You could go to both Salzburg & Prague, if you really want to see both -- just spend slightly less time in each.

Salzburg is charming, but if you stay in the old town, you can see just about everything in 1 full day -- Schloss Mirabell, Hohensalzburg, Mozart's birthplace (not a must in my book), the Dom, Residenzplatz, Schloss Helbrunn.

Prague, however, has more sites to see and requires at least, in my opinion, 3 days.

I loved both cities, but they provide a different vibe. Salzburg is much smaller, somewhat cozier. Prague is larger and has magnificent architecture; it truly does seem "golden."

I walked extensively in Prague and did not notice any more unfriendly people, tacky tourist shops, cops, thieves or garbage than in any other large city. If you look, you can find very nice shops. I did not encounter any thieves (although a person I was with in Greece in September had her wallet stolen at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens). I don't remember seeing policemen either; they have a much more noticeable presence in Italy and in Berlin, in my experience. I also attempted to speak some Czech, which might have helped in the "friendliness" area.

I've been to Prague twice, most recently this past August, and we did NOT encounter any thieves or unfriendly people. Quite the oopposite, everyone was friendly, warm & helpful!!! Prague is a beautiful city, cleaner than most, with delicious food!!! I would return to Prague in a heartbeat. The archittecture is AMAZING!!!

Thanks for all of the replies. It looks like Prague is definitely a favorite, despite some of its typical big city problems.

Based off the feedback it looks like Prague would be the better choice with more attractions and spectacular architecture, but I think we're going to go with Salzburg this time around. It works better with our route and we can do it justice with a few days visit. We plan to focus on just the Old Town and maybe catch a concert in the Mirabell Palace.

Thanks again for all of the advice.

>Above poster forgot to mention " rip off " taxi drivers among the other good reasons to no longer visit Prague.<

Yes, but with the Metro and the tram service there really is no need to take a taxi in Praha. I was in Prague for 9 days and never took a taxi.

There is so much more to see and do in Praha compared to Salzburg.

I have been to both cities.

Linda Radlett

I've been to both... loved Prague, somewhat disappointed in Salzburg.

Unless your are a music fan I would choose Prague>>

I haven't read all the posts on this thread, but I can't agree with the above remark. we found load of music there - cheap seats at the opera, a great concert at the municipal hall, concerts in churches advertised at every corner. and MUCH cheaper than Vienna and Salzburg.

and it would give you a different flavour from all your other destinations.

I have spent a good deal of time in Salzburg and it is one of my favorite cities in Europe. We were there for a day last week and regretted not having more time on our trip to spend there.

It is a comfortable city with lots of charm and in a terrific location for day trips. We like the ambiance.

I have not been to Prague, had planned 3 days there at the end of our trip but opted instead to return to Munich. It is no longer high on my list but Budapest definitely is. And we have booked 4 nights in Salzburg for 2010.

Different strokes...

ncsu,

Wise decision. Save Prague for when you have at least 5 nights to spend there...