Are you planning a trip to Eastern Europe and wondering which city is more expensive – Budapest or Prague? Well, the answer is not as simple as a yes or no. It depends on various factors such as your travel style, budget, and preferences.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation, Budapest and Prague have options for every budget. From hostels to luxury hotels, both cities offer a range of choices.
However, Prague has a slight edge when it comes to affordable accommodation. You can find a decent hostel in Prague for as low as €10-15 per night, whereas in Budapest, the average price for a hostel bed is around €20 per night.
Food and Drinks
Food and drinks are an essential part of any travel experience. Both Budapest and Prague have excellent food scenes with numerous options for all budgets.
However, if you’re looking for cheaper options, Budapest might be a better choice. You can find local street food such as langos (deep-fried dough) or chimney cake (sweet pastry) for under €5 in Budapest. In contrast, Prague’s food scene is slightly more expensive, with most meals costing around €10-15.
When it comes to drinks, both cities are known for their beer culture. However, beer prices are slightly lower in Budapest compared to Prague. A pint of beer in Budapest can cost anywhere between €1-3, while in Prague, it’s around €1-4.
Transportation
Getting around the city is another factor that affects your overall expenses during the trip. Both cities have excellent public transportation systems with buses, trams, and metros. However, public transport fares are slightly higher in Budapest than in Prague.
A single ticket in Budapest costs around €1-1.5 (depending on the type of transport), while in Prague, it’s around €1-1.3. However, if you plan to use public transport extensively during your stay, Budapest offers a 24-hour travel card for €5, which is cheaper than Prague’s 24-hour ticket for €6.
Attractions
Both Budapest and Prague have numerous attractions that cater to all interests, from historical landmarks to museums and art galleries. However, admission prices vary depending on the attraction.
In general, Budapest’s attractions are slightly more expensive than Prague’s. For example, the entry fee for the Hungarian Parliament Building is €12 (for EU citizens), while Prague Castle’s basic ticket costs around €10. However, there are also many free attractions in both cities that you can visit without spending a penny.
Conclusion
So is Budapest more expensive than Prague? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for.
While Budapest might have slightly higher prices when it comes to accommodation and attractions, it offers cheaper food and drinks compared to Prague. On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget and looking for affordable accommodation and public transport options, then Prague might be a better choice.
Ultimately, both cities offer excellent value for money and are worth visiting. It’s up to your preferences and travel style to decide which city suits you better.