Getting There & Around
Both cities are well connected internationally and easy to explore once you arrive.
Vienna: Vienna International Airport is a major hub with direct flights from all over the world. The city’s U-Bahn (metro) and tram network is fast, efficient, and easy to use. Vienna uses the Euro (€).
Prague: Václav Havel Airport handles flights from across Europe, and the city is very accessible by train from Berlin, Vienna, and Budapest. The tram system is excellent and covers the whole city. Prague uses the Czech Koruna (CZK), which can make prices feel cheaper compared to Vienna.
History & Culture
Vienna: Known as the city of imperial grandeur, Vienna reflects the legacy of the Habsburg Empire. Palaces like Schönbrunn and the Hofburg showcase royal opulence, while the city’s heritage as a hub of classical music continues in the Vienna State Opera.
Prague: With its medieval Old Town, Gothic spires, and cobbled alleys, Prague feels like a step back in time. It’s also famous for literary heritage, from Franz Kafka to the legends surrounding its Astronomical Clock.
Food & Drink
Vienna: Expect elegant dining, traditional Wiener Schnitzel, hearty sausages, and world-class pastries like Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel. Vienna’s historic coffeehouses are cultural institutions.
Prague: Famous for its beer culture (often cheaper than water), Prague offers hearty comfort food: beef goulash with dumplings, roast pork with sauerkraut, and sweet trdelník pastries at street stalls.
Atmosphere & Vibe
Vienna: Refined, orderly, and elegant. Wide boulevards, grand museums, and polished opera halls give Vienna a sophisticated charm.
Prague: Romantic, whimsical, and slightly bohemian. The city’s Gothic skyline, cozy pubs, and winding alleys create a more relaxed and fairy-tale-like feel.
Main Attractions
Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Belvedere Palace, MuseumsQuartier, Vienna State Opera.
Prague: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock, St. Vitus Cathedral, the colorful John Lennon Wall.
Affordability
Vienna: Generally more expensive, especially for accommodation, dining, and cultural tickets. A coffee and cake in a historic café can cost €8–10.
Prague: More budget-friendly. Meals, beer, and accommodation are usually cheaper, making it attractive for travelers seeking value without sacrificing charm.
Best For…
Vienna: Perfect for culture lovers, classical music fans, history buffs, and travelers who enjoy elegance and order.
Prague: Ideal for couples, budget-conscious travelers, and anyone who wants a romantic, storybook cityscape.
Conclusion
So, Vienna or Prague – which should you visit first? The answer depends on your style: choose Vienna for imperial grandeur, culture, and sophistication, or Prague for romance, charm, and affordability.
The best news? You don’t really have to choose. The two cities are just about 4 hours apart by train, making them the perfect duo for a Central European trip. Start with one, end with the other, and you’ll experience the best of both worlds.
