Sight
Ernest Hemingway
Lloyd Arnold · Wikimedia Commons · Public domainSome booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Ernest Hemingway sight in Reims is a bronze bust of the Nobel Prize-winning author, situated on Place Drouet d'Erlon, a lively pedestrian square lined with cafes and shops. Hemingway visited Reims during World War I as an ambulance driver and later wrote about the region. The bust is modest in scale, often overlooked by tourists heading to the nearby Notre-Dame de Reims cathedral. The square itself is a hub of activity, with outdoor seating, a carousel, and the iconic Porte de Mars triumphal arch nearby. While the bust itself is not a major attraction, it offers a moment of literary reflection in a city known for champagne and Gothic architecture. Visitors may find the bust a bit underwhelming given its low rating, but it's a free, quick stop for Hemingway enthusiasts.
Don't miss
- See the bronze bust of Hemingway in a public square.
- Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Place Drouet d'Erlon.
- Visit the nearby Porte de Mars, a Roman triumphal arch.
- Explore the cafes and shops surrounding the square.
- Combine with a visit to Reims Cathedral, just a short walk away.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Ernest Hemingway
You don't need a tour to visit, entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Ernest Hemingway with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inReims Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour4.1★ · 17 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →
Most bookedReims afternoon tour Champagne and family growers4.8★ · 609 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$151 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleReims From Roman Ruins to World War II self-guided walking tour4.4★ · 25 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$8 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Getting there
Know before you go
- The bust is easy to miss; look for it near the center of the square.
- Read a bit about Hemingway's time in France before visiting for context.
- Grab a coffee at one of the square's cafes to soak in the atmosphere.
- The bust is a popular photo spot for literary fans.
A bit of history
Ernest Hemingway served as a Red Cross ambulance driver on the Italian front in WWI, but he also spent time in France. This bust was erected to commemorate his connection to the region, though he is not directly tied to Reims specifically.
Common questions
Why is there a statue of Hemingway in Reims?
It honors his time in France and his literary legacy, though he didn't have a direct connection to Reims.
Is the statue life-sized?
No, it's a bust on a pedestal, about 2 feet tall.
Are there any other Hemingway sites in Reims?
No, this is the only one.
Can I visit the statue at night?
Yes, the square is public and lit at night.
Is there a plaque with information?
Yes, there is a small plaque identifying the subject.
How long does it take to see?
Just a few minutes; it's a quick stop.
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