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

Should you visit Potsdam or Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a romantic, historical, and elegant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around 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 and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Bordeaux?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bordeaux than Potsdam. Bordeaux is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bordeaux is better known for its food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Bordeaux is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Potsdam
Bordeaux

Potsdam is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Potsdam offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.


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

Potsdam
Bordeaux

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

Bordeaux has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Bordeaux

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Potsdam and Bordeaux.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Potsdam or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Potsdam
Bordeaux

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

Many people head to Bordeaux to see the old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Bordeaux?

Potsdam
Bordeaux

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

Bordeaux is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

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 Bordeaux Better for Families?

Potsdam
Bordeaux

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Potsdam or Bordeaux.

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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Potsdam or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Bordeaux

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

Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

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 Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Bordeaux

Potsdam and Bordeaux are notable 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 Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Potsdam or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Potsdam
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is well known for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Potsdam
Bordeaux

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

Potsdam has some very good public transit options. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

The public transit in Bordeaux can get you to most places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.


Is Potsdam or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Bordeaux

Potsdam and Bordeaux both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Bordeaux?

In either Potsdam or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Potsdam because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Potsdam, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

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

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


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

One day in Potsdam or Bordeaux?

The city of Potsdam offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Bordeaux, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city 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 Bordeaux?

Potsdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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.

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


Five days in Potsdam or Bordeaux?

Potsdam is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Potsdam or Bordeaux?

Potsdam is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux is €118. 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 Bordeaux in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Bordeaux 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Bordeaux 126
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Bordeaux

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Bordeaux? 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 Bordeaux


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 Bordeaux Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Bordeaux 15

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 Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Airport to Bordeaux Premium Class Private Transfer: $273
  • Airport to Lège-Cap-Ferret Transfer in Business Sedan: $273
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Van: $115
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $108
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $147
  • Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Car: $97
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Bordeaux City: $165
  • Private Transfer from Bordeaux Airport to City of Bordeaux: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Bordeaux?

Prices for flights to both Bordeaux 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
    Bordeaux 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux

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

  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $63
  • Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $63
  • NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $64
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $74
  • Sweet Specialties Tasting Bakeries Food Tour: $82
  • Bordeaux : Afternoon Food Tour by a local guide: $84
  • Bordeaux Organic Food Tour - French Apéro Style: $93
  • Bordeaux : unforgettable Food Tour by a local guide: $95
  • Private Bakery, Chocolate & Patisserie Food Tour: $95
  • Food Tour in Bordeaux : $97
  • Bordeaux Food Tour - Bakeries, Pastries, Chocolate and more!: $98
  • Bordeaux Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $103

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Bordeaux 7.89

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 Bordeaux

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

  • Bordeaux : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Free Walking City Tour: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Bordeaux Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights & Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • The best of Find more than wine on this self-guided audio tour: $6.99
  • Centre of Explore 2,000 years of history on a self-guided audio tour: $8.99
  • Bordeaux Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Guided Walking Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Bordeaux 26

Sample the Local Flavors in Bordeaux

Also in Bordeaux, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine and Trade Museum Entry Ticket & Wine Tasting: $11
  • Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum Admission Ticket with Wine Tasting: $11
  • Distillery Tour in Bordeaux with Spirits Tasting: $16
  • Wine Tasting Cruise: $22
  • Cité du Vin Direct Ticket and Wine Tasting: $24
  • Bordeaux Pub Crawl: $25
  • Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $27
  • Wine Tour and Tasting: $29
  • Unusual Wine Tasting Experience - Wood & Wine: $30
  • Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $32
  • Wine Country Vineyards Tour w/ Local Wine Tastings: $59
  • Bordeaux Vineyards Wine Tasting Half-Day Trip: $62


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


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Bordeaux?

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

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 Bordeaux in the Summer?

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

Potsdam is around the same temperature as Bordeaux in the summer. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Bordeaux. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Potsdam. Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Bordeaux 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Potsdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

In the autumn, Potsdam is cooler than Bordeaux. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Potsdam in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in October than Bordeaux. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Bordeaux 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Bordeaux in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Potsdam in the winter. In January, Potsdam is generally much colder than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around -0°C (31°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bordeaux receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Bordeaux 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Bordeaux in the Spring?

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

Potsdam is cooler than Bordeaux in the spring. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in April than Bordeaux. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Bordeaux 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Potsdam

Potsdam Bordeaux
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)


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