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

Should you visit Ios or Reims?

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

Should I visit Ios or Reims? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ios

Ios is a party-oriented, vibrant, and beautiful island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Reims

Reims is a relaxing, scenic, and cultural city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ios and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Ios or Reims?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ios. Although Ios and Reims are both popular with visitors, Ios has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ios is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Reims is known for its food and shopping. Ios is popular for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd. It is also home to Skarkos Archeological Site. Reims is popular for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

How is Ios different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ios
Reims

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Ios and Reims.

Ios offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. If you can pull yourself away from the beaches or parties, there are a number of archaeological and historic sights around the island. Churches like Panayia Gremiotissa Church and Evangelisimos Cathedral are worth visiting. Other attractions include Odysseas Elytis Theatre, Homer’s Tomb, and Skarkos Hill.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Reims. 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 Ios or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ios
Reims

Reims is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Reims is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. While its famous for its Champagne, the city also has Michelin starred restaurants, local produce, and an amazing regional cuisine. The region is known for its ham, cheese, mustard, and truffles.

Ios has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Most of the island's restaurants are found in the port area or in the town of Chora, but you'll also find several options near Mylopotas Beach. Most restaurants offer typical Greek dishes, but they often have a local twist. You'll often find local cheeses or a slightly different take on an old favorite. Popular ingredients include cheese, yogurt, fish, olives, honey, olive oil, and grains. Common meats include lamb, beef, and even rabbit, but seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Ios or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Ios
Reims

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

Ios is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. This is one of the quintessential party islands in Greece. Many young backpackers come here just to party, particularly during the summer months. You'll find many parties start around midnight or later and carry on well into the morning. Most of the clubs and bars are around the main square and nearby streets in Chora, but there are also clubs spread throughout the town. Outside of town, Mylopotas Beach is another popular party area.

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 Ios or Reims Better for Resorts?

Ios
Reims

Ios is well known for its resorts. However, Reims is not a resort destination.

Ios is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of resort areas around the island with families preferring the areas around Yialos Beach and Manganari Beach. Partiers usually head to Chora and the great beaches near Mylopotas, but if you want to escape the crowds, head to Agia Theodoti.

Reims is not a resort destination.


Is Ios or Reims Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios
Reims

Ios is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Reims is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Ios has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.

Reims is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ios or Reims Better for Beaches?

Ios
Reims

Ios is very popular for the beach. However, Reims is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Ios are among the best in the world. The island has beautiful sandy beaches that range from family-friendly to party hard. There are popular and more developed beaches near Chora like Koumbara and Mylopotas as well as more relaxing beaches a little more removed like Kalamos and Manganari. Because of their striking beauty, the beaches around the island have been featured in a few films.

Reims is not a beach destination.

Is Ios or Reims Better for Hiking?

Ios
Reims

Ios is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Reims is not a hiking destination.

Ios has hiking trails worth exploring. The island has a barren and rocky landscape that offers spectacular views. Many of the hikes are quite challenging, but there are a few options for beginners as well. Many also pass by the spectacular ruins around the island.

Reims is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ios or Reims?

Ios
Reims

Reims is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Reims is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Ios has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of local souvenirs that you can pick up. Many visitors prefer to take home unique items such as a tin of olives or olive oil. Jewelry, honey, and local ceramics also make good gifts.

Is Ios or Reims Better for Families?

Ios
Reims

Most people don't think of either Ios or Reims as a family destination.

Ios is not the most family-friendly destination. While the island is known as one of the top party destinations in Greece, it also has a more cultural side. There are impressive archaeological ruins and stunning beaches that kids will enjoy. The island also has snorkeling and plenty of kid-friendly food. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are in Manganari Bay and Yialos Beach is a nice family-friendly area.

Reims is not always a place people visit with their families. 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 Ios or Reims Better for Couples?

Ios
Reims

Reims is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for couples.

Reims makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This romantic area is perfect for couples who enjoy wine and history. There is beautiful architecture as well as wine tours and breathtaking hot air balloon rides. Visiting the Champagne Houses is a must for any couple visiting the area.

Ios makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Because it's so close to Santorini, many people visit as a day trip. While the island is synonymous with partying, there are still many world-class archaeological sites and romantic beaches that make for an active and fun honeymoon. It's a bit quieter outside of the peak summer months.


Is Ios or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios
Reims

Ios is very popular for backpackers. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ios is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. For many backpackers, partying in Ios is a quintessential European experience. Nights are spent at all night clubs or beach raves, while days are spent nursing a hangover on the beach. There are plenty of venues that cater to the budget crowd, with cheap food available at different places.

Reims is a good island to visit for backpackers. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

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

Ios
Reims

Ios 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.

Ios offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are public buses that travel to most of the tourist sights around the island including several of the more remote beaches like Manganari and Agia Theodoti.

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 Ios or Reims a more walkable city?

Ios
Reims

Reims is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Ios is a somewhat walkable island. Chora is the most walkable part of the island.


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

Should I spend more time in Reims or Ios?

How long in Ios or Reims?

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

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

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


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

One day in Ios or Reims?

In Ios, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this backpacker-friendly destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

With nightlife and food around the scenic destination of Reims, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Ios or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ios. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people visit Reims for a weekend. With food and shopping around the scenic city of Reims, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Ios or Reims?

Ios is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Ios. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Reims, there's plenty to do. Many people spend five days here. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Ios or Reims?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the party-oriented destination of Ios. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Ios?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ios is €91, 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 Ios and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ios 39
    Reims 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ios 78
    Reims 132
Compare Hotels in Ios and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Ios 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 Ios


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: Ios Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ios 16
    Reims 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ios

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ios:

  • 1-Way Private Helicopter Transfer to the Greek Islands: $2,417

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 Ios or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Ios 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
    Ios 33
    Reims 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ios 26
    Reims 19

Tours and Activities in Ios

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

  • Ios Island Trekking Tours: Discover Ios Unexplored: $27
  • Ios Island: Speedboat Cruise from Mylopotas Beach: $52
  • 4-Hour Cruise of the Best Beaches: $63
  • From RIB Boat Trip to Sikinos Island and Winery Tour: $84
  • Electric Bike Tour Chora to Homer's Tomp: $109
  • Electric Bike Tour Chora to Diaseli Cheesery: $109
  • 5 -6 Hour Private Chora E-Bike Tours: $131
  • Private Orienteering Experience in Mylopotas: $163

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
    Ios 33
    Reims 22

Sample the Local Flavors in Ios

Also in Ios, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bar Crawl Ios Ticket in Cyclades: $38


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ios and Reims, we can see that Reims is more expensive. And not only is Ios much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ios would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ios 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 Reims would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Reims than you might in Ios.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ios Expensive? and Is Reims Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ios or Reims?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios 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.