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

Should you visit Cardiff or Reims?

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

Should I visit Cardiff 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.

Cardiff

Cardiff is a up-and-coming, green, and industrial city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

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.

Cardiff and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Cardiff or Reims?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cardiff than Reims, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cardiff is more popular for its big city activities, while Reims is known for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Reims is more touristy than Cardiff and is known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. It is also home to The Cardiff Castle.

How is Cardiff different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cardiff
Reims

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Cardiff and Reims.

Cardiff offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The most notable landmark of the city is the famous and well-preserved Cardiff Castle. Visitors also enjoy seeing the Victorian arcades, museums, and cathedrals around town.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Reims. Sights around town include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, Palais du Tau, Basilique Saint-Rémi, and Musée des Beaux-Arts.


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

Cardiff
Reims

Reims is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options 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.

Cardiff may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Welsh cuisine is known for its stews and hearty vegetable dishes. The national dish is cawl, which is a stew made with lamb and vegetables. Other local favorites include Welsh rarebit, which is a type of cheese toast, and Glamorgan Sausage, which is actually made with vegetables.

Is Cardiff or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Cardiff
Reims

It's hard to distinguish whether Cardiff or Reims has a better nightlife scene.

Cardiff has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

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 the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Reims?

Cardiff
Reims

Reims is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Cardiff has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping options include shopping malls and boutique lined streets. There is a nice mix of independent shops and major chains to choose between.


Is Cardiff or Reims Better for Families?

Cardiff
Reims

Cardiff 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 Cardiff. The city has a number of climbing and play areas, museums, and playgrounds that can keep the little ones entertained. There are also plenty of outdoor parks and trails to wander around.

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 Cardiff or Reims Better for Couples?

Cardiff
Reims

Reims is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for couples.

Reims makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Cardiff is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The most romantic experiences involve a night out dining at nice restaurants, enjoying a cocktail at a classy bar, and strolling through neighborhoods and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is Cardiff or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cardiff
Reims

Reims is a popular place for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Reims. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Cardiff or Reims Better for Students?

Cardiff
Reims

Cardiff is a nice place to visit for students. However, Reims is not popular with students.

Cardiff is popular with students. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

Reims is not popular with students.

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

Cardiff
Reims

Reims is a popular place for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city 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 Cardiff. There is a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Cardiff or Reims a more walkable city?

Cardiff
Reims

Reims is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Cardiff is a somewhat walkable city. There are pedestrianized areas and the waterfront is nice to walk around but there is still room for improvement when it comes to walkability.


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

Should I spend more time in Reims or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Reims?

In either Cardiff or Reims, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reims than Cardiff because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 2-5 days is enough time in Reims.

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

Couples should spend more time in Reims than Cardiff. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Reims that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Reims than Cardiff 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 Reims.


  • How many days in Cardiff or Reims? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cardiff 1-3 
    Reims 2-5

One day in Cardiff or Reims?

In Cardiff, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this green destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Reims, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cardiff or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cardiff. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Reims, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reims has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Reims?

Cardiff is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cardiff. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Reims is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reims has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Cardiff or Reims?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the green destination of Cardiff. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reims. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Reims. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Cardiff?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cardiff is £156, while the average daily cost in Reims is £112. 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 Cardiff and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cardiff £93
    Reims £57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cardiff £186
    Reims £114
Compare Hotels in Cardiff and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Cardiff 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 Cardiff


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: Cardiff Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cardiff £21
    Reims £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport CWL to Cardiff by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Bristol Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $13
  • Cardiff Airport (CWL): Transfer to Cardiff Accommodation: $139
  • Cardiff Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport to City centre: $79
  • Cardiff to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Departure Private Transfer from Cardiff to Cardiff Airport CWL by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $16
  • Newport Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Private Cardiff Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation : $58
  • Private Cardiff Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $58
  • Private Transfer from Holyhead Port to Manchester Airport (MAN): $102

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 Cardiff or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Cardiff 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
    Cardiff £44
    Reims £34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cardiff £25
    Reims £16

Tours and Activities in Cardiff

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

  • Ghosts of Llandaff Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • A Journey through Tudor A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Cardiff’s Bay and Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Bay and Barrage: $5.99
  • Cardiff's Civic Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Essential Caerphilly: Explore the town’s history on a self-guided audio tour: $6.22
  • Uncover Ghostly Chester: In-App Audio Tour of Eerie Tales: $11
  • Uncover Spectral Secrets with the Llandaff Ghosts Audio Tour: $11
  • Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Llanberis, Conwy and Caernarfon Castle: A Self-Guided Driving Tour of Snowdonia: $15
  • Cardiff Bay Boat Tour: $15

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
    Cardiff £13
    Reims £19

Sample the Local Flavors in Cardiff

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

  • Gin Tour at Hensol Castle Distillery: $32
  • Cardiff Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cardiff and Reims, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Reims much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Reims would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Reims and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cardiff would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cardiff than you might in Reims.

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


Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Reims?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 54% larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff or Reims in the Summer?

Both Reims and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cardiff for 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, Cardiff is around the same temperature as Reims. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cardiff in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Reims averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Reims. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cardiff. Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reims during summer. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Reims. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Reims in the Autumn?

Both Reims and Cardiff during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the autumn for 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, Cardiff is generally around the same temperature as Reims. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 11°C (52°F), and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Reims. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cardiff. Cardiff usually gets more rain in October than Reims. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Reims in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Reims. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the museums, 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. Cardiff can be very cold during winter. Cardiff is a little warmer than Reims in the winter. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Reims fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Reims during winter. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Reims. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F) 
    Reims 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Reims in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Reims. The spring months attract visitors to Cardiff because of 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, Cardiff is around the same temperature as Reims. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cardiff in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Reims averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Cardiff often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reims. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in April than Reims. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Cardiff

Cardiff Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)