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

Should you visit Delft 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 Delft 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.

Delft

Delft is a historic, quaint, and charming town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Delft travel costs.

Potsdam

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

Delft and Potsdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Delft or Potsdam?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Delft than Potsdam. While Potsdam is larger than Delft, Delft has more sights and attractions for tourists. Delft is very popular for its historical sights, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Delft is famous for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery. It is also well known for the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk). Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Delft different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Delft
Potsdam

Potsdam is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Delft offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums that highlight the culture and history of the area. The Vermeer Center offers an immersive experience into the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born in the city. The Royal Delft Factory teaches visitors about the city's iconic blue-and-white pottery. The Delft Museum of Technology and the Old Church also provide insight into the city's engineering, cultural, and religious history.


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

Delft
Potsdam

Potsdam is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Delft. There are several local dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or a frikandel (a Dutch snack). The town has countless casual eateries and cozy cafes where you can enjoy pastries, coffee, and Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken). There's also a selection of international restaurants around town that serve Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Local markets and street food stalls provide affordable options, such as fresh herring or delicious Dutch cheese.

Is Delft or Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Delft
Potsdam

Potsdam is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Delft is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Potsdam. 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.

Delft is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It has a low-key and relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of cozy pubs, bars, and cafes, many of which are located along the scenic canals.

Is Delft or Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Delft
Potsdam

Delft is well known for its old town. However, Potsdam does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Delft. The city's old town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and cobblestone streets. The heart of the old town is centered around the Market Square, where you'll find iconic landmarks such as the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) and the City Hall.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Delft or Potsdam?

Delft
Potsdam

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Delft and Potsdam.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Delft. The city center is home to many unique shops selling local crafts, Dutch design, and traditional Delftware pottery, making it a great place for souvenirs. You'll also find popular international brands and stores along the main shopping streets. For a more local shopping experience, visit the weekly market in the Market Square, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and regional goods.

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.

Is Delft or Potsdam More Beautiful?

Delft
Potsdam

Potsdam is a city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Potsdam is a gorgeous place to visit. There are many beautiful gardens and interesting places to explore.

Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Delft or Potsdam Better for Families?

Delft
Potsdam

Both Delft and Potsdam are nice to visit with kids.

Delft is a family-friendly town. There are boat tours on the canals. There's also the Vermeer Center which has an interactive experience where you can learn about the famous artist, Johannes Vermeer, in a way that's engaging and educational. The Royal Delft Factory is another great stop, where children can see traditional blue-and-white pottery being made and even try painting their own ceramics. If your kids need to stretch their legs, there's the Delftse Hout park which has a large playground, nature trails, and even a petting zoo.

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 Delft or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Delft
Potsdam

Both Delft and Potsdam are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Delft is a nice destination for couples. There are many romantic activities for couples like walking through the picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. There are also quaint cafes and romantic restaurants. You can also take a boat ride along the canals or enjoy a peaceful walk through Delftse Hout park.

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 Delft or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Delft
Potsdam

Potsdam is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Delft is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Potsdam is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels to choose from in town.

Delft is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some affordable accommodation options, but many backpackers head to Delft as a day trip from the nearby city of The Hague.

Is Delft or Potsdam Better for Students?

Delft
Potsdam

Delft is well known for students. However, Potsdam is not popular with students.

Delft is very popular with students. It is home to Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), which is a well respected technical university. The city has a vibrant student atmosphere, with plenty of student-friendly cafes, bars, and activities.

Potsdam is not popular with students.


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

Delft
Potsdam

Visitors will find superb public transit in both Delft and Potsdam.

Public transit in Delft is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a bus network that is reliable and convenient. The city's train station is centrally located and offers direct connections to major cities in the Netherlands, making it a great hub for exploring the region.

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

Is Delft or Potsdam a more walkable city?

Delft
Potsdam

Delft 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 Delft on foot is easy. The town's compact size and charming layout mean that most of the main attractions, such as the Old Church, New Church, and Market Square, are within walking distance of each other.

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 Delft Worth Visiting? and Is Potsdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Delft?

How long in Delft or Potsdam?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Potsdam than Delft 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 Delft or Potsdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Delft 1 
    Potsdam 1-2

One day in Delft or Potsdam?

In Delft, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this compact destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Delft or Potsdam?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Delft. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Potsdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Delft or Potsdam?

Delft is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Potsdam. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Delft or Potsdam?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delft. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Delft. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the park-filled destination of Potsdam. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam or Delft?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Delft is €146, while the average daily cost in Potsdam is €134. 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 Delft and Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Delft 76
    Potsdam 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Delft 152
    Potsdam 120
Compare Hotels in Delft and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Delft 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 Delft


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: Delft Hotel Prices and Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Delft 7.14
    Potsdam 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $175
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $190
  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $190

Is it cheaper to fly into Delft or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam and Delft 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
    Delft 64
    Potsdam 54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Delft 11
    Potsdam 25

Tours and Activities in Delft

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

  • Entrance Ticket for the Old and New Churches: $11
  • Vermeer Centrum Delft Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • Hugo de Groot Walking Tour: $14
  • Canal House Museum 'Paul Tetar van Elven' Ticket: $14
  • Canal Cruise with Guided Commentary: $16
  • City Center Walking Tour: $22
  • Delft - Step/scootertour in and around the city: $29
  • City Tour with Dutch Food and Drink: $93
  • Open Boat Canal Cruise with Skipper: $112
  • Private Historical and Cultural Guided Walking Tour: $135
  • Private Tour of Delft + Beer Tasting: $159
  • Guided Walking Tour: $199

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

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

  • 4 hours Private Romantic Boat Cruise for 2 - Wine included: $574
  • 4h Harbor and Castle Sightseeing Cruise, our most booked!: $680
  • 4h Private Havelland Discovery Boat Cruise with Skipper: $692
  • 4h Unforgettable Tour with Skipper, "Seven Lakes Cruise": $692
  • 8h Private Wannsee Lake and Werder Yacht Cruise: $1,290
  • 8h: unforgetable tour of Potsdam with swimm option: $1,172
  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Brandenburg Havel The Cradle of Mark Puzzle Tour and City Tour: $65
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $6.40
  • City Sightseeing Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $24
  • City and Palaces Tour Potsdam - Stadt- und Schloesserrundfahrt Potsdam: $30
  • Historic Exclusive Private Tour with a Local: $191

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Delft 16
    Potsdam 6.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Delft

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Delft:

  • Craft Beer Tasting in Medieval Brewery with Snacks: $19


When comparing the travel costs between Delft and Potsdam, we can see that Delft is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Delft Expensive? and Is Potsdam Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Delft or Potsdam?

Potsdam has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Delft. When comparing the sizes of Delft 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 Delft 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 Delft or Potsdam in the Summer?

Both Potsdam and Delft during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Delft in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Delft is cooler than Potsdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Delft 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 Delft. In the summer, Delft often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Delft gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun.

Delft usually gets more rain in July than Potsdam. Delft 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
    Delft 17°C (62°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Delft or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Delft and Potsdam. Most visitors come to Delft for the shopping scene 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 October, Delft is generally around the same temperature as Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Delft average around 11°C (51°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

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

In October, Delft usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Delft 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
    Delft 11°C (51°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Delft or Potsdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Delft as well as Potsdam. The winter months attract visitors to Delft 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 Delft can be very cold. Delft is much warmer than Potsdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Delft averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

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

Delft usually gets more rain in January than Potsdam. Delft 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
    Delft 2°C (36°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Delft or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Delft are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

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

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

In April, Delft usually receives more rain than Potsdam. Delft 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
    Delft 8°C (46°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Delft

Delft 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)