Bubbles Across Borders: A Sparkling Journey Through Cava, Champagne & Prosecco

Cava

The Cava region is home to iconic houses such as Freixenet, Albet i Noya, and Codorníu, each offering a distinct lens into the heritage and innovation of Spanish sparkling wine.

Freixenet, one of the world’s most recognized producers, blends tradition with global influence, while the historic Codorníu estate—among the oldest wineries in Spain—invites visitors into its striking Modernist cellars and centuries-old legacy. Albet i Noya, a pioneer in organic viticulture, showcases the region’s forward-thinking spirit through sustainable practices and expressive, terroir-driven wines.

Cava tasting at Albet i Noya

Together, these houses provide an exceptional spectrum of experiences that reveal the depth and diversity of Cava.

Champagne

Épernay, famed for its elegant Avenue de Champagne, offers an extraordinary immersion into the heart of French sparkling wine heritage, where prestigious houses such as Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët stand alongside lesser-known gems like Champagne Alfred Gratien and Champagne Jacquinot. Strolling this storied avenue reveals grand estates, historic cellars, and intimate tasting rooms that showcase the depth and artistry of Champagne.

Just beyond Épernay, a short train ride brings you to Reims, where you can explore the chalk-cellar “crayères” of Maison Ruinart, part of the Champagne Hillsides, Houses & Cellars UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as esteemed maisons such as Pol Couronne and Lanson.

Together, these experiences create a richly layered journey through Champagne’s most iconic, authentic, and historically significant expressions.

Prosecco Hills

Nestled between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, the Prosecco Hills—home to the prestigious DOCG designation—offer a uniquely immersive glimpse into Italy’s finest sparkling wine traditions.

Here, steep, beautifully sculpted vineyards wrap across rolling hillsides, creating a landscape so distinctive it has earned UNESCO World Heritage status. Visitors can taste exceptional, small-production Proseccos not available in the US, from celebrated local producers such as Bortolomiol, Nani Rizzi, Merotto, and Mon Ban, each showcasing the nuanced character of the region’s Glera grapes.

Prosecco tasting at Bortolomiol

Adding to the charm, the hills even feature Prosecco vending machines perched at scenic viewpoints, offering a delightfully whimsical way to enjoy a glass while taking in the breathtaking panorama.

Who is this trip for?

These three sparkling-wine regions each appeal to travelers who value culture, craftsmanship, and scenic beauty—but especially to true bubbly lovers seeking to explore their favorite drink at its source.

• The Cava region is ideal for those who appreciate authenticity, sustainability, and approachable, less-touristed wine experiences. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy meeting independent producers, exploring organic winemaking, and discovering exceptional quality without the crowds.

• The Champagne region suits travelers drawn to history, luxury, and iconic wine heritage—those who want to tour grand maisons, wander UNESCO-recognized cellars, and indulge in a quintessentially French blend of elegance and tradition.

• The Prosecco Hills are ideal for nature lovers, culinary travelers, and those seeking a playful, scenic escape—its steep UNESCO-listed hills, boutique producers, and even Prosecco vending machines make it perfect for visitors who enjoy a mix of beauty, charm, and light-hearted adventure.

Together, these destinations offer bubbly enthusiasts and curious travelers alike a richly layered journey into the world’s most celebrated sparkling wines.

Perfect trip with friends

Finale in Venice

To wrap up a sparkling‑wine pilgrimage through Cava, Champagne, and the Prosecco Hills, ending in Venice is pure magic. After days of vineyards and tasting rooms, arriving in Venice feels like stepping into a living dream: the city’s canals, baroque palazzos, and timeless charm offer a gentle, romantic counterpoint to your wine‑country adventures. You can drift along the Grand Canal on a vaporetto, wander through St. Mark’s Square, and soak in the art, architecture, and history as a perfect capstone to your trip.

Venice isn’t just a transit point—it’s a sensory finale, where the flavors of Italy linger as long as the reflections on the water.

Sipping prosecco watching the gondolas go by

Recommendations

• Penedès: Head to Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, the historic heart of Cava, and tour a major cava house—especially Codorníu. Its modernist winery, designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, features spectacular architecture and sprawling underground cellars where you can learn about traditional bottle fermentation firsthand. While there, don’t miss the Cava Interpretation Centre, located in the historic La Fassina distillery: it offers a perfect introduction to the origins and production of Cava.

• Champagne: If you’re looking for a truly memorable dining experience in Épernay, Le P’tit Champenois is an ideal choice. Tucked just steps from the Avenue de Champagne, the restaurant welcomes you into its beautifully vaulted, “typical Champagne” cellars for a cozy, atmospheric meal. The cuisine is rooted in regional tradition—almost every dish is homemade, made with locally sourced ingredients, and thoughtfully paired with wines and champagnes from the region. With friendly, unpretentious service and a charming setting, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch, a romantic dinner, or a gathering with friends—all while soaking in the authentic spirit of Champagne country.

• Prosecco Hills: If you’re looking for a deeply personal and authentic experience in the Prosecco Hills, a private tour with Yellowboot—run by Carlo and Giulia—is a superb choice. With over a decade of experience and roots firmly planted in the UNESCO‑listed Prosecco Hills, they bring genuine local expertise and passion to every trip. Their private tours steer clear of the big-group feel, taking you to smaller, “friendly” wineries and giving you a real insider’s look at Prosecco production. Logistics are seamless—Carlo or Giulia will pick you up from your hotel in Conegliano or Valdobbiadene, plus private vehicle transport through the hills. Best of all, you’ll enjoy wine tastings paired with a multi-course lunch at Carlo’s family osteria, where traditional, lovingly prepared recipes make the day both delicious and unforgettable.

• Venice: Actually let yourself get lost in Venice. Skip the map for a while, wander down narrow alleys (calli), and follow whatever path catches your eye—the most magical corners reveal themselves when you aren’t looking for them. As one local guide puts it, “Venice rewards curiosity … when you’re ‘lost,’ you’re actually just being guided—by the city itself.” Pull your phone out only when you want to reconnect to a meeting point—until then, surrender to Venice’s maze and let it surprise you.

Tips

• Having a car in the Penedès gives you maximum freedom, but you can do a Penedès wine trip without one—especially if you stick to the main hubs, use organized wine tours, or hire a driver—as many wineries are spread out in rural areas where public transport doesn't reach well.

• Book your Champagne house tours and tastings well in advance, as many of the most iconic maisons on the Avenue de Champagne in Épernay and in Reims have limited capacity and popular tours fill up fast. This not only ensures you secure a spot, but also lets you plan a thoughtful itinerary—balancing cellar visits, city sightseeing, and time to absorb the region’s rich wine heritage on its own beautifully paced rhythm.

• In the Prosecco Hills, book your winery tastings in advance and plan for a designated driver or a guided tour. The region is full of small, family-run vineyards—many only accept visitors by appointment—and the winding roads and hilltop views make driving without a plan tricky. By planning ahead, you’ll get access to more authentic wineries, enjoy tastings without rush, and explore the landscape safely and comfortably.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Europe page.