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

Should you visit Hydra or Potsdam?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Potsdam? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hydra

Hydra is a quaint, picturesque, and charming island. 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 shopping, museums, and food.

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.

Hydra and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Hydra or Potsdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Potsdam are popular destinations, Hydra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its food and nightlife. Hydra is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also well known for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Hydra different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hydra
Potsdam

Both Hydra and Potsdam have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hydra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

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.


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

Hydra
Potsdam

Potsdam is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Potsdam makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Hydra has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Is Hydra or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Hydra
Potsdam

Potsdam is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Potsdam has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Potsdam Better for Resorts?

Hydra
Potsdam

Hydra is very good for its resorts. However, Potsdam is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Hydra makes a nice vacation spot. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Potsdam is not a resort destination.


Is Hydra or Potsdam Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra
Potsdam

Hydra is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Potsdam Better for Beaches?

Hydra
Potsdam

Hydra is very good for the beache. However, Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Hydra to enjoy the beach. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Hydra
Potsdam

Hydra 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 Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is Hydra or Potsdam Better for Hiking?

Hydra
Potsdam

Hydra is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Potsdam?

Hydra
Potsdam

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

Hydra is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

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 Hydra or Potsdam Better for Families?

Hydra
Potsdam

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

Hydra is a very kid-friendly island. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

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 Hydra or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Hydra
Potsdam

Hydra 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, Hydra has plenty to offer. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

Potsdam is a good island 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 Hydra or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hydra
Potsdam

Potsdam is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Potsdam. There are a handful of hostels to choose from in town.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

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

Hydra
Potsdam

Potsdam is a great destination for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Potsdam. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.


Is Hydra or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Hydra
Potsdam

Hydra 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 Hydra on foot is easy. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

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 Hydra Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hydra or Potsdam to fill your time. In our opinion, Hydra has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hydra than Potsdam. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Potsdam than Hydra 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 Potsdam.


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

One day in Hydra or Potsdam?

Hydra is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This island 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this park-filled destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hydra or Potsdam?

Hydra 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hydra has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Potsdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Hydra or Potsdam?

Hydra 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Potsdam. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Since Hydra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the accessible destination of Potsdam. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Hydra?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hydra is €97, 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 Hydra and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hydra 51
    Potsdam 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hydra 102
    Potsdam 120
Compare Hotels in Hydra and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Hydra 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 Hydra


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: Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hydra 26
    Potsdam 28

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 Hydra or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Hydra 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
    Hydra 30
    Potsdam 31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hydra 11
    Potsdam 25

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
    Hydra 11
    Potsdam 6.70


When comparing the travel costs between Hydra and Potsdam, we can see that Potsdam 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 Hydra Expensive? and Is Potsdam Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hydra or Potsdam?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Potsdam averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Potsdam. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Potsdam. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hydra 27°C (81°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Potsdam in the Autumn?

Both Potsdam and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Potsdam in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hydra is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Potsdam. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hydra 19°C (67°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Potsdam. Many visitors come to Hydra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Potsdam can be very cold during winter. Hydra is much warmer than Potsdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives around the same amount of rain as Potsdam. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hydra 10°C (51°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Potsdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Potsdam. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hydra is much warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Potsdam averages at about 9°C (48°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Potsdam. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Potsdam. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hydra 16°C (60°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Hydra

Hydra Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)