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

Should you visit Reims or Pamplona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reims or Pamplona, 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a elegant, laid-back, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Reims and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Home to the Running of the Bulls Festival
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Reims or Pamplona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pamplona. Although Reims and Pamplona are both popular with visitors, Pamplona has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pamplona is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Reims is known for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Reims is popular for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. Pamplona is popular for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. It is also home to The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Reims different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Reims
Pamplona

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

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.

Pamplona is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.


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

Reims
Pamplona

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

For foodies, Reims is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Pamplona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Reims or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Reims
Pamplona

Pamplona is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Pamplona is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

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 Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Reims
Pamplona

Pamplona is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Reims does not have a historic old town.

Pamplona offers a nice historic old town area. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Reims does not have a historic old town.


Is Reims or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Reims
Pamplona

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Reims is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Reims or Pamplona?

Reims
Pamplona

Reims is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Reims or Pamplona Better for Families?

Reims
Pamplona

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

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 Pamplona Better for Couples?

Reims
Pamplona

Reims is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Reims makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Reims or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Reims
Pamplona

Pamplona is well known for backpackers. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pamplona is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

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 Pamplona Better for Students?

Reims
Pamplona

Pamplona is a nice place to visit for students. However, Reims is not popular with students.

Pamplona is popular with students. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Reims is not popular with students.


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

Reims
Pamplona

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

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 Pamplona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Reims or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Reims
Pamplona

Reims and Pamplona both are very good 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.

Pamplona is very walkable. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Reims?

How long in Reims or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Reims or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Reims than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Reims, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Reims or Pamplona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Reims 2-5 
    Pamplona 1-2

One day in Reims or Pamplona?

The beautiful city of Reims offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Pamplona, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Reims or Pamplona?

Reims is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reims, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Reims is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reims, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pamplona is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Pamplona. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Reims or Pamplona?

Reims is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Pamplona. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Pamplona or Reims?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Reims is €131, while the average daily cost in Pamplona 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 Reims and Pamplona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Reims 66
    Pamplona 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Reims 132
    Pamplona 134
Compare Hotels in Reims and Pamplona

Looking for a hotel in Reims or Pamplona? 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 Reims


Hotels in Pamplona


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: Reims Hotel Prices and Pamplona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Reims 39
    Pamplona 24

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pamplona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Pamplona:

  • Private Transfer from Pamplona Airport to Laguardia town: $282
  • Private Transfer from Pamplona city to San Sebastian: $244
  • Private Transfer from Pamplona city to San Sebastian Airport: $244

Is it cheaper to fly into Reims or Pamplona?

Prices for flights to both Pamplona and Reims 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
    Reims 40
    Pamplona 41

Typical Food Prices in Pamplona

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pamplona are as follows:


  • Lunch for 2
    10
  • Ice Cream
    4.50
  • Coffee
    1.30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Reims 19
    Pamplona 34

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

Tours and Activities in Pamplona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pamplona are as follows:

  • Logroño historic&cultural guided walking tour: $32
  • Pamplona pintxo tasting paired with Spanish wines small group tour: $72
  • From San Sebastian: Pamplona City Tour: $91
  • Private City Tour Pamplona: $174
  • Private tour of Getaria, Zumaia, Zarautz and Orio. : $204
  • Bilbao and Guggenheim Museum small group tour: $218
  • Tour of the Bardenas " The great desert of Europe" and Tudela. : $234
  • San Sebastian & Basque Coast Tour From Pamplona: $235
  • Pamplona Private Tour with Castle of Javier : $240
  • Private tour of Lourdes and the three sacred temples: $240
  • San Sebastian And Basque Coast Tour From Pamplona: $240
  • Private tour of the jewels of Bilbao, with Guggenheim and pintxos tasting. : $251

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Reims 22
    Pamplona 31

Sample the Local Flavors in Pamplona

Also in Pamplona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Half Day Rioja Wine Tour: $218
  • Wine tour of La Rioja, with two winery visits, and La Guardia. : $221
  • Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Logroño: $240
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Pamplona: $240
  • Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Logroño: $251
  • Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Pamplona: $251
  • Rioja Wine Tour: $283


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


Which is Bigger, Reims or Pamplona?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Pamplona. When comparing the sizes of Reims and Pamplona, 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 Pamplona?

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Reims and Pamplona. Many visitors come to Reims in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Reims is generally around the same temperature as Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 19°C (65°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamplona this time of the year. In Reims, it's very sunny this time of the year. Reims usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Reims gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Reims usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Reims 19°C (65°F) 
    Pamplona 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Reims or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Reims as well as Pamplona. Most visitors come to Reims for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Reims is cooler than Pamplona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Reims averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Pamplona fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Reims often gets less sunshine than Pamplona. Reims gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Reims usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Reims 12°C (53°F) 
    Pamplona 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Reims or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Reims are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Reims because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

The weather in Reims can be very cold. In the winter, Reims is much colder than Pamplona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Reims in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Pamplona averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Reims usually receives less sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Reims gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In January, Reims usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Reims gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Reims 3°C (37°F) 
    Pamplona 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Reims or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona and Reims during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Reims this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the activities around the city.

In April, Reims is generally cooler than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 9°C (49°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Reims often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Reims gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Reims usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Reims gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Reims 9°C (49°F) 
    Pamplona 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Reims

Reims Pamplona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)