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

Should you visit Potsdam or Hvar?

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 Hvar 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 beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Potsdam and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than Potsdam, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Hvar is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Potsdam
Hvar

Potsdam is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Potsdam. 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 Hvar. Wandering around the old town you'll see many historic buildings such as the Cathedral of St. Stephen. You can also visit the nearby Hvar Fort or explore the Franciscan Monastery.


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

Potsdam
Hvar

Both Potsdam and Hvar offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Potsdam. 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.

Hvar has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's an island, so you'll find no shortage of seafood in the restaurants. There's fish, crab, lobster, squid, and octopus on the menus around town. Many dishes are prepared with risotto or pasta and you'll find a lot of olive oil and wine.

Is Potsdam or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Hvar

Hvar is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Hvar is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island has a reputation as a party island, and it's well earned. Most of the activity is found in Hvar Town, particularly between the months of June and September. Young people flock to the island for the all night parties and wild beach bars and clubs.

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 Potsdam or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Potsdam
Hvar

Hvar 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 Hvar. The water is clear and there are snorkeling day trips that leave from town. This is a great way to get out on the water and glimpse the undersea world.

Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Potsdam or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Potsdam
Hvar

Hvar is well known for the beache. However, Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Hvar is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The island has hilly bays and coves that are fun to explore. The best beaches are found to the south and southwest of the island and many are pebbly or gravelly.

Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Is Potsdam or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Potsdam
Hvar

Hvar is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Hvar. There are a number of hikes on the island that cater to every skill level and take you through natural areas or past historic sights.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Hvar?

Potsdam
Hvar

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar 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.

Hvar has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. In the town you'll find galleries, boutiques, jewelry shops and other beach stores. It's fun to pop in and look at the different items.


Is Potsdam or Hvar Better for Families?

Potsdam
Hvar

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

Hvar is a very kid-friendly island. There are adventure parks, water parks, and other fun activities for kids. There are also beaches where everyone can swim and sea kayaking trips. Hvar Observatory is also a unique and fun place to visit as a family.

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 Potsdam or Hvar Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Hvar

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

Couples visit Hvar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are some romantic hotels and beautiful beaches that make this a wonderful destination for couples. Anyone who enjoys a coastal setting with clear waters and a variety of water sports will enjoy their time here.

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 Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Hvar

Hvar is very popular for backpackers. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hvar. The island has long been a popular stop with backpackers who enjoy the affordable prices, abundance of hostels, and active nightlife scene. You'll have no trouble meeting other travelers, particularly during the peak summer months.

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


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

Potsdam
Hvar

Potsdam is notable for its public transit. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Hvar has some public transit options. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Is Potsdam or Hvar a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Hvar

Potsdam is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Hvar is a somewhat walkable city. Hvar Town can be explored on foot, but you'll need a vehicle to explore other parts of the island.

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

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Potsdam or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar 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 Hvar.

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

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

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


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

One day in Potsdam or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Potsdam. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Hvar, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This island 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 Hvar?

Potsdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Potsdam or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the compact destination of Potsdam. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hvar is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Hvar?

The historic city of Potsdam offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Hvar. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar 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 Hvar is €102. 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 Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Hvar? 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 Hvar


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 Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hvar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hvar:

  • Speedboat Transfer from Hvar Town to Split Airport: $535

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar 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
    Hvar 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hvar

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

  • Hvar Charming Abandoned Village Small Group Tour and Local Dinner: $180
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $187
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Small Group Half Day Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $202
  • Hvar Abandoned Village Tour with Local Dinner: $214
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour with Traditional Dinner: $234
  • Food Tour: Traditional Flavours and Food Sampling on Hvar: $262
  • The Best of Hvar in a Day with Wine tasting and Local Dinner: $273
  • Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Hvar 7.48

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 Hvar

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

  • 1-Hour Battle Archery Game in Hvar Adventure Park: $22
  • 1-Hour Private Paintball Adventure in Park Hvar Jelsa: $23
  • Private Multi-Activity Experience in Adventure Park Hvar Jelsa: $25
  • Walking tour of Hvar with your local guide: $32
  • Pakleni Islands Self-Guided Kayaking Tour: $48
  • Private Half-Day Kayak Experience in Hvar and Pakleni Islands: $49
  • Half-day kayak tour from Hvar town: $65
  • Hvar Island Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $65
  • Private Hvar Island E-Bike Tour: $68
  • Romantic Sunset Sailing Experience On A Comfort Yacht: $70
  • Experience Romantic Sunset Sailing on a modern 36ft (11m) sail yacht | Hvar: $71
  • Private Hvar Walking Tour: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Hvar 9.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Hvar

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

  • Hvar Wine Tasting Experience: $118
  • Hvar Wine tasting small group experience: $131
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour : $142
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $157
  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour from Hvar: $175


When comparing the travel costs between Potsdam and Hvar, 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 Potsdam Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Hvar?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Hvar, 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 Hvar?

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 Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Hvar. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Potsdam is cooler than Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives more rain than Hvar. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Hvar. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Potsdam is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Potsdam in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the autumn, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in October than Hvar. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Hvar in the Winter?

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

Potsdam can be very cold during winter. In January, Potsdam is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around -0°C (31°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Hvar. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Potsdam during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

Potsdam is much colder than Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Potsdam

Potsdam Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)