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

Should you visit Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck 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.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a scenic, youthful , and adventurous city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a historic, accessible, and compact city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Innsbruck and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Innsbruck or Potsdam?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Innsbruck than Potsdam. While Potsdam is larger than Innsbruck, Innsbruck has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Innsbruck is better known for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Potsdam is more popular for its museums, shopping, and small town charm. Innsbruck is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. Also, Innsbruck is famous for The Golden Roof in the old town. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

The Golden Roof in the old town
The Golden Roof in the old town

How is Innsbruck different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Innsbruck or Potsdam Better for Skiing?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

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

People head to Innsbruck specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. This city offers easy access to excellent skiing without having to travel too far. There are 9 ski resorts around town that make up the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck. Each resort has its own personality and style. You can reach the Seegrube mountain in about 20 minutes using the funicular and cable car.

Potsdam is not a skiing destination.


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

Innsbruck
Potsdam

Potsdam is notable for its sights and museums. However, Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Innsbruck
Potsdam

Both Innsbruck and Potsdam offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Innsbruck. The city is known for the hearty and filling food that is perfect for a cold winter day. There are cafes and restaurants around old town that offer traditional dishes including käsespätzle, wiener schnitzel, and apfelstrudel. If you're ready for something a little less heavy, there are a number of ethnic restaurants to choose from outside of the old 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 Innsbruck or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

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

Innsbruck is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population and wide range of young visitors who enjoy high energy activities, there's plenty to do here when the sunsets. There are bars and dance clubs that stay active late into the night.

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 Innsbruck or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

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

Innsbruck has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with charming restaurants and cafes as well as comfortable outdoor places to relax when the weather is nice. One of the most notable landmarks is the The Goldenes Dachl, or the "little golden roof", but the atmosphere around old town is what makes this place really special.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is Innsbruck or Potsdam Better for Hiking?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Innsbruck. The city is nestled in the Austrian mountains with many beautiful hikes just outside of town. There are hikes for all skill levels that offer spectacular views of some of the best scenery in Austria.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Innsbruck or Potsdam?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

Potsdam is a city with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Potsdam offers some nice shopping areas. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Innsbruck or Potsdam Better for Families?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

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

Innsbruck is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a pleasant atmosphere with a charming old town and plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. There's also the popular Swarovski Crystal Worlds, which is fun for kids and adults alike. The Alpine Zoo and the city's many parks and playgrounds all make it a great stop if you're traveling with kids.

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 Innsbruck or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

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

Couples visit Innsbruck frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's old town is filled with restaurants that make for great date nights. There are also many hikes, viewpoints, and activities that are perfect for a couple's getaway.

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 Innsbruck or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

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

Innsbruck is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has a number of hostels and affordable restaurants that make it a reasonable option for backpackers and budget travelers. Outdoor activities like nearby hiking are affordable ways to spend the day as well.

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


Is Innsbruck or Potsdam Better for Students?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

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

Innsbruck is very popular with students. The city's laid back vibe and wide range of universities make it a great place for students. There are cafes, bars, and many outdoor activities that students enjoy while they're in the area.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Innsbruck
Potsdam

Both Innsbruck and Potsdam offer superb public transit options.

Innsbruck has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.

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 Innsbruck or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Innsbruck
Potsdam

Innsbruck and Potsdam both are superb when exploring on foot.

Innsbruck is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, and if you stay anywhere nearby, it's easy to reach it 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 Innsbruck Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Innsbruck?

How long in Innsbruck or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Innsbruck or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Innsbruck than Potsdam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Innsbruck, and 1-2 days is enough time in Potsdam.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Innsbruck or Potsdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Innsbruck 2-4 
    Potsdam 1-2

One day in Innsbruck or Potsdam?

In Innsbruck, you'll find food and skiing. 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 Innsbruck or Potsdam?

In Innsbruck, you'll find skiing and nightlife. 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 Innsbruck has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the compact 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 Innsbruck or Potsdam?

Innsbruck 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the compact 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 Innsbruck or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Innsbruck. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Innsbruck. 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 Vienna, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Innsbruck?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Innsbruck is €129, 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 Innsbruck and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Innsbruck 76
    Potsdam 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Innsbruck 152
    Potsdam 120
Compare Hotels in Innsbruck and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck


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: Innsbruck Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Innsbruck 15
    Potsdam 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Alpbach: Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Kitzbühel/SkiWelt - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Mayrhofen - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Silvretta Arena - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Silvretta Arena Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Soelden - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport INN to Alpbach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Innsbruck Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Round-Trip Transfer: $76
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN) to Innsbruck - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN)to Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Round-Trip Transfer: $98
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $63
  • Innsbruck Private Transfer from Innsbruck Airport to City centre: $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $160
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $174
  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $174

Is it cheaper to fly into Innsbruck or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Innsbruck 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
    Innsbruck 40
    Potsdam 31
Typical Food Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of dining costs in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Soup for Lunch
    3.75
  • Pasta Lunch
    8.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Innsbruck

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Innsbruck.

  • Half-Day Food Tour of Tyrolean Cuisine: $148
  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Innsbruck 19
    Potsdam 25
Typical Entertainment Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Schloss Ambras Entrance
    8.00
  • Botanical Garden Entrance Fee
    2.00

Tours and Activities in Innsbruck

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Innsbruck are as follows:

  • City Tower Entrance Ticket: $4.81
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bergisel Ski Jump Arena Entrance Ticket in Innsbruck: $11
  • Innsbruck Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Hungerburg Funicular Roundtrip Ticket: $12
  • Hungerburg: Roundtrip Funicular Tickets from Innsbruck: $13
  • Skip the Line: Ambras Castle in Innsbruck Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Tickets for Schloss Ambras: $15
  • Innsbruck - "Welcome Tour" by Per Pedes. Guided City Tour.: $19
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $20
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $21

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
    Innsbruck 19
    Potsdam 6.70


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


Which is Bigger, Innsbruck or Potsdam?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Innsbruck. When comparing the sizes of Innsbruck 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.