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

Should you visit Potsdam or Split?

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 Split 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.

Split

Split is a fun-filled, budget-friendly, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Potsdam and Split: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Split?

You'll generally find more things to do in Split than Potsdam. Split is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Split is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Potsdam is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Potsdam and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Potsdam
Split

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

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 Split can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.


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

Potsdam
Split

Both Potsdam and Split offer high quality local cuisine and 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.

Split has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

Is Potsdam or Split Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Split

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

Split is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

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 Split Better for Resorts?

Potsdam
Split

Split is well known for its resorts. However, Potsdam is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Split. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Potsdam is not a resort destination.


Is Potsdam or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Potsdam
Split

Split is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Potsdam or Split Better for Beaches?

Potsdam
Split

Split is well known for the beache. However, Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Split is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Is Potsdam or Split Better for its Old Town?

Potsdam
Split

Split is very good for its old town. However, Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Split to see the old town. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Split?

Potsdam
Split

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

Split is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

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 Split Better for Families?

Potsdam
Split

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

Split is a very kid-friendly city. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Split Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Split

Split 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, Split has plenty to offer. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Split

Split 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 Split. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

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

Is Potsdam or Split Better for Students?

Potsdam
Split

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

Split is very popular with students. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Potsdam
Split

Potsdam is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Split, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus services that will help you get around town.


Is Potsdam or Split a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Split

Potsdam and Split both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Split is a very walkable destination. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Potsdam or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Potsdam, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Potsdam or Split? Ideal Length of Stay
    Potsdam 1-2 
    Split 2-4

One day in Potsdam or Split?

In Potsdam, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this compact destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Split, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Potsdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Split, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Split has to offer.


Five days in Potsdam or Split?

Potsdam is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Potsdam. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Split is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the accessible destination of Potsdam. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Split. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Split 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 Split is €109. 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 Split in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Split 73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Split 146
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Split

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Split? 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 Split


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 Split Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Split 14

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 Split

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

  • Split Airport (SPU) to Cruise Port of Split - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
  • Airport Private Transfer from Split: $38
  • Airport Private Transfer to Split : $38
  • Airport Transfer from Split: $42
  • Airport Transfer to Split: $42
  • Airport transfers - round trip: $146
  • Airport transfers, Locco transfers, Port transfers: $76
  • Airport(Resnik) to or from Split transfer: $71
  • Be transferred in style! Every day Airport Transfer of Split: $86
  • Cruise Port of Private Transfer to Split hotels: $132
  • Departure Transfer Split City to Split Airport SPU by Car or Van: $50
  • From Split Airport to Sibenik (Round Trip, Private Transfer): $166

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Split?

Prices for flights to both Split 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
    Split 23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Split

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

  • Small Group Food Tour: $37
  • Homemade Dinner under the Stars in Split: $85
  • Food Tour in Split ( Small Group): $96
  • Split Food Tour (Small Group): $98
  • Vegan Food tour of Split with local gastronomy: $102
  • Walking Vegan Food Tour of Split: $104
  • Old Town Food Tour: $107
  • Split Food Tour: Discover Split One Bite At A Time: $131
  • Split Cooking Class - Afternoon Edition Shared Activity: $191
  • Private Authentic Wine & Food tour from Split: $240
  • Culinary Experience – Cooking Class & Walking Tour Split: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Split 3.71

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 Split

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Emanuel Vidović Gallery Entrance Ticket: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Split Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Entry Ticket to the Cellars of Diocletian's Palace: $8.56
  • Split's Old Town and Marjan Hill: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Split's Old Town and Marjan Hill: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Roman Ruins Sightseeing Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Sightseeing Split's Roman Ruins: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Split's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour of Serene Seas & Stones: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Split 7.95

Sample the Local Flavors in Split

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

  • From Krka Waterfalls & Swimming & Wine tasting: $24
  • From Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour: $26
  • Tower Pub Crawl in Split: $29
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting tour from Split: $31
  • Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $38
  • Wine Tasting and Sunset Klis Fortress Tour from Split: $38
  • Krka National Park Tour with tour Guide & Wine tasting from Split & Trogir: $46
  • Split&Sip: Educational wine tasting: $51
  • Wine Tasting in the Diocletian's Palace: $53
  • Wine Tasting in the Diocletian’s Palace: $55
  • Diocletian's Palace Walking and Wine Tasting Tour: $71
  • From Split/Trogir: Mostar and Medjugorje Tour with Wine Tasting: $74


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


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Split, 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 Split?

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 Split in the Summer?

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

Potsdam is cooler than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Potsdam this time of the year. In the summer, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Split. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets more rain in July than Split. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Split 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split 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 Split because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Potsdam is much colder than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Potsdam in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Split. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Split 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Split in the Winter?

Both Split 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. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Split this time of year.

The weather in Potsdam can be very cold. In January, Potsdam is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around -0°C (31°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Split. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in January than Split. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Split 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Split in the Spring?

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

Potsdam is much colder than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Split. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Split 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Split and Potsdam

Potsdam Split
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)