Ben Lerwill compares Czech Republic capital Prague and emerging Polish destination Krakow as short break destinations
Eastern Europe has been one of the biggest growth areas for UK visitors over the last 15 years.
Easily accessible, kind on the purse-strings and brimming with cultural quirks, it’s a region that warrants multiple trips and extensive exploration.
Two destinations that have long been cemented in city break consciousness are Prague and Krakow. The Czech capital is pretty much an institution, with its river panoramas and chocolate-box scenery. Poland’s Krakow – less fabled, maybe, but no less charming – is another medieval gem.
The catch? Choosing between them.
Culture and attractions
Prague
Some feel that Prague has become too overcrowded in recent years, and at peak times this is a valid point.
There is, however, a good reason for this popularity – there’s a lot worth seeing. The centre is an atmospheric warren of cobbles, alleys, courtyards and churches, with the photo-friendly whole overlooked by a medieval Bohemian castle.
The best known attraction is Charles Bridge, a 520-metre Gothic span across the Vltava River. With 16 arches and 30 baroque statues, it’s quite a sight.
The colourful Mala Strana (little quarter) at the foot of the castle is another big tourist draw, while the Old Town square is great for soaking up the lively feel of the city. There are also a number of excellent museums, including a Franz Kafka exhibition and a history of puppetry.
Krakow
Another picture postcard town that survived the effects of the war, Krakow is urban Poland at its most inviting.
All the action around the main market square, Rynek Glowny, a broad, airy space bordered on all sides by striking period buildings.
The city is Poland’s ancient capital and is full of old-world majesty – its monuments are UNESCO-listed. Highlights not to be missed include Wawel Hill’s classic castle complex and Kazimierz, the old Jewish quarter.
A ring of pleasant parkland around the city centre acts as a nice complement to the Old Town’s alleyways, while one-off attractions include the 14th-century university building at Collegium Maius and historic art at Czartoryski Museum.
Forty-five miles out of town, the preserved concentration camps at Auschwitz-Birkenau make for an uneasy but sobering day trip.
Food and drink
Prague
The global visitor attention lavished on Prague means there’s now huge choice for eating out. If you’ve got the budget to go high-end, there are some superb restaurants making magic with local ingredients, although the more traditional pork-and-dumpling options are also readily available.
Quality ethnic restaurants are burgeoning and you won’t have to look hard to find fast food. Where liquid refreshments are concerned, beer lovers will be in heaven, while the infamous absinthe is also a favourite.
Krakow
As with Prague, Krakow’s tourist status makes for an ever-broadening range of eateries.
The sturdy, flavoursome fare at the city’s canteen-style milk bars give an accurate taste of Poland, while the more formal restaurants tend to combine meaty local specialties with decent international dishes.
You’ll also find a number of Asian joints, particularly Chinese, and a handful of places specialising in Mediterranean cuisine. The beer is very drinkable and vodka borders on a religion.
Nightlife
Prague
There are plenty of bars and trendy cafes, but the real appeal lies in the more authentic cellars and beer halls. Dance clubs and chic nightspots keep going into the early hours, while culture fans should take in a classical performance in the city’s grand auditoria.
Krakow
Many of the cafes around the Rynek Glowny stay open well after sundown, but things get livelier at the bars and cellars around the Old Town and Kazimierz.
Theatre, cabaret and classical music performances are well worth investigation. Those wanting a late night will find plenty of drinking holes open until around 5am.
Sell it to…
Prague
The stag-do sector has had its feet planted here for years, but the city works best for those who are looking to take things a little easier. The cobbles and spires make it a romantic option for couples, while anyone with an interest in history will also be won over.
For older customers the central sights are fairly compact, although it might be best to avoid peak months.
Krakow
Krakow acts as a gateway to the surrounding region, so it’s worth bearing in mind for clients with time on their hands. The city fits romantics and party animals alike.
Sample product
Prague
Cox and Kings offers four nights for the price of three at the Hotel Hoffmeister Lily Wellness and Spa in Prague in August. The price of £520 per person includes flights with British Airways from Heathrow or Gatwick, accommodation with breakfast and private transfers.
Krakow
Inghams has two nights’ bed and breakfast at the three-star Hotel Andel’s in Krakow from £299 per person, including flights from Gatwick with British Airways. Valid until October 31.
Prague factfile
- Flying time: One hour, 55 minutes from London
- Time difference: GMT +1 hour
- Language: Czech
- Accommodation: From hostels to five-star swank – the music-themed Aria Hotel is among the best.
Krakow factfile
- Flying time: Two hours, 20 minutes from London
- Time difference: GMT+1 hour
- Language: Polish
- Accommodation: Highlights include Hotel Grand, Hotel Pollera and the gorgeous Hotel Copernicus.
