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

Should you visit Osaka or Prague?

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

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

Osaka

Osaka is a high energy, colorful, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the live music, shopping, and museums.

Osaka and Prague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Prague?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Prague than Osaka. While Osaka is larger than Prague, Prague has more sights and attractions for tourists. Prague is more popular for its music, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Osaka is known for its food and shopping. Prague is more touristy than Osaka and is popular for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. It is also home to The Prague Castle. Osaka is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city.

How is Osaka different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Prague and Osaka.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Osaka has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

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.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Osaka, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

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 Osaka or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Both Osaka and Prague have world-class vibes after the sun sets.

People head to Osaka just to party. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

The nightlife in Prague is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Is Osaka or Prague Better for Music?

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

Prague has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Prague Better for its Old Town?

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

Osaka is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Prague?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Prague is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Osaka make it a world-class shopping destination. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

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

Is Osaka or Prague Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Osaka. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

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.

Is Osaka or Prague Better for Couples?

Prague is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Osaka frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

Is Osaka or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Prague is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Prague, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Osaka. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Is Osaka or Prague Better for Students?

Prague is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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 Osaka. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

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

Visitors will find world-class public transit in both Osaka and Prague.

With a huge network, the transit system in Osaka can get you around easily. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

Visitors in Prague can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

Is Osaka or Prague a more walkable city?

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

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

Osaka is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Prague?

Both Osaka 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 Osaka. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

Families should spend more time in Prague than Osaka. 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 Osaka. 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 Osaka if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Prague.

One day in Osaka or Prague?

Osaka 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.

In Prague, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful big city offers. 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 Osaka or Prague?

Osaka 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 Osaka or Prague?

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

Prague is a fun place to experience. In Prague, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this big city destination offers. 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 Osaka or Prague?

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

In Prague, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this beautiful big city offers. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Osaka and Prague, we can see that Prague is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Osaka is in Asia and Prague is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Osaka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Osaka 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 Prague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Prague than you might in Osaka.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Prague?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Prague. When comparing the sizes of Osaka 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 Osaka or Prague?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Osaka or Prague in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Prague. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Prague in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Prague fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Prague. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Prague. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the summer. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Prague. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Prague in the Autumn?

Both Prague and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Osaka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Prague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Osaka is much warmer than Prague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Prague during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Prague. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Prague in the Winter?

Both Prague and Osaka during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Prague because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Prague can be very cold. In the winter, Osaka is much warmer than Prague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Prague averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Prague. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets more rain in January than Prague. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Prague in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Prague. The spring months attract visitors to Osaka because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

In April, Osaka is generally much warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Prague during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Prague. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Prague and Osaka