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

Should you visit Potsdam or Tromso?

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 Tromso 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a remote, one-of-a-kind, and spectacular town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Potsdam and Tromso: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights


Is there more to do in Potsdam or Tromso?

Both Tromso and Potsdam have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Potsdam is more popular for its museums and shopping, while Tromso is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tromso is more touristy than Potsdam and is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords. Potsdam is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Potsdam different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Potsdam
Tromso

Potsdam is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Potsdam. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.


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

Potsdam
Tromso

Both Potsdam and Tromso offer superb 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.

Tromso has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

Is Potsdam or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Potsdam
Tromso

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

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 Tromso has a few options to choose from. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Potsdam or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Potsdam
Tromso

Tromso is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Potsdam is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Tromso. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Potsdam is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Tromso?

Potsdam
Tromso

Potsdam is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Potsdam or Tromso Better for Families?

Potsdam
Tromso

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

Tromso is a very kid-friendly town. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

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 Tromso Better for Couples?

Potsdam
Tromso

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

Couples visit Tromso frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

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 Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Potsdam
Tromso

Potsdam and Tromso are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Potsdam is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels to choose from in town.

It's common for backpackers to visit Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Potsdam or Tromso Better for Students?

Potsdam
Tromso

Tromso is very good for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Tromso is popular with students. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Potsdam
Tromso

Potsdam is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Potsdam. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.


Is Potsdam or Tromso a more walkable city?

Potsdam
Tromso

Potsdam and Tromso both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Tromso is a very walkable destination. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Tromso?

Both Potsdam and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Potsdam. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Potsdam, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Potsdam than Tromso 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 Potsdam.


  • How many days in Potsdam or Tromso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Potsdam 1-2 
    Tromso 4-7

One day in Potsdam or Tromso?

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

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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 Tromso?

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.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Potsdam or Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tromso has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Potsdam or Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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 Tromso. Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Tromso 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 Tromso is €104. 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 Tromso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Potsdam 60
    Tromso 52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Potsdam 120
    Tromso 104
Compare Hotels in Potsdam and Tromso

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam or Tromso? 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 Tromso


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 Tromso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Potsdam 28
    Tromso 27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $173
  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $173
  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $159

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tromso

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

  • Highway to Heaven - Aurora Cable Car Transfer in Tromsø: $93
  • Private Airport and City Transfer in Tromso: $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Potsdam or Tromso?

Prices for flights to both Tromso 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
    Tromso 36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

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

  • 3 Hours Private Walking Food Tour in Norway: $167
  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $173
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $186
  • Fjord Cruise Expedition with Dinner,Tromso: $206
  • Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner: $250
  • Aurora Borealis Cruise with Dinner in Tromso: $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Potsdam 25
    Tromso 16

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: $151
  • 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: $255
  • City Sightseeing Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • City and Palaces Tour Potsdam - Stadt- und Schloesserrundfahrt Potsdam: $27

Tours and Activities in Tromso

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tromso.

  • Touring-Trekking Bicycle Rental in Tromso - 1 to 2 Days: $46
  • Experience the Full Steam Storytelling Package: $46
  • Tromso Embrace the Spirits of the North Tasting Experience: $63
  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $74
  • Experience Cross-Country Adventure in Tromsø: $93
  • Northern Lights Walking Tour: $111
  • Fjord & History Cruise: $111
  • Tromso Sightseeing with E-Bike: $112
  • Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso: $117
  • History Fjordcruise Around The Isle Of Tromso - Luxury Catamaran: $121
  • From Tromso all- inclusive Midnight sun cruise by Boat: $126
  • Puppy Training Experience at a Husky Farm in Tromso: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Potsdam 6.70
    Tromso 7.84


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


Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Tromso?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Potsdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tromso in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Potsdam is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the summer temperatures in Potsdam in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Tromso averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Tromso, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Potsdam. In the summer, Potsdam often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in July than Tromso. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F) 
    Tromso 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Tromso in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Tromso. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tromso for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tromso can be very cold during autumn. In October, Potsdam is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around 10°C (51°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Potsdam usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tromso receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Tromso. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F) 
    Tromso 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Tromso. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Tromso because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. Potsdam can be very cold during winter. Potsdam is much warmer than Tromso in the winter. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Tromso fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Potsdam often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in January than Tromso. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F) 
    Tromso -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Potsdam or Tromso in the Spring?

Both Tromso and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the spring. In the spring, Potsdam is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the spring temperatures in Potsdam in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Tromso averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Potsdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso during spring. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Tromso. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F) 
    Tromso 1°C (33°F)

Typical Weather for Tromso and Potsdam

Potsdam Tromso
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) -4°C (25°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) -4°C (25°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) -2°C (28°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (33°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) -1°C (31°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) -3°C (27°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)