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

Should you visit Lausanne or Prague?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lausanne 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.

Lausanne

Lausanne is a cultural, international, and diverse city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Prague

Prague is a fun-filled, cultural, and historical city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lausanne and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
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
  • 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 Lausanne or Prague?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Prague than Lausanne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Prague is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Lausanne is known for its food. Prague is more touristy than Lausanne 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. Lausanne is popular for being the home of the International Olympic Committee headquarters.

How is Lausanne different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lausanne
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Lausanne. You'll find many great museums around town that cover a range of topics. The Olympic Museum is very interesting. You should also check out the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, and the Hermitage Foundation.


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

Lausanne
Prague

Lausanne 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 Lausanne. The city is filled with delicious chocolate, cheese, and wine. Fondue is a favorite, but you'll also find cured meats on most menus. While food can be expensive, it's also high quality and usually locally produced.

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 Lausanne or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Lausanne
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Lausanne has a few options to choose from. There are a surprising number of clubs around town and it's not hard to find somewhere to party. The large student population and the international vibe make this a fascinating place for nightlife.

Is Lausanne or Prague Better for Music?

Lausanne
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Lausanne 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.

Lausanne is not a live music destination.


Is Lausanne or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Lausanne
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

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.

Lausanne is a good destination for visiting its old town. There's a relatively large historic section that has a Gothic cathedral and many quaint shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Lausanne or Prague?

Lausanne
Prague

Shopping is a popular activity in both Prague and Lausanne.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lausanne. You'll find luxury Swiss watch brands, jewelry, chocolate, and many other interesting things to buy. Prices can be high, but so is the quality. It's fun to look, even if you're not planning to purchase.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Lausanne or Prague Better for Families?

Lausanne
Prague

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

Lausanne offers lots of family activities. There are kid-friendly museums, petting zoos, and other fun activities in town. You can also take a boat ride or let the kids run around one of the parks in town.


Is Lausanne or Prague Better for Couples?

Lausanne
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Lausanne is a nice destination for couples. The medieval old city is fun to explore. The lakefront setting also offers fun activities like boating. There are also a number of museums in town to explore.

Is Lausanne or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lausanne
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Lausanne is not particularly known 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.

Lausanne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular town for backpackers but there are some affordable hotels. It's also more reasonably priced than many Swiss cities.

Is Lausanne or Prague Better for Students?

Lausanne
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for students. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Lausanne. There are 11 institutes for higher learning in town, so students make up a significant percentage of the population. The city is also full of culture, making it a very livable city.


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

Lausanne
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Lausanne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive network of transportation options available in town including buses and boats.

Is Lausanne or Prague a more walkable city?

Lausanne
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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.

Lausanne is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city, including the historic sections, and relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Lausanne?

How long in Lausanne or Prague?

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

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

One day in Lausanne or Prague?

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

Prague is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Lausanne or Prague?

Lausanne 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Prague, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Lausanne or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lausanne. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Prague, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Lausanne or Prague?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Lausanne. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Prague has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague or Lausanne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lausanne is $227, while the average daily cost in Prague is $109. 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 Lausanne and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lausanne $136
    Prague $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lausanne $272
    Prague $134
Compare Hotels in Lausanne and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Lausanne 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 Lausanne


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: Lausanne Hotel Prices and Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lausanne $41
    Prague $8.08

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lausanne

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lausanne:

  • Lausanne accommodation to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Private Transfer: $53
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Évian-les-Bains: $160
  • Taxi, Airport Transfer and Limousine Service in Switzerland: $233

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 Lausanne or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague and Lausanne 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
    Lausanne $62
    Prague $26

Typical Food Prices in Prague

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


  • Fruit
    $4.20
  • Lunch for One
    $13
  • Bananas
    $0.59
  • Cookies
    $0.33

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.
    Lausanne $38
    Prague $16

Tours and Activities in Lausanne

Here are a few actual costs in Lausanne for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Modern Medeival A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Medieval A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Lausanne Highlights Self Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Lausanne Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided City Walking Tour: $15
  • Lausanne (Ouchy District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Lausanne (City Center) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Lausanne Ouchy District City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • The Olympic Museum Entry Ticket: $22

Typical Entertainment Prices in Prague

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


  • Opera Tickets
    $4.20
  • Two Tickets for Charles Bridge Tower
    $5.88
  • Image Theatre for Two
    $40

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
    Lausanne $27
    Prague $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Lausanne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lausanne:

  • Swiss cheese and charcuterie wine tasting: $50

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
    $6.68

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lausanne and Prague, we can see that Lausanne 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 Lausanne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lausanne 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 Lausanne Expensive? and Is Prague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Lausanne or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lausanne. When comparing the sizes of Lausanne 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.