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

Should you visit Rouen or Prague?

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

Should I visit Rouen or Prague? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Rouen

Rouen is a historical, charming, and compact city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Prague

Prague is a beautiful, festive, and fun-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Rouen and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Rouen or Prague?

You'll generally find more things to do in Prague than Rouen. Prague is bigger than Rouen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Prague is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Rouen is more popular for its food. Prague is more touristy than Rouen and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. Also, Prague is famous for The Prague Castle. Rouen is well known for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Rouen different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rouen
Prague

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Prague are among the most recognizable in the world. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.


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

Rouen
Prague

Rouen 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 Rouen. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

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 Rouen or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Rouen
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Rouen or Prague Better for Music?

Rouen
Prague

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

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Prague The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Rouen is not a live music destination.


Is Rouen or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Rouen
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Rouen or Prague?

Rouen
Prague

Prague is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Prague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Rouen or Prague Better for Families?

Rouen
Prague

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

Prague is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.


Is Rouen or Prague Better for Couples?

Rouen
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Prague makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Rouen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Rouen or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rouen
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Prague. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

Is Rouen or Prague Better for Students?

Rouen
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for students. However, Rouen is not popular with students.

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

Rouen is not popular with students.


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

Rouen
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

The public transit in Rouen can get you to most places easily. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

Is Rouen or Prague a more walkable city?

Rouen
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Rouen?

How long in Rouen or Prague?

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

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

One day in Rouen or Prague?

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

Each neighborhood in Prague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Rouen or Prague?

Rouen 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 Rouen or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rouen. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Prague is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Prague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Rouen or Prague?

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

Each neighborhood in Prague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague or Rouen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Rouen is €109, 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 Rouen and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rouen 52
    Prague 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rouen 104
    Prague 126
Compare Hotels in Rouen and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Rouen 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 Rouen


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: Rouen Hotel Prices and Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rouen 34
    Prague 7.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rouen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rouen:

  • Round-Trip Private Transfer Rouen Airport URO to Rouen by Minivan: $164

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 Rouen or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague and Rouen 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
    Rouen 35
    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.
    Rouen 18
    Prague 15

Tours and Activities in Rouen

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

  • Rouen audio guided tour: $13
  • Audio guided tour : Rouen retold - Joan of Arc retold: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center: $26
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center of Rouen: $26
  • The OFFICIAL Rouen Tour : The 1-hour must-sees: $27
  • Treetop adventure course in the heart of Rouen: $31
  • The OFFICIAL Rouen Tour : The 2-hours must-sees: $48
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $50
  • Welcome to Private Walking Tour with a Local: $51
  • Private Custom Walking Guided Tour in Rouen: $51
  • Rouen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Discover Rouen with a licenced tour guide: $59

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
    Rouen 7.86
    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 Rouen and Prague, we can see that Rouen 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 Rouen Expensive? and Is Prague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Rouen or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Rouen 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 Rouen 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 Rouen or Prague in the Summer?

Both Prague and Rouen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Rouen for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Prague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Rouen is cooler than Prague in the summer. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, 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 Rouen. Rouen usually receives more sunshine than Prague during summer. Rouen gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rouen usually receives less rain than Prague. Rouen gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Rouen or Prague in the Autumn?

Both Prague and Rouen during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Rouen because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

In the autumn, Rouen is around the same temperature as Prague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rouen in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Prague averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Rouen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Prague. Rouen gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets more rain in October than Prague. Rouen gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Rouen 12°C (53°F) 
    Prague 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Rouen or Prague in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rouen and Prague. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rouen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Prague for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Prague. It's quite cold in Rouen in the winter. In January, Rouen is generally much warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Rouen average around 4°C (39°F), and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Rouen usually receives more sunshine than Prague during winter. Rouen gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rouen usually receives more rain than Prague. Rouen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Rouen 4°C (39°F) 
    Prague 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Rouen or Prague in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rouen as well as Prague. Many travelers come to Rouen for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Prague in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Rouen is around the same temperature as Prague in the spring. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Rouen often gets more sunshine than Prague. Rouen gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Prague. Rouen gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Prague and Rouen

Rouen Prague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 1°C (33°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)