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

Should you visit Vienna or Prague?

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

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

Vienna

Vienna is a classical, traditional, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty in Vienna as well. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping. See Vienna travel costs.

Prague

Prague is a fun-filled, cultural, and historical city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Prague is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, shopping, and museums. See Prague travel costs.

Vienna and Prague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Prague?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Prague than Vienna. While Vienna is larger than Prague, Prague has more sights and attractions for tourists. Prague is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and big city activities, while Vienna is more popular for its food and shopping. Vienna is well known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Prague is well 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.

How is Vienna different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Prague is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Prague are world-renowned. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Vienna. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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

Vienna 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 Vienna. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

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 Vienna or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Prague is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Vienna or Prague Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Vienna and Prague.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Vienna. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

In Prague you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Is Vienna or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Vienna and Prague both have world-class historical old towns that attract visitors.

With a famous historical old-town, Vienna offers plenty to see. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Prague?

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

The abundance of shops in Vienna make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

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. You'll find tons of souvenir and trinket shops throughout the area.

Is Vienna or Prague More Beautiful?

Vienna and Prague are somewhat similar when it comes to the world-class scenery.

Vienna is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city has beautiful Baroque architecture and a livable atmosphere.

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.

Is Vienna or Prague Better for Families?

Prague is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Prague is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Vienna or Prague Better for Couples?

Vienna and Prague are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Vienna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

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.

Is Vienna or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Prague is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Prague is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Vienna is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Vienna or Prague Better for Students?

Both Vienna and Prague are world-class destinations for students.

Vienna is a great destination for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Prague is a very popular city 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 Vienna or Prague Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Visitors in Vienna can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

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.

Is Vienna or Prague a more walkable city?

Vienna and Prague are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Prague?

Both Vienna 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 Vienna. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

Families should spend more time in Prague than Vienna. 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.

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

One day in Vienna or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Vienna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Prague is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Vienna or Prague?

Vienna 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 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.

Five days in Vienna or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vienna. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Prague. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Vienna or Prague?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the classical destination of Vienna. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Prague is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Austria, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Vienna and Prague, we can see that Vienna is more expensive. And not only is Prague much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Prague would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Prague and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Vienna would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Vienna than you might in Prague.

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

Which is Bigger, Vienna or Prague?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Prague. When comparing the sizes of Vienna 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 Vienna 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 Vienna or Prague in the Summer?

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

Vienna is a little warmer than Prague in the summer. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Prague fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Prague. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vienna this time of the year. In the summer, Vienna often gets more sunshine than Prague. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in July than Prague. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Prague in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Vienna is a little warmer than Prague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vienna in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Prague averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Prague during autumn. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vienna usually receives around the same amount of rain as Prague. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vienna or Prague in the Winter?

Both Prague and Vienna during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Vienna can be very cold during winter. In January, Vienna is generally much warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 2°C (36°F), and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Vienna often gets more sunshine than Prague. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in January than Prague. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Prague in the Spring?

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

Vienna is a little warmer than Prague in the spring. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Prague during spring. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vienna usually receives around the same amount of rain as Prague. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Prague and Vienna