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

Should you visit Cologne or Reims?

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

Should I visit Cologne 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.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Reims

Reims is a cultural, beautiful, and relaxing city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Reims: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Reims?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Reims. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Reims attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Cologne is famous for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also well known for The Cologne Cathedral. Reims is famous for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cologne can be an interesting and educational experience. At the heart of the city is Cologne Cathedral, which is stunningly intricate and highlights High Gothic architecture. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Other famous sights around town include Cologne City Hall, the Wallraf-Richartz & Ludwig Museums, and Hohenzollern Bridge.

Reims is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Cologne or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Reims is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cologne. The food scene consists mostly of brewhouses and pubs, where you'll find local cuisine. There are also a number of international restaurants around town if you want something a little different. In particular, you'll find many Turkish kebab shops near the train station. Local dishes from Cologne include Halve Hahn (an open face sandwich), Hämmche (pork with sauerkraut or potatoes), and Mettbrütche (minced pork bread roll). For a sweet treat, there is no shortage of donut shops with decadently decorated toppings.

Is Cologne or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Cologne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Head to one of the many beerhalls to check out the local nightlife scene. Make sure you try the local beer, Kölsch. Some of the most popular places for night include Ona Mor, Pepe, and Engel & Weiss.

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 Cologne or Reims Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Reims does not have a historic old town.

Cologne offers a nice historic old town area. The Old Town is large, but its mostly been rebuilt with modern buildings. There are plenty of shopping areas where you can buy name brand clothing or sample sweets.

Reims does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Reims?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Reims and Cologne.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cologne. There is no shortage of clothing shops around Cologne. You'll find all of the major European chains with many souvenir shops mixed in. Schildergasse is a major shopping street in town, but there are also many shopping malls to choose from. For local markets, head to Wilhemplatz.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Reims. 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.

Is Cologne or Reims Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Reims does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Cologne is not to be missed. Cologne is one of the top Christmas destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Reims does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Reims Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas markets. However, Reims does not offer Christmas markets.

Cologne has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. Cologne is one of the top Christmas market destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Reims does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Reims Better for Families?

Cologne is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Reims is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. In addition to the stunning cathedral and impressive bridge, this city has many great playgrounds including Rheinpark, right across the river from old town. Kids who like high places will enjoy the view from the top of KölnTriangle. Popular kid-friendly museums in town include Odysseum and the Chocolate Museum. And if you have a day to spare, head to the indoor waterpark at Aqualand.

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 Cologne or Reims Better for Couples?

Reims is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Cologne is a nice destination for couples. The city has a number of activities that couples will enjoy such as walks along the river, dining at nice restaurants, and Rhein River cruises. Also make sure you put a lock on the Hohenzollern Bridge to declare your commitment to each other.

Is Cologne or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne and Reims are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cologne. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

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

Is Cologne or Reims Better for Students?

Cologne is well known for students. However, Reims is not popular with students.

Cologne is a great city to visit as a student. The city is large enough to attract international students for all types of studies. It's also well connected to the German train system so it's easy to get out and explore the area.

Reims is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is very popular for its public transit. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Cologne has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. KVB operates the system that includes trains, trams, and buses. The city is also easily connected to other nearby towns so it makes a great base for exploring the entire area.

While Reims offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. In town there are buses and trams, but to get into the countryside you'll need your own car.

Is Cologne or Reims a more walkable city?

Cologne and Reims both are very good when exploring on foot.

Cologne is a very walkable destination. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.

Reims is very walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Reims or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Reims?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cologne 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 Cologne.

One day in Cologne or Reims?

Each neighborhood in Cologne has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Cologne or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. 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 Cologne or Reims?

Cologne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Cologne. 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 Cologne or Reims?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful big city of Cologne. 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 The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Germany, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cologne and Reims, we can see that Cologne 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 Cologne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cologne 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 Cologne Expensive? and Is Reims Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Reims?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Cologne 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 Cologne 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 Cologne or Reims in the Summer?

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

Cologne is around the same temperature as Reims in the summer. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Reims fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Reims. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Reims during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Reims. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Reims in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Cologne is around the same temperature as Reims. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cologne in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Reims averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Reims. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Reims. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Reims in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Reims. Most visitors come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Cologne can be very cold during winter. In January, Cologne is generally around the same temperature as Reims. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 3°C (37°F), and Reims fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Reims during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives more rain than Reims. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Reims in the Spring?

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

Cologne is around the same temperature as Reims in the spring. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Reims fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Reims. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in April than Reims. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reims and Cologne