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

Should you visit Antwerp or Potsdam?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Potsdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a authentic, genuine, and cultural port 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 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.

Antwerp and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Potsdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Antwerp than Potsdam. Antwerp is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Antwerp is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Potsdam is more popular for its food, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Potsdam is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. Antwerp is well known for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. Also, Antwerp is famous for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antwerp
Potsdam

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Antwerp and Potsdam.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Potsdam can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Antwerp or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antwerp
Potsdam

Potsdam is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Antwerp or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Potsdam

Antwerp is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

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 Antwerp or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Potsdam

Antwerp 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 Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Potsdam?

Antwerp
Potsdam

Antwerp is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antwerp make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

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 Antwerp or Potsdam Better for Families?

Antwerp
Potsdam

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Potsdam.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

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 Antwerp or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Potsdam

Both Antwerp and Potsdam are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Potsdam is a good port 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 Antwerp or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Potsdam

Antwerp and Potsdam are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

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

Is Antwerp or Potsdam Better for Students?

Antwerp
Potsdam

Antwerp is well known for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Antwerp is very popular with students. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Antwerp
Potsdam

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

Potsdam has some very good public transit options. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.


Is Antwerp or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Potsdam

Antwerp and Potsdam both are very good when exploring on foot.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

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 Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Potsdam?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp 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 Antwerp.


  • How many days in Antwerp or Potsdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antwerp 1-3 
    Potsdam 1-2

One day in Antwerp or Potsdam?

In Antwerp, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Potsdam, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antwerp or Potsdam?

In Antwerp, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer.

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


Five days in Antwerp or Potsdam?

Antwerp 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 great place to explore. 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.

A week in Antwerp or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Antwerp?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Antwerp is €123, while the average daily cost in Potsdam is €111. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Antwerp and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Potsdam 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Potsdam 120
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Antwerp or Potsdam? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Antwerp


Hotels in Potsdam


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Antwerp Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Potsdam 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $163
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $141
  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $274
  • Transfer from Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Luxury Car or Van: $73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $174
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Antwerp change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Antwerp 39
    Potsdam 31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Antwerp.

  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antwerp 8.21
    Potsdam 25

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

Here are a few actual costs in Antwerp for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Historical Walking Tour in the Old City: $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.27
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.09
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audioguide App: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp: $16
  • Walking Tour Big five Rubens' churches (audio): $16

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

Here are a few actual costs in Potsdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park Self-Guided Gardens Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Baroque Buildings Self-Guided Mobile Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of the Garden's Landmarks: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of City Center: $8.45
  • Museum Barberini Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Cecilienhof Castle Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Biosphäre Potsdam Entry Ticket: $16
  • In the Forbidden City - Potsdam Walking Tour: $20
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antwerp 18
    Potsdam 6.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96


When comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Potsdam, we can see that Antwerp is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Potsdam?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp 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 Antwerp 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 Antwerp or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

Antwerp is around the same temperature as Potsdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°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 Antwerp. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Potsdam in the Autumn?

Both Potsdam and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Antwerp is a little warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antwerp in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Potsdam averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Potsdam. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Potsdam can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. In January, Antwerp is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 3°C (38°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

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

In January, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Potsdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Potsdam. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Antwerp is around the same temperature as Potsdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Potsdam. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Antwerp

Antwerp Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)