A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Prague vs. Puerto Vallarta for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Prague and Puerto Vallarta. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Prague

Prague is a festive, fun-filled, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty in Prague as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and shopping. See Prague travel costs.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a cultural, coastal, and colorful town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Puerto Vallarta travel costs.

Prague and Puerto Vallarta: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Prague than Puerto Vallarta, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Prague is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Puerto Vallarta is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Prague is more touristy than Puerto Vallarta and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. It is also home to The Prague Castle. Puerto Vallarta is popular for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife.

How is Prague different from Puerto Vallarta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Prague on the map. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.


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

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Puerto Vallarta. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

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 Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for Nightlife?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Prague is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Puerto Vallarta has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for Music?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for its music scene. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a live music destination.

In Prague you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is not a live music destination.


Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for Resorts?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Prague is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Puerto Vallarta for its luxury resorts. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

Prague is not a resort destination.

Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Prague is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Puerto Vallarta. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

Prague is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for Beaches?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for the beach. However, Prague is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Puerto Vallarta for it's beautiful beaches. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

Prague is not a beach destination.


Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for its Old Town?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Puerto Vallarta does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Prague is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Puerto Vallarta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Both Prague and Puerto Vallarta are high quality shopping destinations.

Prague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Puerto Vallarta. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta More Beautiful?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Prague as well. The city is filled with beautiful historic architecture and stunning landmarks. It's a truly historic and impressive city.

Puerto Vallarta is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for Families?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Both Prague and Puerto Vallarta are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Prague is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.

Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for Couples?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for couples. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Prague has plenty to offer. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Puerto Vallarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for backpackers. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Prague is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.


Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta Better for Students?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for students. However, Puerto Vallarta is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Prague. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Puerto Vallarta is not popular with students.

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

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for its public transit. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Prague has a great public transit system. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

Puerto Vallarta has some public transit options. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Is Prague or Puerto Vallarta a more walkable city?

Prague
Puerto Vallarta

Prague is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Puerto Vallarta is very walkable. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.


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

Should I spend more time in Puerto Vallarta or Prague?

How long in Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

In either Prague or Puerto Vallarta, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Prague than Puerto Vallarta because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Prague, and 3-5 days is enough time in Puerto Vallarta.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Prague than Puerto Vallarta 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 Prague.


  • How many days in Prague or Puerto Vallarta? Ideal Length of Stay
    Prague 2-7 
    Puerto Vallarta 3-5

One day in Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

Prague is a big city with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Puerto Vallarta. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

Prague is a big city with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Puerto Vallarta 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.

Five days in Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

Prague is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Puerto Vallarta. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

Prague is a big city with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back destination of Puerto Vallarta. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, and The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Puerto Vallarta or Prague?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Prague is $147, while the average daily cost in Puerto Vallarta is $128. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Prague and Puerto Vallarta in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Prague $77
    Puerto Vallarta $57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Prague $154
    Puerto Vallarta $114
Compare Hotels in Prague and Puerto Vallarta

Looking for a hotel in Prague or Puerto Vallarta? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Prague


Hotels in Puerto Vallarta


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Prague Hotel Prices and Puerto Vallarta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Prague $9.25
    Puerto Vallarta $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Prague

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:

  • Prague Airport Shared Arrival Transfer: $20
  • Transfer from Vaclav Airport (PRG) to Prague City Center: $26
  • Prague Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $42
  • Prague Airport Private Departure Transfer: $42
  • Private Transfer from Prague Airport to Prague City Hotels 1 - 3 pax: $46
  • Private Transfer to the Airport (PRG): $47
  • Private Transfer from Prague Hotels to Prague Airport: $54
  • Airport Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Business Car: $59
  • Private Transfer from Prague Hotel to Prague Airport: $60
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer from/to Prague airport: $60
  • Private Transfer from Prague Airport to Prague City Hotels 1 - 7 pax: $61
  • Private Transfer from Prague Hotel to Florenc Bus Station: $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Puerto Vallarta Roundtrip Shuttle Airport Transfer: $32
  • Sayulita hotels to Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) – Private Departure Transfer : $155
  • Private Transfer from Punta de Mita Area to PVR Airport: $180

Is it cheaper to fly into Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

Prices for flights to both Puerto Vallarta and Prague change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Prague $51
    Puerto Vallarta $58
Typical Food Prices in Prague

Some typical examples of dining costs in Prague are as follows:


  • Fruit
    $4.84
  • Lunch for One
    $15
  • Bananas
    $0.68
  • Cookies
    $0.38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Prague

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Prague.

  • Anti Tour Prague - Self Guided Beer and Food Tour: $17
  • Hard Rock Cafe Prague with Set Lunch or Dinner: $32
  • Folklore Dinner with Unlimited Drinks 4course Menu: $64
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $70
  • Prague Boats 3-hour Dinner Cruise: $73
  • Prague 5 Courses Medieval Dinner and Live Performances: $77
  • Prague Old Town And Beer Walking Tour Including Dinner: $83
  • Prague Boats 3-hours Crystal Dinner Cruise: $85
  • Prague Night Tour and River Vltava Dinner Cruise: $85
  • Alternative bar tour with dinner in the art district: $89
  • Savor 10 Course Dinner in Chef’s Kitchen: $95
  • Prague to Detenice Medieval Castle, Brewery and Dinner Experience: $119

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Puerto Vallarta

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Puerto Vallarta.

  • Winner 2025 Downtown Vallarta Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours: $59
  • Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting & Unlimited Margaritas: $89
  • Sayulita Tacos and Tequila Food Tour : $99
  • Puerto Vallarta- Market tour and Cooking Experience : $134
  • Rhythms of the night, sunset cruise, open bar & oceanfront dinner: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Prague $18
    Puerto Vallarta $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Prague

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Prague are as follows:


  • Opera Tickets
    $4.84
  • Two Tickets for Charles Bridge Tower
    $6.77
  • Image Theatre for Two
    $46

Tours and Activities in Prague

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Prague are as follows:

  • Grand City Tour of Prague on Retro Styled E-Bike : $3.59
  • Prague Trike & e-Scooter Tour: Castle Viewpoints & Charles Bridge: $3.59
  • Grand City Tour on E-Trike in Prague : $3.59
  • Electric Trike Night Tour in Prague - Live Guided : $3.59
  • E-Bike, E-Scooter Viewpoint Fun Tour: $3.59
  • Prague Sightseeing Express Tour in Classic Car : $3.59
  • Retro Style E-Bike Night Tour in Prague - Live Guided : $3.59
  • Self Guided Tours Prague With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.59
  • Classic Prague Castle Tour, Strahov Monastery & Castle District: $3.61
  • Prague Castle Walking Tour (Tip-based tour): $3.61
  • Prague’s TOP Sights - Old Town, Jewish Quarter, Charles Bridge (Tip-based tour): $3.61
  • Iconic Prague Tour Old Town, Jewish Quarter and Charles Bridge : $3.61

Tours and Activities in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Vallarta are as follows:

  • City tour express; butterfly, tequila, and beach an ecological day: $22
  • EcoHike experience through the jungle, mountains and hidden beach: $30
  • Puerto Vallarta VIP Promotional Tour: $30
  • Hike and Yoga Jungle Experience in Mexico: $30
  • Beachfront Massage Experience in Mismaloya: $42
  • Puerto Vallarta City Tour with a Visit to our Adventure Park: $45
  • Boat and Snorkel Tour to 5 Islands of Los Arcos: $46
  • Monkey Mountain Hiking tour: $50
  • Sayulita Taco Tour: $54
  • Sayulita And San Pancho Beachs Tour: $64
  • Bioluminescence & sunset local boat tour to Los Arcos Sanctuary: $67
  • Canopy Tour Experience in Sayulita, Nuevo Nayarit.: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Prague $13
    Puerto Vallarta $22
Typical Alcohol Prices in Prague

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Prague from other travelers:


  • A Bottle of Wine
    $7.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Prague

Also in Prague, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • ️ Segway Fun Tour of Prague to Castle and Strahov Monastery viewpoint & Brewery: $63
  • Craft Beer Tour: Try 8 Czech Beers, Brewery and Beer Garden: $63
  • Prague Historic Pub Tour with Drinks Included: $66
  • PUB CRAWL IN PRAGUE | Admission Ticket: $66
  • Brewery tour in the center of Prague: $69
  • Prague Microbrewery Tour and Beer Tasting: $75
  • Wine Tasting and History Prague : $96
  • Prague Segway Tour - 3-hour Double Monastery & Brewery Tour : $114
  • 3 in 1 Tour Brewery & Castle in Bohemian Paradise Unesco Geopark: $132
  • COUNTRY BIKE TOUR TO UNETICE BREWERY. Bike / e-Bike tour: $143
  • Live-Guided 3 Hours Brewery Segway Tour + Monastic Beer: $162
  • Bohemian Switzerland From Prague with Brewery Tour & Beer Tasting: $179


When comparing the travel costs between Prague and Puerto Vallarta, we can see that Prague is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Prague is in Europe and Puerto Vallarta is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Prague or Puerto Vallarta?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Puerto Vallarta. When comparing the sizes of Prague and Puerto Vallarta, 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.