Which would be the best for a short trip from London? We can't decide between the two.

First a lot depends on how you plan to get there - Flying or renting a car on the mainland. Budapest is about 1800km whereas Prague is about 1140km. Both are wonderful cities that we have been to. I think Prague has more diversity. It also depends on your definition of "Short". Prague would require at least 3 days, Budapest you might be able to do in 2. Have fun planning!

Budapest, IMO. Glad to elaborate if you wish.

Thanks for your quick replies. We will be flying and spending 2-3 nights.

There have been many current and historic threads on Prague vs. Budapest if you do a search here.

I loved both but Prague more so.

http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...e-174838-2.cfm
http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...-be-missed.cfm
etc.

I'm getting ready to go to both Prague and Budapest--and Vienna.

After reading at length, I'd say Budapest is probably more enjoyable for a weekend.

But they're both great cities.