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

Should you visit Brussels or Potsdam?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Potsdam. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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 gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Potsdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels than Potsdam. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brussels is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Brussels and Potsdam have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Potsdam offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Brussels or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Brussels and Potsdam.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Potsdam has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Brussels or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Potsdam.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

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 Brussels or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Potsdam?

Brussels 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 Brussels make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels or Potsdam Better for Families?

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

Brussels is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and 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 Brussels or Potsdam Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is well known for backpackers. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

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

Is Brussels or Potsdam Better for Students?

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

Brussels is very popular with students. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Brussels 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.

Brussels has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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 Brussels or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Brussels and Potsdam both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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 Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Brussels or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Brussels than Potsdam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 1-2 days is enough time in Potsdam.

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

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

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

One day in Brussels or Potsdam?

Because Brussels 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

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 Brussels or Potsdam?

Because Brussels 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. 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Potsdam?

Brussels 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 Brussels has to offer. 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 Brussels or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. 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.

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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Potsdam?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Brussels is around the same temperature as Potsdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brussels in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Potsdam averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Potsdam. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Brussels or Potsdam in the Autumn?

Both Potsdam and Brussels during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Brussels is generally a little warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 12°C (54°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Potsdam. Most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Brussels usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Potsdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Potsdam. The spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

In the spring, Brussels is around the same temperature as Potsdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brussels in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Potsdam averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Potsdam. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Brussels