Amsterdam and Prague are two of the most popular cities for students in Europe and it’s easy to see why.
You can fly to either of these cities for between €40 and €60 return. When you consider the prices for train and bus tickets from Dublin to the countryside, this is a bargain.
Both cities are wonderful in their own ways. Prague has such a high concentration of beautiful buildings, with their own little details and designs.
Prague castle lies on top of a hill overlooking the city. The view of all the low-lying red rooftops and cathedrals is really something to behold.
Amsterdam is a city of canals, bridges and bicycles. Its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with all sorts of shops where you can find something to tickle your fancy.
Amsterdam boasts canal tours, ice bars, the Heineken experience and the Anne Frank house. Of course, you must get a picture at the Amsterdam sign to prove you were there.
In Prague, you can zoom around the city on a Segway. It’s a lot of fun and certainly a different way of viewing the city.
Prague is also famous for its pub crawls, many of which end up in the marvellous nightclub Karlovy Lazne. This has an ice bar, as well as six floors with different types of music, but why would you even consider leaving the ‘oldies’ floor?
Both cities are easy to get around. Prague’s underground system is straightforward and reliable and Amsterdam’s tram system is the same. Neither are expensive and if you get lost, just ask the friendly natives.
Prague boasts something that appeals to all students: it’s cheap. €1 will get you just over 26 Czech Koruna. To put this in context, a pint (of delicious Czech lager) costs less than €2.
Prague is like a meat heaven. The city is big on grilled meats, burgers and schnitzel. No matter where you are, you won’t be far from cheap and tasty food.
Amsterdam’s food and drink is slightly more expensive, closer to the prices you’d pay in Dublin.
The Red Light District is definitely somewhere you should experience. Then if you want to have a giggle, you can visit the coffee shops. If your eyes can’t find them, your nose will.
Both cities are exceptionally beautiful, full of things to do and sights to see. You will come home full of stories, some to tell and some to keep to yourself.
Conor Hawkins
Image credit Hayley Halpin
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