A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albufeira vs. Reims for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Albufeira or Reims?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Albufeira or Reims? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Albufeira

Albufeira is a vibrant, touristy, and popular resort town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, nightlife, and food.

Reims

Reims is a cultural, beautiful, and relaxing city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Albufeira and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Albufeira or Reims?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Albufeira. Although Albufeira and Reims are both popular with visitors, Albufeira has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Albufeira is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Reims is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Albufeira is more touristy than Reims and is known for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. It is also home to Praia da Falesia. Reims is popular for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

How is Albufeira different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Reims and Albufeira. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Albufeira or Reims?

Albufeira
Reims

Reims is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

Reims offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Sights around town include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, Palais du Tau, Basilique Saint-Rémi, and Musée des Beaux-Arts.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Albufeira or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Albufeira
Reims

Reims is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Reims is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. While its famous for its Champagne, the city also has Michelin starred restaurants, local produce, and an amazing regional cuisine. The region is known for its ham, cheese, mustard, and truffles.

Albufeira has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, the city also has the widest selection of restaurants. There are traditional options that serve up classic dishes like grilled sardines, as well as international restaurants with traveler favorites. As expected, you'll find a lot of seafood, but you'll also find inland influences from local farms in the area.

Is Albufeira or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira
Reims

Albufeira is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Albufeira is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. During the peak summer months you'll find the streets around the popular "Strip" filled with tourists and party-goers. There are hen and stag parties, backpackers, and drunken travelers out for a good time. The Strip has become so popular that there are now bars and clubs on the adjacent streets as well. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center.

If you're looking for night time activities Reims has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is relaxing but active. Most locals hang out with friends at local bars near Place Drouet d'Erlon or the Rue Chanzy area. Bars have a combination of local beers and Champagne.

Is Albufeira or Reims Better for Resorts?

Albufeira
Reims

Albufeira is very popular for its resorts. However, Reims is not a resort destination.

Albufeira offers an unforgettable resort vacation. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, you'll find a wide selection of hotels to choose from. Party-goers will want to stay near the Strip while families will prefer the old town or resorts in Olhos de Agua.

Reims is not a resort destination.


Is Albufeira or Reims Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira
Reims

Albufeira is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Reims is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Albufeira to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are countless vendors who will take you by boat to explore the underwater world, either by snorkeling or scuba diving. The marine life is impressive and the water is generally clear.

Reims is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Reims Better for Beaches?

Albufeira
Reims

Albufeira is very popular for the beach. However, Reims is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Albufeira are among the best in the world. With their golden sands and blue waters, the beaches are world class. The area also has a diversity of beaches that are perfect for all types of vacationers. For water sports, head to Praia dos Alemaes but for relaxation and catching some rays check out Praia da Falesia. You'll find some interesting rock formations at Praia dos Olhos de Agua. One of the most convenient beaches to town is Praia dos Pescadores. For nightlife you'll want to head to Praia da Oura.

Reims is not a beach destination.

Is Albufeira or Reims Better for Hiking?

Albufeira
Reims

Albufeira is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Reims is not a hiking destination.

Albufeira has hiking trails worth exploring. There are countless coastal walks that are perfect for all skill levels. Many offers stunning views along the rocky coast and pass through natural settings. Popular trails in the area include Praia Grande Interpretation Trail and Paderne Castle Trail.

Reims is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Reims?

Albufeira
Reims

Reims is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Reims is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find not only Champagne, but also jewellry, designer fashion, and chocolate. The best shopping is located around the Place Drouet d'Erlon which is a pedestrian area. Also check out the shopping streets of Rue de Vesle and Cours Langlet.

Albufeira has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most of the shops are geared toward souvenirs or beach items, particularly near the beach and marina. If you look hard you might find some nice ceramics or items made of cork.

Is Albufeira or Reims Better for Families?

Albufeira
Reims

Albufeira is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Reims is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Albufeira. Despite it's reputation as a party-hard city, there are actually a lot of family-friendly activities in the area. Because it's the largest resort town in the Algarve, it also has the most activities to choose from, including theme parks, water parks, dolphin watching, ropes courses, go karting, and more. The best area's for families are in the old town or the most of the family-friendly resorts outside of town. Families should avoid staying near "the Strip."

For families, Reims is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the historical city center or visiting the Palace of Tau. For a unique activity, view the region from above with a hot air balloon ride.

Is Albufeira or Reims Better for Couples?

Albufeira
Reims

With fun activities for couples, both Albufeira and Reims make for a fantastic place to visit.

Albufeira makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For an active honeymoon or couple's retreat, this resort town has it all. Beautiful beaches, adventure-filled activities, a wild nightlife scene, and excellent resorts and restaurants all make for a memorable couple's getaway.

For those traveling as a couple, Reims has plenty to offer. This romantic area is perfect for couples who enjoy wine and history. There is beautiful architecture as well as wine tours and breathtaking hot air balloon rides. Visiting the Champagne Houses is a must for any couple visiting the area.


Is Albufeira or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira
Reims

Albufeira is very popular for backpackers. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Albufeira is a very popular resort town to visit for backpackers. If you're looking for a party, then you found it. The area is a top pick for European holidays, so you'll find plenty of energy and activities around town. There are also golden beaches and a decent selection of hostels to choose from.

Reims is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

Is Albufeira or Reims Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Albufeira
Reims

Reims is a popular place for its public transit. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Reims, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. In town there are buses and trams, but to get into the countryside you'll need your own car.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albufeira. There are regional buses and even trains, but do take note that many of the train and bus stations are a good distance outside of town.

Is Albufeira or Reims a more walkable city?

Albufeira
Reims

Reims is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Reims is a very walkable city. You can explore the city on foot and reach many local Champagne Houses. If you really want to explore everything in depth, you'll need a car.

Albufeira is generally not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to hire a car, but if your hotel is near the beach and you're ok with walking to restaurants, then you may be able to get away without one. If you hope to travel into the countryside at all then a car is necessary.


For even more information, also check out Is Albufeira Worth Visiting? and Is Reims Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reims or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Reims?

In either Albufeira or Reims, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Albufeira than Reims because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Albufeira, and 2-5 days is enough time in Reims.

Families should spend more time in Albufeira than Reims. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Albufeira, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albufeira than Reims if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Albufeira.


  • How many days in Albufeira or Reims? Ideal Length of Stay
    Albufeira 3-7 
    Reims 2-5

One day in Albufeira or Reims?

In Albufeira, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this touristy destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Reims. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Albufeira or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Albufeira. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Reims. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Reims?

Albufeira is a fun place to experience. In Albufeira, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the cultural city of Reims. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Albufeira or Reims?

In Albufeira, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this party hard destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Reims is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Albufeira?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Albufeira is €148, while the average daily cost in Reims is €131. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Albufeira and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Albufeira 74
    Reims 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Albufeira 148
    Reims 132
Compare Hotels in Albufeira and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Albufeira or Reims? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Albufeira


Hotels in Reims


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Albufeira Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albufeira 34
    Reims 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albufeira

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Albufeira:

  • Albufeira - Faro Airport Transfers 4pax: $49
  • Faro Airport Private Transfer - Albufeira (Departure): $27
  • From Slide & Splash Waterpark One-Way Transfer: $59
  • Private Airport Transfer To Albufeira Area: $109
  • Private Airport Transfer To Albufeira Area: $98
  • Private Transfer From Albufeira To Faro Airport By Minibus: $75
  • Private Transfer From Algarve to Sevilha By 8 Seats Minibus: $513
  • Private Transfer from Albufeira to Faro Airport (5 to 8 pax): $59
  • Private Transfer from Alte to Faro (FAO) Airport: $82
  • Private Transfer from Apartamentos Pescadores (Albufeira) to Faro (FAO) Airport: $48
  • Private Transfer from Ferreiras to Faro (FAO) Airport: $59
  • Private Transfer from Pera to Faro (FAO) Airport: $82

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reims

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Reims:

  • From Transfer and Drive Through the Champagne Region: $856
  • Private Transfer From Reims To Paris, 2 Hour Stop in Epernay: $227

Is it cheaper to fly into Albufeira or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Albufeira change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Albufeira 48
    Reims 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albufeira

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Albufeira.

  • A Portuguese Dinner and Cocktail Experience with pick up: $49
  • Portuguese Dinner and Cocktail Experience with Pick up: $52
  • Dinner at the Vineyards in Lagoa: $60
  • Algarve Bike and Food Tour with Sea Food and Wine Tasting: $61
  • Sunset Safari with Traditional Dinner : $65
  • 6-Hour Sunset Dinner Catamaran Cruise from Albufeira: $74
  • Half-Day-Orange Picking &Jam Cooking/Lunch with the Orange Farmer: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Albufeira 39
    Reims 19

Tours and Activities in Albufeira

Here are a few actual costs in Albufeira for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • From Portugal eSIM Tourist Data Plan: $4.81
  • Albufeira 1 hour Off-Road Tour Quad Adventure Tour: $19
  • Old Town History Walking Tour with Drink: $20
  • Quarteira Town & Gypsy Market Tour with Beach Bliss: $21
  • Authentic Algarve: Loulé Town Tour and Markets: $21
  • Albufeira Old Town: In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • Albufeira The Strip: In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • Private Tuk-Tuk Tour of Albufeira: $22
  • 70 Minutes Guided Secrets of Albufeira Walking Tour: $22
  • Algarve Wines Tasting Shared Experience at Mercado Municipal de Silves: $27
  • Tour to Benagil Caves and Coastline in Albufeira: $29
  • Private Guided Tuk Tuk Tour with pick-up and drop-off in Albufeira : $30

Tours and Activities in Reims

Here are a few actual costs in Reims for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Reims Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.95
  • Guided Tour of Cathedral of Notre Dame de Reims: $9.62
  • Reims UNESCO site: Basilica of Saint-Remi Guided Tour: $9.62
  • Reims Art Deco guided tour: $9.62
  • Reims Cathedral of Notre Dame Guided Tour: $9.83
  • Reims : city-center discovery tour and champagne tasting: $16
  • Discovery tour (2 tastings): $20
  • Entrance ticket to Pressoria in the heart of Champagne with Tasting: $20
  • Champagne Guy De Chassey: Traditional Tour & Tasting: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albufeira 26
    Reims 22

Sample the Local Flavors in Albufeira

Also in Albufeira, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Exclusive Wine Tasting Experience in Porches (Algarve): $49
  • Sunset Wine Tasting With BBQ in Porches: $49
  • Wine Tasting Tour in Algarve Winery : $58
  • Half Day Safari Tour with Wine Tasting: $58
  • Winery Tour with Wine Tasting and Tapas: $63
  • Small-Group Wine Tour & Silves Exploration (from Albufeira): $68
  • Wine Tour and Tasting - Semi-Private from Albufeira: $71
  • Albufeira Coast Tour w/ Wine tasting & Chicken lunch: $74
  • From Private Lagos Tour Whith Wine Tasting: $92
  • Lagos and Ponta Da Piedade Private Tour & Algarvian Wine Tasting: $107


When comparing the travel costs between Albufeira and Reims, we can see that Albufeira is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Albufeira Expensive? and Is Reims Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Reims?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Reims, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Albufeira or Reims?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Albufeira or Reims in the Summer?

Both Reims and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Albufeira for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Reims in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Albufeira is a little warmer than Reims. Typically, the summer temperatures in Albufeira in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Reims averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In July, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Reims. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Albufeira 25°C (78°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Albufeira or Reims in the Autumn?

Both Reims and Albufeira during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Albufeira in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reims for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Albufeira is generally much warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 19°C (67°F), and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Albufeira usually gets more rain in October than Reims. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Albufeira 19°C (67°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Albufeira or Reims in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Reims. Most visitors come to Albufeira for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Reims because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Reims can be very cold. Albufeira is much warmer than Reims in the winter. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Reims fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Albufeira usually receives more rain than Reims. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Albufeira 11°C (52°F) 
    Reims 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Albufeira or Reims in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Reims. The spring months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Reims this time of year.

In the spring, Albufeira is much warmer than Reims. Typically, the spring temperatures in Albufeira in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Reims averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in April than Reims. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Albufeira 15°C (60°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Albufeira

Albufeira Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 15°C (60°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)