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

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Reims?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Dusseldorf and Reims. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a cultural, vibrant, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Reims

Reims is a cultural, beautiful, and relaxing city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Reims?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dusseldorf than Reims. Dusseldorf is bigger than Reims, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dusseldorf is better known for its historical sights and big city activities, while Reims is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Reims is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. Dusseldorf is well known for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. Also, Dusseldorf is famous for Altstadt (the Old Town).

How is Dusseldorf different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dusseldorf
Reims

Both Dusseldorf and Reims have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Dusseldorf is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

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.


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

Dusseldorf
Reims

Reims is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Reims, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Dusseldorf has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Is Dusseldorf or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Reims

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

Dusseldorf has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

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 Dusseldorf or Reims Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Reims

Dusseldorf is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Reims does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Dusseldorf to see the historical old town. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Reims does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Reims?

Dusseldorf
Reims

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

Reims is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Dusseldorf or Reims Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Reims

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

Dusseldorf is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

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 Dusseldorf or Reims Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Reims

Reims is very popular for romance. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Reims is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Dusseldorf is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.


Is Dusseldorf or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Reims

Dusseldorf and Reims are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

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.

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

Dusseldorf
Reims

Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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 Dusseldorf or Reims a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Reims

Dusseldorf and Reims both are great when exploring on foot.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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.


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

Should I spend more time in Reims or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Reims?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Reims than Dusseldorf. 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.


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

One day in Dusseldorf or Reims?

In Dusseldorf, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

With museums and nightlife around the relaxing city of Reims, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dusseldorf or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Reims, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Dusseldorf or Reims?

Dusseldorf is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Dusseldorf. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Reims, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Dusseldorf or Reims?

You'll find food and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Dusseldorf. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Reims is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Dusseldorf?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dusseldorf is €185, 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 Dusseldorf and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Reims 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Reims 132
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf


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: Dusseldorf Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Reims 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92
  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73

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 Dusseldorf or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Dusseldorf 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
    Dusseldorf 76
    Reims 40
Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

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

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dusseldorf 25
    Reims 19

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

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

  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Night watchman tour: $22
  • Guided Walking Tour in Dusseldorf: $22
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Düsseldorf in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Dusseldorf Old Town and Altbier Tour: $25
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44

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
    Dusseldorf 23
    Reims 22
Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


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


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Reims?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf or Reims in the Summer?

Both Reims and Dusseldorf are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Reims for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Dusseldorf is generally around the same temperature as Reims. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 19°C (66°F), and Reims fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Reims. Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Reims during summer. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dusseldorf usually receives more rain than Reims. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Reims in the Autumn?

Both Reims and Dusseldorf during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Reims because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Reims in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Reims. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in October than Reims. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Reims in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Reims. The winter months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Reims this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reims in the winter. The weather in Dusseldorf can be very cold. In the winter, Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Reims. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dusseldorf in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Reims averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Reims during winter. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dusseldorf usually receives more rain than Reims. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Reims in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Reims. The activities around the city are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Reims for the natural beauty.

In April, Dusseldorf is generally around the same temperature as Reims. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 9°C (48°F), and Reims fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Reims. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in April than Reims. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Reims and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)


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