Cryptoporticus Reims - Vézelay, a hilltop commune in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France, is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Basilica of St. Magdalene. With origins dating back to prehistoric settlements, it flourished in the Middle Ages as a pilgrimage center and crusade rallying point. Today, it remains notable for history, architecture, and Chardonnay-based wine production.
1 / 10

Cryptoporticus Reims

4.3
·971 reviews·Reims, France

Discover Reims' Roman past in this free, subterranean cryptoporticus, a quiet historical gem.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful and less crowded

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Cryptoporticus Reims - Vézelay, a hilltop commune in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France, is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Basilica of St. Magdalene. With origins dating back to prehistoric settlements, it flourished in the Middle Ages as a pilgrimage center and crusade rallying point. Today, it remains notable for history, architecture, and Chardonnay-based wine production.

Cryptoporticus Reims

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful and less crowded

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Reims' Roman past in this free, subterranean cryptoporticus, a quiet historical gem.

4.3
(971 reviews)

"A hidden gem for a peaceful morning stop with fascinating Roman history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Quick & Insightful Visit

Plan for a short visit, around 10-15 minutes, to appreciate the Roman history.

☕ Morning Coffee Spot

Ideal for a peaceful morning stop with coffee and pastries nearby.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Roman Architecture

Ancient Roman Architecture

Under the Forum Plaza

Step back in time with this well-preserved Roman underground structure, a testament to Reims' ancient past.

Peaceful Morning Ambiance

Peaceful Morning Ambiance

Forum Plaza

Enjoy a quiet coffee and pastry amidst historic charm, a perfect start to your day.

Summer Concert Venue

Summer Concert Venue

Forum Plaza

Experience vibrant summer concerts in a unique historical setting, surrounded by local eateries.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Roman History

Visit early morning for a peaceful experience and to avoid crowds. While entry is free, access can sometimes be limited, so check opening times before you go. It's a quick but insightful stop.

What to Expect: A Roman Glimpse

This Roman cryptoporticus is a compact historical site, perfect for a short visit. Don't expect grand ruins; it's more about appreciating the ancient architecture and its place in Reims' history.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful and less crowded
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Concerts and lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Quick & Insightful Visit

Plan for a short visit, around 10-15 minutes, to appreciate the Roman history. Reddit

☕ Morning Coffee Spot

Ideal for a peaceful morning stop with coffee and pastries nearby. Reddit

🎶 Summer Concerts

Check for summer concerts; it's a unique venue for live music. Reddit

🌳 View Obstructions

Large trees can sometimes block views, so manage expectations. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Quick & Insightful Visit

Plan for a short visit, around 10-15 minutes, to appreciate the Roman history. Reddit

☕ Morning Coffee Spot

Ideal for a peaceful morning stop with coffee and pastries nearby. Reddit

🎶 Summer Concerts

Check for summer concerts; it's a unique venue for live music. Reddit

🌳 View Obstructions

Large trees can sometimes block views, so manage expectations. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(971 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Cryptoporticus Reims for its free entry and fascinating glimpse into Roman history, making it a charming spot for a peaceful morning coffee. While some note its small size and potential view obstructions from trees, it's generally considered a worthwhile, quick historical stop.

"Cryptoportique in Reims is a hidden gem for a peaceful morning stop. The historic setting adds a unique charm, making it the perfect spot to enjoy your coffee and pastry. With its quiet ambiance and fascinating Roman history, it’s a lovely blend of relaxation and culture. Highly recommend starting your day here!"

The Beginning Studio

"Interesting view into the history of the region dating back to the Roman era. Free entry and just a short visit right in the middle of the Forum plaza."

Thom Shelton

"Fun place to see a concert in the summer! Many little places to eat and drink."

Kevin S

What People Like

Free entry
Roman history insight
Peaceful morning ambiance

What People Dislike

Small size
View obstructions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cryptoporticus is located right in the middle of the Forum plaza in Reims, making it easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the city center. Public transport options can get you close to the plaza, from where it's a short walk. Reddit

There are several parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity of the Forum plaza. It's best to look for parking in the city center, and then walk to the site. Reddit

Yes, Reims has a good public transport network. Buses and trams will likely stop near the city center and the Forum plaza, making it convenient to reach. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Cryptoporticus is free, making it an accessible historical site for everyone. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and sometimes access might be unexpectedly limited. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire nearby for the most current information before your visit. Reddit

While it's a historical site, there might be specific times or days it's closed for events or maintenance. Some visitors have reported not being able to get in when they expected. Reddit

Most visitors find that a visit to the Cryptoporticus takes about 10-15 minutes, as it's a relatively small site. It's a quick but worthwhile stop to learn about Roman history. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Cryptoporticus in Reims is a fascinating underground Roman structure, part of the ancient forum, offering a glimpse into the region's Roman past. Reddit

You can see the ancient Roman architecture of the cryptoporticus itself, which served as a covered walkway or storage area. It's a direct connection to the history of Reims. Reddit

Absolutely! It's perfect for a brief stop to appreciate history. Many visitors note it's a short visit, ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary. Reddit

Specific guided tours for the Cryptoporticus might not be regularly scheduled, but its central location means you can easily learn about its history from nearby information points or by doing a quick online search. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good to be respectful of the historical site. The underground nature might offer unique photographic opportunities. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Cryptoporticus is located in the Forum plaza, surrounded by many little places to eat and drink, making it a great spot to grab a coffee or a meal. Reddit

While you can't eat inside the historical structure, the area around the Forum plaza is perfect for enjoying breakfast at a nearby cafe, as many visitors recommend. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The underground arches and stonework of the cryptoporticus itself offer unique photographic opportunities. The Forum plaza above also provides context. Reddit

Visiting in the morning can offer softer light and fewer people, which is ideal for photography. However, be aware that trees can sometimes obstruct certain views. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cryptoporticus offers a quick and engaging way to introduce children to Roman history. Its underground nature can spark curiosity, and the fact that it's free makes it an easy addition to any family outing. Keep in mind it's a short visit, so pair it with other nearby family-friendly activities in Reims. Reddit

While there aren't specific play areas, the novelty of exploring an ancient structure can be captivating for younger visitors. The surrounding Forum plaza also provides open space for kids to move around. Consider bringing a small guide or app to make the historical context more accessible and fun for children. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Cryptoporticus is a fantastic find as entry is completely free. It offers a significant historical insight without any cost, allowing you to allocate your funds to other experiences in Reims. Reddit

Combine your visit with a picnic lunch from a local market or enjoy an affordable coffee from one of the many cafes surrounding the Forum plaza. It's a perfect example of how to experience the rich history of Reims without breaking the bank. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Roman Reims

The Cryptoporticus of Reims is a remarkable surviving element of the Roman city of Durocortorum. Built during the Gallo-Roman period, it served as a subterranean gallery, likely used for storage or as a covered walkway connecting different parts of the forum. Its construction showcases the advanced engineering capabilities of the Romans, with impressive vaulted ceilings and sturdy stonework that have withstood centuries. Visiting this site offers a tangible connection to the ancient history that lies beneath the modern city. Reddit

Many visitors are surprised by the historical depth revealed by this relatively small site. It's a reminder that Reims, now famous for its Champagne, was once a significant Roman center. The free entry makes it an accessible way to enrich your understanding of the region's past, providing a quiet moment of reflection on the layers of history present in Reims. Reddit

Experiencing the Forum Plaza

The Cryptoporticus is situated beneath the Forum plaza, a central hub in Reims. This area is not only historically significant but also a vibrant part of the city's present. In the summer, the plaza transforms into a lively venue for concerts, offering a unique blend of ancient history and modern entertainment. TikTokReddit

Surrounding the plaza are numerous cafes and eateries, making it an ideal spot to relax, enjoy a coffee, or have a meal. Visitors often recommend starting their day here, soaking in the atmosphere before or after exploring the Roman ruins. The combination of historical intrigue and contemporary amenities makes the Forum plaza a must-visit area in Reims. Reddit

You may also like