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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Potsdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a high energy, livable, and cultural port city. 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne than Potsdam, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Newcastle upon Tyne is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Potsdam is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Newcastle upon Tyne is popular for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. It is also home to The Tyne Bridge. Potsdam is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Potsdam and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Newcastle upon Tyne and Potsdam can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam Better for Families?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Potsdam are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Potsdam is a nice destination for couples. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

Newcastle upon Tyne and Potsdam are both good destinations for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

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

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

Visitors will find very good public transit in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Potsdam.

Newcastle upon Tyne offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Potsdam. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Potsdam

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne on foot is easy. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.


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

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This port city 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 nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne has to offer.

Many people visit Potsdam for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

The destination of Potsdam offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

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

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Potsdam. This city offers something for everyone. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Newcastle upon Tyne is £130, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newcastle upon Tyne £51
    Potsdam £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newcastle upon Tyne £102
    Potsdam £102
Compare Hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne


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: Newcastle upon Tyne Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £12
    Potsdam £24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Newcastle upon Tyne:


  • Parking
    £1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle upon Tyne

Also for Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Club - Round-Trip Transfer: $65
  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Newcastle Airport to Newcastle Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $55

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne £68
    Potsdam £26
Typical Food Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee (2)
    £4.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Ultimate Cheese & Wine Food Tour: $83
  • Newcastle Street Food Tour: $88
  • A Taste Of Newcastle Food Tour: $89
  • Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £17
    Potsdam £22

Tours and Activities in Newcastle upon Tyne

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

  • Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins: $5.20
  • Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket: $16
  • Private Bike Tour of Berwick: $19
  • Newcastle Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Sunderland by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Newcastle True Crime Walking Tour: $23
  • 1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour: $23
  • 1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle: $25
  • Guided Walks and Tours, Seahouses, Beadnell & Bamburgh: $29
  • Northumberland Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Halloween Special: Newcastle's Dark Side Walking Tour: $32
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne: $38

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
    Newcastle upon Tyne £9.43
    Potsdam £5.73

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle upon Tyne:

  • Private Newcastle Pub Tour: $191
  • Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour: $203


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


Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 32% larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Newcastle upon Tyne during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne 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, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Potsdam. Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne 15°C (59°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Potsdam. The shopping scene are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Potsdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne 10°C (49°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Potsdam. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Potsdam can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Newcastle upon Tyne. In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne is much warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Potsdam averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Potsdam. Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne 3°C (38°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 7°C (45°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne 7°C (45°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne 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)