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Red Corner: Budapest vs. Prague
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On Sunday when The New York Times printed an article titled, Budapest Is Stealing Some of Prague's Spotlight, I just had to smile.
I've debated many times with fellow travelers over which is the better city, Prague or Budapest? One thing I've learned is that those who visit Budapest first tend to prefer the Hungarian capital over the Czech one. Those who visit Prague first, consider Budapest a lesser, and therefore inferior version of the Czech capital.
It's been many years now since I visited Budapest, but the gist of the New York Times article is that Budapest has come a long ways in that time. Thanks to a strong flow of foreign investment, the city is no longer grungy and smelling of post-communism, but has "turned the corner" and is now all "cutting edge and credit cards and trendy restaurants."
I'm not convinced that this in itself is enough to "steal Prague's spotlight" but nonetheless, I am impressed. I'll certainly detour there on my next trip to the Czech Republic and judge for myself.
Filed under: Czech Republic, Hungary, Red Corner
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Kelly Sep 6th 2006 11:53PM
I went to Prague first and like it, but wound up loving Budapaest much more. I visited both cities this spring and what I liked best about Budapest was that I never felt like I was swarming among tourists -- the city is just so big and sprawling. And it has so many more wonderful bridges than the tourist clogged Charles Bridge.
Alice Sep 7th 2006 1:28AM
I guess I am an anomaly. I first stepped foot into Prague and although I was impressed by it's quaint charm, I have to say I prefer Budapest's ambiance and metropolitan feel.
joseph falco Sep 7th 2006 11:57AM
Two different TYPES of cities and both incomparable really. Prague is a mystical city that was unharmed throughout both World Wars and a 360 degree spin on the Charles Bridge reveals art and architecture from the 11th century to the present day.
Budapest's development surged most significantly during the late 19th century and has a predominance of neo-classical architecture.
Both wonderful places but my nod goes to Prague for its moody, netherworld ambiance. At least on the foggy days I spent there.
John Savage Nov 6th 2006 12:03PM
I disagree with those who say that Budapest is better. Budapest is very nice but in this case my heart beats for Prague only. I prefer that cosmopolitan atmosphere in Prague, those great places to hang out. There is always something new and bright waiting for you around each corner. To me Budapest looks a bit like the gipsies capital. And I felt a bit afraid to go and freely hang out in the streets. And since Im gay I felt much more friendly environment in Prague than in Budapest.