A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Potsdam vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Attractions, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Potsdam and Aix-en-Provence can help you decide which place is right for you.

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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a laid-back, relaxing, and historic 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 food.

Potsdam and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aix-en-Provence. Although Potsdam and Aix-en-Provence are about the same size, Aix-en-Provence has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is known for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm. Potsdam is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. Aix-en-Provence is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. It is also home to .

How is Potsdam different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

Potsdam is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.


Is the Food Better in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

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

Aix-en-Provence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

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 Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

Potsdam is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Potsdam has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Aix-en-Provence make it a world-class shopping destination. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Potsdam has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.


Is Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

Potsdam is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Aix-en-Provence frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

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 Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

Potsdam and Aix-en-Provence are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

It's common for backpackers to visit Aix-en-Provence. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.


Is Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is well known for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Aix-en-Provence is very popular with students. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

Is Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

Potsdam is well known for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Aix-en-Provence

Potsdam and Aix-en-Provence both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable destination. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Potsdam Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Potsdam, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

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


  • How many days in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Potsdam 1-2 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

The accessible destination of Potsdam offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

The city of Potsdam offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Aix-en-Provence, 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 Aix-en-Provence has to offer.

Five days in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

Potsdam is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aix-en-Provence 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 Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Potsdam. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Aix-en-Provence. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Aix-en-Provence or Potsdam?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Potsdam is €111, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is €138. 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 Potsdam and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Aix-en-Provence 81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Aix-en-Provence 162
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence? 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 Potsdam


Hotels in Aix-en-Provence


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 and Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Aix-en-Provence 33

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Aix TGV transfer to Marseille Port or Airport or Aix city: $93
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Potsdam 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
    Potsdam 31
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Typical Food Prices in Aix-en-Provence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Aix-en-Provence:


  • Dinner for 2
    47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aix-en-Provence

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Aix-en-Provence.

  • NO DIET CLUB - Best food tour in Aix en Provence (En / Fr): $62
  • Food Tour: $102
  • Aix-en-Provence Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Aix-en-Provence 22

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

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few actual costs in Aix-en-Provence for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $9.84
  • Provencal Market Walking Tour with Tastings: $37
  • Provençal Farmers market tour: $38
  • Guided Tour in Historical Old City: $60
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70
  • E-Bike tour of Sainte Victoire Mountain, Aix-en-Provence: $70
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Gourmet & Cultural Tour Aix En Provence English / Espanol: $73
  • An Aix-traordinary Walking City Tour of Aix-en-Provence: $75
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • Time flies by on this Aixquisite Walking Tour of Aix-en-Provence : $76

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Aix-en-Provence 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Half day Wine Tour in Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire from Aix en Provence: $93
  • Half Day Wine Tour in Coteaux d'Aix: $96
  • Half day Wine Tour in Côteaux Aix from Aix en Provence: $98
  • Half day Wine Tour in Bandol & Cassis from Aix en Provence: $104
  • From Wine Tour in Cezanne Countryside: $106
  • Provence small group half-day wine tour from Aix: $107
  • Cotes de Provence Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence: $108
  • Aix en Provence: Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Full Day Wine Tour in Luberon with Tasting: $143
  • Full day Wine Tour around Luberon from Aix en Provence: $151
  • Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting from Aix: $164
  • From Provence Region Tour with Wine Tasting: $166


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


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Potsdam is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Potsdam in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Potsdam. Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Potsdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Potsdam is generally much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 10°C (51°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Aix-en-Provence. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Potsdam can get quite cold in the winter. Potsdam is much colder than Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aix-en-Provence. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Potsdam is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Potsdam in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the spring, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in April than Aix-en-Provence. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Potsdam

Potsdam Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)