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

Should you visit Riga or Reims?

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

Should I visit Riga or Reims? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Riga

Riga is a historical, vibrant, and fun city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Riga and Reims: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Reims?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Riga than Reims, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Riga is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Reims is known for its food. Reims is more touristy than Riga and is known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. Riga is popular for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture. It is also home to Riga St. Peter's Church.

How is Riga different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Riga 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 Riga can be an interesting and educational experience. As a capital city with a diverse history, you'll find a number of museums and landmarks in the area. Visitors frequently visit The Freedom Monument, St. Peters Church, the Riga Cathedral, The House of the Black Heads, and any of the many museums around town.

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 Riga or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Reims is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Riga 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.

Riga has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city offers a great opportunity to try many Latvian specialties including rasol (a potato salad), pelmeni (a Latvian dumpling), and karbonade (kind of like schnitzel). The cuisine is hearty and filling with lots of bread, dumpling, and meats. Riga is also where you'll find the largest food market in Europe, which is the perfect place to wander and pick up some local items.

Is Riga or Reims Better for Nightlife?

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

Riga is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Despite being a small city, this capital has gained a reputation for its party atmosphere. The historic center comes to life in the evenings, particularly between Wednesdays and Saturdays. The area is compact enough that you can walk from club to club and prices are reasonable.

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 Riga or Reims Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Riga to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming architecture. The city is less touristy than many places in Europe so you can usually avoid the large crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk. During the evening you'll find the area turns into an entertainment district with many clubs and bars.

Reims does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Reims?

Both Riga and Reims are very good shopping destinations.

Riga is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the most interesting shopping in the city is in the old town. Prices might be a little more expensive than you expect but it's possible to find some unique items. The city also has many markets, including the largest food market in Europe, which is a must-see.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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 Riga or Reims Better for Families?

Riga 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 Riga. During the winter months, there are a number of museums that are fun to explore with kids including the Nature Museum, the Railroad Museum, the Aviation Technology Museum, and the Riga Firefighter Museum. There are also several indoor play areas. When the weather is warmer there are a number of outdoor parks and playgrounds to explore.

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 Riga or Reims Better for Couples?

Reims is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Riga 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.

Riga is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a charming old town that you can explore, taking time to relax in the city squares or sip coffee at a cafe. There are also many nice restaurants that will make for a romantic date night.

Is Riga or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Riga is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are many affordable hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can grab a cheap meal. The city offers a great European experience at a fraction of the price of many cities.

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 Riga or Reims Better for Students?

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

Riga is a great city to visit as a student. The city's affordability and vibrant atmosphere make it a great spot for international students. There are many places to hang out and a lively nightlife scene that appeals to young travelers.

Reims is not popular with students.

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

Riga 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.

Riga offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

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 Riga or Reims a more walkable city?

Riga and Reims both are very good when exploring on foot.

Riga is a very walkable city. The city is small enough that most areas can 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 Riga Worth Visiting? and Is Reims Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reims or Riga?

How long in Riga or Reims?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Reims than Riga. 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 Riga 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 Riga.

One day in Riga or Reims?

In Riga, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fun destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Reims. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Riga or Reims?

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

Reims is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Riga or Reims?

Riga is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Riga. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the cultural destination of Reims. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Riga or Reims?

You'll find food and shopping around the fun destination of Riga. 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 nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The beautiful city of Reims offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Reims?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Reims. Many travelers come to Riga for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Reims in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Riga is around the same temperature as Reims. Typically, the summer temperatures in Riga in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Reims averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In July, Riga usually receives more rain than Reims. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Riga or Reims in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Riga as well as Reims. Many visitors come to Riga in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Reims for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Riga is generally much colder than Reims. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 7°C (45°F), and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in October than Reims. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Reims in the Winter?

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

The weather in Reims can be very cold. Riga can be very cold during winter. Riga is much colder than Reims in the winter. The daily temperature in Riga averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Reims fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Reims. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Riga or Reims in the Spring?

Both Reims and Riga during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Riga because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Reims this time of year.

In the spring, Riga is much colder than Reims. Typically, the spring temperatures in Riga in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Reims averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in April than Reims. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reims and Riga