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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Reims?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Reims

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

Thessaloniki and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
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 Thessaloniki or Reims?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Reims, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Reims is known for its food and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also home to The Monument of Rotonda. Reims is popular for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

How is Thessaloniki different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Thessaloniki
Reims

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

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 Thessaloniki or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thessaloniki
Reims

Reims is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Thessaloniki is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

Is Thessaloniki or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
Reims

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

Thessaloniki is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

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 Thessaloniki or Reims Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
Reims

Thessaloniki is a city with a few options for the beach. However, Reims is not a beach destination.

The beach in Thessaloniki is worth checking out. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Reims is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Reims?

Thessaloniki
Reims

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Thessaloniki and Reims.

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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 Thessaloniki or Reims Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
Reims

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun 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 Thessaloniki or Reims Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
Reims

Reims is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.


Is Thessaloniki or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
Reims

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

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Thessaloniki or Reims Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
Reims

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

Thessaloniki is a great city to visit as a student. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Reims is not popular with students.

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

Thessaloniki
Reims

Visitors will find good public transit in both Thessaloniki and Reims.

Thessaloniki has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

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.


Is Thessaloniki or Reims a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
Reims

Reims is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Reims is a very walkable city. 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.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Reims or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Reims?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Thessaloniki or Reims? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thessaloniki 2-4 
    Reims 2-5

One day in Thessaloniki or Reims?

In Thessaloniki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. 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.

In Reims, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Thessaloniki or Reims?

Thessaloniki is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

In Reims, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this scenic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the food. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Thessaloniki or Reims?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Thessaloniki. 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 popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Thessaloniki?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thessaloniki is €134, 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 Thessaloniki and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    Reims 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    Reims 132
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki


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: Thessaloniki Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    Reims 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

Also for Thessaloniki, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Private Day Trip to Meteora with Transfer: $428
  • One Way Private Transfer SKG Airport to / from Thessaloniki City Center: $24
  • Private Transfer from Kavala to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $237
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Ammon Zeus Hotel : $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Sani Resort: $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki hotels to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $254
  • Private Transfer to Thessaloniki Airport from Thessaloniki City: $120
  • Private transfer to IKOS OLIVIA: $87
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to Thessaloniki - Arrival Transfer: $21
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG): Transfer to Thessaloniki Port: $142

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 Thessaloniki or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Thessaloniki 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
    Thessaloniki 42
    Reims 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Thessaloniki

For Thessaloniki, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Open Market Food Tour with Tasting: $48
  • Walking Open Market Food Tour and Tasting: $49
  • Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family: $63
  • Guided Food Tour: $70
  • Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $71
  • Private Walking Tour Gastronomic Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $87
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $95
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $95
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch: $95
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $97
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $97
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market visit and Lunch: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thessaloniki 26
    Reims 19

Tours and Activities in Thessaloniki

For Thessaloniki, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • White Tower Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.54
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour & Narrative: $11
  • Selfie Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Museum of Illusions Admission Ticket: $12
  • Thessaloniki Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Byzantine Museum E-Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • E-ticket to Museum of Byzantine Culture with Audio Tour : $13
  • Thessaloniki Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour: $17

Tours and Activities in Reims

Here are a few actual costs in Reims for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Full Day Champagne Pommery Small Group Tour: $251
  • Private Tour of a Wine Estate and Oeno-olfactory Workshop: $104
  • A unique sensory experience in the vineyards: $104
  • Bubble Champagne Tour from Epernay (Small group half day tour): $169
  • Champagne Cellar tour and tasting: $43
  • Champagne Cellars & Vineyards tour from Reims full day: $229
  • Champagne Guy De Chassey : Premium Tour and Tasting: $38
  • Champagne Guy De Chassey: Traditional Tour & Tasting: $27
  • Champagne Lamiable: Traditional Tour & Tasting: $33
  • Champagne Lover Tour&Amazing Experience&With champagne sabering: $207
  • Champagne Small-Group Tour with Tastings and Lunch from Epernay: $229
  • Champagne: E-Bike Champagne Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    Reims 22

Sample the Local Flavors in Thessaloniki

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

  • Friday Night Bar Crawl in Thessaloniki: $25
  • From Pella-Edessa wine tasting: $64
  • Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $81
  • Thessaloniki Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $83
  • Winery Visit with Wine Tasting Experience: $91
  • Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki: $93
  • Thessaloniki to Naoussa, Wine Tasting Tour – Private Day Trip: $207


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


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Reims?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 80% larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Reims?

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 Thessaloniki or Reims in the Summer?

Both Reims and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, 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, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Reims. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Reims averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In Reims, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Reims. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Reims. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Reims in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Reims. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reims for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Reims during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Reims. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thessaloniki 16°C (61°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Reims in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Reims. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. Thessaloniki is much warmer than Reims in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Reims fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Reims. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Reims. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thessaloniki 5°C (41°F) 
    Reims 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Reims in the Spring?

Both Reims and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Reims this time of year.

In the spring, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Reims. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Reims averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Reims during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Reims. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)