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

Should you visit Salzburg or Reims?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Reims, 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.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a recognizable, historic, and beautiful city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Reims

Reims is a relaxing, scenic, and cultural city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
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 Salzburg or Reims?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Salzburg than Reims. While Reims is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Salzburg is very popular for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Reims attracts visitors for its food. Salzburg is more touristy than Reims and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also well known for The Salzburg Old Town. Reims is famous for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

The Salzburg Old Town
The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Salzburg
Reims

Salzburg 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 Salzburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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 Salzburg or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salzburg
Reims

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Salzburg. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Salzburg or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Salzburg
Reims

Both Salzburg and Reims are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Reims. 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 Salzburg or Reims Better for Music?

Salzburg
Reims

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

In Salzburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Reims is not a live music destination.


Is Salzburg or Reims Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg
Reims

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

Salzburg has a world-famous historical area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Reims does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Reims?

Salzburg
Reims

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

Salzburg is a world class destination for shoppers. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg or Reims Better for Families?

Salzburg
Reims

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

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Reims Better for Couples?

Salzburg
Reims

Salzburg and Reims are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Salzburg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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.

Is Salzburg or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg
Reims

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

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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 Salzburg or Reims Better for Students?

Salzburg
Reims

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

Salzburg is a great destination for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Reims is not popular with students.


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

Salzburg
Reims

Salzburg 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.

Salzburg offers a very effecient public transportation network. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Salzburg or Reims a more walkable city?

Salzburg
Reims

Salzburg and Reims both are superb when exploring on foot.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Reims or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Reims?

In either Salzburg or Reims, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Salzburg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Salzburg than Reims. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Reims.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Salzburg or Reims? Ideal Length of Stay
    Salzburg 3-5 
    Reims 2-5

One day in Salzburg or Reims?

In Salzburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic destination offers. 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.

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.


A weekend in Salzburg or Reims?

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

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.

Five days in Salzburg or Reims?

Salzburg is a fun place to experience. In Salzburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. 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.

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.

A week in Salzburg or Reims?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the musical destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Salzburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Salzburg is €155, 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 Salzburg and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Salzburg 91
    Reims 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Salzburg 182
    Reims 132
Compare Hotels in Salzburg and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Salzburg 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 Salzburg


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: Salzburg Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Salzburg 19
    Reims 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salzburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Salzburg:

  • Airport Transfer: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg by Luxury Car: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Business Car: $91
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Luxury Van: $93
  • Cesky Krumlov: Private One-Way Transfer to Salzburg: $629
  • Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Business Car: $91
  • Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Luxury Van: $93
  • From Salzburg to Munich Airport- Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $213
  • From Salzburg to Prague, Private Transfer with 2h of Sightseeing: $283
  • Kitzbuhel, Flachau, Transfer From Salzburg & Airport SZG: $288
  • Private Salzburg Airport luxury transfers to Salzburg city&Hotels: $65
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Salzburg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $278
  • Private Transfer From Salzburg To Innsbruck, English Speaking Driver : $262

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Salzburg or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Salzburg 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
    Salzburg 41
    Reims 40
Typical Food Prices in Salzburg

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


  • Lunch Salad
    9.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Salzburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Salzburg.

  • Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Class Including Lunch: $59
  • Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg: $60
  • Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner: $81
  • Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $83
  • Mozart Concert with Dinner: $83
  • Dinner Cooking Class and Music: $84
  • Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg: $85
  • Dinner Cooking Class - Prezels, Dumplings, Apple Strudel & Music: $86
  • Dinner and Classical Concert at Mirabell Palace: $94
  • Cruise, Dinner & Fortress Concert: $106
  • Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Salzburg with River Cruise: $111
  • Best of Mozart Concert and GOLDEN VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $133

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Salzburg 30
    Reims 19

Tours and Activities in Salzburg

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Cathedral Entry Ticket with Audio Guide Option: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Salzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Sound of Music Sightseeing Walk with Audio Guide: $6.99
  • A taste of An audio tour through the birthplace of Mozart: $7.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $8.02
  • Mirabell Palace and Surroundings Audio Tour: $8.52
  • Salzburg Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Salzburg Cathedral: Guided Tour with Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

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
    Salzburg 26
    Reims 22
Typical Alcohol Prices in Salzburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Salzburg:


  • Beer
    3.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Salzburg

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Salzburg:

  • Stiegl Brewery Museum Entry Ticket & Beer Tasting: $16
  • Stiegl Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting: $24
  • Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar: $36
  • Private Austrian Wine Tasting with a Pro-Sommelière: $185


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


Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Reims?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg 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 Salzburg 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 Salzburg or Reims in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Reims. The summer months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reims this time of year.

Salzburg is around the same temperature as Reims in the summer. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Reims fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Reims this time of the year. In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reims during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Reims. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Salzburg or Reims in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Reims. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reims for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Reims. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Salzburg in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Reims averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Reims. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Reims. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Salzburg 11°C (52°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Reims in the Winter?

Both Reims and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Reims in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Reims can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Salzburg. In January, Salzburg is generally much colder than Reims. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around -0°C (31°F), and Reims fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Reims during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Reims. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Salzburg or Reims in the Spring?

Both Reims and Salzburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reims for the natural beauty during these months.

Salzburg is a little warmer than Reims in the spring. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Reims fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Reims. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in April than Reims. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Salzburg 11°C (51°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Salzburg

Salzburg Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 93 mm (3.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 1°C (35°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)