A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Basel vs. Prague for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Basel or Prague?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel or Prague, 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.

Basel

Basel is a museum-filled, easily accessible, and beautiful 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.

Prague

Prague is a fun-filled, cultural, and historical city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Basel and Prague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Prague?

You'll generally find more things to do in Prague than Basel. Prague is bigger than Basel, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Prague is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Basel is more popular for its food. Prague is more touristy than Basel and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. Also, Prague is famous for The Prague Castle. Basel is well known for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Basel different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Basel or Prague?

Prague is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Prague are among the most recognizable in the world. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

Is the Food Better in Basel or Prague? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Basel is a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Basel. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Basel or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Prague is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Prague just to party. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Basel or Prague Better for Music?

Prague is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Basel is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Prague The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Basel is not a live music destination.

Is Basel or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Prague is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Prague is revered around the world. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Prague?

Both Basel and Prague are great shopping destinations.

Basel is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Prague. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy.

Is Basel or Prague Better for Families?

Basel and Prague are both great destinations for the whole family.

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Prague. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

Is Basel or Prague Better for Couples?

Prague is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Prague has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Prague is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Prague. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

Basel is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Basel or Prague Better for Students?

Prague is a world-class destination for students. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Prague is a great destination for students. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Students come from all over to stay in Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Is Basel or Prague Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Prague is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Prague can get you around easily. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

The public transit in Basel can get you to most places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Basel or Prague a more walkable city?

Basel and Prague both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Basel on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Prague. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

For even more information, also check out Is Basel Worth Visiting? and Is Prague Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Prague or Basel?

How long in Basel or Prague?

Both Basel and Prague have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Prague than in Basel. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Basel, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Prague than Basel 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 Prague.

One day in Basel or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Basel. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Each neighborhood in Prague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

A weekend in Basel or Prague?

Basel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Basel or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Basel. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Prague is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Prague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

A week in Basel or Prague?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Basel. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Each neighborhood in Prague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Basel and Prague, we can see that Basel is more expensive. And not only is Prague much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Prague would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Prague 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel than you might in Prague.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Basel Expensive? and Is Prague Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Basel or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Basel and Prague, 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 Basel or Prague?

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 Basel or Prague in the Summer?

Both Prague and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Prague in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Basel is a little warmer than Prague in the summer. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Prague fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Prague. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Basel. Basel usually receives more sunshine than Prague during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Prague. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Basel or Prague in the Autumn?

Both Prague and Basel during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Basel in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Prague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Basel is a little warmer than Prague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Basel in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Prague averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Basel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Prague. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in October than Prague. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Prague in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Prague. Most visitors come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Prague because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Prague can be very cold. Basel can be very cold during winter. In January, Basel is generally much warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 3°C (37°F), and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Basel usually receives more sunshine than Prague during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Basel usually receives more rain than Prague. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Basel or Prague in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Basel as well as Prague. The spring months attract visitors to Basel because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

Basel is a little warmer than Prague in the spring. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Basel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Prague. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Prague. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Prague and Basel