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

Should you visit Potsdam or Zadar?

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 Zadar 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.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back 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 Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Potsdam or Zadar?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Zadar than Potsdam. While Potsdam is larger than Zadar, Zadar has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Zadar is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Potsdam is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting. Also, Zadar is famous for the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Potsdam different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Potsdam is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Potsdam offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Zadar. The old town is like a living museum, with city walls and a historic gate. The Church of St. Donatus, Zadar Cathedral, and the Zadar Archaeological Museum are all fascinating places to visit in town, but if you're looking for the most unique sight, make sure you check out The Sea Organ and The Sun Salutation.

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

Both Potsdam and Zadar offer great 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.

Zadar has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is filled with outdoor cafes that serve up a healthy and delicious selection of recipes. The ingredients are fresh and local with olive oil and seafood making frequent appearances on the menus. Prices are also reasonable.

Is Potsdam or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Zadar has a few options to choose from. The town comes to life at night when the bars and restaurants fill with people chatting and socializing. This is an easy place to enjoy the evening as almost all of the nightlife venues are within a five minute walk of each other.

Is Potsdam or Zadar Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Zadar. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Potsdam is not a resort destination.

Is Potsdam or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Zadar. This is an easy place to snorkel because the water is so clear. There are also half and full day snorkeling trips that take you to some of the best spots.

Potsdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Potsdam or Zadar Better for Beaches?

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

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are some nice beaches outside of town with one of the most famous being Sakarun Beach, which is part of the Zadar archipelago. There are a handful of beaches nearby that are pebbly and popular with the locals. These include Puntamika Beach and Beach Borik.

Potsdam is not a beach destination.

Is Potsdam or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is well known for its old town. However, Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Zadar. The small old town is filled with charm and character. It's a walled medieval town that can easily be explored in a few hours.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Zadar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zadar and Potsdam.

Potsdam offers some nice shopping areas. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Zadar has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Potsdam or Zadar Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Potsdam or Zadar.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Potsdam. 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.

Zadar offers lots of family activities. It's fun to explore the small medieval old town, but the kids will also appreciate getting out of town and enjoying the nearby activities. It's definitely worth visiting Pag Island or any of the other natural settings that are nearby. There are also several beaches near town. In town, make sure you hear the Sea Organ and dance at the Sun Salutation.

Is Potsdam or Zadar Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Zadar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This charming seaside town is fun to explore as a couple. There's a walled medieval town that is small and easy to wander around. There are also nearby beaches and great restaurants to explore. A highlight of a visit is watching the stunning sunsets by the water.

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 Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Zadar is a great town to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

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

Is Potsdam or Zadar Better for Students?

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

Zadar is very popular with students. The laid back lifestyle and low cost of living make this a great place to be a student. It's a relaxed environment with many nearby places to explore.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Potsdam is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Zadar has some public transit options. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.

Is Potsdam or Zadar a more walkable city?

Potsdam and Zadar both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Zadar is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable and can easily be explored on foot in a few hours.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Potsdam or Zadar to fill your time. In our opinion, Zadar has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zadar than Potsdam. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Potsdam or Zadar?

In Potsdam, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this park-filled 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 Zadar, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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 Zadar?

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 Zadar, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Zadar has to offer.

Five days in Potsdam or Zadar?

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.

Zadar 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 Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic 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 Zadar. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Zadar. 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 Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Potsdam and Zadar, we can see that Potsdam is more expensive. And not only is Zadar much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zadar would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zadar 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 Zadar.

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

Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Zadar?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Potsdam and Zadar, 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 Zadar?

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 Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Zadar. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives more rain than Zadar. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Potsdam or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Zadar. The autumn months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the autumn, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Potsdam or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Potsdam in the winter. In January, Potsdam is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around -0°C (31°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Zadar. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Potsdam or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Potsdam during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Potsdam