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

Should you visit Nafplio or Potsdam?

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

Should I visit Nafplio 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.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a beautiful, picturesque, and romantic city. 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 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.

Nafplio and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Nafplio or Potsdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nafplio. Although Nafplio and Potsdam are both popular with visitors, Nafplio has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nafplio is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is known for its small town charm. Nafplio is more touristy than Potsdam and is popular for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. It is also home to Palamidi Castle. Potsdam is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Nafplio different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nafplio
Potsdam

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Potsdam and Nafplio.

Nafplio offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

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 Nafplio or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nafplio
Potsdam

Both Nafplio and Potsdam offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Nafplio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

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 Nafplio or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Nafplio
Potsdam

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

Nafplio is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

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 Nafplio or Potsdam Better for Beaches?

Nafplio
Potsdam

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

Many people head to Nafplio to enjoy the beach. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

Potsdam is not a beach destination.


Is Nafplio or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Nafplio
Potsdam

Nafplio 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 Nafplio. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Potsdam?

Nafplio
Potsdam

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Nafplio and Potsdam.

Nafplio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Potsdam is a great destination for shopping. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Is Nafplio or Potsdam Better for Families?

Nafplio
Potsdam

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nafplio or Potsdam.

Nafplio is a family-friendly city. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

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 Nafplio or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Nafplio
Potsdam

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

Couples visit Nafplio frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

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 Nafplio or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio
Potsdam

Nafplio and Potsdam are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nafplio. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

Potsdam is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels to choose from in town.

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

Nafplio
Potsdam

Potsdam is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Nafplio, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.


Is Nafplio or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Nafplio
Potsdam

Nafplio 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 Nafplio on foot is easy. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can 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 Nafplio Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Potsdam?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Nafplio or Potsdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nafplio 2-3 
    Potsdam 1-2

One day in Nafplio or Potsdam?

In Nafplio, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

In Potsdam, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Nafplio or Potsdam?

In Nafplio, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nafplio has to offer.

In Potsdam, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Potsdam has to offer.


Five days in Nafplio or Potsdam?

Nafplio 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 great place to explore. 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.

A week in Nafplio or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nafplio. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nafplio. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Potsdam. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Potsdam. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Nafplio?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nafplio is €112, 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 Nafplio and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nafplio 50
    Potsdam 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nafplio 100
    Potsdam 120
Compare Hotels in Nafplio and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Nafplio 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 Nafplio


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: Nafplio Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nafplio 46
    Potsdam 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nafplio

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

  • Athens: Bus Transfer to/from Nafplio: $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $159
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $173
  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $173

Is it cheaper to fly into Nafplio or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Nafplio 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
    Nafplio 34
    Potsdam 31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nafplio 22
    Potsdam 25

Tours and Activities in Nafplio

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

  • Nafplio Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: $11
  • Highlights Walking Tour: $59
  • City Walking Tour: $86
  • Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus Private Full Day Tour with Sedan: $91
  • From Nafplion: Mycenae, Corinth Canal and Epidavros Day Tour: $182
  • Visit Ancient Corinth Mycenae Nafplio Canal Private Tour 8H: $188
  • Mycenae Epidavrous Nafplio Isthmus Canal Full Day Tour 8 H: $199
  • From Hydra Island Private-Tour to Nafplio, Epidaurus&Mycenae: $385
  • Argolis: Full-Day Private Peloponnese Tour from Athens: $427
  • From Athens: Peloponnese Full Day Private Tour & Audio Tour: $503
  • Peloponnese: Mycenae Nafplio Epidaurus Private Tour & Audio: $503
  • Athens: Corinth, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Nafplio Day Tour: $524

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: $151
  • 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: $255
  • 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
    Nafplio 6.86
    Potsdam 6.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Nafplio

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nafplio:

  • Nafplion: Nemea Vineyards Wine Tour: $171
  • "Wine tasting Tour in Nemea and Visit tour in Nafplio": $295


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


Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Potsdam?

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

Both Potsdam and Nafplio during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nafplio is generally a little warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 25°C (76°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nafplio. In the summer, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Potsdam. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets less rain in July than Potsdam. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nafplio 25°C (76°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Potsdam. Many travelers come to Nafplio for the shopping scene 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.

Nafplio is much warmer than Potsdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In Nafplio, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during autumn. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nafplio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nafplio 19°C (66°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Potsdam. Many visitors come to Nafplio in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Potsdam can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Nafplio is much warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nafplio in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Potsdam averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Potsdam. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Nafplio receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nafplio usually gets more rain in January than Potsdam. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Nafplio or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Nafplio is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 15°C (58°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during spring. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nafplio 15°C (58°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Nafplio

Nafplio Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 102 mm (4 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 154 mm (6.1 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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