest zones. The station also has paid restrooms, a photo booth, a mailbox, and specially equipped facilities for citizens with reduced mobility.

The choice of dining establishments at the station itself is limited but sufficient for a quick snack before the journey. In the main hall, a café such as Paul or Relay usually operates, where you can buy fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, hot coffee, and soft drinks. This is an ideal option for buying "take-away" food for the train. The average bill for a light breakfast will be 6–10 Euros.

If you have more time available (an hour or more), you can exit the station building into the Bezannes area. Within walking distance (5–10 minutes), there are several restaurants in the business park offering full lunches. However, for late-night transfers, it is better to stock up on food in advance, as cafés at the station close in the evening.

The Champagne-Ardenne TGV station is a relatively new transport infrastructure facility, inaugurated in 2007. Its construction coincided with the launch of the first phase of the high-speed LGV Est Européenne line, connecting Paris with Eastern France and Germany.

The appearance of this station was a strategic step: it allowed high-speed TGV trains to serve the Reims region without the need to enter the dense urban area and change direction, which significantly saves travel time. The station's architecture, executed using a large amount of glass, symbolizes the region's openness and its aspiration towards the future.

The main advice for tourists is to carefully check the station name on your ticket. Ensure that you need specifically Champagne-Ardenne TGV, and not Reims Centre, to avoid confusion and delays. Plan to arrive at the station at least 20 minutes before the train's departure, as boarding closes 2 minutes prior to leaving.

For security purposes, do not leave luggage unattended for even a minute; all bags must have tags with your name. If you have a transfer to a late train, please note that the waiting hall can be cool and shops may be closed, so bring warm clothing and water with you.