Choosing between Prague and Budapest is the ultimate travel dilemma. Both cities are Central European heavyweights that offer historic charm, legendary nightlife, and affordable prices. Prague is the compact, fairytale dream for walkers, while Budapest is a grand, sprawling metropolis famous for its thermal baths and unique "ruin bars." This guide breaks down the atmosphere, activities, and costs to help you decide which one to visit!
Prague: City of a Hundred Spires
Prague is often called the "City of a Hundred Spires" because of its skyline filled with Gothic towers and Baroque domes. It is remarkably well-preserved because it avoided major bombing during world wars, meaning you are seeing original architecture rather than reconstructions.
Walkability and Vibe
The best part about Prague is its human scale. The historic center is mostly pedestrianized and very compact. You can walk from Prague Castle down to the Old Town Square in about 30 minutes. The streets are narrow, winding, and paved with cobblestones, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
Top Things to Do in Prague
If you are putting together an itinerary, the most iconic things to do in Prague start with the Charles Bridge. This 14th-century stone bridge is lined with 30 statues of saints and offers the best views of the Vltava River.
Another must is the Prague Castle complex. It is the largest ancient castle in the world and serves as the office of the Czech president. Check out our list of the most iconic castles in Europe!
While you are in the Old Town Square, make sure to catch the hourly show of the Astronomical Clock, a mechanical marvel that has been ticking since 1410
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Hidden Gems
If you want to escape the main tourist path, head to Vyšehrad. This 10th-century fortress is much quieter than the main castle and offers incredible views of the river. Back in the center, check out the "Infinity Book Tower" in the Municipal Library, where mirrors create the illusion of a never-ending tunnel of books.
Nightlife in Prague
Nightlife in Prague offers a diverse range of scenes, from historic, old-world beer halls and intimate jazz clubs to modern rooftop bars and floating riverside venues. The city is famous for its beer culture, with traditional pubs pouring perfect pints of Czech lager, but also supports a vibrant contemporary cocktail and electronic music scene. For a unique local experience, look for hidden cellar bars and even quirky venues like beer spas. Evening entertainment often starts late, with many places staying busy until the early hours.
Ready to plan your next trip? For more inspiration, be sure to check out our guide to the best cities for first-time travelers.
Budapest: The Grand Metropolis
The city is split down the middle by the wide Danube River. On one side is hilly, residential Buda, and on the other is flat, high-energy Pest.
Scale and Character
Budapest feels much larger and more "lived-in" than Prague. It has wide, grand boulevards and massive monuments that reflect its history as a dual capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. While it is still walkable in sections, you will likely find yourself using the excellent public transport system, including the M1 metro line, which is the oldest on continental Europe.
Top Things to Do in Budapest
The most famous things to do in Budapest revolve around the water. The Hungarian Parliament Building is a Neo-Gothic masterpiece on the riverbank that is best seen from a night cruise.
For relaxation, Budapest is the "thermal spring capital of the world." The Szechenyi Baths are a massive complex of indoor and outdoor pools where you can soak in 100-degree water even in the middle of winter.
Hidden Gems and Other Things to See
For a poignant reminder of history, visit the "Shoes on the Danube" memorial, a series of iron footwear representing those executed during WWII. If you enjoy quirky history, Memento Park is an open-air museum housing massive statues from Hungary’s communist era. For a green escape, Margaret Island is a 2.5 km park in the middle of the river featuring a Japanese garden, medieval ruins, and a musical fountain that performs to pop hits.
Nightlife in Budapest
The nightlife here is world-famous, mostly due to the "ruin bars." These are eclectic pubs built into abandoned buildings in the old Jewish District. Szimpla Kert is the original, filled with old cars, mismatched furniture, and fairy lights. For a more modern clubbing experience, the Instant-Fogas complex is a massive multi-room venue with several dance floors under one roof. If you want a party you’ll never forget, look for a "Sparty" at the Széchenyi Baths, where the thermal pools turn into a massive late-night rave with light shows and DJs.
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