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

Should you visit Reims or Barcelona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reims or Barcelona, 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 relaxing, scenic, and cultural city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a colorful, laid-back, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Reims and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Reims or Barcelona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Reims. Barcelona is bigger than Reims, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reims is more popular for its food. Barcelona is more touristy than Reims and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Reims is well known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

How is Reims different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Barcelona 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 Barcelona can be an interesting and educational experience. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

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 Reims or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Reims is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Reims or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Barcelona is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and 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 Reims or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is very popular for its music scene. However, Reims is not a live music destination.

In Barcelona you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Reims is not a live music destination.

Is Reims or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Reims is not a beach destination.

Barcelona has a beach worth visiting. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Reims is not a beach destination.

Is Reims or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Barcelona to see the historical old town. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Reims does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Reims or Barcelona?

Barcelona is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Barcelona is a world class destination for shoppers. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

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.

Is Reims or Barcelona Better for Families?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

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 Barcelona Better for Couples?

Reims is renowned for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Reims or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is very popular for backpackers. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Barcelona is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Reims is a good city to visit for backpackers. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

Is Reims or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is very popular for students. However, Reims is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a great destination for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Reims is not popular with students.

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

Barcelona 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.

Barcelona offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

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 Reims or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Reims is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Reims?

How long in Reims or Barcelona?

Both Reims and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Reims. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Reims, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

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

One day in Reims or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Reims. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Reims or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Reims. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Reims or Barcelona?

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxing city of Reims. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Reims or Barcelona?

Reims is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Reims and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona 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 Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Reims or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Reims and Barcelona, 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 Barcelona?

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 Reims or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Reims and Barcelona. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reims this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Reims is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Reims in July average around 19°C (65°F), and Barcelona averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Reims, it's very sunny this time of the year. Reims usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Reims gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Reims usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Reims or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Reims as well as Barcelona. Many travelers come to Reims for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Reims is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 12°C (53°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Reims often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Reims gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Reims usually gets less rain in October than Barcelona. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Reims or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Reims are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Reims in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Reims can get quite cold in the winter. Reims is much colder than Barcelona in the winter. The daily temperature in Reims averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Reims usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during winter. Reims gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Reims or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Reims during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Reims for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Reims is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Reims in April average around 9°C (49°F), and Barcelona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Reims often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Reims gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Reims usually gets less rain in April than Barcelona. Reims gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Reims