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

Should you visit York or Reims?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a fanciful, historic, and medieval city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Reims

Reims is a relaxing, scenic, and cultural city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

York and Reims: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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 York or Reims?

Visitors will generally find more to do in York than Reims. While Reims is larger than York, York has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. York is better known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Reims is more popular for its shopping and impressive beauty. York is well known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. Also, York is famous for The Shambles. Reims is well known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

How is York different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

York
Reims

York 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 York can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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 York or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York
Reims

Foodies will find both York and Reims both to be fantastic destinations.

For foodies, York is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

Reims has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Is York or Reims Better for Nightlife?

York
Reims

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

York is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

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 York or Reims Better for its Old Town?

York
Reims

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

York has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

Reims does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in York or Reims?

York
Reims

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

Reims is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or Reims Better for Families?

York
Reims

York is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Reims is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

York is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York or Reims Better for Couples?

York
Reims

Reims is a world-class destination for romance. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.


Is York or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York
Reims

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

York is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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

York
Reims

Both York and Reims offer notable public transit options.

York has a few public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Reims has some public transit options. In town there are buses and trams, but to get into the countryside you'll need your own car.

Is York or Reims a more walkable city?

York
Reims

Reims is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Reims is very walkable. You can explore the city on foot and reach many local Champagne Houses. If you really want to explore everything in depth, you'll need a car.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.


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

Should I spend more time in Reims or York?

How long in York or Reims?

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

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

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


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

One day in York or Reims?

In York, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this medieval destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 York or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. 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 York or Reims?

York is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of York. Lots of people come for the food. 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 relaxing 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 York or Reims?

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

The scenic 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 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or York?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in York is £106, while the average daily cost in Reims is £112. 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 York and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    York £59
    Reims £57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    York £118
    Reims £114
Compare Hotels in York and Reims

Looking for a hotel in York 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 York


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: York Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    York £12
    Reims £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from Hambleton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $163
  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $271
  • Private Transfer from York to Manchester Airport (MAN): $279

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 York or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and York 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
    York £32
    Reims £34
Typical Food Prices in York

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


  • Dinner
    £22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in York

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

  • Breakfast Food Tour in York: $51
  • Party Cruise with Welcome Drink, Dinner, and DJ Music: $56
  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $83

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    York £11
    Reims £16

Tours and Activities in York

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

  • York Guide - Everybody Hates a Tourist: $6.35
  • Tower Tour: $7.63
  • Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Discover York's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour of the City Walls: $11
  • York Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private York Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • York Cocoa Works Guided Tour and Tasting: $12
  • Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Original Harry Potter Locations Tour - York: $13
  • York Bird of Prey Centre Entry Ticket: $14
  • City Chronicles Historical Walking Tour: $15

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
    York £13
    Reims £19
Typical Alcohol Prices in York

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in York are as follows:


  • A Couple Beers
    £9.00

Sample the Local Flavors in York

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in York:

  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $32
  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience: $57


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


Which is Bigger, York or Reims?

Reims has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York 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 York or Reims in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Reims. Many travelers come to York for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Reims in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, York is generally cooler than Reims. Daily temperatures in York average around 16°C (62°F), and Reims fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Reims this time of the year. York usually receives less sunshine than Reims during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives around the same amount of rain as Reims. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    York 16°C (62°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit York or Reims in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to York as well as Reims. Many visitors come to York in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Reims for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

York is around the same temperature as Reims in the autumn. The daily temperature in York averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, York often gets less sunshine than Reims. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in October than Reims. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit York or Reims in the Winter?

Both Reims and York are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to York 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. York can be very cold during winter. In the winter, York is a little warmer than Reims. Typically, the winter temperatures in York in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Reims averages at about 3°C (37°F).

York usually receives more sunshine than Reims during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives more rain than Reims. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    York 4°C (39°F) 
    Reims 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit York or Reims in the Spring?

Both Reims and York during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Reims this time of year.

In April, York is generally cooler than Reims. Daily temperatures in York average around 8°C (46°F), and Reims fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, York often gets less sunshine than Reims. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

York usually gets more rain in April than Reims. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    York 8°C (46°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and York

York Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)