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

Should you visit Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald and Potsdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a high adrenaline, breathtaking, and beautiful town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Potsdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Potsdam are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Grindelwald is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Potsdam is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Potsdam Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Potsdam

Grindelwald is well known for winter skiing. However, Potsdam is not a skiing destination.

People head to Grindelwald specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Potsdam is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Potsdam

Potsdam is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Potsdam specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

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

Grindelwald
Potsdam

Potsdam is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Potsdam is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Grindelwald. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Grindelwald or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Potsdam

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

Grindelwald has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

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 Grindelwald or Potsdam Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Potsdam

Grindelwald is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Potsdam?

Grindelwald
Potsdam

Potsdam is very good for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Potsdam to go shopping. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Grindelwald is a good destination for shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.

Is Grindelwald or Potsdam Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Potsdam

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

Grindelwald is a very kid-friendly town. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor activities.

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 Grindelwald or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Potsdam

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

Couples visit Grindelwald frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

Potsdam is a good town 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 Grindelwald or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Potsdam

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

Grindelwald is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

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

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

Grindelwald
Potsdam

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

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

While Grindelwald offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel around the region.


Is Grindelwald or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Potsdam

Potsdam is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Grindelwald is somewhat walkable. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.

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

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Grindelwald or Potsdam to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


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

One day in Grindelwald or Potsdam?

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the park-filled city of Potsdam. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Grindelwald or Potsdam?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Potsdam. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Grindelwald or Potsdam?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

The historic city of Potsdam offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Grindelwald or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Potsdam. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Grindelwald?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Grindelwald is $241, while the average daily cost in Potsdam is $119. 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 Grindelwald and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Potsdam $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Potsdam $128
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald


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: Grindelwald Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Potsdam $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87

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 Grindelwald or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Grindelwald 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
    Grindelwald $58
    Potsdam $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Potsdam $27

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

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
    Grindelwald $33
    Potsdam $7.18


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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Potsdam?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking, the small town charm, 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.

In July, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), 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 Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Potsdam in the Autumn?

Both Potsdam and Grindelwald during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Grindelwald 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.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Potsdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Potsdam. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Potsdam. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the skiing, 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 Grindelwald. In the winter, Grindelwald is much warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Potsdam averages at about -0°C (31°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Potsdam in the Spring?

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

In April, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the spring. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Potsdam. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)