A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Prague for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Saaremaa or Prague?

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

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

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a relaxed, traditional, and quiet island. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

Prague

Prague is a fun-filled, cultural, and historical city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Saaremaa and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Prague?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Prague. Although Saaremaa and Prague are both popular with visitors, Prague has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Prague is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Saaremaa is known for its food, beaches, and small town charm. Prague is more touristy than Saaremaa 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. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Prague has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Saaremaa
Prague

Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

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 Saaremaa or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

Prague has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Prague Better for Music?

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Saaremaa 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.

Saaremaa is not a live music destination.


Is Saaremaa or Prague Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa
Prague

Saaremaa is a good destination for the beache. However, Prague is not a beach destination.

Saaremaa offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Prague is not a beach destination.

Is Saaremaa or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Prague offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Prague?

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is great for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Saaremaa or Prague Better for Families?

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Prague. 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.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Prague Better for Couples?

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Saaremaa is a very popular place to visit for couples. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Is Saaremaa or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.


Is Saaremaa or Prague Better for Students?

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with 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.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.

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

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Prague is top-notch. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Prague a more walkable city?

Saaremaa
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

Prague is a very easy city to get around 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.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.


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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Prague?

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

Families should spend more time in Prague than Saaremaa. 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 Saaremaa. 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 Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Prague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saaremaa 2-4 
    Prague 2-7

One day in Saaremaa or Prague?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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 Saaremaa or Prague?

Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saaremaa. 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 Saaremaa or Prague?

Saaremaa is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island 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 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague or Saaremaa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saaremaa is €101, while the average daily cost in Prague is €102. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Saaremaa and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saaremaa 36
    Prague 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saaremaa 72
    Prague 126
Compare Hotels in Saaremaa and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa


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: Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saaremaa 47
    Prague 7.57
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Saaremaa:


  • Rental Car and Gas for a Day
    34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Prague

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:

  • Sightseeing Transfer to Salzburg via Cesky Krumlov: $1,437
  • Private transfer from Prague to Krakow: $1,059
  • Private transfer from Prague to Frankfurt am Main: $1,059
  • Private transfer from Prague to Budapest: $1,059
  • Private transfer from Prague to Munich: $695
  • Airport Transfer Beer Party Bus with Unlimited Beer: $587
  • Private sightseeing transfer Prague - Vienna: $425
  • Luxury transfer from Prague to Česky Krumlov: $293
  • Transfer from Prague to Salzburg with Tour Stop in Cesky Krumlov: $291
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Prague to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $289
  • Private Transfer From Prague To Berlin With 2h For Sightseeing: $289
  • Private Transfer from Prague to Salzburg with local English-speaking driver: $289

Is it cheaper to fly into Saaremaa or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague and Saaremaa 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
    Saaremaa 37
    Prague 24
Typical Food Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saaremaa:


  • Salmon
    1.28

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.
    Saaremaa 21
    Prague 15

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:

  • City Tour with Prague Castle with Live guide: $44
  • Live Virtual Tour of Prague: $58
  • Private live-guided E-Scooter TOURS around Prague : $44
  • 1 hour Prague Panoramic Vltava River sightseeing Cruise: $17
  • 1–Hour Vintage Car Tour: $128
  • 1,5 hour oldtimer convertible Prague sightseeing tour: $164
  • 1,5-Hour Prague Magical Segway Tour: $68
  • 1-Hour Introductory Tour of Prague Castle With Fast-GET Admission Ticket: $43
  • 1.5 Hour SEGWAY Tour of Prague: $63
  • 1000 years of history! Evening walking foodie tour: $145
  • 2 Countries Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland tour from Prague: $169
  • 2 Hours Guided Prague Behind The Iron Curtain Communism Tour: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saaremaa 11
    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 Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa Expensive? and Is Prague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Prague in the Summer?

Both Prague and Saaremaa during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Prague in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saaremaa is generally cooler than Prague. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 17°C (62°F), and Prague fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Prague, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saaremaa. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Prague. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in July than Prague. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saaremaa 17°C (62°F) 
    Prague 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Prague in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Prague. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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.

Saaremaa is cooler than Prague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 8°C (47°F) in October, and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Prague during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saaremaa usually receives more rain than Prague. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saaremaa 8°C (47°F) 
    Prague 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Prague in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Prague. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. Saaremaa can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Saaremaa is much colder than Prague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saaremaa in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Prague averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Prague. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Prague. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saaremaa -3°C (27°F) 
    Prague 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Prague in the Spring?

Both Prague and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

The weather in Saaremaa can be very cold. In April, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Prague. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 4°C (38°F), and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Prague during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Prague. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saaremaa 4°C (38°F) 
    Prague 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Prague and Saaremaa

Saaremaa Prague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 1°C (33°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -3°C (26°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar -1°C (30°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 4°C (38°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 8°C (47°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 0°C (32°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)