Budapest versus Prague

So, you have decided to travel but didn’t know where to go? Finally, you have come down with two options, Budapest and Prague. But there is still a dilemma, which way to go? What city to visit?

You will find out below what each city can offer you and which city suites your needs the best.

BUDAPEST

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary. It’s the largest city in Hungary with 1.6 millions inhabitants. Budapest became a single city occupying both banks of the river Danube with the unification on November 17, 1873, of right-bank (west) Buda and Óbuda (Old Buda) together with Pest on the left (east) bank.

Tourist attractions

There is no city like Budapest. With its amazing attractions no wonder it’s one of the most visited cities in Europe.

Here are some places you must visit:

The Chain Bridge

In 1832, count István Széchenyi, “the greatest Hungarian” began to organize the construction of the bridge which was finished in 1849. The retreating German troops blew up the Chain Bridge in January 1945. This vital element of Budapest’s cityscape was restored on the 100th anniversary of its inauguration.

The House of Parliament

After long discussion the construction of Parliament began in 1885 according to plans by Imre Steindl. Completed in 1904, it is one of Europe’s most splendid Parliament buildings, reflecting its designer’s taste and the nation’s demands for representation.

Matthias Church

This was the coronation church of Hungarian kings since King Matthias. The records of 1247 first mention this church as the main church of Buda Castle. The originally French building in early Gothic style has been consistently enlarged and rebuilt over the centuries.

Fishermen’s Bastion

As part of the expansive plans for the reconstruction of Castle Hill in the late 19th century was that segment of the city-wall that stands behind Matthias Church.
The Fishermen’s Bastion has become one of the capital’s landmarks, offering a panoramic view of Pest.

The Millenary Monument

The monument was designed by Albert Schickedanz and Fülöp Herczog. Many of the statues representing Hungarian Monarchs and Princes of Transylvania were made by György Zala. At the center of the Monument there is a column surrounded by seven figures - leaders of the seven Hungarian tribes.

Elizabeth Bridge

The beautiful bridge, the world’s longest chain-bridge until 1926, was blown up in 1945 by the retreating German troops. Designed by Pál Sávoly, it was rebuilt as a cable-bridge in 1963.

The Stephen’s Basilica

Though Budapest’s biggest cathedral is not a basilica in the architectural sense tradition and the authority bestowed by the Pope has earned it this denotation. Its construction was begun in the neo-Classic style but later modified by Miklós Ibl according to architectural models from the Italian Renaissance.

PRAGUE

Prague is the capital and the largest city of the Czech Republic. Situated on the River Vltava in central Bohemia, Prague has been the political, cultural, and economic centre of the Czech state for over 1100 years. The city proper is home to more than 1.2 million people, while its metropolitan area is estimated to have a population of over 1.9 million.[

Tourist attractions

Like in every other city, Prague also has some attractions especially interesting for tourists. This is the info you will find in Prague brochures or on many Prague related web sites.

Some of things you must see:

Charles Bridge

One of Prague's most romantic sights, a stroll on Charles Bridge presents fine views of Prague Castle, the Vltava River and many of Prague's famous riverside attractions. Charles Bridge connects the Old Town to Mala Strana.

Golden lane

Golden Lane, an ancient street lined by 11 historic houses, forms part of the Prague Castle complex. Inside the houses are displays of armory, textiles & other attractions, along with some tourist shops.

Old Town Bridge Tower

Part of Prague's old fortification system, the Old Town Bridge Tower is one of the most beautiful Gothic towers in Europe and heralds the entrance to the Old Town from Charles Bridge.

Old Town Hall Tower &˛Astronomical Clock

The Astronomical Clock is one of the most popular Prague tourist attractions. See the procession of the Twelve Apostles and climb the Old Town Hall Tower for spectacular views over Prague.

Old Town Square

With its origins in the 12th century, the Old Town Square is the most significant square in the historical centre of Prague and is unquestionably one of the most beautiful historical sights in Europe.

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is the premier tourist attraction in Prague. This vast complex includes several palaces, a monastery, museums & galleries, viewing towers, Golden Lane, St. George's Basilica and the supreme St. Vitus Cathedral, which dominates the city's skyline.

St.Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus Cathedral is the largest, most important church in Prague and one of the main attractions of the Prague Castle complex. The coronations of ancient Czech kings and queens took place here.

Of course, the above list is just a piece of Prague’s cake, there is much more to see in Prague.

What do people say about Prague and Budapest?

- Budapest is my answer, but only if you like a big cosmopolitan city where people actually live! Almost twice the size of Prague and a lot more to see and do. But see it for yourself!

- Prague is like Eastern European Disneyland. The historical aspects have been well preserved, but are generally separate from the city itself, leaving you feeling like something is wanting. Budapest's history is much more integrated, giving you a more pleasant and authentic-feeling time.

- Prague is a very popular tourism destination, and for good reason, as it is like a Western European city in terms of nightlife and places to eat, but you can make it an expensive or inexpensive as you like. The whole range is well-served by the industrious Czechs. Furthermore, most places you go, and I've gone well outside the touristy center several times, people at least understand English and you usually get really good service. While it has really phenomenal beer, the authentic Czech food isn't very good as it is very bland, basic and heavy. But there's a well-varied

Budapest is more spread out and the touristy things and places don't smack you in the face like they do in Prague (although we still have an incredible touristy avenue in Vaciutca). It is not as refined as Prague as there's still a lot of soiled and run down buildings even in some of the touristy places. Outside the touristy areas, most people don't speak English, so that can make things difficult. Speaking of difficult, the dining scene can be very as wait staff service can be uneven at best, even at some of the better restaurants. Because everything is spread out, the tourist traps in Budapest aren't as obvious and still manage to ensnare the naive tourist (the most notorious being the Longford Pub). The authentic Hungarian food is much better than in the CR, but it is still heavy, and Hungarian wine can be most excellent. As for nightlife, some of the best places are far apart and still not highlighted by some of the tourism guides.

If it is your first time in this area of the world, go to Prague but try your best to avoid the hordes of tourists. It will be much easier and if you desire, much easier on your budget. If you desire to come to Budapest, be sure you study up so you won't get taken advantage of by a tourist trap restaurant or nailed by the public transport control. You'll be rewarded with a good trip if you do.

- Prague is better for beer and getting girls, and Budapest has more things to do on average. Hot springs in Budapest as well.

In the end, the choice is yours.

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