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

Should you visit Potsdam or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a accessible, compact, and park-filled city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a overlooked, quaint, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. 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 Sarajevo: 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Sarajevo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sarajevo than Potsdam. Sarajevo is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sarajevo is better known for its food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its small town charm. Potsdam is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. Sarajevo is well known for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. Also, Sarajevo is famous for The Old Town.

How is Potsdam different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Potsdam
Sarajevo

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Potsdam and Sarajevo.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sarajevo can be an interesting and educational experience. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.


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

Potsdam
Sarajevo

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

Sarajevo has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

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 Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Sarajevo

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Potsdam and Sarajevo.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarajevo has a few options to choose from. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Potsdam or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Potsdam
Sarajevo

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

Sarajevo has a world-famous historical area. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is Potsdam or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Potsdam
Sarajevo

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

Many people visit Sarajevo specifically for its hiking. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Sarajevo?

Potsdam
Sarajevo

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

Sarajevo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

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 Sarajevo Better for Families?

Potsdam
Sarajevo

Potsdam is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Potsdam is a family-friendly city. 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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.


Is Potsdam or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Sarajevo

Potsdam is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for couples.

Potsdam makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Potsdam or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Sarajevo

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

Sarajevo is a great city to visit for backpackers. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

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

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

Potsdam
Sarajevo

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

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

The public transit in Sarajevo can get you to most places easily. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.


Is Potsdam or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Sarajevo

Potsdam is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Sarajevo?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Potsdam or Sarajevo?

The city of Potsdam offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Sarajevo, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Sarajevo?

Potsdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Potsdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Sarajevo, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Sarajevo has to offer.


Five days in Potsdam or Sarajevo?

Potsdam is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo?

Potsdam is a great place to explore. 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 something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarajevo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sarajevo. 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 Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo is €66. 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 Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Sarajevo? 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 Sarajevo


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 Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Sarajevo 6.58

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sarajevo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Sarajevo:


  • Tram Tickets (for 2)
    1.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarajevo

Also for Sarajevo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Transfer in Sarajevo: $27
  • Airport Transfers & Private Tours with Luxury minibus Bosnia: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo Chauffeur for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport transfer Sarajevo - Bosnia: $16
  • One-way Private Airport Transfer to Sarajevo: $15
  • Private Sarajevo Airport Transfer: $55
  • Private Transfer From Sarajevo To Beograd : $142
  • Private Transfer from Hrasnica to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ): $68
  • Private Transfer from Konjic to Mostar Airport (OMO): $174
  • Private Transfer from Konjic to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ): $155
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Bojnik : $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo 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
    Sarajevo 29

Typical Food Prices in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sarajevo Local Food Tour: $27
  • Walking Food Tour with Local Craft Experience: $43
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with your Host Family: $44
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Host Family: $53
  • Bosnian Cooking Lessons: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Sarajevo 11

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sarajevo

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Sarajevo's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • National Museum (for 2)
    7.16

Tours and Activities in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Sarajevo Walking Tour In Small Group: $11
  • Sarajevo Talkie-Walkie Tour: $13
  • Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • Sarajevo Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • HISTORY OF ISLAM IN SARAJEVO TOUR: $16
  • SARAJEVO CITY TOUR - Learn something in an interesting way.: $17
  • Discover Sarajevo Walking Tour with Local Guide: $17
  • Sarajevo genuine walking tour: Steps through history: $19
  • Sarajevo Old Town: Bosnian Ethnic Food & Coffee Walking Tour: $19
  • Tunnel of Hope Siege Tour: $20
  • Uncovering Islam Tour: $20
  • Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Sarajevo 6.88

Sample the Local Flavors in Sarajevo

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

  • Small-group Wine Tasting Expiriance, with lunch in vineyard: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Potsdam and Sarajevo, we can see that Potsdam is more expensive. And not only is Sarajevo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sarajevo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sarajevo and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Potsdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Potsdam than you might in Sarajevo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Potsdam Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Sarajevo. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Potsdam is cooler than Sarajevo in the summer. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Potsdam this time of the year. In the summer, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Sarajevo. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

Both Sarajevo and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Potsdam is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Potsdam in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In October, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Potsdam during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 Sarajevo this time of year.

The weather in Potsdam can be very cold. In January, Potsdam is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around -0°C (31°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Potsdam usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Potsdam or Sarajevo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Sarajevo. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Potsdam is much colder than Sarajevo in the spring. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo during spring. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Potsdam

Potsdam Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)