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

Should you visit Ghent 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 Ghent 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a cultural, historic, and under-rated city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Reims

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

Ghent 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 for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Ghent or Reims?

You'll generally find more things to do in Ghent than Reims. Ghent is bigger than Reims, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ghent is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Reims is more popular for its food. Reims is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets Also, Ghent is famous for The Fortress of Gravensteen.

How is Ghent different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ghent
Reims

Ghent 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 Ghent can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ghent
Reims

Reims is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Ghent has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Ghent or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Ghent
Reims

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

Ghent is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent or Reims Better for its Old Town?

Ghent
Reims

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

Many visitors go to Ghent to see the historical old town. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Reims does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Reims?

Ghent
Reims

Both Ghent and Reims are great shopping destinations.

Ghent is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Reims is well-known for its shopping. 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 Ghent or Reims Better for Families?

Ghent
Reims

Ghent 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 Ghent. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

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 Ghent or Reims Better for Couples?

Ghent
Reims

Reims is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Ghent makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.


Is Ghent or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ghent
Reims

Both Ghent and Reims are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

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 Ghent or Reims Better for Students?

Ghent
Reims

Ghent is very popular for students. However, Reims is not popular with students.

Ghent is a great destination for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Reims is not popular with students.

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

Ghent
Reims

Ghent 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.

Ghent has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent or Reims a more walkable city?

Ghent
Reims

Ghent and Reims both are great when exploring on foot.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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 Ghent Worth Visiting? and Is Reims Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reims or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Reims?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Reims than Ghent. 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 Ghent 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 Ghent.


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

One day in Ghent or Reims?

In Ghent, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

A weekend in Ghent or Reims?

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

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


Five days in Ghent or Reims?

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

Reims is a fun place to experience. In Reims, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Ghent or Reims?

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

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Ghent?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ghent is €118, 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 Ghent and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ghent 72
    Reims 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ghent 144
    Reims 132
Compare Hotels in Ghent and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Ghent 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 Ghent


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: Ghent Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ghent 19
    Reims 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Business Car: $147
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van: $166
  • Ghent <-> Amsterdam Shuttle Transfer (1 to 8 Seats): $229
  • Ostend <-> Luxembourg transfer (1 to 8 places): $233
  • Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Bruges- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reims

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Reims:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Ghent or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Ghent 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
    Ghent 35
    Reims 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

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

  • Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $102
  • Small-Group Food Tour in Ghent by Bike: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ghent 8.64
    Reims 19

Tours and Activities in Ghent

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ghent are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.26
  • Ghent city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent: $5.45
  • Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.08
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $11
  • 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center: $11

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
    Ghent 18
    Reims 22

Sample the Local Flavors in Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

  • Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Private Ghent Beer & Brewery Tour by a young local: $245


When comparing the travel costs between Ghent and Reims, we can see that Reims 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 Ghent Expensive? and Is Reims Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ghent or Reims?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent 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 Ghent or Reims in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Reims. Many visitors come to Ghent in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Reims for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Ghent is generally around the same temperature as Reims. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 17°C (63°F), and Reims fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Reims this time of the year. In Ghent, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Reims during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives more rain than Reims. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Ghent or Reims in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Reims. Most visitors come to Ghent for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Reims because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Ghent is around the same temperature as Reims in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Reims. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in October than Reims. Ghent 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
    Ghent 12°C (54°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Reims in the Winter?

Both Reims and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Ghent because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Ghent can be very cold. In the winter, Ghent is a little warmer than Reims. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ghent in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Reims averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Ghent usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reims during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives more rain than Reims. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Ghent or Reims in the Spring?

Both Reims and Ghent during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Ghent this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reims for the natural beauty.

In April, Ghent is generally cooler than Reims. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 8°C (47°F), and Reims fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Reims. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Reims. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ghent 8°C (47°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Ghent

Ghent Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)