A city steeped in history, with prominent landmarks and buildings dating back further than many of us have been alive. Incredible cuisine, river views, and stunning bridges. Are we speaking about Prague or Budapest? Both!
These two cities, just a few hours apart, are two of Europe’s top destinations if you’re after art, history, and culture, all packaged into one delightful visit.
Prague Castle, as viewed from Old Town Square Prague
They have their differences, though; where Prague delivers a medieval atmosphere, Budapest is known best for its nightlife scene . So, if you’re planning a Europe trip , which of these cities should you visit?
We often hear this question, so we thought we’d help you out a bit. Join us as we compare each city, which is best for every different kind of traveler and vacation, and which will fit your budget best.
We’ll weigh both cities’ pros and cons and highlight what makes each unique and worth your travel time.
By the end, you should know which of the two cities you’d instead visit — or at least visit first. And if you don’t, we’ve added a bonus guide on seeing both.
Prague or Budapest: Which one to visit?
Prague or Budapest guide
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Things to consider when choosing between Budapest or Prague
We have intimately explored both Prague and Budapest and have considered various factors in writing this guide to help you decide on which city to visit. You will find our preferences/ verdict for each of the categories along with accommodation tips below.
Prague Castle District
Heroes Square (Budapest)
Prague vs. Budapest: Transportation and connectivity
If you’re anything like us, ensuring your intended destination offers easy transport options is essential. So it’s one of the things we looked at first when trying to decide between Budapest and Prague.
Prague transportation
Luckily, both Prague and Budapest have fantastic public transport options, but Prague is often better enjoyed on foot.
Prague is also more condensed than Budapest, and the main attractions and significant landmarks are close together. Budapest is spread wider than Prague, which makes transport essential to see much of the city.
Prague (Nighttime walking tours)
If you’re not walking in Prague, you can use the metro, trams, and buses. You can purchase a City Pass, valid for 48, 72, or 120 hours (starting at € 89 per person). This pass gives you unlimited public transport rides and includes entry to a few of the top Prague attractions.
Budapest is walkable, but being divided into two sections (Buda and Pest), the city is much too big to walk.
Boats, ferries, and trains are great in Budapest
Being right on the river, the city has a well-structured system of river boats, ferries, trains, buses, trolleys, trams, and metro for you to choose from.
Budapest also has a City Pass card , starting at € 33 (choose from 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours), that offers unlimited transport, free entry to attractions, and many discounts too.
Verdict: While neither city is hard to get around, Budapest’s transport is better overall because it needs to be.
Budapest vs. Prague: Accommodation
Prague’s accommodation matches the city’s fairytale-like atmosphere. The compact layout means staying in the historic center is easy and the most obvious choice.
Neighborhoods like the Lesser Town or Hradcany (Prague Castle) are perfect for luxury and boutique hotels.
Where to stay in Prague
You will also find cheap hostels and quaint guesthouses. It can be somewhat more expensive in the city center, being so close to all the attractions, but it makes walking around much easier.
Stay in Pest (in Budapest) for its busy streets and lively scenes, or Buda for the historic ambiance many visit this city for. Either way, Budapest is home to several great places to stay. Whether you want a hostel, family suite, or romantic honeymoon room with river views.
Ibis Styles Hotel (and many chain hotels are very affordable in Budapest)
There are also internationally recognized hotel chains amid the locally owned spots.
Verdict: Both of these cities boast fantastic hotels to stay in, but Budapest, being a bit bigger, has a wider variety to choose from.
Is it cheaper to stay in Prague or Budapest?
In both cities, you have a range of budget-friendly to luxury accommodations. As with most things, Hungary’s Budapest comes in at just slightly cheaper than Prague with everything, including hotels and BnBs. You’re also likely to find a few more budget options in Budapest than you will in Prague.
Read Next : We’ve also compared Brussels and Bruges for those heading to Belgium next.
Prague vs. Budapest: Which is more picturesque (and with major fairytale vibes)?
Prague has an almost unfair advantage here since the city is already known as a fairytale-esque destination. This city is enchanting, with its cobblestone streets and classical music spilling out as you stroll through them.
Charles Bridge and Vltava River in Prague
The historic squares and colorful buildings add to the magical ambiance, and because it’s such a small, intimate city, it oozes fairytale charm in every hidden alley and courtyard.
We really love Prague
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