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

Should you visit The Hague or Potsdam?

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 The Hague and Potsdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

The Hague

The Hague is a bustling, diverse, and global city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a accessible, compact, and park-filled city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

The Hague and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in The Hague or Potsdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in The Hague than Potsdam. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. The Hague is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Potsdam is more touristy than The Hague and is popular for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. The Hague is famous for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. It is also well known for The Peace Palace.

How is The Hague different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in The Hague or Potsdam?

The Hague
Potsdam

Potsdam is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hague
Potsdam

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between The Hague and Potsdam can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

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.

Is The Hague or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

The Hague
Potsdam

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

The Hague is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

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 The Hague or Potsdam Better for Music?

The Hague
Potsdam

The Hague is well known for its live music scene. However, Potsdam is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in The Hague. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Potsdam is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Potsdam?

The Hague
Potsdam

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

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

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 The Hague or Potsdam Better for Families?

The Hague
Potsdam

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either The Hague or Potsdam.

The Hague is a family-friendly city. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

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.

Is The Hague or Potsdam Better for Couples?

The Hague
Potsdam

Both The Hague and Potsdam are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

The Hague is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

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.


Is The Hague or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hague
Potsdam

The Hague and Potsdam are both nice destinations for backpackers.

The Hague is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

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

Is The Hague or Potsdam Better for Students?

The Hague
Potsdam

The Hague is very popular for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

The Hague
Potsdam

Visitors will find very good public transit in both The Hague and Potsdam.

Public transit in The Hague is fairly effecient and thorough. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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


Is The Hague or Potsdam a more walkable city?

The Hague
Potsdam

Potsdam is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or The Hague?

How long in The Hague or Potsdam?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in The Hague 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 The Hague.


  • How many days in The Hague or Potsdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hague 1-3 
    Potsdam 1-2

One day in The Hague or Potsdam?

Because The Hague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 The Hague or Potsdam?

Because The Hague 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that The Hague has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the compact 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 The Hague or Potsdam?

The Hague is a great place to explore. 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.

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 The Hague or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting The Hague. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or The Hague?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hague is €178, while the average daily cost in Potsdam is €111. 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 The Hague and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hague 104
    Potsdam 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hague 208
    Potsdam 120
Compare Hotels in The Hague and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in The Hague 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 The Hague


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: The Hague Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hague 19
    Potsdam 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

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

  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hague or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and The Hague 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
    The Hague 55
    Potsdam 31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

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

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hague 34
    Potsdam 25

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • The Historical Heart of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Gilde Den Haag: City Walking Tour NL-DEU-ENG: $8.56
  • The Hague Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Escher in The Palace Museum Ticket: $12

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: $152
  • 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: $257
  • City Sightseeing Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • City and Palaces Tour Potsdam - Stadt- und Schloesserrundfahrt Potsdam: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hague 30
    Potsdam 6.70

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


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


Which is Bigger, The Hague or Potsdam?

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

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 The Hague or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and The Hague during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to The Hague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

In the summer, The Hague is cooler than Potsdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in The Hague in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Potsdam averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Potsdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in The Hague. In the summer, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. The Hague gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in July than Potsdam. The Hague gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hague 17°C (62°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hague and Potsdam. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to The Hague this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, The Hague is generally around the same temperature as Potsdam. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 11°C (51°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

The Hague usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during autumn. The Hague gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, The Hague usually receives more rain than Potsdam. The Hague gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hague 11°C (51°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to The Hague as well as Potsdam. Many travelers come to The Hague for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Potsdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Potsdam can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in The Hague. The Hague is much warmer than Potsdam in the winter. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, The Hague often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. The Hague gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in January than Potsdam. The Hague gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hague 2°C (36°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and The Hague are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to The Hague in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, The Hague is cooler than Potsdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in The Hague in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Potsdam averages at about 9°C (48°F).

The Hague usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam during spring. The Hague gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, The Hague usually receives more rain than Potsdam. The Hague gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hague 8°C (46°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and The Hague

The Hague Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)