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

Should you visit Istanbul or Potsdam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Potsdam, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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 nightlife.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a historic, accessible, and compact city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Potsdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Potsdam. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its small town charm. Istanbul is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Istanbul different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul 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 Istanbul are among the most recognizable in the world. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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

Istanbul is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Istanbul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

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

Istanbul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

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 Istanbul or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

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

Istanbul has a world-famous historical area. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Potsdam?

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

Istanbul is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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 Istanbul or Potsdam Better for Families?

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

Istanbul is a very kid-friendly city. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

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 Istanbul or Potsdam Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Istanbul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

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 Istanbul or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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

Is Istanbul or Potsdam Better for Students?

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

Istanbul is very popular with students. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

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

Istanbul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

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 Istanbul or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Potsdam both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Potsdam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Potsdam.

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

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

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

One day in Istanbul or Potsdam?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

The city of Potsdam offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Potsdam?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Potsdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Potsdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Potsdam?

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

Potsdam is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Potsdam is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Potsdam?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Potsdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Potsdam. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Potsdam averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Potsdam this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Potsdam. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Potsdam. The autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

In October, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Potsdam. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Potsdam in the Winter?

Both Potsdam and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Potsdam. Istanbul is much warmer than Potsdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Istanbul is a little warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Potsdam averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Potsdam. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Istanbul