A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Potsdam vs. Nuremberg for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Potsdam or Nuremberg?

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 Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a charming, beautiful, and historic city. 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 Nuremberg: 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 Nuremberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nuremberg than Potsdam. Nuremberg is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nuremberg is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its food and small town charm. Nuremberg is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. Also, Nuremberg is famous for Nuremberg Castle. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Nuremberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Potsdam
Nuremberg

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg are among the most recognizable in the world. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

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 Nuremberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Potsdam
Nuremberg

Potsdam is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Potsdam or Nuremberg Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Nuremberg

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

Nuremberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

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 Nuremberg Better for its Old Town?

Potsdam
Nuremberg

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

Nuremberg has a world-famous historical area. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Nuremberg?

Potsdam
Nuremberg

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

Nuremberg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

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 Nuremberg Better for Families?

Potsdam
Nuremberg

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

Nuremberg is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

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 Nuremberg Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Nuremberg

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

Couples visit Nuremberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

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 Nuremberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Nuremberg

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

Nuremberg is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

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

Is Potsdam or Nuremberg Better for Students?

Potsdam
Nuremberg

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

Nuremberg is very popular with students. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Potsdam
Nuremberg

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

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

The public transit in Nuremberg can get you to most places easily. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.


Is Potsdam or Nuremberg a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Nuremberg

Potsdam and Nuremberg both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Nuremberg is a very walkable destination. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nuremberg or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Nuremberg?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Potsdam or Nuremberg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Potsdam. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Potsdam has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Nuremberg, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

A weekend in Potsdam or Nuremberg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Potsdam. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Nuremberg, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nuremberg has to offer.


Five days in Potsdam or Nuremberg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the park-filled city of Potsdam. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg?

Potsdam is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nuremberg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nuremberg. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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, Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg is €103. 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 Nuremberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Nuremberg 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Nuremberg 122
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Nuremberg

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Nuremberg? 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 Nuremberg


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 Nuremberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Nuremberg 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $172
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $172
  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $159

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Airport Transfer in or to Nuremberg: $92
  • From Nuremberg to Frankfurt Airport Private Transfer- punctual & friendly Driver: $266
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $249
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $266
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $76
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $190
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $214
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Berlin with 2h of Sightseeing: $274
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $266
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $255
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $241
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $203

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Nuremberg?

Prices for flights to both Nuremberg 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
    Nuremberg 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nuremberg

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

  • 3-Hour St. Johannis Food Tour in German: $95
  • Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $95
  • Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $266

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Nuremberg 10

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: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of the Garden's Landmarks: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park Self-Guided Gardens Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of City Center: $8.41
  • 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 Nuremberg

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Southern Old Town": $3.18
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Northern Old Town": $3.18
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.19
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.25
  • Nuremberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.88
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.32
  • Exploration Game & Guided Tour on your Phone: $6.37
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg:Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.45
  • Self-guided Tour former Nazi Party Rally Grounds: $8.41
  • City Tour with the Bimmelbahn Train: $11
  • Old Town Guided Tour By Bus: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Nuremberg 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Nuremberg

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

  • Pub Crawl for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: $24
  • Private 1.5-Hour Tour with Brewery Visit: $101
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $399
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $511


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


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Nuremberg?

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg?

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 Nuremberg in the Summer?

Both Nuremberg and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nuremberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Potsdam is around the same temperature as Nuremberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Nuremberg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Nuremberg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Potsdam. Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Nuremberg. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Nuremberg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Nuremberg in the Autumn?

Both Nuremberg and Potsdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Nuremberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Potsdam is cooler than Nuremberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Potsdam in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Nuremberg averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Potsdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 122 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Nuremberg 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Nuremberg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Nuremberg. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nuremberg can be very cold. Potsdam can be very cold during winter. In January, Potsdam is generally much colder than Nuremberg. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around -0°C (31°F), and Nuremberg fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Nuremberg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Nuremberg. The spring months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Nuremberg this time of year.

Potsdam is cooler than Nuremberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Nuremberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Potsdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 166 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Nuremberg. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Nuremberg and Potsdam

Potsdam Nuremberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (43°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 (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)