A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Potsdam for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Potsdam. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a accessible, compact, and park-filled city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

Both Potsdam and Isle of Skye have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Isle of Skye is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Potsdam and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Isle of Skye different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

Potsdam is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Isle of Skye and Potsdam.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Potsdam. 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 Isle of Skye or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

Potsdam is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Potsdam. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Potsdam Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

Isle of Skye is well known for the beache. However, Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Potsdam is not a beach destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Potsdam Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

Isle of Skye is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

Potsdam is a good destination for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Potsdam. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Potsdam Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

Both Isle of Skye and Potsdam are nice family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Potsdam. 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 Isle of Skye or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

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

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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 Isle of Skye or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

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

Isle of Skye is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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

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

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

Potsdam is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in Potsdam is fairly effecient and thorough. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.


Is Isle of Skye or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Potsdam

Potsdam is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Potsdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Potsdam 1-2

One day in Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Potsdam, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this accessible city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. 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 Isle of Skye has to offer.

Potsdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the park-filled destination of Potsdam. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Potsdam is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Potsdam is £95. 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 Isle of Skye and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Potsdam £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Potsdam £102
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Potsdam £24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

Also for Isle of Skye, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

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 Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Potsdam £26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Potsdam £22

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

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

  • 2 hours: Private Harbor and Castle Sightseeing Cruise: $364
  • 4 hours Private Romantic River Boat Cruise with Wine: $620
  • 4h Private Havelland Discovery Boat Cruise with Skipper: $620
  • 8h: Private Potsdam Islands Sightseeing Boat Cruise: $1,358
  • AbenteuerPark Adventure Climbing in the Trees: $31
  • Babelsberg Park Walking Tour: $152
  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Christmas Walking Tour of Magical Potsdam: $502
  • Christmas Walking Tour of Magical Potsdam: $257
  • City Sightseeing Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • City and Palaces Tour Potsdam - Stadt- und Schloesserrundfahrt Potsdam: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Potsdam £5.73


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


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Potsdam?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is cooler than Potsdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Potsdam averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Potsdam. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Potsdam. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Potsdam. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Potsdam can be very cold. Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. Isle of Skye is much warmer than Potsdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Potsdam. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is cooler than Potsdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Potsdam averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)