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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Potsdam?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Copenhagen and Potsdam can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a friendly, happy, and welcoming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. 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 accessible, compact, and park-filled city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Potsdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Copenhagen than Potsdam. Copenhagen is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its small town charm. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Also, Copenhagen is famous for Tivoli Gardens. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Copenhagen different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Copenhagen and Potsdam.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Copenhagen. There are many sights and landmarks around town including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Harbor, and The Round Tower. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of Denmark and the National Gallery of Denmark.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Copenhagen or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Copenhagen is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Copenhagen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.

Potsdam has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Copenhagen or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

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

Copenhagen is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.

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 Copenhagen or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen. Indre By is the oldest part of the city and where you'll find most of the sights and attractions. This is where most visitors stay and you'll find many great restaurants and activities to enjoy.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Potsdam?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen make it a world-class shopping destination. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.

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 Copenhagen or Potsdam Better for Families?

Copenhagen is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is one of the most popular family destinations. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

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 Copenhagen or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Copenhagen has plenty to offer. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

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 Copenhagen or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Copenhagen is a great city to visit for backpackers. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.

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

Is Copenhagen or Potsdam Better for Students?

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

Copenhagen is very popular with students. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

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 Copenhagen or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen on foot is easy. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.

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 Copenhagen Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Potsdam?

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

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

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

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

One day in Copenhagen or Potsdam?

In Copenhagen, 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.

With museums and nightlife around the compact city of Potsdam, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Potsdam, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Potsdam?

In Copenhagen, 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 Copenhagen has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Potsdam, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Copenhagen or Potsdam?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Potsdam, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Copenhagen. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Potsdam?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen or Potsdam?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Copenhagen during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Potsdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Potsdam fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in July than Potsdam. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Potsdam. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Potsdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Copenhagen in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Potsdam averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In October, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Potsdam. The winter months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Potsdam in the winter. The weather in Copenhagen can be very cold. In January, Copenhagen is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 1°C (33°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in January than Potsdam. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Copenhagen is cooler than Potsdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In April, Copenhagen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Potsdam. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Copenhagen