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

Should you visit Paphos or Potsdam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos 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.

Paphos

Paphos is a overlooked, ancient, and beautiful town. 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 compact, park-filled, and historic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • 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 backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Paphos or Potsdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Potsdam are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its small town charm. Paphos is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Paphos different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paphos
Potsdam

Paphos 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 Paphos are among the most recognizable in the world. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

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 Paphos or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos
Potsdam

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

Paphos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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 Paphos or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Paphos
Potsdam

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Potsdam has a better nightlife scene.

Paphos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

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 Paphos or Potsdam Better for Resorts?

Paphos
Potsdam

Paphos is very popular for its resorts. However, Potsdam is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Paphos is a perfect choice. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Potsdam is not a resort destination.


Is Paphos or Potsdam Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos
Potsdam

Paphos is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Potsdam Better for Beaches?

Paphos
Potsdam

Paphos is very popular for the beache. However, Potsdam is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation destination. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Paphos
Potsdam

Paphos is very good for its old town. However, Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Paphos to see the old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Potsdam?

Paphos
Potsdam

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

Paphos is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

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 Paphos or Potsdam Better for Families?

Paphos
Potsdam

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

Paphos is a very kid-friendly town. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

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 Paphos or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Paphos
Potsdam

Paphos is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Paphos has plenty to offer. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

Potsdam is a good town 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 Paphos or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos
Potsdam

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

Paphos is a great town to visit for backpackers. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

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

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

Paphos
Potsdam

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Paphos and Potsdam.

Visitors to Paphos can move around easily with public transportation. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

The public transit in Potsdam can get you around easily. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

Is Paphos or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Paphos
Potsdam

Potsdam is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paphos or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paphos than Potsdam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Potsdam.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Paphos or Potsdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paphos 3-5 
    Potsdam 1-2

One day in Paphos or Potsdam?

In Paphos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Potsdam. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Potsdam?

In Paphos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Potsdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Paphos or Potsdam?

Paphos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paphos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Potsdam. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Paphos or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paphos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the accessible destination of Potsdam. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Paphos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Paphos is €97, 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 Paphos and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paphos 48
    Potsdam 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paphos 96
    Potsdam 120
Compare Hotels in Paphos and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Paphos 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 Paphos


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: Paphos Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Potsdam 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paphos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Paphos:

  • Blue Lagoon trip with slide, music & transfer from Paphos: $32
  • From Nicosia Sightseeing Tour with Hotel Transfer: $30
  • Paphos Airport (PFO) to Paphos city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • Paphos to Paphos Int Airport (PFO) - Departure Private Transfer: $31
  • Choirokitia & Famagusta Guided Tour with Transfers: $43
  • Private Airport Transfer from Hotel to Paphos Airport in a 4-seater taxi: $42
  • Private Transfer Paphos Airport PFO to Paphos City by Luxury Car: $138
  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport (PFO) to Limassol Port: $25
  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport to Larnaca in Minivan(Taxi): $191

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $174
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Paphos or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Paphos 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
    Paphos 38
    Potsdam 31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paphos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Paphos.

  • From Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $52
  • Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $54
  • Wave Dancer Fireworks, Buffet Dinner & Show Cruise: $66

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Potsdam 25

Tours and Activities in Paphos

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

  • Cruise to Blue Lagoon from Latchi Port: $20
  • Paphos/Akamas: Blue Lagoon Bus & Boat Tour with water slide: $21
  • Blue Lagoon Cruise with sightseeing departing from LATCHI HARBOUR. Postcode 8840: $22
  • Nafsika II Half Day Cruise Swimming to blue lagoon water slide : $24
  • From Limassol Experience: $25
  • Latchi to Blue Lagoon Glass Bottom+slide Boat Tour: $25
  • Full day trip to Blue Lagoon Latchi Akamas with Boat cruise: $27
  • Chrysoroyiatissa ,Kykkos ,Omodos Day Tour from Paphos: $27
  • From Guided tour of Limassol with Rock of Aphrodite: $29
  • Paphos/Akamas: Blue Lagoon Bus & Boat Tour with Water Slide: $30
  • Blue Lagoon (Akamas) Cruise: $31
  • From Authentic Cyprus Guided Tour with Breakfast: $32

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

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

  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park Self-Guided Gardens Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Baroque Buildings Self-Guided Mobile Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of the Garden's Landmarks: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of City Center: $8.45
  • Museum Barberini Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Cecilienhof Castle Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Biosphäre Potsdam Entry Ticket: $16
  • In the Forbidden City - Potsdam Walking Tour: $20
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paphos 9.98
    Potsdam 6.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Paphos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paphos:

  • Wine tasting and winery tour at Fikardos Winery: $28
  • Troodos Mountains Jeep Tour with Wine Tasting: $64
  • Regional Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings: $80
  • WINE TOUR from Paphos: $104


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


Which is Bigger, Paphos or Potsdam?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos 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 Paphos 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 Paphos or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is a little warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Potsdam averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Potsdam. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Potsdam. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paphos 27°C (80°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Potsdam in the Autumn?

Both Potsdam and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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, Paphos is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Potsdam. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Potsdam. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paphos 21°C (70°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Potsdam. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Potsdam. Paphos is much warmer than Potsdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paphos 12°C (53°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Potsdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Potsdam. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Potsdam in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Paphos is much warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Potsdam averages at about 9°C (48°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Potsdam. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Potsdam. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Paphos 17°C (62°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Paphos

Paphos Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 1 mm (0 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 76 mm (3 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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