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

Should you visit Zurich or Reims?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Reims. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

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.

Zurich 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
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 Zurich or Reims?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich than Reims, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zurich is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Reims is known for its food. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Reims is popular for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

How is Zurich different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zurich
Reims

Zurich 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 Zurich can be an interesting and educational experience. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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 Zurich or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich
Reims

Reims is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Reims, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Zurich or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Zurich
Reims

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

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Reims Better for Music?

Zurich
Reims

Zurich is well known for its music scene. However, Reims is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Reims is not a live music destination.


Is Zurich or Reims Better for its Old Town?

Zurich
Reims

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

Zurich has a world-famous historical area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Reims does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Reims?

Zurich
Reims

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

Zurich is a world class destination for shoppers. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich or Reims Better for Families?

Zurich
Reims

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

Zurich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich or Reims Better for Couples?

Zurich
Reims

Reims is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Reims is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Is Zurich or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich
Reims

Both Zurich and Reims are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Reims. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

Is Zurich or Reims Better for Students?

Zurich
Reims

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

Zurich is a great destination for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Reims is not popular with students.


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

Zurich
Reims

Zurich 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.

Zurich offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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 Zurich or Reims a more walkable city?

Zurich
Reims

Zurich and Reims both are great when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Reims Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reims or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Reims?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Zurich or Reims?

In Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this liberal destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reims. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Zurich or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Reims?

Zurich is a fun place to experience. In Zurich, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reims. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Reims?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Reims. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Reims or Zurich?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Zurich is $268, while the average daily cost in Reims is $140. 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 Zurich and Reims in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zurich $170
    Reims $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zurich $340
    Reims $142
Compare Hotels in Zurich and Reims

Looking for a hotel in Zurich 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 Zurich


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: Zurich Hotel Prices and Reims Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Reims $42
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Airport Zurich Transfer Mercedes S Class 3pax: $179
  • Airport Zurich Transfer Mercedes V-Class 6pax: $168
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich City by Luxury Van: $138
  • Arrival Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Luxury Van: $91
  • Arrival Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich City in Private Car/Van: $95
  • Davos: Private Transfer to/from Zurich Airport: $601
  • Departure Private Transfer from Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH by Luxury Van: $138
  • Departure Transfer from Zurich City to Zurich Airport ZRH in Private Car/Van: $95
  • EnglishPrivate One Way Transfer Zurich Airport To Davos: $374
  • From Zurich Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer To Zurich Hotel: $78
  • From Zurich Airport: Private Transfer to Lucerne: $314
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257

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 Zurich or Reims?

Prices for flights to both Reims and Zurich 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
    Zurich $62
    Reims $43
Typical Food Prices in Zurich

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


  • Breakfast for 2
    $13

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Reims $20

Tours and Activities in Zurich

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Reading Tour: $5.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Zurich Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Best of Zürich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87
  • Fun adventure tour of Outdoor Escape Game: $8.54
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Zürich: Swiss Finance Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Dark Side of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours: $14

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
    Zurich $29
    Reims $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

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

  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $31
  • eTukTuk Hot Stone BBQ and Wine Tour Zürich: $129


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


Which is Bigger, Zurich or Reims?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 74% larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Reims in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Reims. Many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Reims for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Zurich is a little warmer than Reims. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Reims averages at about 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Reims this time of the year. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reims during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Reims. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zurich 21°C (70°F) 
    Reims 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Reims in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Reims. Most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Reims because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reims. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Reims. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zurich 13°C (56°F) 
    Reims 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Reims in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Reims in the winter. The weather in Zurich can be very cold. Zurich is around the same temperature as Reims in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Reims fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Reims during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Reims. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zurich 3°C (37°F) 
    Reims 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Reims in the Spring?

Both Reims and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reims for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zurich is a little warmer than Reims. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Reims averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Reims. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Reims. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zurich 12°C (53°F) 
    Reims 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Reims and Zurich

Zurich Reims
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)