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

Should you visit Stockholm or Potsdam?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Stockholm and Potsdam can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a expensive, beautiful, and clean city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Stockholm and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Stockholm or Potsdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Stockholm than Potsdam. Stockholm is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Stockholm is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its food and small town charm. Stockholm is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. Also, Stockholm is famous for Gamla Stan (the old town). Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

Gamla Stan (the old town)
Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Stockholm
Potsdam

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Stockholm and Potsdam.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Stockholm or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stockholm
Potsdam

Potsdam is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Stockholm or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm
Potsdam

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

Stockholm is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

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 Stockholm or Potsdam Better for Music?

Stockholm
Potsdam

Stockholm 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 Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Potsdam is not a live music destination.


Is Stockholm or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm
Potsdam

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

Stockholm has a world-famous historical area. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Potsdam?

Stockholm
Potsdam

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

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm or Potsdam Better for Families?

Stockholm
Potsdam

Stockholm is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Stockholm is one of the most popular family destinations. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Stockholm
Potsdam

Stockholm 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, Stockholm has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm
Potsdam

Stockholm and Potsdam are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Stockholm is a good city to visit for backpackers. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Plenty of backpackers visit Potsdam. There are a handful of hostels to choose from in town.

Is Stockholm or Potsdam Better for Students?

Stockholm
Potsdam

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

Stockholm is popular with students. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

Potsdam is not popular with students.


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

Stockholm
Potsdam

Stockholm is very popular for its public transit. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Stockholm has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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

Is Stockholm or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Stockholm
Potsdam

Stockholm is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Potsdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Stockholm on foot is easy. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stockholm or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Stockholm than Potsdam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-2 days is enough time in Potsdam.

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

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

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


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

One day in Stockholm or Potsdam?

Because Stockholm is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Potsdam. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Potsdam has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Stockholm or Potsdam?

Because Stockholm is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the park-filled destination of Potsdam. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Potsdam?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the park-filled city of Potsdam. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stockholm or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. Because Stockholm is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Potsdam is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Stockholm?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Stockholm is $167, while the average daily cost in Potsdam is $119. 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 Stockholm and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stockholm $96
    Potsdam $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stockholm $192
    Potsdam $128
Compare Hotels in Stockholm and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Stockholm or Potsdam? 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 Stockholm


Hotels in Potsdam


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: Stockholm Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stockholm $20
    Potsdam $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

  • Stockholm to Stockholm Airport (ARN) - Departure Transfer: $49
  • Airport Limousine Transfer: Bromma Airport to Stockholm City 1-7 Passengers: $132
  • Airport Limousine Transfer: Stockholm City to Bromma Airport 1-7 Passengers: $132
  • Airport Transfer By Business Van - Arlanda Airport - Sthlm City : $207
  • Airport Transfer By Luxuary First Class , Arlanda Airport-Sthlm City: $245
  • Arlanda Airport Bus Transfer Departure: $17
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bromma Airport BMA to Stockholm City by Business Car: $134
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bromma Airport BMA to Stockholm City by Luxury Van: $143
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Stockholm Port to Stockholm City by Business Car: $123
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Stockholm Port to Stockholm City by Luxury Car: $141
  • Cruise port VIP Transfer: Cruise port to Stockholm city center 1-6 Passangers: $161
  • Departure Private Transfer Stockholm City to Bromma Airport BMA by Business Car: $123

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $174
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Stockholm or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Stockholm 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
    Stockholm $36
    Potsdam $33
Typical Food Prices in Stockholm

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Stockholm:


  • Breakfast
    $9.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stockholm

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Stockholm.

  • Self Guided Taysta Food Tour in Stockholm: $33
  • Food Tour: $101
  • Stockholm Food Tour: $104
  • Stockholm Walking Food Tour With Small Group: $119
  • From Wildlife Safari with Campfire Dinner: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stockholm $25
    Potsdam $27

Tours and Activities in Stockholm

Here are a few actual costs in Stockholm for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2-Hour Free Walking Tour in Stockholm: $0.92
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Tour Gratis Estocolmo La Ciudad Vieja Isla los Caballerosen: $4.41
  • Central A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Central A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Gamla Stan's Landmarks and legends: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • History and Secrets of Gamla Audio Guided Walking Tour: $6.20
  • Stockholm City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Stockholm Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Highlights Tour: $6.95
  • Gamla Stan: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Stockholm’s Old City: $6.99
  • Walking Tour of Stockholm's City Center: $7.64

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

Here are a few actual costs in Potsdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park Self-Guided Gardens Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Baroque Buildings Self-Guided Mobile Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Sanssouci Park: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of the Garden's Landmarks: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of City Center: $8.45
  • Museum Barberini Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Cecilienhof Castle Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Biosphäre Potsdam Entry Ticket: $16
  • In the Forbidden City - Potsdam Walking Tour: $20
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stockholm $26
    Potsdam $7.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Stockholm

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

  • Original Stockholm Pub Crawl: $32
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $280
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $288


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stockholm and Potsdam, we can see that Stockholm 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 Stockholm would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stockholm 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 Stockholm Expensive? and Is Potsdam Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Potsdam?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm or Potsdam in the Summer?

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

Stockholm is around the same temperature as Potsdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Potsdam fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Potsdam. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Stockholm. Stockholm usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stockholm 18°C (64°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Potsdam in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Stockholm is cooler than Potsdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stockholm in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Potsdam averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stockholm 8°C (46°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Potsdam. The winter months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Potsdam in the winter. The weather in Stockholm can be very cold. In January, Stockholm is generally much colder than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around -3°C (27°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Potsdam. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stockholm -3°C (27°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Potsdam in the Spring?

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

Stockholm is much colder than Potsdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 5°C (41°F) in April, and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Potsdam. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Potsdam. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stockholm 5°C (41°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Stockholm

Stockholm Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 26 mm (1 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 3°C (37°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -1°C (31°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)