A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Potsdam for Attractions, Food, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Aberdeen or Potsdam?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Aberdeen or Potsdam? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a architectural, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a historic, accessible, and compact city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Aberdeen and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Potsdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aberdeen than Potsdam. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Aberdeen is very popular for its historical sights and big city activities, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its food, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Aberdeen is famous for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also well known for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen. Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Aberdeen different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Potsdam and Aberdeen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Potsdam?

Both Aberdeen and Potsdam have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Aberdeen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Many visitors head to Potsdam specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Potsdam is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Potsdam makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a diverse restaurant scene, although the city is quite small. There are international restaurants as well as local venues where you can try regional specialties.

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Aberdeen or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Both Aberdeen and Potsdam are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Potsdam. The city is not far from Berlin, so head in to Germany's nightlife capital for the most famous clubs and venues. In the town of Potsdam there are cocktail bars and breweries that make for a mellow and relaxed evening.

Is Aberdeen or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen is well known for its old town. However, Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Potsdam?

Both Aberdeen and Potsdam are nice shopping destinations.

Aberdeen is a great destination for shopping. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Potsdam. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Is Aberdeen or Potsdam Better for Families?

Aberdeen is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Potsdam offers lots of family activities. There are a number of playgrounds around town as well as several beaches by lakes that are fun for kids. Another highlight for families is a visit to Babelsberg Film Studios.

Is Aberdeen or Potsdam Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Aberdeen and Potsdam make for a nice place to visit.

Aberdeen is a nice destination for couples. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Potsdam makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Exploring the city and soaking up the sights is the best way for couples to enjoy their time. There are some nice hotels and restaurants in the area that make for a great date night.

Is Aberdeen or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam is a popular place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Potsdam. There are a handful of hostels to choose from in town.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Potsdam Better for Students?

Aberdeen is very good for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Aberdeen is popular with students. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

Is Aberdeen or Potsdam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Potsdam is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Potsdam is fairly effecient and thorough. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

Aberdeen has some public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Is Aberdeen or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Aberdeen and Potsdam both are great when exploring on foot.

Aberdeen is very walkable. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Potsdam is a very walkable city. It's a smaller, compact city that can mostly be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aberdeen or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Aberdeen than Potsdam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Potsdam.

Families should spend more time in Aberdeen than Potsdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Aberdeen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Potsdam than Aberdeen. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Potsdam that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Potsdam than Aberdeen if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Potsdam.

One day in Aberdeen or Potsdam?

In Aberdeen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Potsdam offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Aberdeen or Potsdam?

In Aberdeen, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aberdeen has to offer.

Potsdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Potsdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Potsdam?

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Potsdam is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Aberdeen or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aberdeen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Potsdam is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aberdeen and Potsdam, we can see that Aberdeen is more expensive. And not only is Potsdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Potsdam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Potsdam and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Aberdeen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aberdeen than you might in Potsdam.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aberdeen Expensive? and Is Potsdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Potsdam?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Potsdam, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Aberdeen or Potsdam?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Potsdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Potsdam. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aberdeen is cooler than Potsdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aberdeen in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Potsdam averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Potsdam this time of the year. Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Potsdam. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 9°C (49°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Potsdam in the Winter?

Both Potsdam and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Potsdam can be very cold during winter. Aberdeen can get quite cold in the winter. Aberdeen is much warmer than Potsdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Aberdeen usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Aberdeen during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Aberdeen is cooler than Potsdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aberdeen in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Potsdam averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in April than Potsdam. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Aberdeen