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

Should you visit Salzburg or Potsdam?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Potsdam, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural, recognizable, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a historic, accessible, and compact city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Potsdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Salzburg. Although Salzburg and Potsdam are about the same size, Salzburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Salzburg is more popular for its music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Potsdam is known for its small town charm. Salzburg is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also home to The Salzburg Old Town. Potsdam is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Potsdam and Salzburg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Salzburg or Potsdam?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Salzburg or Potsdam.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Salzburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Salzburg and Potsdam.

Dining out in Salzburg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Is Salzburg or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Both Salzburg and Potsdam are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Potsdam. 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 Salzburg or Potsdam Better for Music?

Salzburg is very popular for its live music scene. However, Potsdam is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Salzburg Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Potsdam is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

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

Salzburg has a world-famous historical area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Potsdam?

Salzburg is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Salzburg make it a world-class shopping destination. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg or Potsdam Better for Families?

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

Salzburg is a very kid-friendly city. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Salzburg 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, Salzburg has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Salzburg is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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

Is Salzburg or Potsdam Better for Students?

Salzburg is very popular for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Both Salzburg and Potsdam offer excellent public transit options.

The public transit in Salzburg can get you to most places easily. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Visitors to Potsdam can move around easily with public transportation. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

Is Salzburg or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Potsdam both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Salzburg or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Salzburg than Potsdam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 1-2 days is enough time in Potsdam.

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

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

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

One day in Salzburg or Potsdam?

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

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.

A weekend in Salzburg or Potsdam?

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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.

Five days in Salzburg or Potsdam?

Salzburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Salzburg has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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.

A week in Salzburg or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Salzburg and Potsdam, we can see that Salzburg is more expensive. And not only is Potsdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Potsdam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Potsdam 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 Salzburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Salzburg than you might in Potsdam.

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Potsdam?

Salzburg has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Potsdam, 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 Salzburg or Potsdam?

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 Salzburg or Potsdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Potsdam. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 20°C (68°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Potsdam this time of the year. In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Potsdam in the Autumn?

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

Salzburg is around the same temperature as Potsdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Potsdam in the Winter?

Both Potsdam and Salzburg 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 Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Potsdam. It's quite cold in Salzburg in the winter. In the winter, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Potsdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Salzburg in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Potsdam averages at about -0°C (31°F).

Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Potsdam in the Spring?

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

In April, Salzburg is generally a little warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (51°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in April than Potsdam. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Salzburg