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

Should you visit Zurich or Potsdam?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Potsdam. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Potsdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zurich than Potsdam. Zurich is bigger than Potsdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zurich is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Potsdam is more popular for its small town charm. Zurich is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster. Potsdam is well known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Zurich different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Potsdam offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Zurich or Potsdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zurich and Potsdam offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Potsdam has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Zurich or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

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

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Potsdam Better for Music?

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

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Potsdam is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

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

Zurich has a world-famous historical area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Potsdam?

Zurich 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 Zurich make it a world-class shopping destination. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich or Potsdam Better for Families?

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

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich or Potsdam Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Potsdam are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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

Is Zurich or Potsdam Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Potsdam is not popular with students.

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

Both Zurich and Potsdam offer high quality public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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 Zurich or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Zurich and Potsdam both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Potsdam?

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

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

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

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

One day in Zurich or Potsdam?

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Zurich or Potsdam?

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

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.

Five days in Zurich or Potsdam?

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

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.

A week in Zurich or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the accessible 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Potsdam?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Potsdam. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Potsdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Potsdam. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Zurich is a little warmer than Potsdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Potsdam fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Potsdam this time of the year. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Potsdam. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Zurich is a little warmer than Potsdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Potsdam averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Zurich or Potsdam in the Winter?

Both Potsdam and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Potsdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Potsdam can be very cold. Zurich can be very cold during winter. In January, Zurich is generally much warmer than Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

Zurich is a little warmer than Potsdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Potsdam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Potsdam. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Zurich