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

Should you visit Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny and Reims can help you decide which place is right for you.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny 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
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


Is there more to do in Kilkenny or Reims?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kilkenny. Although Kilkenny and Reims are both popular with visitors, Kilkenny has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kilkenny is more popular for its museums and historical sights, while Reims is known for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Reims is more touristy than Kilkenny and is known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. Kilkenny is popular for its medieval castle and long running history. It is also home to The Kilkenny Castle.

The Kilkenny Castle
The Kilkenny Castle

How is Kilkenny different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kilkenny
Reims

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny can be an interesting and educational experience. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.

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 Kilkenny or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kilkenny
Reims

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

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.

Kilkenny has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Is Kilkenny or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Kilkenny
Reims

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

Kilkenny has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

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 Kilkenny or Reims Better for its Old Town?

Kilkenny
Reims

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

Many visitors go to Kilkenny to see the historical old town. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Reims does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Kilkenny or Reims?

Kilkenny
Reims

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

Kilkenny has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

Is Kilkenny or Reims Better for Families?

Kilkenny
Reims

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

Kilkenny is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

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 Kilkenny or Reims Better for Couples?

Kilkenny
Reims

Reims is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Reims has plenty to offer. 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.

Kilkenny is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.


Is Kilkenny or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kilkenny
Reims

Kilkenny and Reims are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kilkenny is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

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

Kilkenny
Reims

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Kilkenny and Reims.

You'll find some public transit in Kilkenny, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses through town.

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 Kilkenny or Reims a more walkable city?

Kilkenny
Reims

Kilkenny and Reims both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Kilkenny is a very walkable town. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored on foot.

Reims is a very walkable destination. 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 Kilkenny Worth Visiting? and Is Reims Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reims or Kilkenny?

How long in Kilkenny or Reims?

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

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

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

One day in Kilkenny or Reims?

In Kilkenny, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fascinating destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

The beautiful city of Reims offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kilkenny or Reims?

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

Reims is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reims, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kilkenny or Reims?

Kilkenny is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kilkenny. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reims, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Kilkenny or Reims?

You'll find food and shopping around the ancient destination of Kilkenny. 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Kilkenny?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kilkenny is €88, 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 Kilkenny and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kilkenny 44
    Reims 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kilkenny 88
    Reims 132
Compare Hotels in Kilkenny and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny


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: Kilkenny Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kilkenny 21
    Reims 39

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 Kilkenny or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Kilkenny 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
    Kilkenny 29
    Reims 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kilkenny 15
    Reims 19

Tours and Activities in Kilkenny

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

  • Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.81
  • Historical Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Kilkenny city tour in German.: $13
  • Best of Kilkenny, two hour walking tour with a qualified guide: $13
  • Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
  • The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour: $13
  • Guided City Boat Tour with Kilkenny Castle Views: $16
  • Knight For Hire Tour: $16
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • The Witch Tour: $21
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • Smithwick's Beer Experience: $24

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
    Kilkenny 12
    Reims 22

Sample the Local Flavors in Kilkenny

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

  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour: $150
  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour : $158


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kilkenny and Reims, we can see that Reims is more expensive. And not only is Kilkenny much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kilkenny would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny.

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


Which is Bigger, Kilkenny or Reims?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny or Reims in the Summer?

Both Reims and Kilkenny are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reims for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kilkenny is cooler than Reims. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kilkenny in July average around 15°C (60°F), and Reims averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Reims. Kilkenny usually receives less sunshine than Reims during summer. Kilkenny gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kilkenny usually receives more rain than Reims. Kilkenny gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kilkenny 15°C (60°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Kilkenny or Reims in the Autumn?

Both Reims and Kilkenny during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene 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.

In October, Kilkenny is generally around the same temperature as Reims. Daily temperatures in Kilkenny average around 11°C (51°F), and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Kilkenny often gets less sunshine than Reims. Kilkenny gets 83 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

Kilkenny usually gets more rain in October than Reims. Kilkenny gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kilkenny 11°C (51°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Kilkenny or Reims in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kilkenny and Reims. Many visitors come to Kilkenny in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reims for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Reims can be very cold during winter. Kilkenny is much warmer than Reims in the winter. The daily temperature in Kilkenny averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Reims fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

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

In January, Kilkenny usually receives more rain than Reims. Kilkenny gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kilkenny 5°C (41°F) 
    Reims 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Kilkenny or Reims in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kilkenny as well as Reims. Most visitors come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Reims because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kilkenny is cooler than Reims. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kilkenny in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Reims averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Kilkenny often gets less sunshine than Reims. Kilkenny gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Kilkenny usually gets more rain in April than Reims. Kilkenny gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Reims and Kilkenny

Kilkenny Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)


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