Vienna and Prague are two of the best European capitals that have a rich history, diversity and so much to learn from that you have to visit them. When trying to explore the best city: Prague or Vienna then it all comes down to what you are looking for in a city and your budget. In all situations, you should always have an insight into the cities before the visit. Vienna is the capital city of Austria. It is the largest city in the country and with a population of about 1.7 million. This is the economic, cultural, and political center of the country. It is classified as a historic site by UNESCO. According to many people who have visited Vienna, they feel that the city is more of a museum than a city itself. However, there is so much that you can learn and enjoy about Vienna. There is a vibrant nightlife, street performers, a huge music scene, and eclectic bars and restaurants. The people of the city are also fun to hang out with as they are charming and welcoming.
On the other hand, Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and it is among the largest cities in central Europe and the Czech Republic as a country. It is one of the ancient cities that attracts thousands of tourists every year. The detailed cathedrals, beautiful architecture, impressive bridges, and fascinating history. Prague has maintained its ancient history even after the second World War two. this is a medieval city and when you visit this place you will feel like you have traveled back to medieval times. However, even with the ancient surrounding going on, there is a vibrant life going on in the city. There are numerous restaurants, nightclubs, bars, art galleries, live music venues, and festivals throughout the year hence you are sure that you will have a time of your life when you visit Prague. If you have a few days to spend in central Europe, you must plan effectively to ensure that you explore all the areas in these cities and get the best value for your money.
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How to get around
The city of Vienna is 20 kilometers away from the city center and it is easily accessible through various modes such as train, taxi, airport express bus, and public transport bus. While in the city you can either book a taxi or a hotel car that will take you around the city. Besides, the transport network is well connected and advanced hence you can still use public transport systems such as bus, train, or trams.
On the other hand, Prague is an amazing city that reeks of medieval times ad with the ancient vibe going on you are sure that you need something that will enchant your holiday. The transport network in Prague is good and you do not worry if you have to move around because you can use the trams, buses, or train. If you do not want to use the public transport system then you can choose to take a taxi around. The fares are quite competitive and you can ask before boarding any car.
How is the atmosphere?
Prague
Many people who have visited Prague will testify that this location is gorgeous filled with exceptional structures and medieval architecture that brings a new dimension to the modern world. While in Prague it is difficult for you to move for over a hundred meters without seeing some of the ancient structures. The old Prague town is a proper insight into where the country has originated and the changes that it has undergone over time. When you arrive in Prague you will be amazed by the vibe that this unique city brings because the dynamism continues to thrive even in modern times.
Prague is compact, cozier and it is easier for you to move from one location to another. The city continues to thrive as it receives thousands of tourists each year. You are sure that when you travel to Prague you will experience the best feeling as you will encounter ancient and unique structures that will help you understand the history of the Czech people.
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Vienna
Vienna is a calmer, cozier, and more modernized city in central Europe and many of the Austrians live in the heart of Vienna. Numerous shops are over two centuries old and they continue to operate in the capital. There are restaurants, coffee shops, and boutique shops that cater to both the locals and international people visiting the area. For many Vienna seems to be a picture-perfect city because it is well manicured and constructed to fit the modern aesthetic. However, the people are welcoming and charming hence you will enjoy your time in the city.
Things to do
Vienna
When visiting Vienna there are a lot of fun activities and places to see when you are in the capital. The city is well organized and you can walk from one end to the other. The main attractions in this city include imperial places that include gardens, museums, gothic churches, and cathedrals as well as the Austro-Hungarian palaces. The Hofburg and Schönbrunn palaces are some of the landmarks in Vienna and you can visit them and marvel at the architecture as you learn more history about the city.
There is a 12th-century cathedral called St. Stephen cathedral and it is one of the most visited monuments. The University of Vienna, parliament building, volks garden, burg theater among others are the key highlights that you should explore when visiting Vienna. When you want to relax you can visit the music concert shops that are around the city that play opera.
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Prague
On the other hand, Prague is a fun city that you should visit, there are impressive landmarks that you should explore during your visit. Some of the places that you should visit include the castle, Jewish quarters, Charles bridge, and St. Nicholas church among others.
There is so much that you can explore during your visit to the city and the most important aspect is to ensure that you are open-minded and ready to learn new things about the Czech Republic. The Charles bridge is one of the oldest bridges in Europe dating back to the 14th century and it connects Prague’s old town to the riverbank in the area. You should also visit Prague castle which is a 9th-century castle as well as the old town square which dates back to the 10th century.
All these places are some of the most majestic places in Prague that will give you time to enjoy and learn more about the city. The new Prague city is filled with modern aspects and a vibrant lifestyle and this is where you should check out as well as you will get modern features that you should enjoy.
Food and drinks
The most critical aspect when traveling to any destination is to ensure that the food and drink are up to your standard and it is quality that you need. Vienna has ancient and elegant cafes and coffee houses which present you with a chance to sample the scones, cream cakes, and strudels which all date back to the 19th century. There are reputable restaurants that will guarantee you the best feeling in the region. Vienna has a large concentration of pubs and restaurants in the first district. Here the prices are also quite high.
Vienna is known for its wine and you can sample some of the locally produced wine in the area. You are not limited to wine alone there is so much that you can explore in the region. The food is also gourmet chef made hence you can choose the cuisine that you like and this will be delivered to your table. Ensure you taste wiener schnitzel, strudel, tafelspitz among other Austrian dishes.
Prague is a reputable location as well and there are historic pubs, restaurants, and cafes in the city that will guarantee that you are enjoying your stay in the area. The atmosphere in this region is amazing and vibrant because many people are looking forward to exploring. You will find unique restaurants in Vinohrady that serve both local and international cuisine. Here you can enjoy some local food as you listen to amazing music at the lounge. In the Prague old town, there are fashionable places that serve the Mediterranean, Czech, continental as well as western cuisines. In Prague, you can sample modern dishes as well as dishes that date back to the 19th century.
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Nightlife
The nightlife in Prague is one of the best that you can ever experience anywhere in the world. Prague is rich in culture and diversity and the pubs, nightclubs, and restaurants in the region are very vibrant and enjoyable. There is a wide array of clubs, pubs, and bars that you can check out in the capital. These places usually invite international deejays and they play all kinds of music, you are sure to find a place that will play the music of your choice.
In Vienna, the first district is home to many of the high-end pubs, nightclubs, and restaurants. Here you get the chance to explore some of the unique features of the city because they’re a huge range of options when it comes to pubs and clubs. It is a popular place that is known for its amazing nightlife. When visiting the region, you will have a time of your life because the clubs usually bring deejays from international arenas.
Shopping
If you are a big fan of shopping then Vienna is your next holiday destination because the city offers you a wide array of beauty shops and plazas where you can purchase all the items that you need in the region. The Naschmarkt is a place in the first district and here you can bargain for the items that you have been looking for because there are over four hundred vendors.
Prague is a good destination for shopping as well if you are looking for unique handicrafts from the Czech Republic. There are also souvenir shops where you can sample the items that you have been looking for in Europe.
Cost
When it comes to the cost of visiting a destination you have to check out all the available options before visiting these destinations. However, it is important to note that Prague is by far the most budget-friendly location.
The cost per day for a budget traveler is 80 euros, while a medium-range traveler will pay around 150 euros. For a luxurious traveler, there is no limit to the budget hence anything from 250 euros goes up. These costs are usually transportation, food, drinks, and accommodation. However, if the cost of any of these changes the total cost per day changes as well.
As for Vienna, the cost per day for a budget traveler is 120 euros. The budget for a midrange traveler is 200 euros, while that for a luxurious traveler will be anything from 300 euros. You can alter these costs based on your preference for the said items.
Accommodation
There are so many options when it comes to accommodation in both cities. The options range from Airbnb, hostels, mid-range hotels to all-inclusive and five-star hotels. Depending on your budget you will get something that will suit you. In Prague, you will pay for a room around 60 dollars for the budget traveler, $80 for midrange, and $150 for a luxurious traveler. On the other hand, in Vienna, you will spend $120 for a budget hotel, $ 150 for a medium-range, and anything above $200 for a luxury traveler.
Safety
Scams and crimes are usually present in both Vienna and Prague just like any other European city. However, these crimes are not targeted or severe. In most cases, you might get thieves who will take your phone or cash, especially in public transport or crowded areas. Nevertheless, both cities are safe for tourists and you can walk around with ease. You must stay away from crowds and keep your valuables safe while leaving your hotel room.
In conclusion, Vienna and Prague are two unique European cities and there is so much that you can learn when you opt to explore them. Take your time and make a choice based on your taste and preference and enjoy your vacation.