A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cork vs. Prague for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cork 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 Cork 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.

Cork

Cork is a youthful, energetic, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Prague

Prague is a cultural, historical, and beautiful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Cork and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Cork or Prague?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Prague than Cork. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Prague is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cork attracts visitors for its food. Prague is more touristy than Cork and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. It is also well known for The Prague Castle. Cork is famous for its friendly personality, its thriving art scene and its local craft beer.

How is Cork different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cork
Prague

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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Prague that are not to be missed. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cork. The city is filled with historic sights and landmarks. Most notable is the Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, but also make sure you check out St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Cork Public Museum, Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre, and St. Anne's Church.


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

Cork
Prague

Cork is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cork. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

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 Cork or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Cork
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Prague is a world class party destination. 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.

Cork has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

Is Cork or Prague Better for Music?

Cork
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Cork is not a live music destination.

Prague is a world class music destination. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Cork is not a live music destination.


Is Cork or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Cork
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Cork does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Prague can be explored in its historical center. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

Cork does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cork or Prague?

Cork
Prague

Both Cork and Prague are very good shopping destinations.

Cork is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It offers a mix of high street shops and boutique vendors. Head to St. Patrick’s Street for some of the city's best shopping. Also check out Opera Lane and Oliver Plunkett Street.

Prague is well-known for its shopping. 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 Cork or Prague Better for Families?

Cork
Prague

Prague is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Prague is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Cork is a family-friendly city. For a bit of outside time, head to Fota Wildlife Park, Regional Park Ballincollig, or Inchydoney Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring Cork City Gaol which is a heritage museum, or the Toy Soldier Factory. And of course, there's the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone.


Is Cork or Prague Better for Couples?

Cork
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Cork makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Visiting Blarney Castle is a highlight, but you can also wander along the river or do the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. There are also several gardens to explore or small theaters where you can see a play.

Is Cork or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cork
Prague

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

Prague is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Cork. There are plenty of hostels as well as a large student population and an active nightlife.

Is Cork or Prague Better for Students?

Cork
Prague

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

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.

Many students visit Cork. It's a university town with many students and plenty to do. The city plays host to many international students.


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

Cork
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Cork is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Prague has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cork. In town you'll find bus service but if you want to explore anywhere else in the county you really need your own vehicle.

Is Cork or Prague a more walkable city?

Cork
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Cork is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is compact and easy enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Cork?

How long in Cork or Prague?

Both Cork 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 Cork. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cork, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

Families should spend more time in Prague than Cork. 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 Cork. 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 Cork 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 Cork or Prague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cork 1-3 
    Prague 2-7

One day in Cork or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cork. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Prague is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Cork or Prague?

Cork 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.

Prague is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Cork or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cork. 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 festive big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Cork or Prague?

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

Prague is a fun-filled city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague or Cork?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cork is €101, 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 Cork and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cork 60
    Prague 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cork 120
    Prague 126
Compare Hotels in Cork and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Cork 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 Cork


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: Cork Hotel Prices and Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cork 16
    Prague 7.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Prague

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:

  • Bus Transfer Between Prague Airport and the City: $4.97
  • River Cruise with Transfer to Pier: $16
  • Private Transfer from Prague Hotels to Prague Airport: $22
  • Private Transfer from Prague Airport: $24
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Prague Hotel to Prague Airport: $25
  • One Way Shuttle Airport & Hotel Transfer in Prague: $26
  • Express Train Transfer Ticket to and from Krakow: $26
  • Prague Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $36
  • Prague Airport: Private transfer to city centre: $38
  • Private transfer to the airport (PRG): $38
  • Kutná Hora and Bone Church with Round-Trip Transfer: $38
  • Private Transfer to/from Václav Havel Airport: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Cork or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague and Cork 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
    Cork 30
    Prague 24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cork

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

  • Hysterical Histories, Comedic Dinner Theater Show: $53
  • Hysterical Histories Cork Dinner Theatre Show: $57
  • Historic Cork Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65

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.
    Cork 9.29
    Prague 15

Tours and Activities in Cork

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

  • Highlights of A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Cork Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Discover Cork's Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens Admission Ticket: $13
  • City Gaol Tour with Audio Guide: $14
  • Cork City Gaol Admission Ticket: $14
  • Cork Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Guided Historical Walking Tour: $20
  • Cork Instagram Photography Walking Tour: $22
  • Tour guidé de Cork City centre en français: $24
  • Cork City Hop On/Off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Hop On/Hop Off Cork City Sightseeing Tour : $24

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
    Cork 13
    Prague 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Cork

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cork:

  • Clonakilty Distillery Tour & Classic Whiskey Tasting: $22
  • Cork City: Rebel City Distillery Tour: $27
  • Rebel City Distillery Tour: $27
  • Midleton Distillery Tour with Whiskey Tasting: $32
  • Midleton Distillery Experience & Whiskey Tasting -Home of Jameson: $33
  • Whiskey Cocktail Making Class at Midleton Distillery: $64
  • Cork Irish Whiskey Cocktail Making Class at Midleton Distillery : $65
  • Midleton Distillery Behind the Scenes Tour & Tasting: $80
  • Blarney Castle Cork City and Jameson Distillery Semi Private Tour: $196
  • Private Cork City Tour, Kinsale and Jameson Distillery: $254

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 Cork and Prague, we can see that Prague 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 Cork Expensive? and Is Prague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cork or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Cork. When comparing the sizes of Cork 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 Cork 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 Cork or Prague in the Summer?

Both Prague and Cork are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cork this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Prague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cork is cooler than Prague. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cork in July average around 16°C (60°F), and Prague averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Prague. Cork usually receives less sunshine than Prague during summer. Cork gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cork usually receives less rain than Prague. Cork gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cork 16°C (60°F) 
    Prague 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Cork or Prague in the Autumn?

Both Prague and Cork during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cork for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, 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 October, Cork is generally around the same temperature as Prague. Daily temperatures in Cork average around 11°C (52°F), and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Cork often gets less sunshine than Prague. Cork gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun.

Cork usually gets more rain in October than Prague. Cork gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cork 11°C (52°F) 
    Prague 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Cork or Prague in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cork and Prague. Many visitors come to Cork in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Prague for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Prague can be very cold during winter. Cork is much warmer than Prague in the winter. The daily temperature in Cork averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Cork usually receives more sunshine than Prague during winter. Cork gets 60 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cork gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cork usually receives more rain than Prague. Cork gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cork 6°C (43°F) 
    Prague 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Cork or Prague in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cork as well as Prague. Most visitors come to Cork for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Prague because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cork is around the same temperature as Prague. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cork in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Prague averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Cork often gets more sunshine than Prague. Cork gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun.

Cork usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Prague. Cork gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cork 9°C (48°F) 
    Prague 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Prague and Cork

Cork Prague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 1°C (33°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)