A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Prague for Old Town, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Cesis or Prague?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Prague can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a small, authentic, and natural town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Prague

Prague is a cultural, historical, and beautiful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cesis and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cesis or Prague?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Prague than Cesis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Prague is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cesis is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Prague is more touristy than Cesis 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. Cesis is well known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cesis
Prague

Prague is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cesis
Prague

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at respectable restaurants in both Cesis and Prague.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cesis. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

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 Cesis or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Prague

Prague is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Prague is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Prague Better for Music?

Cesis
Prague

Prague is renowned for its live music scene. However, Cesis 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.

Cesis is not a live music destination.


Is Cesis or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Prague

Prague is renowned for its old town. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

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

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Is Cesis or Prague Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Prague

Cesis is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Prague is not a hiking destination.

Cesis offers some nice hiking trails. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Prague is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Prague?

Cesis
Prague

Prague is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Prague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cesis or Prague Better for Families?

Cesis
Prague

Prague is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Prague is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Is Cesis or Prague Better for Couples?

Cesis
Prague

Prague is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Prague is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Prague

Prague is renowned for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.


Is Cesis or Prague Better for Students?

Cesis
Prague

Prague is renowned for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

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

Cesis is not popular with students.

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

Cesis
Prague

Prague is renowned for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Prague has a great public transit system. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Prague a more walkable city?

Cesis
Prague

Prague is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Prague on foot is easy. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.


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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Prague?

Both Cesis 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 Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

Families should spend more time in Prague than Cesis. 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 Cesis. 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 Cesis 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.


  • How many days in Cesis or Prague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Prague 2-7

One day in Cesis or Prague?

Cesis might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Cesis or Prague?

Cesis 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 Cesis or Prague?

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

Cesis is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague or Cesis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €108, while the average daily cost in Prague is €102. 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 Cesis and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Prague 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Prague 126
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or Prague? 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 Cesis


Hotels in Prague


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: Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    Prague 7.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Prague

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:

  • Luxury Private Prague Airport Transfer: $43
  • Private Prague Airport Arrival Transfer: $60
  • Airport Prague Private Transfers for up to 6 People: $98
  • Airport Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Luxury Car: $67
  • Airport Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Luxury Van: $55
  • Airport Transfer: Prague to Prague Airport PRG by Luxury Car: $67
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Prague Airport PRG to Prague City in Car/Van: $58
  • Arrival Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Luxury Van: $55
  • Best Shooting Range Prague Old Town with Private Transfers: $240
  • Departure Private Transfer from Prague City to Prague Airport PRG in Car/Van: $58
  • Departure Transfer: Prague to Prague Airport PRG by Business Car: $49
  • Departure Transfer: Prague to Prague Airport PRG by Luxury Van: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague and Cesis 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
    Cesis 41
    Prague 24
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cesis:


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

Typical Food Prices in Prague

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


  • Fruit
    3.94
  • Lunch for One
    12
  • Bananas
    0.56
  • Cookies
    0.31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Prague

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

  • Anti Tour Prague - Self Guided Beer and Food Tour: $21
  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $40
  • Prague by Night: 2-Hour Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $47
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $52
  • Vltava River Evening Dinner Cruise: $53
  • Folkloric Dinner Show with Unlimited Drinks: $57
  • 2-Hour Dinner Cruise with Transfers: $57
  • River Cruise with Dinner and Live Music: $58
  • Folklore dinner: $58
  • Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks: $59
  • Prague 5 Courses Medieval Dinner and Live Performances: $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis 16
    Prague 15

Typical Entertainment Prices in Prague

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Prague are as follows:


  • Opera Tickets
    3.94
  • Two Tickets for Charles Bridge Tower
    5.51
  • Image Theatre for Two
    38

Tours and Activities in Prague

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

  • Bachelorette / Bachelor Party - City sightseeing Trike Tour: $2.76
  • Royal Prague City sightseeing Electric Trike Tour: $2.98
  • Prague Historical & Viewpoints Retro E-Bike Group Tour: $3.02
  • Sunset View & Adventurous Retro E-Bike Tour: $3.02
  • Adventurous Sightseeing & Historical Live Guided Trike Tour: $3.06
  • Bachelorette/Bachelor Party - City sightseeing E-Bike Tour: $3.06
  • Prague City sightseeing in Night Trike Tour: $3.10
  • Royal Prague City sightseeing Retro E-Bike Live Guided Tour: $3.10
  • Gorgeous Prague Night Retro E-Bike Tour ( Live Guided ): $3.15
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Prague Essential Tour Old Town and Jewish Quarter: $3.26
  • Tour of the Castle and Malá Strana based on Tips: $3.26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis 17
    Prague 10

Typical Alcohol Prices in Prague

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Prague from other travelers:


  • A Bottle of Wine
    6.26

Sample the Local Flavors in Prague

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

  • Staropramem Brewery Self-Guided Tour with Tasting: $13
  • Clock Tower Bar Crawl with Drinks and Shots: $23
  • Clock Tower Bar Crawl in Prague: $26
  • 1 Hour Exclusive Moravian Wine Tasting in an Art Gallery : $28
  • Pub Crawl in Prague: $32
  • Pub Crawl and International Party: $34
  • Pub Crawl with Open Bar and VIP Entry: $34
  • Pub Crawl with 2-Hour Open Bar at Drunken Monkey: $35
  • Drunken Monkey Pub Crawl: $36
  • Golden Burlesque Show & Live Music w/ Lady & The Devil: $36
  • Golden BURLESQUE: $42
  • Prague beer tour with brewery visit and tasting: $46


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


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis 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 Cesis 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 Cesis or Prague in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Prague. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Prague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cesis is cooler than Prague in the summer. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Prague fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In July, Cesis usually receives more rain than Prague. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Prague 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Prague in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Prague. Many travelers come to Cesis for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Prague in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cesis is much colder than Prague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cesis in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Prague averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Cesis usually gets more rain in October than Prague. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Prague 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Prague in the Winter?

Both Prague and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cesis in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Prague for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Prague can be very cold during winter. Cesis can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cesis is generally much colder than Prague. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around -5°C (23°F), and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In January, Cesis usually receives less rain than Prague. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Prague 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Prague in the Spring?

Both Prague and Cesis during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cesis for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Prague because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Cesis is much colder than Prague in the spring. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in April than Prague. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Prague 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Prague and Cesis

Cesis Prague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 1°C (33°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)