A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Prague for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Lisbon or Prague?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Lisbon or Prague? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty in Lisbon as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lisbon travel costs.

Prague

Prague is a beautiful, festive, and fun-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Prague is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the live music, shopping, and museums. See Prague travel costs.

Lisbon and Prague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Prague?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Prague. While Prague is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Prague is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Prague and Lisbon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lisbon or Prague?

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Prague and Lisbon.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Prague that are not to be missed. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum. Throughout the Old Town you'll see the spires of the many churches which define the city's skyline. The Prague Castle is not to be missed as it's the largest castle complex in the world.

Is the Food Better in Lisbon or Prague? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Lisbon or Prague Better for Nightlife?

The amazing nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Prague.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Prague is a world class party destination. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

Is Lisbon or Prague Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Lisbon and Prague.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Prague is a world class music destination. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well. Many visitors specifically come just to experience the world class music scene.

Is Lisbon or Prague Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for the beach. However, Prague is not a beach destination.

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Prague is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Prague Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the amazing old towns in both Lisbon and Prague.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

The rich history of Prague can be explored in its historical center. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world. It truly feels like something out of a fairytale. Most of the tourists spend the majority of their time exploring the old town, and after a full day of wandering, you can cozy up with a strudel and a drink in one of the many cafes.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Prague?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Prague is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Prague. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy. You'll find tons of souvenir and trinket shops throughout the area.

Is Lisbon or Prague More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of amazing scenery and beauty in both Lisbon and Prague.

Lisbon is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its bright colors and dramatic hills, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many spectacular viewpoints that look out over the city.

The famous beauty of Prague is one of the main draws. The city is filled with beautiful historic architecture and stunning landmarks. It's a truly historic and impressive city.

Is Lisbon or Prague Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Prague.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Prague is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

Is Lisbon or Prague Better for Couples?

Prague is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Prague makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Prague are both amazing destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Prague is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

Is Lisbon or Prague Better for Students?

Prague is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Prague. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Lisbon is very popular with students. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Is Lisbon or Prague Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find amazing public transit in both Lisbon and Prague.

Visitors in Lisbon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Prague has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

Is Lisbon or Prague a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Prague are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Getting around Prague on foot is easy. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

For even more information, also check out Is Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Prague Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Prague or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Prague?

Both Lisbon and Prague have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Lisbon has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Lisbon than Prague. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Prague. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lisbon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Prague than Lisbon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Prague that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Prague if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Prague?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Prague. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Prague?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Prague is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Prague. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Prague?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful big city of Prague. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Prague, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Prague much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Prague would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Prague and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon than you might in Prague.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lisbon Expensive? and Is Prague Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Prague, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Lisbon or Prague?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lisbon or Prague in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Prague. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Prague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Prague fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Prague. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Prague. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Prague. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Prague in the Autumn?

Both Prague and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

Lisbon is much warmer than Prague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Prague during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Prague. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Prague in the Winter?

Both Prague and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Prague for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Prague. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Prague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Prague averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Prague. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Prague. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Prague in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Prague. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Prague in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Prague during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Prague. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Prague and Lisbon