A Travel Price Comparison for France Reims vs. Annecy for Food, Couples, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Reims or Annecy?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reims or Annecy, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Reims

Reims is a beautiful, relaxing, and scenic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a charming, stunning, and breathtaking alpine town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Reims and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Reims or Annecy?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Annecy. Although Reims and Annecy are both popular with visitors, Annecy has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Annecy is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Reims is known for its shopping. Annecy is more touristy than Reims and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also home to Palais de l'Isle. Reims is popular for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

How is Reims different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Reims or Annecy.

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.

Annecy is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Is the Food Better in Reims or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Reims and Annecy offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Reims is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Many restaurants in Annecy have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Is Reims or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

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

Reims has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Annecy has a few options to choose from. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Reims or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Reims does not have a historic old town.

Annecy has a world-famous historical area. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Reims does not have a historic old town.

Is Reims or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Reims is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Annecy. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Reims is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Reims or Annecy?

Reims is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Reims is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Reims or Annecy Better for Families?

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

Annecy is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

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 Reims or Annecy Better for Couples?

Reims and Annecy are both terrific to visit as a couple.

Reims has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Annecy is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Is Reims or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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.

Annecy is a good city to visit for backpackers. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Reims, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. In town there are buses and trams, but to get into the countryside you'll need your own car.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Is Reims or Annecy a more walkable city?

Reims and Annecy both are excellent when exploring 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.

Annecy is very walkable. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Reims?

How long in Reims or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Reims or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Reims due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Reims, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy 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 Annecy.

One day in Reims or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reims. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This alpine 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.

A weekend in Reims or Annecy?

Reims is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Five days in Reims or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reims. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Reims or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Reims. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Reims or Annecy?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Reims and Annecy, 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 Reims or Annecy?

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 Reims or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Reims during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Reims for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Reims is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 19°C (65°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Reims. In the summer, Reims often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Reims gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Reims usually gets less rain in July than Annecy. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Reims or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Reims and Annecy. The autumn months attract visitors to Reims because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

Reims is cooler than Annecy in the autumn. The daily temperature in Reims averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Reims usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy during autumn. Reims gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Reims usually receives less rain than Annecy. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Reims or Annecy in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Annecy. It's quite cold in Reims in the winter. In the winter, Reims is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the winter temperatures in Reims in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Annecy averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Reims often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Reims gets 50 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Reims usually gets less rain in January than Annecy. Reims gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Reims or Annecy in the Spring?

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

In April, Reims is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 9°C (49°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Reims usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Annecy during spring. Reims gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Reims usually receives less rain than Annecy. Reims gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Reims