These two cities, Prague and Budapest, give travelers a remarkable and unforgettable nightlife. With so much unique about both cities, deciding which one to go to is not easy. This beginner’s guide will review the night spots in Prague and Budapest to help you pick the city that’s best for your adventure.

1. Overview

Popular for its old town, historic buildings and flair, Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic. Many tourists head to Prague each year to admire its historical architecture, try out some lovely drinks and participate in the city’s flourishing cultural scene. Because the city is so compact, it’s easy for nightlife explorers to walk from place to place.

Alternatively, Budapest’s beautiful rivers, thermal baths and vibrant streets are what draw a lot of visitors. Neokyoto combines new features with old, showing off grand streets, hip modern nightlife and lovely sights by the river. Nightlife in Budapest benefits from the city’s mix of youth and an active creative and rebellious spirit which can be seen in the styles of its nightlife locations.

2. Nightclubs and bars are great places to go.

Prague

You’ll find plenty of clubs and bars in Prague, each with its own style. The city is recognized for its underground music clubs where you can hear techno, drum and bass and house. Cross Club, famed for its steampunk atmosphere and Roxy which welcomes both home performers and those from farther afield, are among the most famous.

Prague has many relaxed pubs and cozy bars if you want to drink a variety of Czech beers. Visiting a traditional beer garden or pub should be on everyone’s list while in Prague. Not only do places like U Fleků have fantastic beer, but they also host live music and let you enjoy real Czech culture.

Budapest

On top of its vast historic sights, Budapest is also renowned for partying through the night. You’ll find a variety of clubs and ruin bars in the city and each one stands out because of its background. Ruin bars are found in old buildings and open spaces which makes them exciting and off the beaten path. Popular places in Budapest are Szimpla Kert, with its unique interior, Instant, a spot for electronic dance and pop parties and Fogas Ház, combining cafés, bars and places for art and live concerts.

Budapest is a fantastic place for those into electronic music, since Akvárium hosts festivals and parties outside, Corvin Club’s unique setting draws crowds with its rooftop terrace and Lärm is about quality music and the latest DJs. You’ll usually find top DJs spinning in these clubs and enjoying a party that lasts long into the night.

3. People celebrate street parties and festivals.

Prague

There are plenty of street parties and festivals routinely held in Prague. During the Prague Carnival, streets are packed with happy people, bright colors and lots of dancing. By joining a Wiesn experience, you can explore the city’s traditions and make friends with fine Bavarians. As part of the Signal Festival, the city’s landmarks are lit up with exciting installation art and vibrant performances.

Over the summer, outdoor happenings and beer festivals attract crowds to parks and along the riverside. Film festivals and open-air events, together with the presence of street food, liven up the city at night.

Budapest

Budapest is famous for holding festivals that everyone, local or visitor, enjoys. As one of Europe’s biggest music festivals, Sziget attracts a wide range of international performers. Each year, on a Danube island, it’s a week of music, arts and joining the community. The Budapest Wine Festival and Budapest Beer Week are events that highlight the city’s brewing and winemaking, letting guests sample drinks, enjoy concerts and join in with various cultural activities.

During Hungarian holidays and on seasonal market days, including those for Christmas and Easter, the atmosphere is wonderful for trying mulled wine or palinka and watching or joining in the dancing and music.

4. Nighttime Views

Prague

The city’s buildings and fascinating monuments which are all lit up at night, create a special atmosphere. The castle, the bridge and the square in Prague look wonderfully beautiful in the moonlight. Things get even dreamy and romantic once the people start to leave and the city winds down for the night. Seeing the illuminated city from a stroll on the Vltava River is a demanding experience for anyone paying a visit.

Taking in the city’s stunning buildings can be done with ease from a riverside bar or late-night café.

Budapest

Often called the “Paris of the East,” Budapest shows beautiful city views after the sun sets. Hungary’s brightly lit Parliament and Chain Bridge along the Danube make an attractive scene. Experiencing the city is done best with a river cruise at night. Most of these river cruises also offer dinner, music or even a dance, so you can see the main sights of Budapest from the water.

A bird’s-eye view of the city’s night skyline can be found from Gellért Hill or the Fisherman’s Bastion.

5. Safety

Visitors will find that Prague and Budapest are secure and also have lots of active nightlife. Even so, as with every trip, you need to be careful and take some basic protective actions. Keep yourself in brightly lit regions, avoid heavy drinking and remain aware of people trying to steal from you when it’s crowded.

You can find taxis and ride-share apps easily in both cities which ensures late-night travels are both safe and easy. You are safer using official exchange offices or ATMs operated by banks when you’re in busy nightlife areas.

Conclusion

The nightlife in Prague and Budapest is so great that it’s not easy to decide which city to visit. If you’re after tradition and some excitement after dark, Prague is the ideal place. Party lovers who visit Budapest are impressed by the renowned ruin bars, amazing festivals and unique views at night.

Any city you decide to visit will give you a nightlife experience you won’t soon forget. Therefore, get your dancing shoes ready, see these amazing cities and remember what you experience!