A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mainz vs. Giverny for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Mainz or Giverny?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Mainz and Giverny can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Mainz

Mainz is a quaint, charming, and beautiful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Giverny

Giverny is a serene, inspiring, and picturesque town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Mainz and Giverny: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Home and Gardens of Claude Monet
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Mainz or Giverny?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Giverny. Although Mainz and Giverny are popular destinations, Giverny has more sights and attractions for tourists. Giverny is very popular for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Mainz attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Giverny is more touristy than Mainz and is known for being the home and inspiration for Claude Monet. It is also well known for The Home and Gardens of Claude Monet. Mainz is famous for its quaint old town, Roman heritage, and beautiful town squares.

How is Mainz different from Giverny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mainz or Giverny?

Mainz
Giverny

Giverny is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Giverny. The town is most notable as the home of Claude Monet between 1883 and 1926. Highlights of a visit include visiting Jardin d'Eau (The Water Garden), The Normandy Garden, and Monet's House.

Mainz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's an old university town with a number of historical sights. Check out the Church of St. Stephan, Mainz Cathedral, the Gutenberg Museum, and the Museum of Ancient Seafaring.


Is the Food Better in Mainz or Giverny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mainz
Giverny

Mainz is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Mainz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve local food. There are also wine taverns where you can sample the local wines and dine of regional specialties.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Giverny area. There are cozy cafes and charming restaurants in the town. If you visit as part of a tour, a restaurant stop may be included.

Is Mainz or Giverny Better for Nightlife?

Mainz
Giverny

Mainz is mediocre for nightlife and partying. However, Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Mainz It's a sleepy little town, so even locals often head to bigger cities for better nightlife.

Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Mainz or Giverny Better for its Old Town?

Mainz
Giverny

Mainz is great for its old town. However, Giverny does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Mainz. Filled with beautiful squares and cobblestone streets, this is a nice old town in a pleasant city.

Giverny does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Mainz or Giverny?

Mainz
Giverny

Mainz is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Mainz. Head to the boulevard of Am Brand near the cathedral for some of the town's best shopping. There are shops that line the street and it's a nice area to walk around.

Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mainz or Giverny Better for Families?

Mainz
Giverny

Neither Mainz nor Giverny are considered to be the most family-friendly destination.

Mainz is not always a place people visit with their families. Kids will enjoy the Gutenburg Museum and the outdoor spaces where they can run around. There's also a nice old town that everyone will have fun exploring.

Giverny doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. The gardens are stunning and the house is impressive, but it's best to prepare younger kids with some activities beforehand. Even the most art-minded children will appreciate a hands-on activity that helps bring the experience to life.

Is Mainz or Giverny Better for Couples?

Mainz
Giverny

Both Mainz and Giverny are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Mainz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Located on the Rhine River, this scenic setting is popular for river cruises. The town is nice to explore on its own, or you can hop around and take in several of the German river towns. You can also sit at outdoor cafes and sip local wine.

Couples visit Giverny frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The setting seeped in romance and the gardens bring art to life. On occasion you may even see a young couple get engaged during their visit.


Is Mainz or Giverny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mainz
Giverny

Mainz and Giverny are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Mainz is a good town to visit for backpackers. The town is popular with river cruises but you'll also find a hostel or two where budget travelers can save some money and meet other backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Giverny. Many people, backpackers included, visit the town as a day trip from Paris. It's possible to visit by train and shuttle bus.

Is Mainz or Giverny Better for Students?

Mainz
Giverny

Mainz is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Giverny is not popular with students.

Mainz is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a university town with a pleasant atmosphere and a beautiful setting.

Giverny is not popular with students.

Is Mainz or Giverny Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mainz
Giverny

Mainz is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Mainz has some very good public transit options. There are regional trains that make it easy to use Mainz as a base to explore the area, or you could visit Mainz as a day trip from another nearby town.

Giverny has a few public transit options. You can reach Giverny by train from Paris. You'll leave from the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris and arrive in the town of Vernon. The trip is about 45 minutes. From there you can take a bus or taxi on to Giverny.


Is Mainz or Giverny a more walkable city?

Mainz
Giverny

Mainz is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Mainz is a very easy town to get around on foot. The town is easily explored on foot.

Giverny is a somewhat walkable town. Many people choose to walk between the town of Vernon and Giverny, both of which are worth visiting. They're separated by about 6 kilometers (3.5 miles).

For even more information, also check out Is Mainz Worth Visiting? and Is Giverny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Giverny or Mainz?

How long in Mainz or Giverny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Mainz or Giverny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Mainz than Giverny because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Mainz, and 1-2 days is enough time in Giverny.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mainz than Giverny. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mainz that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mainz than Giverny 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 Mainz.


  • How many days in Mainz or Giverny? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mainz 2-4 
    Giverny 1-2

One day in Mainz or Giverny?

In Mainz, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Giverny, many people enjoy the food and museums that this peaceful destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Mainz or Giverny?

In Mainz, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mainz has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Giverny. 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 Mainz or Giverny?

Mainz is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Giverny is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Giverny. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Mainz or Giverny?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mainz. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Mainz. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and food around the picturesque destination of Giverny. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Coach Bus Tours in France, and The Best Adventure Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Giverny or Mainz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mainz is €142, while the average daily cost in Giverny is €125. 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 Mainz and Giverny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mainz 74
    Giverny 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mainz 148
    Giverny 120
Compare Hotels in Mainz and Giverny

Looking for a hotel in Mainz or Giverny? 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 Mainz


Hotels in Giverny


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: Mainz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mainz 37
    Giverny 48

Is it cheaper to fly into Mainz or Giverny?

Prices for flights to both Giverny and Mainz 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
    Mainz 41
    Giverny 35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mainz 33
    Giverny 26

Tours and Activities in Mainz

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

  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Jewish Mainz: $207
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Tour: Cathedral and Diocesan Museum Mainz: $131
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Tour: Chagall Windows in Saint Stephan’s Mainz: $130
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Tour: Gutenberg Museum Mainz : $131
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Tour: Landesmuseum Mainz: $131
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Family Walking Tour in Mainz : $206
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Gentle Walking Tour: Mainz with the Elderly: $206
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Tour: Landesmuseum Mainz: $206
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Cathedral and Old Mainz: $207
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Chagall Windows and Mainz Cathedral : $196
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Chagall Windows and Old Mainz: $196
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Gutenberg and Mainz Cathedral: $207

Tours and Activities in Giverny

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Giverny.

  • Bike tour from Vernon to Giverny with local guide: $37
  • From Paris : Half Day GIVERNY on a PRIVATE TOUR: $826
  • Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour: $60
  • Giverny Private Guided Walking Tour: $293
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $278
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $255
  • Monet's House and Gardens Guided Tour: $62
  • Monet’s House and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour: $59
  • Guided Tour of Monet's Gardens/small group: $63
  • Guided tour Monet's house and gardens/small group: $64
  • Trip from Paris to Monet's house in Giverny Skip the Line: $86

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mainz 22
    Giverny 6.64


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


Which is Bigger, Mainz or Giverny?

Mainz has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Giverny. When comparing the sizes of Mainz and Giverny, 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 Mainz or Giverny?

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 Mainz or Giverny in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Mainz and Giverny. Many travelers come to Mainz for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Giverny in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Mainz is around the same temperature as Giverny. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mainz in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Giverny averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Giverny this time of the year. In Mainz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mainz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Giverny during summer. Mainz gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Mainz usually receives more rain than Giverny. Mainz gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mainz 19°C (66°F) 
    Giverny 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Mainz or Giverny in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Mainz as well as Giverny. Many visitors come to Mainz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Giverny for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Mainz is generally cooler than Giverny. Daily temperatures in Mainz average around 11°C (51°F), and Giverny fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Mainz often gets less sunshine than Giverny. Mainz gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 127 hours of full sun.

Mainz usually gets less rain in October than Giverny. Mainz gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Mainz 11°C (51°F) 
    Giverny 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Mainz or Giverny in the Winter?

Both Giverny and Mainz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Mainz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Giverny because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Giverny can be very cold. Mainz can be very cold during winter. Mainz is much colder than Giverny in the winter. The daily temperature in Mainz averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and Giverny fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Mainz usually receives less sunshine than Giverny during winter. Mainz gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mainz usually receives less rain than Giverny. Mainz gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mainz 2°C (35°F) 
    Giverny 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Mainz or Giverny in the Spring?

Both Giverny and Mainz during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Mainz because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Giverny this time of year.

In the spring, Mainz is around the same temperature as Giverny. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mainz in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Giverny averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Mainz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Giverny. Mainz gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 172 hours of full sun.

Mainz usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Giverny. Mainz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mainz 11°C (51°F) 
    Giverny 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Giverny and Mainz

Mainz Giverny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)


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