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

Should you visit York or Prague?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a medieval, fanciful, and historic city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Prague

Prague is a beautiful, festive, and fun-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

York and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • 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 York or Prague?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Prague than York. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Prague is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while York attracts visitors for its food. Prague is more touristy than York and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. It is also well known for The Prague Castle. York is famous for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours.

How is York different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

York
Prague

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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Prague that are not to be missed. 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.

Many visitors head to York specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.


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

York
Prague

York is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eat your way through York, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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 York or Prague Better for Nightlife?

York
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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

York has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Is York or Prague Better for Music?

York
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for live music. However, York is not a live music destination.

Prague is a world class music destination. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

York is not a live music destination.


Is York or Prague Better for its Old Town?

York
Prague

It's fun to wander around the amazing old towns in both York and Prague.

The historic old town of York is revered around the world. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

With a famous historical old-town, Prague offers plenty to see. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

Is the Shopping Better in York or Prague?

York
Prague

Prague is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Prague is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or Prague Better for Families?

York
Prague

York 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, York is very family-friendly. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York or Prague Better for Couples?

York
Prague

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

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

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

Is York or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Prague is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Many backpackers visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Is York or Prague Better for Students?

York
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for students. However, York 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.

York is not popular with students.


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

York
Prague

Prague is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Prague can get you around easily. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is York or Prague a more walkable city?

York
Prague

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

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

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or York?

How long in York or Prague?

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

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

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

One day in York or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of York. 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 big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in York or Prague?

York is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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.

Prague is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 beautiful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in York or Prague?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of York. 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 festive city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague or York?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in York is £106, while the average daily cost in Prague is £88. 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 York and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    York £59
    Prague £54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    York £118
    Prague £108
Compare Hotels in York and Prague

Looking for a hotel in York 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 York


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: York Hotel Prices and Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    York £12
    Prague £6.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from Hambleton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $162
  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $270
  • Private Transfer from York to Manchester Airport (MAN): $278

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Prague

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:

  • Bus Transfer Between Prague Airport and the City: $4.95
  • River Cruise with Transfer to Pier: $16
  • Prague Airport Shared Departure Transfer: $17
  • Private Transfer from Prague Airport to Prague Hotels: $22
  • Private Transfer from Prague City Center to Vaclav Airport (PRG): $24
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Prague Airport to Hotels: $25
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Prague Hotel to Prague Airport: $25
  • One Way Shuttle Airport & Hotel Transfer in Prague: $26
  • Express Train Transfer Ticket to and from Krakow: $26
  • Praha: private transfers from Vaclav Havel Airport Prague: $36
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Prague APT-HTL (PRG) : $36
  • Private transfer to the airport (PRG): $37

Is it cheaper to fly into York or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague and York 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
    York £32
    Prague £21
Typical Food Prices in York

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


  • Dinner
    £22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in York

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in York.

  • Breakfast Food Tour in York: $51
  • Party Cruise with Welcome Drink, Dinner, and DJ Music: $55

Typical Food Prices in Prague

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


  • Fruit
    £3.38
  • Lunch for One
    £10
  • Bananas
    £0.48
  • Cookies
    £0.27

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
  • Hard Rock Cafe Prague with Set Lunch or Dinner: $28
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $46
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $52
  • Vltava River Evening Dinner Cruise: $53
  • Folkloric Dinner Show with Unlimited Drinks: $56
  • 2-Hour Dinner Cruise with Transfers: $57
  • River Cruise with Dinner and Live Music: $57
  • Folklore dinner: $58
  • Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks: $59
  • Vltava Dinner Cruise with Music in Prague: $59

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    York £11
    Prague £13

Tours and Activities in York

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

  • Europe’s Most Haunted City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of York: $5.99
  • York Guide - Everybody Hates a Tourist: $6.32
  • Tower Tour: $7.60
  • Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • York Cocoa Works Guided Tour and Tasting: $12
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Original Harry Potter Locations Tour - York: $13
  • Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour & Best of York Award 2024: $13
  • York Bird of Prey Centre Entry Ticket: $14
  • City Chronicles Historical Walking Tour: $15
  • Christmas Guided Walking Tour in York: $15
  • The Deathly Dark Ghost Tour of Experience of the Year 2024: $15

Typical Entertainment Prices in Prague

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


  • Opera Tickets
    £3.38
  • Two Tickets for Charles Bridge Tower
    £4.74
  • Image Theatre for Two
    £32

Tours and Activities in Prague

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

  • Bachelorette / Bachelor Party - City sightseeing Trike Tour: $2.73
  • Royal Prague City sightseeing Electric Trike Tour: $2.94
  • Prague Historical & Viewpoints Retro E-Bike Group Tour: $2.98
  • Sunset View & Adventurous Retro E-Bike Tour: $2.98
  • Bachelorette/Bachelor Party - City sightseeing E-Bike Tour: $3.03
  • Adventurous Sightseeing & Historical Live Guided Trike Tour: $3.03
  • Prague City sightseeing in Night Trike Tour: $3.07
  • Royal Prague City sightseeing Retro E-Bike Live Guided Tour: $3.07
  • Gorgeous Prague Night Retro E-Bike Tour ( Live Guided ): $3.11
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.19
  • Prague Essential Tour Old Town and Jewish Quarter: $3.27
  • New Town: 20th Century with WWII and Communism (Tip based tour): $3.27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    York £13
    Prague £8.84
Typical Alcohol Prices in York

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in York are as follows:


  • A Couple Beers
    £9.00

Sample the Local Flavors in York

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in York:

  • Guided Historic Pub Tour (York): $24
  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $32
  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience: $57

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
    £5.38

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
  • 1 Hour Exclusive Moravian Wine Tasting in an Art Gallery : $23
  • Clock Tower Bar Crawl with Drinks and Shots: $23
  • 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
  • Golden Burlesque Show & Live Music w/ Lady & The Devil: $36
  • Drunken Monkey Pub Crawl: $36
  • Golden BURLESQUE: $41
  • Prague beer tour with brewery visit and tasting: $46
  • 2.5-Hour Prague Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $46


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between York and Prague, we can see that York 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 York would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in York 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 York Expensive? and Is Prague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, York or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York or Prague?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit York or Prague in the Summer?

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

In the summer, York is cooler than Prague. Typically, the summer temperatures in York in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Prague averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Prague. York usually receives less sunshine than Prague during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives less rain than Prague. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    York 16°C (62°F) 
    Prague 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit York or Prague in the Autumn?

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

In October, York is generally around the same temperature as Prague. Daily temperatures in York average around 11°C (52°F), and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, York often gets less sunshine than Prague. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun.

York usually gets more rain in October than Prague. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    York 11°C (52°F) 
    Prague 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit York or Prague in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Prague. It's quite cold in York in the winter. York is much warmer than Prague in the winter. The daily temperature in York averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

York usually receives more sunshine than Prague during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives more rain than Prague. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit York or Prague in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to York as well as Prague. Also, many visitors come to Prague in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, York is cooler than Prague. Typically, the spring temperatures in York in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Prague averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, York often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Prague. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in April than Prague. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    York 8°C (46°F) 
    Prague 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Prague and York

York Prague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (33°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)