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

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

Potsdam

Potsdam is a compact, park-filled, and historic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. 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.

Potsdam and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
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 Potsdam or Reims?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Reims than Potsdam, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Reims is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is known for its museums and small town charm. Reims is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. It is also home to The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims. Potsdam is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Potsdam
Reims

Potsdam 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 Potsdam can be an interesting and educational experience. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

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 Potsdam or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Potsdam
Reims

Reims is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Potsdam 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.

Potsdam has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a diverse restaurant scene, although the city is quite small. There are international restaurants as well as local venues where you can try regional specialties.

Is Potsdam or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Reims

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Potsdam and Reims.

Potsdam has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is not far from Berlin, so head in to Germany's nightlife capital for the most famous clubs and venues. In the town of Potsdam there are cocktail bars and breweries that make for a mellow and relaxed evening.

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 the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Reims?

Potsdam
Reims

Reims is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Potsdam 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.

Potsdam has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.


Is Potsdam or Reims Better for Families?

Potsdam
Reims

Potsdam is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Reims is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Potsdam. There are a number of playgrounds around town as well as several beaches by lakes that are fun for kids. Another highlight for families is a visit to Babelsberg Film Studios.

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 Potsdam or Reims Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Reims

Reims is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Potsdam 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.

Potsdam is a good city for couples to visit. Exploring the city and soaking up the sights is the best way for couples to enjoy their time. There are some nice hotels and restaurants in the area that make for a great date night.

Is Potsdam or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Reims

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

Potsdam is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels to choose from 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 Potsdam or Reims Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Potsdam
Reims

Potsdam 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.

Potsdam offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

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 Potsdam or Reims a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Reims

Potsdam and Reims both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Potsdam is a very walkable city. It's a smaller, compact city that can mostly 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 Potsdam Worth Visiting? and Is Reims Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reims or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Reims?

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

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

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

One day in Potsdam or Reims?

In Potsdam, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this accessible destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Reims, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Potsdam or Reims?

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

In Reims, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reims has to offer.

Five days in Potsdam or Reims?

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

Reims is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reims has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Potsdam or Reims?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reims. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Reims. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Potsdam?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Potsdam is €111, 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 Potsdam and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Reims 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Reims 132
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam 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 Potsdam


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: Potsdam Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Reims 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $174
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $160

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 Potsdam or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Potsdam 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
    Potsdam 31
    Reims 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Reims 19

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

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

  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park Self-Guided Gardens Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Baroque Buildings Self-Guided Mobile Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of the Garden's Landmarks: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of City Center: $8.45
  • Museum Barberini Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Cecilienhof Castle Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Biosphäre Potsdam Entry Ticket: $16
  • In the Forbidden City - Potsdam Walking Tour: $20
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21

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
    Potsdam 6.70
    Reims 22


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

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


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Reims?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam 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 Potsdam 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 Potsdam or Reims in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Potsdam is around the same temperature as Reims. Typically, the summer temperatures in Potsdam in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Reims averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Reims. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Potsdam. Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reims during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Reims. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Potsdam or Reims in the Autumn?

Both Reims and Potsdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Reims in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Potsdam is generally cooler than Reims. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 10°C (51°F), and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Potsdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reims. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in October than Reims. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Reims in the Winter?

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

Reims can be very cold during winter. Potsdam can get quite cold in the winter. Potsdam is much colder than Reims in the winter. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Reims fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reims during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Reims. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Reims 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Reims in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Reims. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Reims because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Potsdam is around the same temperature as Reims. Typically, the spring temperatures in Potsdam in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Reims averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Potsdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reims. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Reims. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Potsdam

Potsdam Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)


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