Despite rising costs, Prague ranks among Europe's cheapest dining destinations

Any local can tell you that restaurant prices in Prague have risen significantly in recent years, but the trend has been similar across Europe. A new 2025 comparison by ferry guide and booking platform FerryGoGo confirms that Prague—and Czechia as a whole—remains among the most affordable destinations in Europe to enjoy a meal out.

Using 2025 cost of living data from Numbeo, the study examined average prices for a three-course dinner for two people across dozens of European countries and cities. In Prague, the average cost of such a meal is about CZK 1,000, placing the Czech capital fourth cheapest among major European cities.

While many European cities are seeing food prices surge, budget-friendly meals can still be found in Central and Southeastern Europe. Czechia joins countries like North Macedonia, Albania, and Croatia in offering affordable restaurant experiences compared to northwestern European nations, where dining costs are significantly higher.

The study’s figures reveal stark contrasts in pricing across the continent. In Basel, Switzerland, the most expensive city surveyed, a dinner for two averages GBP 112 (CZK 3,270). Reykjavik and Zurich follow closely at GBP 109 (CZK 3,180) and GBP 108 (CZK 3,150), respectively. In contrast, diners in Prague can enjoy a three-course meal at a fraction of that cost.

Nearby capital cities also fall into a similar pricing tier as Prague. In Budapest and Bratislava, dinner for two also averages around GBP 34–35 (CZK 1,000-1,030), keeping the region firmly in the affordable range for visitors. The study highlights a clear north-south and east-west divide, with southern and eastern European destinations offering better value in general.

Although prices have increased across much of Europe, FerryGoGo notes that cities like Prague are still great value for money when compared to traditional western tourist hotspots. Even some Mediterranean destinations, long considered affordable, are beginning to show noticeable price hikes, particularly in Italy and Greece.

The study underscores Prague’s appeal as a city break destination that balances quality and cost. With its historic architecture, walkable city center, and strong public transit network, the Czech capital has long attracted tourists looking for cultural experiences without the hefty price tags found in cities like Paris or Amsterdam.

In terms of affordability, Prague’s GBP 34 (CZK 990) dinner cost compares favorably to other major tourist cities. In Lisbon and Porto, an average dinner for two runs from GBP 42–46 (CZK 1,220–1,340). In Amsterdam, prices are significantly higher—exceeding those in both London and Stockholm.

Though Prague is not the absolute cheapest destination listed—that honor goes to Skopje, where dinner for two averages under GBP 25 (CZK 730)—the Czech capital is also one of the most accessible options within Europe, both in terms of transport links and overall travel infrastructure.

Looking for other budget-friendly dining destinations in Europe? In addition to Skopje, both Podgorica in Montenegro and Seville in Spain ranked more affordable than Prague, with a dinner for two in both locations running GBP 33.68 (CZK 980). Varna and Sofia in Bulgaria and Belgrade in Serbia were only slightly more expensive than the Czech capital.

While visitors should expect higher prices in Prague than in years past, they can still can dine well without overspending—something that’s becoming increasingly rare in European tourism hotspots. The full FerryGoGo comparison can be found here.