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

Should you visit Mainz or Reims?

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 Reims 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 beautiful, peaceful, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

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.

Mainz and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
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 Mainz or Reims?

Both Reims and Mainz have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Mainz is better known for its historical sights, while Reims is more popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Mainz is well known for its quaint old town, Roman heritage, and beautiful town squares. Reims is well known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

How is Mainz different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Reims 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 Reims?

Mainz
Reims

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Mainz or Reims.

Mainz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Reims offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Mainz or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mainz
Reims

Reims is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Reims have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Mainz. 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.

Is Mainz or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Mainz
Reims

Reims is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Mainz. It's a sleepy little town, so even locals often head to bigger cities for better nightlife.

Is Mainz or Reims Better for its Old Town?

Mainz
Reims

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

Many visitors go to Mainz to see the historical old town. Filled with beautiful squares and cobblestone streets, this is a nice old town in a pleasant city.

Reims does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Mainz or Reims?

Mainz
Reims

Reims is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Mainz offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Is Mainz or Reims Better for Families?

Mainz
Reims

Neither Mainz nor Reims 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.

Reims doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. 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 Mainz or Reims Better for Couples?

Mainz
Reims

Reims is terrific for romance. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Reims is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Couples visit Mainz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.


Is Mainz or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mainz
Reims

Mainz and Reims are both notable 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 Reims. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

Is Mainz or Reims Better for Students?

Mainz
Reims

Mainz is well known for students. However, Reims is not popular with students.

Mainz is a great town to visit as a student. It's a university town with a pleasant atmosphere and a beautiful setting.

Reims is not popular with students.

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

Mainz
Reims

Mainz 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.

Mainz offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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.

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 Mainz or Reims a more walkable city?

Mainz
Reims

Mainz is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Mainz on foot is easy. The town is easily explored on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Reims or Mainz?

How long in Mainz or Reims?

In either Mainz or Reims, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reims than Mainz because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Mainz, and 2-5 days is enough time in Reims.

Families should spend more time in Mainz than Reims. 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 Reims than Mainz. 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 Mainz 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 Mainz.


  • How many days in Mainz or Reims? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mainz 2-4 
    Reims 2-5

One day in Mainz or Reims?

In Mainz, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

In Reims, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful 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 Mainz or Reims?

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

Mainz is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Mainz. 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 Mainz or Reims?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint destination of Mainz. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims 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 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 Mainz and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mainz 74
    Reims 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mainz 148
    Reims 132
Compare Hotels in Mainz and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Mainz 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 Mainz


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: Mainz Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mainz 37
    Reims 39

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 Mainz or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims 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
    Reims 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mainz 33
    Reims 19

Tours and Activities in Mainz

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

  • Romantic Old Town Self-guided Discovery Tour: $8.45
  • Guided tour in Mainz on the Rhine in german and english: $21
  • Mainz Syndicate City Escape Game Self Guided Tour: $22
  • 2-Hour Advent Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Rhine: $22
  • Crime-Tour - Escape Game: $42
  • Self-Guided Urban Adventure Game: $43
  • Urban Adventure Game in Mainz with an app: $44
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $51
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Mainz E-Bike City Tour: $74
  • Private Guided Walking Tour in Mainz: $82
  • Guided Hotrod City Starter Tour: $95

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
    Mainz 22
    Reims 22


When comparing the travel costs between Mainz and Reims, 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 Reims Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mainz or Reims?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Mainz. When comparing the sizes of Mainz 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 Mainz 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 Mainz or Reims in the Summer?

Both Reims and Mainz during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Mainz for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Reims because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Mainz is generally around the same temperature as Reims. Daily temperatures in Mainz average around 19°C (66°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 Mainz. In the summer, Mainz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reims. Mainz gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun.

Mainz usually gets more rain in July than Reims. Mainz gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mainz 19°C (66°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Mainz or Reims in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Mainz and Reims. The autumn months attract visitors to Mainz because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Reims this time of year.

Mainz is around the same temperature as Reims in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mainz averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Mainz usually receives less sunshine than Reims during autumn. Mainz gets 103 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Mainz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Reims. Mainz gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Mainz or Reims in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Mainz as well as Reims. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mainz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reims for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reims. It's quite cold in Mainz in the winter. In the winter, Mainz is much colder than Reims. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mainz in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Reims averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Mainz often gets less sunshine than Reims. Mainz gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun.

Mainz usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Reims. Mainz gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mainz 2°C (35°F) 
    Reims 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Mainz or Reims in the Spring?

Both Reims and Mainz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Mainz for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Reims in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Mainz is generally a little warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Mainz average around 11°C (51°F), and Reims fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Mainz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reims during spring. Mainz gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Mainz usually receives more rain than Reims. Mainz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mainz 11°C (51°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Mainz

Mainz Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)


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