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

Should you visit Potsdam or Zagreb?

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

Potsdam

Potsdam is a compact, park-filled, and historic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a historic, beautiful, and authentic 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 Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Potsdam or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Potsdam. Zagreb is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Potsdam is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Potsdam is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Potsdam different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Zagreb can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historical sights around town, particularly in the historic Upper Town. Make sure you visit the Zagreb Cathedral, the Museum of Broken Relationships, Lotrscak Tower, and the historic Stone Gate.

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

Both Potsdam and Zagreb 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.

Zagreb has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food is heartier than you might expect with many recipes that involve stew or dumplings. Cheese and meat are common ingredients as well, with far less seafood than you'll find in the coastal cities. Popular dishes include Zagrebački odrezak (a rolled up ham, cheese, and veal sandwich), Štrukli (dough filled with cheese), and Ajngemahtec (vegetarian stew).

Is Potsdam or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Zagreb is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are a huge number of live music venues, clubs, and bars around town where locals hang out late into the evening. The city's nightlife has a more local vibe than other Croatian cities, so you can party with the students and residents and get a true feel for the Croatian culture.

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 Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb 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 Zagreb. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Potsdam or Zagreb?

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

Zagreb is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

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 Zagreb Better for Families?

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

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.

Zagreb offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with parks where kids can run around. There are also kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Illusions and markets that are fun for the whole family. While it doesn't have the coastal activities that many Croatian towns offer, this is a unique city in its own way.

Is Potsdam or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Both Potsdam and Zagreb are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Zagreb is a good city for couples to visit. Filled with history and beautiful parks, this often overlooked Croatian city actually has a lot that couples can enjoy. The historical monuments offer a glimpse into the country's past and the markets let you experience a more authentic side to what has become a very touristy country.

Is Potsdam or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Zagreb is a great city to visit for backpackers. Because it's not the most touristy city, prices are reasonable. There are also a wide range of hostels in town where you can meet other backpackers and enjoy the fun environment.

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

Is Potsdam or Zagreb Better for Students?

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

Zagreb is very popular with students. There's an endless supply of bars and cafes where students hang out. This is a great student city that offers access to many beautiful parts of Croatia and Europe in general.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

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

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

The public transit in Zagreb can get you to most places easily. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Potsdam or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Potsdam and Zagreb 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.

Zagreb is a very walkable destination. It's a city that lives outdoors. It's very walkable with many outdoor cafes and parks where you can take a stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Potsdam?

How long in Potsdam or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Potsdam or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zagreb 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 Zagreb.

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

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

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

One day in Potsdam or Zagreb?

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

In Zagreb, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Zagreb?

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.

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

Five days in Potsdam or Zagreb?

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.

Zagreb 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 Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the park-filled 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 Zagreb. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zagreb. 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Potsdam or Zagreb?

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

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 Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Potsdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Potsdam in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Potsdam is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Potsdam. Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Potsdam gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Potsdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Potsdam or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Potsdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Potsdam is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Potsdam in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Potsdam often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Potsdam gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Potsdam gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Potsdam or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Potsdam and Zagreb. 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 Zagreb this time of year.

It's quite cold in Zagreb in the winter. The weather in Potsdam can be very cold. In January, Potsdam is generally much colder than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Potsdam average around -0°C (31°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Potsdam usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Potsdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Potsdam usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Potsdam or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Potsdam as well as Zagreb. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Zagreb for the activities around the city.

Potsdam is cooler than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Potsdam averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Potsdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Potsdam gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Potsdam usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Potsdam gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Potsdam