Travel Budget for Potsdam Visit Potsdam on a Budget or Travel in Style

Potsdam, Land Brandenburg, Germany

Potsdam is a historic city known for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're exploring the museums or eating the delicious cuisine, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Potsdam that stays within your budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Potsdam?

You should plan to spend around $140 (€134) per day on your vacation in Potsdam. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $56 (€54) on meals
  • $29 (€28) on local transportation
  • $126 (€120) on hotels

A one week trip to Potsdam for two people costs, on average, $1,966 (€1,876). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $140
    134
  • One Week Per person
    $983
    938
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,966
    1,876
  • One Month Per person
    $4,213
    4,020
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,966
    1,876
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $3,932
    3,752
  • One Month For a couple
    $8,425
    8,040
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Potsdam cost?

A one week trip to Potsdam usually costs around $983 (€938) for one person and $1,966 (€1,876) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Potsdam on average costs around $1,966 (€1,876) for one person and $3,932 (€3,752) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Potsdam will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Potsdam on average costs around $4,213 (€4,020) for one person and $8,425 (€8,040) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Potsdam expensive to visit?

Potsdam is a smaller city that attracts a range of visitors, each with distinct travel styles, spending habits, and budgetary requirements. Affordable hotel choices are available, but luxury hotels also cater to the more affluent clientele, along with mid-range accommodations that are perfect for families and couples.

While Potsdam can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $64 (€59) per day, mid-range travelers spend $146 (€134) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $279 (€256) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Potsdam.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Potsdam is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Imperia or Oviedo.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Potsdam Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Potsdam?

The average Potsdam trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Potsdam travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Potsdam cost?

Potsdam on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$28
(26)
$63
(60)
$120
(115)
Local Transportation 1 $13
(12)
$29
(28)
$56
(53)
Food 2 $25
(23)
$56
(54)
$107
(102)
Entertainment 1 $12
(11)
$26
(25)
$50
(48)
Alcohol 2 $2-5
(1-4)
$4-11
(3-10)
$7-20
(6-19)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people assume they can visit Potsdam on a minimal budget, but most find that style of travel to be uncomfortable. Think about what makes a vacation enjoyable for you. Do you like staying in budget hostels, regular hotels, or high-end resorts? Do you want to experience the local attractions? Do you enjoy dining out? Your budget and itinerary will be determined by your answers to these questions.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $64 that backpackers often get by on.

Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.

In addition, the city provides solid public transit, making it easier for budget travelers to skip costly taxi or Uber fares. Food is also a highlight for all types of visitors to Potsdam, but budget travelers often dine on street food or cook meals in their hostel, so they may not always experience the delicious cuisine.

Is Your Travel Style Average?

Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most tourists in Potsdam are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $146 per person, per day.

There are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals available in Potsdam. If you're traveling with companions, sharing a hotel with a partner, friend, or kids can help lower costs. Families should seek out hotels and dining options that are suitable for children. Hotel Am Jagertor is a wonderful family-friendly hotel, and Hotel Villa Monte Vino is another excellent choice. For more family and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel cost guide for Potsdam here.

Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?

If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $279 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the city will demand a higher price range. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Walking Tour of Potsdam and Sanssouci - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Potsdam

The cost of hotels in Potsdam can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $107, but peak season (summer) average prices jump to $200. Overall, prices range from $82 to $291. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Potsdam for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $126 (€120). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $63 (€60) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $63
    60
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $126
    120

Hotels in Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Potsdam? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Potsdam

The average hotel room price in Potsdam based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $107 in the low season and $200 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Potsdam include:

  • Schloss Kartzow starting at $209
  • Hotel Am Jagertor starting at $152
  • Hotel Brandenburger Tor Potsdam starting at $108
  • Hotel am Katharinenholz starting at $117
  • Hotel Villa Monte Vino starting at $137
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Potsdam

If you want to save on accommodation in Potsdam, it has a great public transit system makes it possible to stay further out. However, your transportation costs and time spent commuting will increase.

By skipping summer and traveling during the low or shoulder season, you'll enjoy lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.

Lots of people prefer to explore Potsdam on foot, so consider booking a central location. Just keep in mind that this can often be pricier.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Potsdam

Potsdam is known for its efficient public transit system. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus. Save time and money by using public transportation, with taxis and rideshares available if you need them.

Visitors who like to explore on foot will enjoy their time here. It's a smaller, compact city that can mostly be explored on foot.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (great)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (great)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $29 (€28) per person, per day, on local transportation in Potsdam. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Potsdam is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $29
    28

A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:

  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport for $157 details
  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels for $170 details
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport for $170 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Potsdam
How much does it cost to go to Potsdam? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Potsdam
The price of renting a car in Potsdam will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Potsdam

You'll find that the food in Potsdam is wonderful. Be sure to spend time enjoying all the local flavors. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Potsdam can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Potsdam is $56 (€54) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $56
    54

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Potsdam is around $58 (€54) per person, with previous travelers spending from $26 to $112. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Potsdam are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $6 to $18
  • Lunch: $9 to $23
  • Dinner: $18 to $41
  • Coffee: $5
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $9

Food in Potsdam

Food & Dining Tips

Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.

Bring a water bottle to avoid frequent drink purchases. It's also a sustainable choice.

While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Potsdam

It's no surprise that Potsdam sees many visitors since it offers museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Potsdam typically cost an average of $26 (€25) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $26
    25

One of the many sights that draw tourists from across the globe is the well-known Sanssouci Park, which includes a collection of palaces and gardens. Built in the years 1745 and 1747 by architect Georg W. von Knobelsdorff, Sanssouci Palace is by far the most popular of the cluster of palaces found in the park. Erected for Frederick William IV, Frederick was later buried in the Sanssouci Palace during 1991, on the 205th anniversary of his death. With some 70 km of walkways, Sanssouci Park is the largest park in Brandenburg. It is estimated that over a million tourists visit this park per year. Beside Sanssouci Palace, the park also includes the Church of Peace, Orangery Palace, Charlottenhof Castle, Roman Baths, Chinese Teahouse, as well as many more simply amazing sights. Be sure to check out the park's website as opening and closing times for each exhibit vary widely. Watch the history of centuries past be resurrected before your very eyes at Sanssouci Park!

Besides the ancient relics it holds within its borders, Potsdam almost makes use of the modern amenities as well. For a shopping experience entirely its own, be sure to stop by Bahnhofspassagen Potsdam. Opened in 1999 as one of the first integrated projects in the Federal Republic of Germany of a modern railway station and shopping center, Bahnhofspassagen Potsdam is the most frequented place throughout the city, receiving 60,000 visitors per day at its railway station. With restaurants, shops, as well as an indoor movie theater, Bahnhofspassagen Potsdam will surely keep you entertained from sunrise to sunset. Some of its shops include Calzedonia, Deichmann, Douglass, Herzog and Brauer, Hussel, and Vero Moda. Besides its wide collection of stores, Bahnhofspassagen Potsdam also has a variety of restaurants, such as cafes, Asian restaurants, and German grills and restaurants. Whether you are looking to buy some new shoes or bite into bratwurst, the possibilities are endless at Bahnhofspassagen Potsdam!



If you are looking to take a rendezvous from the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy the peaceful serenity of being lakeside at Sacrower See. With a depth of more than 4 metres, Sacrower See boasts the best water quality of all lakes in and around Berlin, allowing for the lake's waters to be nearly transparent. Due to its paradise-like quality it attains, it is no wonder that Sacrower See attracts tourists from all over the world. Whether you are looking for a refreshing swim or a warm sunbath, Sacrower See will furnish your needs easily. The surrounding forest also allows you to enjoy some of Germany's wildlife, where there is also a smaller bathing area that allows you to sunbathe on the grass. Besides this, Sacrower See also provides food and drinks for its visitors with its Restaurant Landleben and beer garden that offers a perfect view of the lake and the bathing area. Order fresh, tasty dishes as short pasta with spicy tomato sauce and olives, classic bacon and cheese, Mediterranean barbecued vegetable with goose cheese and rucola, and young salad with fried chicken liver and cherries. Enjoy a breathtaking view as you take another savory bite at Sacrower See's Restaurant Landleben!

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
Attractions in PotsdamPotsdam is known for its famous museums and other landmarks. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

A nice way to explore destinations in Potsdam is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • In the Forbidden City - Potsdam Walking Tour for $21 details
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour for $12 details
  • Sanssouci Park: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of the Garden's Landmarks for $10 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Potsdam

While Potsdam features some nightlife activities, it doesn't reach the excitement levels of other, more renowned destinations. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $7.02 (€6.70) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Potsdam per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $7.02
    6.70
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.

While enjoying a night out, remember to stay alert. If you're drinking, you might become an easy target for thieves, so it's best to stay with friends you trust.



Budgeting and Travel Tips for Potsdam

  • Peak summer season brings higher prices and more people to the city. To avoid the chaos and save some money, consider a trip during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Taking it easy while traveling can help you save some cash, letting you appreciate the area's beauty without the stress. If you rush through your days with nonstop activities, you'll end up spending more. Slowing down often leads to a more enjoyable trip and less money spent.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Bringing young children along on your travels? You might want to consider a private vehicle or taxi. It can often save you from the headache of public transit, although it may cost a bit extra.
  • Potsdam doesn't have a vibrant hostel scene, so if you were counting on finding a cheap dorm, it might be time to adjust your plans. Consider looking for an affordable hotel or an apartment rental instead.
Traveling in Potsdam
Potsdam Potsdam

Before you lays a treasure chest of historic beauties. From the glimmering Renaissance Orangery Palace that overlooks its sumptuous fountains to the neoclassical Charlottenhof Castle that is surrounded by lush England gardens, you find yourself in none other than Potsdam, Germany. The capital and largest city of the German federal state of Brandenburg, Potsdam borders the German capital Berlin and is located right on the bay of the River Havel. A home for Prussian kings until 1918 and a brainchild of the Enlightenment, Potsdam was constructed thoughtfully and carefully by its architects to create what many to believe as "a picturesque, pastoral dream" and a "balance between both nature and reason." From interconnected lakes to historic landmarks, Potsdam is a city that is bursting with life all year around. With its rich history, it was no wonder various parts of the city were named a World Heritage Site. With its landscape and cityscape rivaling in beauty, Potsdam is simply a breathtaking city that must be explored!



We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.