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

Should you visit Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, 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.

Edinburgh and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Potsdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Potsdam. Edinburgh is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Potsdam is more popular for its food and small town charm. Edinburgh is more touristy than Potsdam and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Edinburgh different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Potsdam Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is well known for its theatre productions. However, Potsdam is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Potsdam is not a theatre destination.

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

Potsdam is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

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

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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 Edinburgh or Potsdam Better for Music?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Potsdam is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is very popular for its old town. However, Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Edinburgh has a world-famous historical area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Potsdam?

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

Edinburgh is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh or Potsdam Better for Families?

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

Edinburgh is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Potsdam Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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

Is Edinburgh or Potsdam Better for Students?

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

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Edinburgh or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Edinburgh or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, and 1-2 days is enough time in Potsdam.

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Potsdam?

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. 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 Edinburgh or Potsdam?

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. 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 Edinburgh has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible 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 Edinburgh or Potsdam?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the accessible 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 Edinburgh or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. 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 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Potsdam?

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

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

Edinburgh is cooler than Potsdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Potsdam fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Potsdam. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Potsdam. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music 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, Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Potsdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Edinburgh in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Potsdam averages at about 10°C (51°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Potsdam. The winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, 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 Edinburgh can be very cold. In January, Edinburgh is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 3°C (38°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in January than Potsdam. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

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

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Potsdam. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Edinburgh