A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Potsdam for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a enjoyable, unique, and beautiful national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a accessible, compact, and park-filled city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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 public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Potsdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Potsdam. Although Lake District National Park and Potsdam are both popular with visitors, Potsdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Potsdam is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Potsdam and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Potsdam is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. It is also home to The Sanssouci Palace.

How is Lake District National Park different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Potsdam?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

Potsdam is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

Foodies will find both Lake District National Park and Potsdam both to be high quality destinations.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

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.

Is Lake District National Park or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

Potsdam is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Potsdam Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

Lake District National Park is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Potsdam?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

Potsdam is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Potsdam Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

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

Lake District National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

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 Lake District National Park or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

Lake District National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Lake District National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Potsdam is a good national park 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 Lake District National Park or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

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

Is Lake District National Park or Potsdam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

Potsdam is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Potsdam offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Potsdam

Potsdam is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Potsdam?

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

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


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Potsdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Potsdam 1-2

One day in Lake District National Park or Potsdam?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the compact destination of Potsdam. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Potsdam?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Potsdam for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Potsdam?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake District National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The accessible destination of Potsdam offers shopping and museums. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. 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 Lake District National Park or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Potsdam, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, 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 Lake District National Park and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Potsdam £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Potsdam £102
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Potsdam £24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

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 Lake District National Park or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    Potsdam £26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Potsdam £22

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140

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
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Potsdam £5.73


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Potsdam, we can see that Potsdam is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park 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 Potsdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Potsdam than you might in Lake District National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lake District National Park Expensive? and Is Potsdam Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Lake District National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Potsdam in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 15°C (59°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Potsdam. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Potsdam in the Autumn?

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

Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Potsdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Potsdam. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. Lake District National Park can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Lake District National Park is much warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lake District National Park in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Potsdam averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Potsdam. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Potsdam in the Spring?

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

In April, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 7°C (45°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)