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

Should you visit Potsdam or Lyon?

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 Lyon 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.

Lyon

Lyon is a quaint, authentic, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Potsdam and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Potsdam or Lyon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lyon than Potsdam. Lyon is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lyon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Potsdam is more popular for its small town charm. Lyon is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lyon are among the most recognizable in the world. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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.

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

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

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Lyon is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon Better for its Old Town?

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

Lyon has a world-famous historical area. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Lyon?

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

Lyon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

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 Lyon Better for Families?

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

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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 Lyon Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Lyon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

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 Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Lyon is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

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

Is Potsdam or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is very popular for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is very popular for its public transit. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Lyon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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

Is Potsdam or Lyon a more walkable city?

Potsdam and Lyon both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Lyon?

In either Potsdam or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon 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 Lyon.

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

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

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

One day in Potsdam or Lyon?

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.

Because Lyon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Lyon?

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.

Because Lyon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Lyon has to offer.

Five days in Potsdam or Lyon?

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.

Lyon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lyon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Potsdam or Lyon?

The accessible 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 Lyon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lyon. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Lyon, 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 Lyon?

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 Lyon in the Summer?

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

Potsdam is cooler than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Lyon. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Potsdam or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Lyon. 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 Lyon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Potsdam is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Potsdam in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Potsdam or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon 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 Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lyon can be very cold during winter. Potsdam can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Potsdam is generally much colder than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around -0°C (31°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Lyon. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Potsdam or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon 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 Lyon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Potsdam is cooler than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Potsdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lyon. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Potsdam