A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Taupo vs. Prague for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Taupo or Prague?

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

Should I visit Taupo 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.

Taupo

Taupo is a stunning, otherworldly, and striking town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Taupo is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Taupo travel costs.

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. The famous beauty of Prague is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Prague travel costs.

Taupo and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less charming
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 Taupo or Prague?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Prague than Taupo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Prague is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Taupo is more popular for its skiing, food, hiking, and small town charm. Prague is more touristy than Taupo 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. Taupo is well known for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes.

How is Taupo different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Taupo or Prague Better for Skiing?

Taupo
Prague

Taupo is an unbeatable place for snow skiing. However, Prague is not a skiing destination.

Taupo is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Prague is not a skiing destination.


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

Taupo
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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. Throughout the Old Town you'll see the spires of the many churches which define the city's skyline. The Prague Castle is not to be missed as it's the largest castle complex in the world.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

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

Taupo
Prague

Taupo 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 Taupo. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

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 Taupo or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Taupo
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Prague is a world class party destination. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

If you're looking for night time activities Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.


Is Taupo or Prague Better for Music?

Taupo
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Taupo 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. Many visitors specifically come just to experience the world class music scene.

Taupo is not a live music destination.

Is Taupo or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Taupo
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Taupo does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Prague can be explored in its historical center. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world. It truly feels like something out of a fairytale. Most of the tourists spend the majority of their time exploring the old town, and after a full day of wandering, you can cozy up with a strudel and a drink in one of the many cafes.

Taupo does not have a historic old town.

Is Taupo or Prague Better for Hiking?

Taupo
Prague

Taupo is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Prague is not a hiking destination.

Taupo is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

Prague is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Taupo or Prague?

Taupo
Prague

Prague is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular 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. You'll find tons of souvenir and trinket shops throughout the area.

Taupo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Is Taupo or Prague More Beautiful?

Taupo
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Prague is one of the main draws. The city is filled with beautiful historic architecture and stunning landmarks. It's a truly historic and impressive city.

Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the lake, there is stunning natural beauty in the area and many breathtaking views.

Is Taupo or Prague Better for Families?

Taupo
Prague

Taupo is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Prague is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Taupo is very family-friendly. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

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.


Is Taupo or Prague Better for Couples?

Taupo
Prague

With fun activities for couples, both Taupo and Prague make for a amazing place to visit.

Taupo makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Prague 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.

Is Taupo or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taupo
Prague

Taupo and Prague are amazing places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Taupo. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

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

Is Taupo or Prague Better for Students?

Taupo
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for students. However, Taupo 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.

Taupo is not popular with students.


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

Taupo
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Prague has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

While Taupo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

Is Taupo or Prague a more walkable city?

Taupo
Prague

Prague is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Prague on foot is easy. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

Taupo is a somewhat walkable town. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Taupo?

How long in Taupo or Prague?

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

Families should spend more time in Taupo than Prague. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Taupo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Prague than Taupo. 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 Taupo 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 Taupo or Prague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taupo 2-3 
    Prague 2-7

One day in Taupo or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Taupo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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 Taupo or Prague?

Taupo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. 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 Taupo or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taupo. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Taupo or Prague?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Taupo. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague or Taupo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Taupo is $128, while the average daily cost in Prague is $147. 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 Taupo and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taupo $62
    Prague $77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taupo $124
    Prague $154
Compare Hotels in Taupo and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Taupo 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 Taupo


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: Taupo Hotel Prices and Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taupo $25
    Prague $9.25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taupo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Taupo:

  • Tongariro Crossing : 2 Day PRIVATE TRANSFER Leaving AUCKLAND: $1,101

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Prague

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:

  • VIP Private Transfer from Prague Airport to Hotel in Prague: $72
  • 1.5h Small Group Segway Tour & Free Taxi Transfer ️with PragueWay: $73
  • Airport Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Business Car: $59
  • Airport Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Luxury Van: $64
  • Airport Transfer: Prague to Prague Airport PRG by Luxury Car: $74
  • Arrival Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Luxury Van: $64
  • Budapest: Private transfer to Prague or Prague to Budapest: $429
  • Departure Transfer: Prague to Prague Airport PRG by Luxury Van: $64
  • From Prague to Munich Airport - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $259
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Prague Airport: $73
  • Prague Airport (PRG) to Karlovy Vary - Arrival Private Transfer : $168
  • Prague Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Taupo or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague and Taupo 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
    Taupo $41
    Prague $51

Typical Food Prices in Prague

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


  • Fruit
    $4.84
  • Lunch for One
    $15
  • Bananas
    $0.68
  • Cookies
    $0.38

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: $17
  • Hard Rock Cafe Prague with Set Lunch or Dinner: $32
  • Folklore Dinner with Unlimited Drinks 4course Menu: $64
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $70
  • Prague Boats 3-hour Dinner Cruise: $73
  • Prague 5 Courses Medieval Dinner and Live Performances: $77
  • Prague Old Town And Beer Walking Tour Including Dinner: $83
  • Prague Boats 3-hours Crystal Dinner Cruise: $85
  • Prague Night Tour and River Vltava Dinner Cruise: $85
  • Alternative bar tour with dinner in the art district: $89
  • Savor 10 Course Dinner in Chef’s Kitchen: $95
  • Prague to Detenice Medieval Castle, Brewery and Dinner Experience: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Taupo $34
    Prague $18
Typical Entertainment Prices in Taupo

Here are a few typical costs in Taupo for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Bungy Jumping
    $151
  • Jet Boating
    $56

Tours and Activities in Taupo

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

  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Marvelous Circus: $22
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Candy Cottage: $22
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Cursed Cabin: $22
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Hunting Lodge: $22
  • Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave Entry Ticket: $28
  • Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise aboard Ernest Kemp: $30
  • Self-Guided Geothermal Tour in Orakei Korako: $30
  • Lake Maori Rock Carvings 10.30 AM 1.5-Hour Cruise: $34
  • Lake 1.5-Hour Maori Rock Carvings 5:00 PM Cruise: $34
  • Lake Maori Rock Carvings 8.30 AM 1.5-Hour Cruise: $34
  • Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures - Kindred Spirit: $35
  • Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo: $35

Typical Entertainment Prices in Prague

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


  • Opera Tickets
    $4.84
  • Two Tickets for Charles Bridge Tower
    $6.77
  • Image Theatre for Two
    $46

Tours and Activities in Prague

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

  • Grand City Tour of Prague on Retro Styled E-Bike : $3.59
  • Prague Trike & e-Scooter Tour: Castle Viewpoints & Charles Bridge: $3.59
  • Grand City Tour on E-Trike in Prague : $3.59
  • Electric Trike Night Tour in Prague - Live Guided : $3.59
  • E-Bike, E-Scooter Viewpoint Fun Tour: $3.59
  • Prague Sightseeing Express Tour in Classic Car : $3.59
  • Retro Style E-Bike Night Tour in Prague - Live Guided : $3.59
  • Self Guided Tours Prague With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.59
  • Classic Prague Castle Tour, Strahov Monastery & Castle District: $3.61
  • Prague Castle Walking Tour (Tip-based tour): $3.61
  • Prague’s TOP Sights - Old Town, Jewish Quarter, Charles Bridge (Tip-based tour): $3.61
  • Iconic Prague Tour Old Town, Jewish Quarter and Charles Bridge : $3.61

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Taupo $13
    Prague $13
Typical Alcohol Prices in Taupo

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


  • Wine
    $5.03

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
    $7.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Prague

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

  • ️ Segway Fun Tour of Prague to Castle and Strahov Monastery viewpoint & Brewery: $63
  • Craft Beer Tour: Try 8 Czech Beers, Brewery and Beer Garden: $63
  • Prague Historic Pub Tour with Drinks Included: $66
  • PUB CRAWL IN PRAGUE | Admission Ticket: $66
  • Brewery tour in the center of Prague: $69
  • Prague Microbrewery Tour and Beer Tasting: $75
  • Wine Tasting and History Prague : $96
  • Prague Segway Tour - 3-hour Double Monastery & Brewery Tour : $114
  • 3 in 1 Tour Brewery & Castle in Bohemian Paradise Unesco Geopark: $132
  • COUNTRY BIKE TOUR TO UNETICE BREWERY. Bike / e-Bike tour: $143
  • Live-Guided 3 Hours Brewery Segway Tour + Monastic Beer: $162
  • Bohemian Switzerland From Prague with Brewery Tour & Beer Tasting: $179


When comparing the travel costs between Taupo 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. Even though Taupo is in Pacific and Prague is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Taupo or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Taupo. When comparing the sizes of Taupo 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.