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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Potsdam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Potsdam, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a compact, park-filled, and historic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Potsdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Potsdam. Amsterdam is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its food and small town charm. Amsterdam is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Amsterdam different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Potsdam.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Potsdam. 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 Amsterdam or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Potsdam is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Potsdam. 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.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

If you're looking for night time activities Potsdam has a few options to choose from. 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 Amsterdam or Potsdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is very popular for its live music scene. However, Potsdam is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Potsdam is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Potsdam?

Amsterdam is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Potsdam has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Is Amsterdam or Potsdam Better for Families?

Potsdam is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Potsdam. 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.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Potsdam is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Amsterdam or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is very popular for backpackers. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

It's common for backpackers to visit Potsdam. There are a handful of hostels to choose from in town.

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

Amsterdam is very popular for its public transit. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Amsterdam has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

The public transit in Potsdam can get you to most places easily. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

Is Amsterdam or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Amsterdam or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Amsterdam than Potsdam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-2 days is enough time in Potsdam.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Potsdam 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or Potsdam?

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Potsdam. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Potsdam has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Potsdam?

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Amsterdam has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the compact destination of Potsdam. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Potsdam?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Potsdam. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Potsdam is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Potsdam, we can see that Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam Expensive? and Is Potsdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Potsdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Amsterdam is cooler than Potsdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Potsdam fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Potsdam. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Potsdam in the Autumn?

Both Potsdam and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Potsdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Potsdam averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Potsdam. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Potsdam. It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. In January, Amsterdam is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Potsdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Potsdam. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Amsterdam is cooler than Potsdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in April than Potsdam. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Amsterdam