Which city is cheaper, Prague or Zurich?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Prague for Attractions, Nightlife, Music, and Old Town
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Should you visit Zurich or Prague?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Prague. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.
Zurich
Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.
Prague
Prague is a historical, beautiful, and festive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.
Zurich and Prague: Pros and Cons
Zurich
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Impressive beauty
Prague
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Less popular for food
How is Zurich different from Prague?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Prague and Zurich. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Is Zurich or Prague Better for Museums and Historical Sights?
Zurich
Prague
Plenty of people visit the sights and museums in both Zurich and Prague.
Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.
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.
Is Zurich or Prague Better for Food?
Zurich
Prague
Most foodies will appreciate the restaurant options in Zurich a bit more than Prague.
Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.
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 Zurich or Prague Better for Nightlife?
Zurich
Prague
Both Zurich and Prague are comparable when it comes to partying.
Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.
Prague is a must-see 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.
Is Zurich or Prague Better for Music?
Zurich
Prague
Both Zurich and Prague offer a variety of live music venues.
The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.
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.
Is Zurich or Prague Better for its Old Town?
Zurich
Prague
Visitors enjoy the old town areas in both Zurich and Prague.
The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.
Prague has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.
Is Zurich or Prague Better for Shopping?
Zurich
Prague
Both Zurich and Prague are good shopping destinations.
The abundance of shops in Zurich make it a world-class shopping destination. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.
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.
Is Zurich or Prague Better for Families?
Zurich
Prague
Both Zurich and Prague are family-friendly destinations.
Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.
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 Zurich or Prague Better for Couples?
Zurich
Prague
Zurich and Prague both fun destinations for a couple.
Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.
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.
Is Zurich or Prague Better for Students?
Zurich
Prague
Zurich and Prague are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.
Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.
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.
Is Zurich or Prague Better for Public Transit?
Zurich
Prague
Both Zurich and Prague offer public transit options.
Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.
The thorough and effecient public transit system of Prague can take you anywhere. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.
Is Zurich or Prague a more walkable city?
Zurich
Prague
Zurich and Prague both are comparable when exploring on foot.
Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.
It's very easy to get around on foot in Prague. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.
Should I spend more time in Prague or Zurich?
How long in Zurich or Prague?
Both Zurich 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 Zurich.
The ideal length of time for a trip to Zurich is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Prague is 2-7 days.
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How many days in Zurich or Prague? Ideal Length of StayZurich 2-5Prague 2-7
One day in Zurich or Prague?
Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zurich. 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 Zurich or Prague?
Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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 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 Zurich or Prague?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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 Zurich or Prague?
Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the liberal destination of Zurich. 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.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayZurich $273Prague $119
The average daily cost (per person) in Zurich is $273, while the average daily cost in Prague is $119. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zurich and Prague in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personZurich $173Prague $73
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomZurich $346Prague $146
Compare Hotels in Zurich and Prague
Looking for a hotel in Zurich 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.
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: Zurich Hotel Prices and Prague Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Zurich $36Prague $8.84
Typical Local Transportation prices in Zurich
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:
-
City Pass (2)$29
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:
- Ultra - Zurich Private Airport Transfer from Train Station to Zurich Airport ZRH: $9.41
- Ultra - Zurich Private Transfer from Train Station to Zurich City Centre: $9.41
- Ultra - Zurich Private Transfer from Zurich City Centre to Train Station: $9.41
- Ultra - Davos Private Airport Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Davos: $9.41
- Ultra - Zurich Private Airport Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to City Centre: $9.41
- Ultra - Zurich Private Airport Transfer from City Centre to Zurich Airport ZRH: $9.41
- Ultra - Zurich Private Airport Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Train Station: $9.41
- Shared Arrival Transfer: Zurich Airport to Hotel: $31
- Shared Departure Transfer: Hotel to Zurich Airport: $31
- Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: Zurich Airport: $39
- Private Departure Transfer from Zurich City to ZRH Zurich Airport: $39
- Private Arrival Transfer from ZRH Zurich Airport to Zurich City: $39
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Prague
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:
- Ultra - Prague Private Airport Transfer from City Centre to Prague Airport PRG: $8.71
- Prague Airport Shared Departure Transfer: $12
- Prague Airport Shared Arrival Transfer And Half-Day City Walking Tour: $13
- Shared Departure Transfer: Prague Hotel to Prague Airport: $14
- Prague Airport: Shared Shuttle Transfers: $16
- Private Airport Transfer: from Prague to Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG): $17
- Private Airport Transfer: Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) to Prague: $17
- Private Departure Transfer from Prague to Prague Airports: $17
- Private Arrival Transfer from Vaclav Airport (PRG) to Prague City Center: $18
- Private Departure Transfer from Prague City Center to Vaclav Airport (PRG): $18
- Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: Prague Airport: $19
- Transfer in Private Vehicle from Prague City Center to Airport: $21
Is it cheaper to fly into Zurich or Prague?
Prices for flights to both Prague and Zurich 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
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Food Meals for one dayZurich $63Prague $28
Typical Food prices in Zurich
Some typical examples of dining costs in Zurich are as follows:
-
Breakfast for 2$14
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zurich
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zurich.
- Culinary Tour from Zurich with Traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue Dinner: $154
- Overnight Mount Titlis including 4-course dinner: $545
Typical Food prices in Prague
Some typical examples of dining costs in Prague are as follows:
-
Fruit$4.60
-
Lunch for One$14
-
Bananas$0.65
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Cookies$0.36
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Prague
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Prague.
- Prague City Tour by Bus With Optional Boat Tour, Charles Bridge Museum and Dinner: $15
- Traditional Balkan Burek cooking class and dinner in Prague for small groups: $59
- Medieval Dinner with Transfers: $69
- 3-Hour Dinner Cruise with Transfers: $77
- Mozart Concert and Dinner in Prague: $82
- Roman pasta cooking class and dinner in Prague: $90
- Czech Folklore Show with dinner and private transfer: $96
- Dinner cruise - open buffet - with 2 incl transfers: $106
- Folklore Evening Including Traditional Czech Dinner in Prague: $107
- Medieval Dinner with Transfers: $108
- Medieval dinner in Prague with incl transports: $118
- Prague Cooking Class with Tereza: $121
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Zurich $36Prague $18
Tours and Activities in Zurich
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zurich are as follows:
- Zurich Private Tour: Albert Einstein Old Town Exploration Game: $7.45
- Historical Zürich: An audio tour through the city of a thousand fountains: $9.99
- Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket: $16
- Museum Rietberg Zurich Entrance Ticket: $21
- Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours: $27
- Shopping and History Tour of Zurich: $30
- Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: $30
- Zürich Historic District Tour: $30
- Swiss Chocolate Walking Tour of Zurich: $36
- Zurich Highlights Tour: $40
- Zurich City Tour Experience: $40
- Zurich Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $45
Typical Entertainment prices in Prague
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Prague are as follows:
-
Opera Tickets$4.60
-
Two Tickets for Charles Bridge Tower$6.44
-
Image Theatre for Two$44
Tours and Activities in Prague
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Prague are as follows:
- Skip the Line: Prague Botanical Garden Outdoor Exposition Ticket: $4.35
- Entrance Ticket: $5.29
- Entrance Ticket: $6.22
- Skip the Line: iFriday & iWeekend at Apple Museum: Discount PASS Ticket: $6.84
- Skip the Line: iMonday at Apple Museum: Discount PASS Ticket: $7.09
- Skip the Line: Prague - Papilonia - Butterfly House Ticket: $7.71
- Old Town Exploration Game & City Tour: $7.93
- Skip the Line: Apple Museum in Prague Entrance Ticket: $8.71
- Skip the Line Access to LEGO® Museum in the Centre of Prague: $9.21
- Everyday Prague Tour: $11
- Skip-the-Line Prague National Film Museum Ticket: $11
- Skip the Line: iTuesday & iWednesday at Apple Museum: Discount PASS Ticket: $11
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayZurich $30Prague $12
Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich
Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Pub Crawl Zurich: $29
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$7.31
Sample the Local Flavors in Prague
Also in Prague, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Bar Crawl with 2-Hour Open Bar: $28
- Taste wine properly - wine tasting session: $30
- 1-Hour Segway Experience and Brewery Tour: $56
- 3-hour Brewery Segway Tour including Monastic Beers: $85
- Private 3-Hour Monastery Brewery Segway Tour + Beers: $85
- Private Karlovy Vary with Royal Brewery or Mozer Full Day Trip: $128
- Private Kutna Hora with Sedlec Ossuary and Local brewery Full Day Trip: $149
- Pilsner Urquell brewery and Pilsen City Private tour from Prague All-Inclusive: $199
- Prague Wine Tasting and Countryside Small-Group Tour with Lunch: $215
- Private Tour: Chateau Lany and Krakovec Castle and Krusovice Royal Brewery from Prague Including Tasting and Czech Lunch: $217
- Pilsner Urquell brewery private day trip and cheese tasting on family eco-farm: $220
- Private Pilsner Urquell brewery, Pilsen City and Bohemian Glass factory day tour: $230
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zurich and Prague, we can see that Zurich 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 Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich than you might in Prague.
When is the best time to visit Zurich 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 Zurich or Prague in the Summer?
Both Prague and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Prague this time of year.
Zurich is a little warmer than Prague in the summer. The temperature in Zurich is usually 21°C (70°F) in July, and Prague stays around 19°C (66°F).
It's quite sunny in Prague. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Prague during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Prague. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyZurich 21°C (70°F)Prague 19°C (66°F)
Should I visit Zurich or Prague in the Autumn?
Both Prague and Zurich during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Prague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
In the autumn, Zurich is a little warmer than Prague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October are around 13°C (56°F), and Prague is about 11°C (52°F).
In the autumn, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Prague. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun.
Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Prague. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberZurich 13°C (56°F)Prague 11°C (52°F)
Should I visit Zurich or Prague in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Prague. Many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Prague in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Prague can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. In January, Zurich is generally much warmer than Prague. Temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Prague stays around 1°C (33°F).
Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Prague during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Prague. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryZurich 3°C (37°F)Prague 1°C (33°F)
Should I visit Zurich or Prague in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Prague. Many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Prague for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.
Zurich is a little warmer than Prague in the spring. The temperature in Zurich is usually 12°C (53°F) in April, and Prague stays around 10°C (49°F).
In the spring, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Prague. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun.
Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Prague. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilZurich 12°C (53°F)Prague 10°C (49°F)
Typical Weather for Prague and Zurich
| Zurich | Prague | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 3°C (37°F) | 77 mm (3 in) | 1°C (33°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) |
| Feb | 5°C (40°F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) | 2°C (35°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) |
| Mar | 8°C (46°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) | 6°C (42°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) |
| Apr | 12°C (53°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) | 10°C (49°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| May | 16°C (60°F) | 101 mm (4 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
| Jun | 19°C (66°F) | 100 mm (3.9 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
| Jul | 21°C (70°F) | 89 mm (3.5 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 70 mm (2.7 in) |
| Aug | 21°C (69°F) | 104 mm (4.1 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
| Sep | 18°C (64°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) | 16°C (60°F) | 52 mm (2.1 in) |
| Oct | 13°C (56°F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) |
| Nov | 7°C (45°F) | 82 mm (3.2 in) | 6°C (43°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
| Dec | 4°C (39°F) | 83 mm (3.3 in) | 2°C (36°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
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