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

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a professional, classy, and diverse 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Geneva and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Geneva or Reims?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Geneva than Reims, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Geneva is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reims is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. Reims is more touristy than Geneva and is known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. Geneva is well known for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. Also, Geneva is famous for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Geneva different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Geneva
Reims

Geneva 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 Geneva can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

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 Geneva or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Geneva
Reims

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

Geneva has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Geneva or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Geneva
Reims

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

Geneva has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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 Geneva or Reims Better for its Old Town?

Geneva
Reims

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

Geneva offers a nice historic old town area. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Reims does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or Reims?

Geneva
Reims

Geneva is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Geneva is a world class destination for shoppers. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva or Reims Better for Families?

Geneva
Reims

Geneva 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 Geneva. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

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 Geneva or Reims Better for Couples?

Geneva
Reims

Reims is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Geneva 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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.


Is Geneva or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Geneva
Reims

Reims is a good destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Reims Better for Students?

Geneva
Reims

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

Geneva is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Reims is not popular with students.

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

Geneva
Reims

Geneva 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.

Geneva has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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 Geneva or Reims a more walkable city?

Geneva
Reims

Geneva and Reims both are great when exploring on foot.

Geneva is very walkable. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored 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 Geneva Worth Visiting? and Is Reims Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reims or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Reims?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Reims than Geneva. 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 Geneva or Reims? Ideal Length of Stay
    Geneva 1-3 
    Reims 2-5

One day in Geneva or Reims?

Each neighborhood in Geneva has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reims. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Geneva or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Geneva. 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.

Reims is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Geneva or Reims?

Geneva is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Geneva. Lots of people come for the shopping. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reims. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Geneva or Reims?

You'll find food and shopping around the professional big city of Geneva. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Reims. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Geneva?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Geneva is $210, while the average daily cost in Reims is $140. 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 Geneva and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Geneva $145
    Reims $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Geneva $290
    Reims $142
Compare Hotels in Geneva and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Geneva 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 Geneva


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: Geneva Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Geneva $9.38
    Reims $42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Airport Transfer Geneva Airport to Villars sur Ollon: $361
  • Airport transfer - Geneva city center: $134
  • Arrival Transfer from Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva by Sedan: $73
  • Departure Transfer from Geneva to Geneva Airport GVA by MiniVan: $95
  • From Private Transfer to Chamonix Mont Blanc: $267
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Chamonix (FR) - Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Chamonix (FR) - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Courchevel (FR) Arrival Private Transfer: $174
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Geneva - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Lausanne - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Meribel (FR) - Arrival Private Transfer: $195
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Montreux - Arrival Private Transfer: $135

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 Geneva or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Geneva 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
    Geneva $52
    Reims $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

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

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $144
  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class: $185
  • Food tour in Geneva: $2,406

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Geneva $30
    Reims $20

Tours and Activities in Geneva

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Geneva Lakeside Stroll: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • From Brunswick Monument to the Botanical Garden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Old Town Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Geneva Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Many Faces of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • International District Self-Guided City Sightseeing: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Geneva (International District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16

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
    Geneva $22
    Reims $24


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


Which is Bigger, Geneva or Reims?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Geneva. When comparing the sizes of Geneva 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 Geneva 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 Geneva or Reims in the Summer?

Both Reims and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Geneva 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, Geneva is generally a little warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 22°C (71°F), and Reims fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Reims. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Geneva. Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Reims during summer. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Geneva usually receives more rain than Reims. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Geneva 22°C (71°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Reims in the Autumn?

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

Geneva is a little warmer than Reims in the autumn. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Geneva often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reims. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in October than Reims. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Geneva 14°C (56°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Reims in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Reims. The winter months attract visitors to Geneva 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 Geneva can be very cold. In the winter, Geneva is a little warmer than Reims. Typically, the winter temperatures in Geneva in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Reims averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Reims during winter. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Geneva usually receives more rain than Reims. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Geneva 4°C (39°F) 
    Reims 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Reims in the Spring?

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

In April, Geneva is generally a little warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 11°C (53°F), and Reims fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Geneva often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reims. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in April than Reims. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Geneva 11°C (53°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Geneva

Geneva Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)