A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Potsdam vs. Bamberg for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Potsdam or Bamberg?

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 Bamberg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a historic, accessible, and compact city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a scenic, storybook, 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 Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Bamberg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bamberg than Potsdam. While Potsdam is larger than Bamberg, Bamberg has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bamberg is very popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and small town charm. Bamberg is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also well known for the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bamberg 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 Bamberg?

Potsdam
Bamberg

Potsdam is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


Is the Food Better in Potsdam or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Potsdam
Bamberg

Potsdam is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Potsdam or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Bamberg

Potsdam is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Potsdam. The city is not far from Berlin, so head in to Germany's nightlife capital for the most famous clubs and venues. In the town of Potsdam there are cocktail bars and breweries that make for a mellow and relaxed evening.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Potsdam or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Potsdam
Bamberg

Bamberg is very popular for its old town. However, Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Bamberg has a world-famous historical area. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Bamberg?

Potsdam
Bamberg

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bamberg and Potsdam.

Potsdam offers some nice shopping areas. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Bamberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Potsdam or Bamberg Better for Families?

Potsdam
Bamberg

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Potsdam or Bamberg.

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.

Bamberg offers lots of family activities. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Potsdam or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Bamberg

Bamberg 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, Bamberg has plenty to offer. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

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 Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Bamberg

Potsdam and Bamberg are nice 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 Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

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

Potsdam
Bamberg

Potsdam is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Bamberg has some public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

Is Potsdam or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Bamberg

Bamberg 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 Bamberg on foot is easy. The old town is compact enough to easily 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 Potsdam Worth Visiting? and Is Bamberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Potsdam and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bamberg than in Potsdam. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Potsdam, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Potsdam than Bamberg 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 Potsdam.


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

One day in Potsdam or Bamberg?

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.

In Bamberg, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town 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 Potsdam or Bamberg?

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.

In Bamberg, 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 Bamberg has to offer.

Five days in Potsdam or Bamberg?

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.

Bamberg 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.


A week in Potsdam or Bamberg?

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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg 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 Bamberg is €127. 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 Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Bamberg? 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 Bamberg


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 Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Bamberg 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg 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
    Bamberg 41

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

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

  • Baroque Buildings Self-Guided Mobile Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park Self-Guided Gardens Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of the Garden's Landmarks: $5.99
  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of City Center: $8.42
  • Museum Barberini Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Cecilienhof Castle Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Biosphäre Potsdam Entry Ticket: $15
  • In the Forbidden City - Potsdam Walking Tour: $20
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • City Sightseeing Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bamberg are as follows:

  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.52
  • Bayreuth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided tour - World Heritage Fascination: $14
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $19
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $21
  • Food and Beer Guided Walking Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Bamberg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


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


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Bamberg?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Bamberg, 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 Bamberg?

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 Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Bamberg. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Potsdam is generally around the same temperature as Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 19°C (66°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Bamberg. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Bamberg. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Bamberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Potsdam is around the same temperature as Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 10°C (51°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Potsdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in October than Bamberg. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bamberg can be very cold during winter. Potsdam can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Potsdam is much colder than Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Potsdam in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

Potsdam usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Potsdam during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the natural beauty.

In April, Potsdam is generally around the same temperature as Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 9°C (48°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Potsdam often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Potsdam

Potsdam Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


Related Articles for Potsdam