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

Should you visit Interlaken or Reims?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Reims can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class, stunning, and adventurous town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include hiking, skiing, and food.

Reims

Reims is a scenic, cultural, and beautiful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Interlaken or Reims?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Reims than Interlaken, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Reims is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Interlaken is more popular for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Reims and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Reims is well known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. Also, Reims is famous for The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims.

How is Interlaken different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Reims Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Reims

Interlaken is a nice place to visit for winter skiing. However, Reims is not a skiing destination.

Head to Interlaken for some great skiing and other winter activities. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Reims is not a skiing destination.


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

Interlaken
Reims

Reims is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken
Reims

Reims is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Reims has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Is Interlaken or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Reims

Reims is very good for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Reims. 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Interlaken or Reims Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Reims

Interlaken is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Reims is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Interlaken draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Reims is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Reims?

Interlaken
Reims

Reims is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Reims Better for Families?

Interlaken
Reims

Interlaken is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Reims is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken or Reims Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Reims

Both Interlaken and Reims are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Interlaken has plenty to offer. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Reims has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Is Interlaken or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Reims

Interlaken and Reims are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Interlaken is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Interlaken or Reims Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Interlaken
Reims

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

Interlaken offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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 Interlaken or Reims a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Reims

Reims is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Reims or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Reims?

In either Interlaken or Reims, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Reims has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Reims than Interlaken. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Interlaken or Reims?

In Interlaken, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this breathtaking destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town 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 scenic 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 Interlaken or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Interlaken or Reims?

Interlaken is a fun place to experience. In Interlaken, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Interlaken or Reims?

You'll find food and skiing around the world-class destination of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Interlaken?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Interlaken is $231, 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 Interlaken and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $133
    Reims $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $266
    Reims $142
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken 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 Interlaken


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: Interlaken Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Reims $42
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Interlaken

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Interlaken are as follows:


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

Also for Interlaken, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $284
  • Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $160
  • Private Group transfer Zurich Airport - Interlaken: $1,312
  • Private Transfer from Interlaken to Zurich: $240

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 Interlaken or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Interlaken 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
    Interlaken $64
    Reims $43
Typical Food Prices in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland: $143
  • Cheese and Chocolate Full-Day Food Tour: $733

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Interlaken $104
    Reims $20

Tours and Activities in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Hofstetten bei Brienz: Trauffer Erlebniswelt Ticket: $16
  • Private Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Express Tour from Interlaken: $29
  • Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm: $42
  • Rope Park Climbing Adventure with Entry Ticket: $46
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder: $86
  • Bollywood Tour Gstaad - Express Tour: $90
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder (Top of Interlaken): $102
  • Interlaken Valley Bike Tour: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $108
  • Bike Tour of the Interlaken Valley: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $111
  • Waterfalls Day Tour: $119

Tours and Activities in Reims

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

  • Full Day Champagne Pommery Small Group Tour: $251
  • Private Tour of a Wine Estate and Oeno-olfactory Workshop: $104
  • A unique sensory experience in the vineyards: $104
  • Bubble Champagne Tour from Epernay (Small group half day tour): $169
  • Champagne Cellar tour and tasting: $43
  • Champagne Cellars & Vineyards tour from Reims full day: $229
  • Champagne Guy De Chassey : Premium Tour and Tasting: $38
  • Champagne Guy De Chassey: Traditional Tour & Tasting: $27
  • Champagne Lamiable: Traditional Tour & Tasting: $33
  • Champagne Lover Tour&Amazing Experience&With champagne sabering: $207
  • Champagne Small-Group Tour with Tastings and Lunch from Epernay: $229
  • Champagne: E-Bike Champagne Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $17
    Reims $24


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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Reims?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Reims?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Interlaken or Reims in the Summer?

Both Reims and Interlaken during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reims for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 21°C (70°F), and Reims fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In Reims, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Interlaken. In the summer, Interlaken often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reims. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Reims. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Reims in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Reims. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Reims in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Interlaken is a little warmer than Reims in the autumn. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reims during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Reims. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Reims in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Reims. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the winter for the skiing and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Reims for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Reims can be very cold during winter. Interlaken can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Reims. Typically, the winter temperatures in Interlaken in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Reims averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Reims. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in January than Reims. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Interlaken or Reims in the Spring?

Both Reims and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Reims because of the natural beauty.

In April, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 12°C (53°F), and Reims fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Reims during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Reims. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Interlaken

Interlaken Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)