Should I Visit Prague or Vienna?

View of Prague's Charles Bridge and Old Town

Prague Is More Beautiful Than Vienna

Vltava River running through the city of Prague

Prague commands a stunning setting on the banks of the meandering Vltava River and boasts magnificent architecture untouched for over 600 years. Highlights include medieval Charles Bridge, the domineering Prague Castle and the Old Town (Stare Mesto) with its intriguing web of alleys and passageways that lead to one of Europe's most attractive town squares.

Vienna Has More Cultural Attractions Than Prague

The imperial palace at Schonbrunn in Vienna

Voted best city in the world for quality of living in the Mercer 2010 Quality of Living Survey, the Austrian capital boasts world-famous art collections, a leading philharmonic orchestra and exuberant Baroque architecture. Famous for its cafes, white horses and trams, Vienna is a clean, safe and wonderfully civilized city forever associated with former famous citizens Beethoven, Freud and Klimt.

Bottom Line

Both Prague and Vienna are rewarding travel destinations lined with fascinating buildings and places of historical interest. While Vienna is sophisticated and charming, Prague promises the more memorable experience with its romantic old lanes, raucous beer cellars and vibrant nightlife.

References

• Mercer: 2010 Quality of Living Highlights

Resources

• Rough Guides: Prague
• "Vienna Lonely Planet City Guide"; Neal Bedford; 2007