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

Should you visit Potsdam or Kotor?

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 Kotor 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 gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a charming, historic, and peaceful coastal town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Potsdam and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kotor. Although Potsdam and Kotor are popular destinations, Kotor has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kotor is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. It is also well known for The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral).

How is Potsdam different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Potsdam
Kotor

Potsdam is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Potsdam specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Potsdam
Kotor

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

Kotor has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is fresh and hearty, with many dishes including meats, cheeses, and bread. Popular local dishes include börek, black risotto, and pasulj (a type of baked beans prepared with meats and spices). Seafood is an obvious choice around town as well. Ask for whatever is fresh and enjoy a delicious meal. There are also a number of dessert cafes where you can enjoy pastries at a very affordable price.

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 Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Kotor

Potsdam is very good for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Kotor doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It has some of the best nightlife in Montenegro, but outside of the summer months you'll find things are very calm. Head to the old town for the highest concentration of bars and clubs.

Is Potsdam or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Potsdam
Kotor

Kotor is a coastal town with a few options for its resorts. However, Potsdam is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Kotor offers a few options. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Potsdam is not a resort destination.


Is Potsdam or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Potsdam
Kotor

Kotor 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 Kotor. It's possible to book snorkeling trips with a local vendor, or you can pack your own mask and snorkel and venture into the water on your own.

Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Potsdam or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Potsdam
Kotor

Kotor is very good for the beache. However, Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Kotor to enjoy the beach. Like many parts of the Mediterranean, the beaches are rocky and pebbly. Many of the beaches are small and quiet, giving them a personal and discovered vibe which many travelers appreciate.

Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Is Potsdam or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Potsdam
Kotor

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

Kotor has a world-famous historical area. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is Potsdam or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Potsdam
Kotor

Kotor is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Kotor specifically for its hiking. The dramatic cliffs and sea views create some of the most beautiful coastal hikes that you'll find. Trails range from walking paths to more strenuous routes like the Ladder of Kotor Hike, which has many switchbacks and stunning views.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Kotor?

Potsdam
Kotor

Potsdam is very good for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Potsdam is a great destination for shopping. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Potsdam or Kotor Better for Families?

Potsdam
Kotor

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

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.

Kotor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy wandering the streets of old town, exploring the city's fortress, or making their way around the city walls. There are a few beaches to explore, but they are a bit rocky. It's also fun to get out on the water on a boat ride.


Is Potsdam or Kotor Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Kotor

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

Couples visit Kotor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town, picturesque views, and quaint personality of the town make this a great couple's get away. Whether you want to lounge on the water's edge or soak up the unique culture, there are many hidden sides to the coastal 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 Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Kotor

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

Kotor is a great coastal town to visit for backpackers. The town is affordable and reasonably accessible, making it a great option for backpackers. It's not as touristy as some of the more popular coastal towns in the area, so you can enjoy a bit of authenticity without spending big bucks.

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

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

Potsdam
Kotor

Potsdam is well known for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Potsdam can move around easily with public transportation. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kotor. Cars aren't allowed in the old town, but you can travel to nearby town's by bus. Most leave from the town's main bus station with higher frequency during the summer months.


Is Potsdam or Kotor a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Kotor

Kotor 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 Kotor on foot is easy. The old town is best explored 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 Kotor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Potsdam or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Potsdam, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Potsdam or Kotor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Potsdam 1-2 
    Kotor 3-4

One day in Potsdam or Kotor?

In Potsdam, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this park-filled destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Kotor is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal 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 Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Potsdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kotor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Potsdam or Kotor?

Potsdam is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Potsdam. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kotor 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 Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the park-filled destination of Potsdam. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Kotor. Since Kotor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.


Which place is cheaper, Kotor 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 Kotor is €100. 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 Kotor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Kotor 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Kotor 98
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Kotor

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Kotor? 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 Kotor


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 Kotor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Kotor 9.26

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 Kotor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kotor:

  • Tivat Airport (TIV) to Kotor Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Airport Transfer Tivat / Porto Montenegro to Lustica Bay: $153
  • Airport Transfer Tivat / Porto Montenegro to Podgorica City: $272
  • Deluxe private transfer from or to Portonovi: $52
  • Enjoy Private Transfers by Car or Van from Tivat Airport to Kotor or Budva: $44
  • Herceg Novi to Kotor one way transfer: $144
  • Kotor Cruise Port to Podgorica Airport (TGD) - Departure Private Transfer: $47
  • Kotor Cruise Port to Podgorica hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $94
  • Kotor Cruise Port to Tivat Hotels Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Kotor Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Podgorica hotels: $297
  • Kotor Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tivat hotels: $90
  • Kotor to Dubrovnik one way transfer: $154

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Kotor?

Prices for flights to both Kotor 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
    Kotor 43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kotor

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

  • Kotor City Tour and Cooking Class : $203
  • Kotor private cooking class with lunch and Old town guided tour: $226
  • Kotor and Perast Private Tour with Cooking Class and Boat Ride: $262
  • Cooking class in a local home & old town walking tour: $306

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Kotor 8.32

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

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

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

Tours and Activities in Kotor

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

  • Private Walking Tour in Kotor : $22
  • Kotor Old Town - City Walking Tour: $24
  • Kotor Old Town Walking Tour: $24
  • Panorama and Semi-Submarine Underwater Experience: $24
  • Tour Kotor - Perast Old Town - Island Our Lady of the Rocks - Every 2 hours: $26
  • Boat Tour to Perast Old Town & Our Lady of the Rocks: $27
  • Kotor Old Town Small-Group Walking Tour: $33
  • Whole Boka Bay Cruise with Ship Knez Lipovac: $33
  • Blue Cave and Lady of the Rocks Boat Tour: $33
  • Shore Excursion - Handwoven Carpet Workshop, Local wine and Kotor Old Town tour : $34
  • Blue Cave Speedboat Tour from Kotor: $35
  • Speedboat tour Kotor Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rock,swiming: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Kotor 8.51

Sample the Local Flavors in Kotor

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Kotor:

  • Private tour: Homemade food and wine tasting at my family home: $125
  • Private National Park Lovcen with food and wine tasting: $136
  • Wine tasting and magical tour from Kotor, Budva, Tivat (Lovcen,Skadar lake): $251
  • National Parks Skadar Lake and Lovcen+Wine tasting (Private tour): $260
  • Skadar Lake National Park with Wine Tasting: $428


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


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Kotor?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Kotor, 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 Kotor?

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 Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In July, Potsdam is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 19°C (66°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Potsdam. Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives more rain than Kotor. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Potsdam or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Potsdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Potsdam is much colder than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 10°C (51°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Potsdam usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Kotor 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Kotor. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the winter for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Potsdam. In the winter, Potsdam is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Potsdam in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Kotor. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Kotor 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Kotor. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Potsdam is generally much colder than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 9°C (48°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Potsdam usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Kotor 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Kotor and Potsdam

Potsdam Kotor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 172 mm (6.8 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 173 mm (6.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 154 mm (6.1 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 26°C (80°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (53°F) 224 mm (8.8 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 215 mm (8.5 in)