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

Should you visit Kaunas or Prague?

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 Kaunas and Prague. 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.

Kaunas

Kaunas is a young, vibrant, 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 and food.

Prague

Prague is a historical, beautiful, and festive city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Kaunas and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students
  • 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 Kaunas or Prague?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Prague than Kaunas, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Prague is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kaunas is known for its food. Prague is more touristy than Kaunas and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. It is also home to The Prague Castle. Kaunas is popular for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town.

How is Kaunas different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kaunas
Prague

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Prague on the map. 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.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Kaunas
Prague

Kaunas 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 Kaunas. It is a great place to try traditional Lithuanian dishes as there are a number of good restaurants and an active restaurant scene. Popular local dishes include cepelinai potato dumplings and cold beetroot soup.

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 Kaunas or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Kaunas
Prague

Prague is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kaunas. The nightlife scene continues to improve with a growing number of bars and clubs. During the warmer months you'll find many places opening outdoor areas. The old town is one of the more lively areas in town where it's nice to enjoy a drink on a terrace.

Is Kaunas or Prague Better for Music?

Kaunas
Prague

Prague is renowned for its music scene. However, Kaunas is not a live music destination.

In Prague you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Kaunas is not a live music destination.


Is Kaunas or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Kaunas
Prague

Prague is renowned for its historic old town charm. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

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.

Kaunas is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town has tree-lined streets with charming cafes and a number of museums. It's also where you'll find the Kaunas Castle.

Is the Shopping Better in Kaunas or Prague?

Kaunas
Prague

Prague is notable for its shopping areas. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Kaunas is a good destination for shopping. The old town is the place to pick up souvenirs, but there are also shopping malls and outlets in the city.

Is Kaunas or Prague Better for Families?

Kaunas
Prague

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

Prague is known to be 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.

Kaunas is a family-friendly city. The city has both outdoor and indoor areas that are fun for kids. Vienybės Square has fountains and splash areas that are fun for kids of all ages. Lampėdis Lake is a great place to swim or visit an adventure park. When the weather isn't great, you can head indoors to the the Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum or "CurioCity" in the Mega Mall.


Is Kaunas or Prague Better for Couples?

Kaunas
Prague

Prague is renowned for couples. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for romance.

Prague is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Kaunas is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a number of historical sites as well as interesting restaurants that you can explore.

Is Kaunas or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kaunas
Prague

Prague is renowned for backpackers. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Prague is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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 budget travelers visit Kaunas. It's not a popular destination, but there are enough concerts and festivals throughout the year that it does see a few tourists.

Is Kaunas or Prague Better for Students?

Kaunas
Prague

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

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

Plenty of students visit Kaunas. The city has a vibrant and young student population. It also hosts festivals, concerts, and other events that make it a fun destination for international students.


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

Kaunas
Prague

Prague is renowned for its public transit. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Kaunas has some public transit options. There are both buses and trolleybuses around town.

Is Kaunas or Prague a more walkable city?

Kaunas
Prague

Prague is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Kaunas is somewhat walkable. When the weather is nice, the city is a nice place to take a walk.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Prague?

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

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

One day in Kaunas or Prague?

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

Prague is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Kaunas or Prague?

Kaunas 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 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.

Five days in Kaunas or Prague?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Prague. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Kaunas or Prague?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Kaunas. 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Lithuania, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague or Kaunas?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kaunas is €95, 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 Kaunas and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kaunas 44
    Prague 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kaunas 88
    Prague 126
Compare Hotels in Kaunas and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Kaunas 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 Kaunas


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: Kaunas Hotel Prices and Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kaunas 17
    Prague 7.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kaunas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kaunas:

  • Private Transfer from Kaunas City to Kaunas Airport KUN by car: $46
  • Private Kaunas Airport to City Transfer: $48
  • Departure Private Transfer Kaunas City to Kaunas Airport KUN by Minivan: $56

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 Kaunas or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague and Kaunas 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
    Kaunas 37
    Prague 24

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.
    Kaunas 19
    Prague 15

Tours and Activities in Kaunas

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

  • Kaunas Old Town tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS): $55
  • Recreational Tour in Kaunas - The City of Freedom: $64
  • Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide in Kaunas: $76
  • Kaunas Private Walking Tour: $84
  • Kaunas Tour: Love Stories: $86
  • Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour: $86
  • Kaunas city center tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS): $109
  • Kaunas, Lithuania 2-Hour Sightseeing Tour: $144
  • Kaunas Tour: Love Stories: $170
  • Kaunas Old Town: 2-Hour Ghost Tour: $170
  • Kayak Tour in Nemunas: $185
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour: $191

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
    Kaunas 16
    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 Kaunas 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 Kaunas Expensive? and Is Prague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kaunas. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas 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 Kaunas 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 Kaunas or Prague in the Summer?

Both Prague and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

In July, Kaunas is generally around the same temperature as Prague. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 18°C (64°F), 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 Kaunas. Kaunas usually receives more sunshine than Prague during summer. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kaunas usually receives more rain than Prague. Kaunas gets 80 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
    Kaunas 18°C (64°F) 
    Prague 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Prague in the Autumn?

Both Prague and Kaunas during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Prague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Kaunas is cooler than Prague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Prague. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Prague. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kaunas 8°C (46°F) 
    Prague 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Kaunas or Prague in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Prague. Many travelers come to Kaunas for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Prague in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Prague can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Kaunas. In the winter, Kaunas is much colder than Prague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kaunas in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Prague averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Prague during winter. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Prague. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Kaunas or Prague in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kaunas as well as Prague. Many visitors come to Kaunas in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Prague for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Kaunas is generally cooler than Prague. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 7°C (44°F), and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Prague. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets less rain in April than Prague. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kaunas 7°C (44°F) 
    Prague 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Prague and Kaunas

Kaunas Prague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -4°C (25°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 16°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)