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

Should you visit Windsor or Potsdam?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Potsdam? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, 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.

Windsor and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Windsor or Potsdam?

Both Potsdam and Windsor have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Windsor is better known for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its food and shopping. Windsor is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Windsor different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor
Potsdam

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Windsor and Potsdam.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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.


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

Windsor
Potsdam

Potsdam is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor 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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Potsdam

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

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

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 Windsor or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Potsdam

Windsor is very good for its old town. However, Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Windsor to see the old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Potsdam?

Windsor
Potsdam

Potsdam is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Potsdam Better for Families?

Windsor
Potsdam

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Potsdam.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

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 Windsor or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Windsor
Potsdam

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

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Potsdam is a good town 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 Windsor or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Potsdam

Potsdam is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor
Potsdam

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

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

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Windsor
Potsdam

Windsor and Potsdam both are great when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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 Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Potsdam?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Potsdam than Windsor 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 Potsdam.


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

One day in Windsor or Potsdam?

Windsor is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

In Potsdam, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

A weekend in Windsor or Potsdam?

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Windsor has to offer.

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

Five days in Windsor or Potsdam?

Windsor 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.

Potsdam 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.


A week in Windsor or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. Since Windsor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Potsdam. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Potsdam. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Potsdam is £95. 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 Windsor and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Potsdam £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Potsdam £102
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Potsdam £24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319

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 Windsor or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Potsdam £26
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Potsdam £22

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

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
    Windsor £7.55
    Potsdam £5.73


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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Potsdam?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Potsdam. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Potsdam. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Windsor or Potsdam in the Autumn?

Both Potsdam and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Windsor is a little warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Windsor in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Potsdam averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets more rain in October than Potsdam. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Potsdam. Many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Potsdam can be very cold during winter. Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Windsor is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Potsdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Potsdam. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Windsor is around the same temperature as Potsdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Potsdam. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Windsor

Windsor Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)