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

Should you visit Potsdam or Prague?

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 Prague 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.

Prague

Prague is a festive, fun-filled, and cultural 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Potsdam and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Prague?

You'll generally find more things to do in Prague than Potsdam. Prague is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Prague is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its food and small town charm. Prague is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. Also, Prague is famous for The Prague Castle. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Potsdam
Prague

Prague 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 Prague are among the most recognizable in the world. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the 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 Prague? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Potsdam
Prague

Potsdam is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its 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.

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Potsdam or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Prague

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

Prague is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

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 Prague Better for Music?

Potsdam
Prague

Prague is very popular for its live music scene. However, Potsdam is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Prague The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Potsdam is not a live music destination.


Is Potsdam or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Potsdam
Prague

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

Prague has a world-famous historical area. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Prague?

Potsdam
Prague

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

Prague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy.

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 Prague Better for Families?

Potsdam
Prague

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

Prague is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

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 Prague Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Prague

Prague is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Prague has plenty to offer. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

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 Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Prague

Prague 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 Prague. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

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

Is Potsdam or Prague Better for Students?

Potsdam
Prague

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Prague. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Potsdam is not popular with students.


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

Potsdam
Prague

Prague 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.

Prague has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

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 Prague a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Prague

Prague 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 Prague on foot is easy. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

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 Prague Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Prague or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Prague?

Both Potsdam and Prague have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Prague than in Potsdam. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Potsdam, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Potsdam or Prague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Potsdam 1-2 
    Prague 2-7

One day in Potsdam or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Potsdam. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Prague 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 Prague?

Potsdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Because Prague 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 Prague has to offer.

Five days in Potsdam or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Potsdam. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Prague 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 Prague has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Potsdam or Prague?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the compact destination of Potsdam. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Prague. Because Prague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague 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 Prague 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 Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Prague 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Prague 126
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Prague? 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 Prague


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 Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Prague 7.57

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 Prague

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:

  • Luxury Private Prague Airport Transfer: $43
  • Private Prague Airport Arrival Transfer: $60
  • Airport Prague Private Transfers for up to 6 People: $98
  • Airport Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Luxury Car: $67
  • Airport Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Luxury Van: $55
  • Airport Transfer: Prague to Prague Airport PRG by Luxury Car: $67
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Prague Airport PRG to Prague City in Car/Van: $58
  • Arrival Transfer: Prague Airport PRG to Prague by Luxury Van: $55
  • Best Shooting Range Prague Old Town with Private Transfers: $240
  • Departure Private Transfer from Prague City to Prague Airport PRG in Car/Van: $58
  • Departure Transfer: Prague to Prague Airport PRG by Business Car: $49
  • Departure Transfer: Prague to Prague Airport PRG by Luxury Van: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague 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
    Prague 24

Typical Food Prices in Prague

Some typical examples of dining costs in Prague are as follows:


  • Fruit
    3.94
  • Lunch for One
    12
  • Bananas
    0.56
  • Cookies
    0.31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Prague

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

  • Anti Tour Prague - Self Guided Beer and Food Tour: $21
  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $40
  • Prague by Night: 2-Hour Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $47
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $52
  • Vltava River Evening Dinner Cruise: $53
  • Folkloric Dinner Show with Unlimited Drinks: $57
  • 2-Hour Dinner Cruise with Transfers: $57
  • River Cruise with Dinner and Live Music: $58
  • Folklore dinner: $58
  • Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks: $59
  • Prague 5 Courses Medieval Dinner and Live Performances: $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Prague 15

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Prague

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Prague are as follows:


  • Opera Tickets
    3.94
  • Two Tickets for Charles Bridge Tower
    5.51
  • Image Theatre for Two
    38

Tours and Activities in Prague

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

  • Bachelorette / Bachelor Party - City sightseeing Trike Tour: $2.76
  • Royal Prague City sightseeing Electric Trike Tour: $2.98
  • Prague Historical & Viewpoints Retro E-Bike Group Tour: $3.02
  • Sunset View & Adventurous Retro E-Bike Tour: $3.02
  • Adventurous Sightseeing & Historical Live Guided Trike Tour: $3.06
  • Bachelorette/Bachelor Party - City sightseeing E-Bike Tour: $3.06
  • Prague City sightseeing in Night Trike Tour: $3.10
  • Royal Prague City sightseeing Retro E-Bike Live Guided Tour: $3.10
  • Gorgeous Prague Night Retro E-Bike Tour ( Live Guided ): $3.15
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Prague Essential Tour Old Town and Jewish Quarter: $3.26
  • Tour of the Castle and Malá Strana based on Tips: $3.26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Prague 10

Typical Alcohol Prices in Prague

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Prague from other travelers:


  • A Bottle of Wine
    6.26

Sample the Local Flavors in Prague

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

  • Staropramem Brewery Self-Guided Tour with Tasting: $13
  • Clock Tower Bar Crawl with Drinks and Shots: $23
  • Clock Tower Bar Crawl in Prague: $26
  • 1 Hour Exclusive Moravian Wine Tasting in an Art Gallery : $28
  • Pub Crawl in Prague: $32
  • Pub Crawl and International Party: $34
  • Pub Crawl with Open Bar and VIP Entry: $34
  • Pub Crawl with 2-Hour Open Bar at Drunken Monkey: $35
  • Drunken Monkey Pub Crawl: $36
  • Golden Burlesque Show & Live Music w/ Lady & The Devil: $36
  • Golden BURLESQUE: $42
  • Prague beer tour with brewery visit and tasting: $46


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


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Prague, 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 Prague?

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 Prague in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Prague. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Prague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Prague this time of the year. In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Prague during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Prague. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Prague 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Prague in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Prague. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Prague because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Potsdam is around the same temperature as Prague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Potsdam in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Prague averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Prague. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in October than Prague. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Prague 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Prague in the Winter?

Both Prague and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

It's quite cold in Prague in the winter. The weather in Potsdam can be very cold. In January, Potsdam is generally much colder than Prague. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around -0°C (31°F), and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Prague during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Prague. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Prague 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Prague in the Spring?

Both Prague and Potsdam during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Prague for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Potsdam is around the same temperature as Prague in the spring. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Potsdam often gets more sunshine than Prague. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in April than Prague. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Prague 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Prague and Potsdam

Potsdam Prague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (33°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)