When it comes to traveling to Eastern Europe, two cities that often come up in conversations are Budapest and Prague. Both cities are known for their beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant nightlife. However, if you’re struggling to decide which one to visit, here’s a breakdown of what each city has to offer.
Budapest
Budapest is the capital of Hungary and is often referred to as the “Paris of the East”. The city is split into two parts by the Danube River – Buda on the west bank and Pest on the east bank.
Things to See and Do
- Buda Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views of the city
- Thermal Baths: Budapest is known for its thermal baths, with some of the most popular ones being Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Gellért Thermal Bath
- The Hungarian Parliament Building: A magnificent Gothic Revival building that is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks
- The Fisherman’s Bastion: A terrace in Buda Castle that offers panoramic views of the city
- The Great Market Hall: A bustling indoor market where you can buy traditional Hungarian food, souvenirs and crafts
Nightlife
Budapest has a thriving nightlife scene with a variety of bars and clubs to suit all tastes. One popular area for nightlife is Kazinczy Street in the Jewish Quarter, which is lined with ruin bars – quirky bars housed in abandoned buildings.
Prague
Prague is the capital of Czech Republic and is often referred to as the “City of a Hundred Spires”. The city has a rich history and is known for its stunning architecture, including Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles.
- Charles Bridge: A historic bridge that offers stunning views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle
- Prague Castle: A complex of beautiful buildings that date back to the 9th century
- The Old Town Square: A bustling square with many historic buildings, including the famous Astronomical Clock
- The Jewish Quarter: A district with a rich Jewish history that includes six synagogues and a Jewish cemetery
- Petrin Hill: A hill in the center of Prague that offers beautiful views of the city
Prague has a thriving nightlife scene with a variety of bars and clubs to suit all tastes. One popular area for nightlife is Wenceslas Square, which is lined with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Another popular area is Vinohrady, which has a more relaxed atmosphere.
So Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for thermal baths, Budapest is the clear winner. However, if you’re interested in history and architecture, both cities offer plenty to see.
Prague is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture while Budapest has stunning Art Nouveau buildings. When it comes to nightlife, both cities have something to offer – it just depends on what type of atmosphere you’re looking for.
In conclusion, both Budapest and Prague are beautiful cities that are worth visiting. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you’re interested in seeing and doing. So why not consider visiting both cities if you have the time?