A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Potsdam vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a park-filled, historic, and accessible city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Potsdam and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the terraced chain of lakes
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Potsdam and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Plitvice Lakes National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Potsdam and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also well known for the terraced chain of lakes. Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Potsdam is great for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Potsdam is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll find a few tourist cafes near the lakes that serve grilled meats and other simple dishes. You can also grab a snack from the food stalls that are near the entrance to the park.

Is Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Potsdam is very good for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are eight different walking routes that range in length from 3 kilometers to 18 kilometers. They take between 3 and 8 hours and are well marked.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Potsdam is very good for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Potsdam. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. It's a fun place to explore with kids, but if you're traveling with young ones, keep a close eye on them. Also take note that it's not stroller-friendly and make sure that you arrive early to avoid the crowds.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Plitvice Lakes National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a natural wonder that is beautiful and romantic to explore as a couple. It can get crowded, as it's a top tourist destination is Croatia, so make sure you arrive early to avoid the peak times.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for backpackers. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

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

Is Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Potsdam is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

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 generally limited in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are several bus stops near the park but the bus service is infrequent and can involve long trips.

Is Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park on foot is easy. The park is well organized into several walking routes that can be explored in a few hours.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park.


  • How many days in Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Potsdam 1-2 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Potsdam, you'll find food and shopping. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Potsdam is a fun place to experience. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Plitvice Lakes National Park has to offer.

Five days in Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the compact destination of Potsdam. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The historic city of Potsdam offers nightlife and food. 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 a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park is €125. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park? 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also for Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $150
  • From Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $42
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $182
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $271
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $232

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park 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
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

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

  • 2 hours: Private Harbor and Castle Sightseeing Cruise: $364
  • 4 hours Private Romantic River Boat Cruise with Wine: $620
  • 4h Private Havelland Discovery Boat Cruise with Skipper: $620
  • 8h: Private Potsdam Islands Sightseeing Boat Cruise: $1,358
  • AbenteuerPark Adventure Climbing in the Trees: $31
  • Babelsberg Park Walking Tour: $152
  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Christmas Walking Tour of Magical Potsdam: $502
  • Christmas Walking Tour of Magical Potsdam: $257
  • City Sightseeing Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • City and Palaces Tour Potsdam - Stadt- und Schloesserrundfahrt Potsdam: $27

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Plitvice Lakes National Park.

  • Plitvice Lakes: National Park Official Entry Ticket: $11
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket: $14
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36
  • Plitvice Lakes: Guided Walking Tour and Boat Ride: $36
  • Plitvice lakes: Guided walking tour with a boat ride: $37
  • Private Guided Fairy Tale Tour in Ogulin: $38
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park - Inspiration Buggy Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


When comparing the travel costs between Potsdam and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Potsdam during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In July, Potsdam is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 19°C (66°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Potsdam. In the summer, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Potsdam is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 10°C (51°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Potsdam. In the winter, Potsdam is much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Potsdam in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Potsdam is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 9°C (48°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Potsdam

Potsdam Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)