The Champagne region of northeastern France is recognized as home to the finest bubbly in the world - but all sparkling wines are not champagne - only bottles produced from this region's grapes qualify for the title. Avenue de Champagne in Epernay finds such swanky champagne firms as Moet and Chandon (the producers of Dom Perignon), and both offer tours and tastings. Next on the list of essential experiences is, Troyes, where an abundance of 16th century churches, museums and mansions await. Just outside of town one can satiate an appetite for shopping at one of many designer factory outlets, or conversely congregate with windsurfers, swimmers and lovers of the outdoors at Foret d'Orient Regional Nature Park.

The region's capital of Reims houses the High Gothic masterpiece, Reims Cathedral, the coronation site of 24 kings of France, including Charles VII in 1429 in the presence of Joan of Arc. Or, try Charleville-Mezieres in the deep forests and valleys of the French Ardennes for fewer crowds but no less atmosphere.