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

Should you visit Tartu or Prague?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tartu and Prague can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tartu

Tartu is a historical, lively, and intellectual university town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife.

Prague

Prague is a cultural, historical, and beautiful 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.

Tartu and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Tartu or Prague?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Prague than Tartu, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Prague is more touristy than Tartu 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. Tartu is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Tartu different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tartu
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Tartu 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.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tartu
Prague

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tartu and Prague can be difficult as they are each decent in their own way.

Tartu may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Prague offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Tartu or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town 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.

Tartu offers plenty to do in the evening. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

Is Tartu or Prague Better for Music?

Tartu
Prague

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

Tartu is not a live music destination.


Is Tartu or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Tartu. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Prague?

Tartu
Prague

Prague is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Prague Better for Families?

Tartu
Prague

Prague is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town 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.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.


Is Tartu or Prague Better for Couples?

Tartu
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Prague is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Tartu or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town 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 Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Tartu or Prague Better for Students?

Tartu
Prague

For students, both Tartu and Prague are fantastic places to visit.

Tartu is a very popular university town for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

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


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

Tartu
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town 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.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Tartu or Prague a more walkable city?

Tartu
Prague

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town 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.

Tartu is very walkable. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Prague?

Both Tartu 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 Tartu. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Tartu, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

Families should spend more time in Prague than Tartu. 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 Tartu. 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 Tartu 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 Tartu or Prague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Prague 2-7

One day in Tartu or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Tartu. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Tartu or Prague?

Tartu 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 Tartu or Prague?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the cultural destination of Tartu. This university town 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.

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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget 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 Tartu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tartu is €105, 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 Tartu and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Prague 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Prague 126
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Tartu 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 Tartu


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: Tartu Hotel Prices and Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Prague 7.57

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 Tartu or Prague?

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

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


  • Danishes
    0.76
  • Lunch for Two
    4.93
  • Ice Cream
    1.27
  • Cookies
    0.51
  • Coffee & Cake
    3.47

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.
    Tartu 16
    Prague 15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Tartu

For Tartu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Art Museum ticket
    0.95
  • Movie Ticket
    3.47

Tours and Activities in Tartu

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tartu.

  • European Capital of Culture 2024 - Cycling Tour: $14
  • Around Viljandi bike tour: $27
  • TARTU COUNTRY: SLED DOG TOUR & KENNEL VISIT: $75
  • Magical Tartu Romantic Walking Tour: $127
  • Charming Viljandi Walking Tour for Couples: $142
  • Spectacular Christmas Walking Tour in Viljandi: $199
  • Traditional Christmas Walking Tour in Tartu: $234

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
    Tartu 16
    Prague 10

Typical Alcohol Prices in Prague

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Prague from other travelers:


  • A Bottle of Wine
    6.26

Sample the Local Flavors in Prague

Also in Prague, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Staropramem Brewery Self-Guided Tour with Tasting: $13
  • Clock Tower Bar Crawl with Drinks and Shots: $23
  • Clock Tower Bar Crawl in Prague: $26
  • 1 Hour Exclusive Moravian Wine Tasting in an Art Gallery : $28
  • Pub Crawl in Prague: $32
  • Pub Crawl and International Party: $34
  • Pub Crawl with Open Bar and VIP Entry: $34
  • Pub Crawl with 2-Hour Open Bar at Drunken Monkey: $35
  • Drunken Monkey Pub Crawl: $36
  • Golden Burlesque Show & Live Music w/ Lady & The Devil: $36
  • Golden BURLESQUE: $42
  • Prague beer tour with brewery visit and tasting: $46


When comparing the travel costs between Tartu and Prague, we can see that Tartu 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 Tartu Expensive? and Is Prague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Prague?

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

Both Prague and Tartu during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Prague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tartu is generally cooler than Prague. Daily temperatures in Tartu 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 Tartu. In the summer, Tartu often gets more sunshine than Prague. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Prague. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Tartu or Prague in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Prague. Many travelers come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Prague in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Tartu is much colder than Prague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 6°C (43°F) in October, and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Prague during autumn. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tartu usually receives more rain than Prague. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tartu 6°C (43°F) 
    Prague 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Prague in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Prague. Many visitors come to Tartu in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Prague for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Prague can be very cold during winter. Tartu can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Tartu is much colder than Prague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tartu in January average around -7°C (19°F), and Prague averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Prague. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets less rain in January than Prague. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tartu -7°C (19°F) 
    Prague 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Prague in the Spring?

Both Prague and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tartu for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Prague because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Tartu can be very cold during spring. In April, Tartu is generally much colder than Prague. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 5°C (41°F), and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Tartu usually receives more sunshine than Prague during spring. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tartu usually receives less rain than Prague. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tartu 5°C (41°F) 
    Prague 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Prague and Tartu

Tartu Prague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 1°C (33°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -6°C (20°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 26 mm (1 in) 6°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 6°C (43°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -4°C (25°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)