I am going to Vienna end of the month for business. I have about 4 days available for vacation on this trip.
I the past, I have been to many places in Europe but not to Austria, Hugary, and CZ. I do not have time to go to both Budapest AND Prague. So, if I do have to pick one (and I understand they are very different) then which one is the first place to see? I will definately go back in a couple of years and can see more then.
Thank you!

I have spent 6 days each in Prague and Budapest. Next week I will be leaving to spend 11 days in Budapest. Personally I prefer Budapest, mainly because there is a more comfortable feel to the city.

Budapest is about two hours from Vienna by train.

Just go with your gut and go to whichever city you feel you want to see now as opposed to a few years from now.

Hi N,

We very much liked Prague.

I don't think that it will matter which city you visit.

Thank you Centralmainer and Ira!

Budapest and Prague are both wonderful and, as you say, they are very different from one another. What do you like to do and experience when traveling?

I like traditional architecture such as old castles. I like to explore and learn about local culture. I am not much into shopping except if I find something that is locally made and specialty of that region/country. I am in early 30s but not much into nightlife or club scene. In short, when I am traveling I like to explore and do things that I know I will not be able to see or do when I am at home.

Prague is a breathtaking outdoor museum with unlimited architectural interest and history of course, a more popular city with tons of people, some think magical and some think a little Disneyfied. Budapest as an historical companion to Vienna would be one reason to pick that city. It's less expensive, has a bigger area for you to prowl, there will be fewer tourists and the food is more interesting, although not polished, even a little tattered. Both places you get a castle and a river so you can't go wrong. Like the other poster, I have returned to Budapest on several occasions and plan an extended trip in future. Whichever you pick you'll be knocked out, have a great trip.

Thank you everyone for the information and advice. I have decided to go to Prague this time around : -) Will do Budapest next time around.