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20 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Potsdam

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Potsdam, the capital of the German state of Brandenburg, lies just 40 kilometers southwest of Berlin in a beautiful area of woodlands and lakes. This former residence of the Prussian rulers is a city of palaces and gardens in a style that's even been given its own name: Potsdam Rococo.

Today, much of this beautiful historic German city is protected under the UNESCO Palaces and Parks of Berlin and Potsdam World Heritage Site status.

With so many great things to do in this beautiful city, it can be somewhat challenging to know where to start. If all you can spare is one day in Potsdam, make sure the magnificent Sanssouci Palace and Park top your list. And have your camera ready: it's for good reason that this splendid palace and its grounds are regarded as one of the best places to photograph in Germany .

The city also hosts a number of exciting festivals, including the Music Festival Potsdam Sanssouci (Musikfestspiele Potsdam Sanssouci), which focuses mostly on classical music, as well as one of the country's largest and most popular Christmas markets .

Find out more about the best places to visit and things to do with our list of the top attractions in Potsdam, Germany.

See also: Where to Stay in Potsdam

1. Visit the Historic Home of Germany's Royals: Sanssouci Palace

2. take a walk in sanssouci park, 3. tour the new palace at sanssouci, 4. see the old masters at museum barberini, 5. visit the potsdam museum at the old town hall, 6. explore the dutch quarter (holländisches viertel), 7. cecilienhof country house, neuer garten, 8. explore new garden and marmorpalais, 9. see the chinese house in sanssouci park, 10. the church of peace, sanssouci park, 11. st. nicholas church, 12. learn about german film-making at filmmuseum potsdam, 13. enjoy movie-themed rides at filmpark babelsberg, 14. charlottenhof palace, 15. biosphäre potsdam, 16. take a tour of the steam pump house, sanssouci, 17. view the observatory at einstein tower, 18. russische kolonie alexandrowka, 19. the birthplace of the movies: babelsberg, 20. experience the chilling kgb prison (memorial leistikowstraße), where to stay in potsdam for sightseeing, tips and tactics: how to make the most of your visit to potsdam, map of attractions & things to do in potsdam.

Widely considered one of the top tourist attractions in Germany , Sanssouci Palace (Schloss Sanssouci) was built in 1745 based on sketches by Frederick the Great. The result, a splendid single-story Rococo building with an elliptical dome in the center and circular rooms at each end, is simply spectacular. The garden front has rich plaster decorations, while on the rear is the Grand Courtyard, enclosed by colonnades of Corinthian columns.

The most notable interior features of Sansouci Palace are the oval Marble Hall, with its double Corinthian columns; the Little Gallery, with its elaborate decorations; the Concert Room with its large murals; the Bedroom and Study; the Library, with many antique busts; and the Voltaire Room.

Also worth checking out are the splendid New Rooms, or Neue Kammern. Built in 1747 as an orangery and later converted into a gardener's house, its interior is richly decorated. English-language audio guides are available for self-guided tours lasting approximately 40 minutes.

A fun time to visit is during the popular Night of the Palaces. This unique two-day event is held in June and sees Sanssouci Palace and Park open to the public after dark.

If you're visiting from Berlin and want to cram as much of this spectacular palace and its grounds into your itinerary as it will handle, you may want to consider joining an organized tour. The Potsdam half-day sightseeing tour from Berlin includes Sanssouci Palace and its beautiful gardens, as well as the Dutch Quarter and New Palace, all while avoiding line-ups. This fun four-hour guided tour also includes transport from a central location in Berlin.

Address: Maulbeerallee, 14469 Potsdam, Germany

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Berlin

Sanssouci Park is the site of many beautiful gardens, buildings, and works of art. It's a pleasure to walk around, and makes a great starting place for a Potsdam cultural experience. The oldest part of the park dates back to 1744 and, along with its abundance of buildings and works of art, is considered the best example of Potsdam Rococo, reflecting as it does the influence of Frederick the Great.

The park entrance lies at the east end of Hauptallee, the property's main avenue. It's easy enough to find: just look for the tall obelisk near the main gate.

Once you're in you'll enjoy highlights including the lovely Neptune's Grotto, one of a series of roundels in the park, this one with the busts of four Moors. Look out for the splendid Picture Gallery at the Orange Roundel, too. Here you'll see many excellent 17th-century paintings, including works by Rubens, van Dyck, and Caravaggio.

Also worth seeing here is the Great Fountain with its representations of the four elements and of mythological figures. Have your camera at the ready!

Address: Zur Historischen Mühle 1, 14469 Potsdam

The New Palace (Neues Palais) was built between 1763-69 in red brick relieved by sandstone, with a copper dome. The palace's interior is sumptuously decorated, particularly in the Marble Hall, the Upper and Lower State Apartments, the Marble Gallery, and Theater.

You'll also see some of the palace's most valuable furniture, pictures, porcelain, and works of art. If you've got time, the New Palace is best viewed as part of an extended English-language guided tour that visits the King's Apartment.

While walking around New Palace, head to the rear of the building. Here you'll find the Communs, or Domestic Offices, two brick buildings in Baroque style with columned porticoes and curving external staircases. Between the two buildings are Corinthian colonnades and a triumphal arch.

In front of the New Palace are a number of other important structures, including the Ancient Temple and the Temple of Friendship built on the basis of sketches by Frederick the Great.

Address: Sanssouci, Am Neuen Palais, 14469 Potsdam

One of the newest attractions in this extremely old city, Museum Barberini opened in 2017 on the Old Market Square site once occupied by the former Barberini Palace, a building which was destroyed during a WWII bombing raid.

Already regarded as one of the top art museums in Germany, the facility's bright, modern galleries are home to a large collection of works from the country's leading painters, stretching from the time of the Old Masters to contemporary art.

Notable Impressionist artists whose work is featured include the likes of Monet and Rodin, as well as Edvard Munch. Regular temporary exhibits are also worth looking into and feature international collections of repute.

Daily English-language guided tours are available, as are audio guides. There's also a shop and a restaurant located on-site; weather permitting, opt for courtyard seating.

Address: Humboldtstraße 5-6, 14467 Potsdam

In Potsdam's Alter Markt, the Old Market Square, stands the former Town Hall, or Altes Rathaus. Now better known as a center for cultural events and activities, this splendid Baroque building was built in 1753 with three-quarter-length Corinthian columns and a tower with a stepped dome.

Be sure to look for the gilded figure of Atlas with the world on his back, the one original feature to survive the vagaries of weather and war. Extensively rebuilt after WWII, the building is used for exhibitions and concerts and houses the Potsdam Museum. It's worth visiting for its fine collections related to local art, culture, and the city's 1,000-plus-year history.

The Old Town Hall is linked by an intervening wing to the Baroque Knobelsdorff-Haus dating from 1750, also used for cultural programs.

Address: Am Alten Markt 9, 14467 Potsdam

To the north of Bassinplatz lies the famous Dutch Quarter, the Holländisches Viertel. Notable for its 134 charming red brick houses graced by shuttered windows, gables, and white trim, the neighborhood was built between 1737 and 1742 by Dutch craftsmen. Today, this charming community is the largest collection of Dutch-style homes outside the Netherlands.

Covering four city blocks, it's as popular a place to visit for tourists as it is with locals, who flock here for its numerous boutique shops, quaint cafés, and first-rate restaurants. Anticipate spending a few hours exploring the area on foot, especially if you take in Johann Boumann House , a museum dedicated to the architect who led this remarkable 18th-century building project.

An easy stroll leads to the Brandenburger Strasse pedestrian zone with its houses built between 1733-39 for the billeting of troops.

Address: Holländisches Viertel 1, 14467 Potsdam

One of the more interesting of the many other buildings found in Neuer Garten is Cecilienhof Country House (Schloss Cecilienhof). Built between 1914-17 in the style of an English Tudor country house, Cecilienhof is most famous as the meeting place of the Potsdam Conference of July-August, 1945, between the US (Truman), the UK (Churchill), and the USSR (Stalin) at the end of WWII.

Now set up as a museum, the building is wonderfully preserved in the state it was in during the conference, including the main conference room itself. Many original artifacts remain in place, along with displays detailing the event and its significance. Other highlights include the obelisk in the courtyard and the property's lovely gardens.

Address: Im Neuen Garten, D-14469 Potsdam

Potsdam's other large park, the New Garden (Neuer Garten) lies on the shores of the Heiliger See and covers an area of 253 acres. Splendidly landscaped in the sentimental style of the late 18th century and laid out in 1789, it was meant to reflect the style of a rural English country estate. The gardens are now a little more formal, but certainly retain their original splendor.

A highlight of your visit should be the lovely Marble Palace (Marmorpalais), a Neoclassical brick building constructed between 1787-91. Notable features are its columned portico on the lake side, as well as a unique, pyramid-shaped cold-storage room or icehouse. A pleasant café is located in the garden's original Orangery.

Address: Am Neuen Garten, 14467 Potsdam

A highlight of a visit to Sanssouci Park is the elegant Chinese House (Chinesisches Haus), sometimes also referred to as the Chinese Teahouse. Although listed as a garden pavilion, it's a description that really doesn't do this sumptuously decorated building justice.

Completed for Frederick the Great in 1763 as a focal point of his extensive flower and vegetable gardens, it encompasses many elements associated with Asian design so popular at the time, with a sprinkling of Rococo influences.

Its interior contains many interesting features, from its stucco marble walls to its musical monkeys and fine collections of porcelain and murals. Also of note are the nearby Chinese Kitchen and Dragon House , the Orangery with its Raphael Room containing copies of 47 works by the artist, and the Sicilian Garden with its Mediterranean plants and sculptures.

Address: Am Grünen Gitter, 14469 Potsdam

At the east end of Sanssouci Park stands the Church of Peace , or Friedenskirche. Built in 1844, it was modeled on the Early Christian basilica of San Clemente in Rome. Its greatest treasure is its apse mosaic dating from 1108 from the church of San Cipriano, Murano, purchased and installed here in 1834. Also of importance is the Kaiser Friedrich Mausoleum , added between 1888 and 1890.

Be sure to spend time wandering the park areas surrounding the church, too. Highlights include the aptly named Garden of Peace, a romantic-styled garden notable for its shrubbery and trees, as well as its Pool of Peace. On the avenue leading to the Grünes Gitter, the park's exit, are Villa Illaire, built in 1846, and the Villa Liegnitz dating from 1841, both built in the style of an Italian villa.

Address: Am Grünen Gitter 3, 14469 Potsdam, Germany

Located opposite the Old Town Hall in Potsdam, St. Nicholas Church (Nikolaikirche) is a beautiful Neoclassical church built between 1830-37 on the city's Old Market Square (Alter Markt ). The most outstanding feature of this impressive structure is its 77-meter-high dome, which rises high above most other buildings in the vicinity.

Although not reconsecrated until 1981 due to the rebuilding needed from extensive damage caused during WWII, it's a testament to the city's rich architectural history, a pleasing structure open to visitors for services and sightseeing. In front of the church is an obelisk built in 1753 with the likeness of the principal architects of Potsdam.

Also of note is nearby Friendship Island with its lovely gardens laid out in 1953.

Address: Am Alten Markt, 14467 Potsdam, Germany

Located in the stunning 17th-century Baroque Marstal, the former Court Stables (Potsdamer Stadtschloss), Filmmuseum Potsdam is an excellent resource of fun facts for film fans. With a worldwide focus, the museum regularly screens international and German movies and has many fascinating exhibits relating to the country's rich cinematic history.

One of the most interesting exhibits focuses on the famed Babelsberg studio, where many of the country's movies have been made over the past 100 years, including such recent classics as Grand Budapest Hotel . A great café is located on the premises, and the museum is easily reached by public transit.

Another nearby attraction is the French Church , a Baroque church remodeled in Neoclassical style in 1833.

Address: Breite Straße 1 A, 14467 Potsdam, Germany

Fun to visit after seeing Potdam's Filmmuseum, Filmpark Babelsberg is the world's oldest film studio and is home to a fun film-based theme park. In addition to the often thrilling rides, guests can enjoy tours of historic film sets, props, and costumes.

It's very much still a working film studio, and you can often also see domestic and international stars in action, or simply passing by on the way to the next big shoot. Fascinating behind-the-scenes tours are available in English and other languages, and include hands-on experiences that allow you to sit behind a news or weather desk in a TV studio.

There's also a 4D cinema showing the latest Hollywood blockbusters and other shows, plus movie-themed dining options. Special experiences are also available for children, including seeing the filming of popular kids' TV shows.

Address: Großbeerenstraße 200, 14482 Potsdam

Although much smaller than its neighbor, the Sanssouci Palace, the Neoclassical Charlottenhof Palace (Schloss Charlottenhof) is certainly worth including on your Potsdam itinerary. Often referred to as Charlottenhof Manor, it can, in fact, be included on a tour of Sanssouci Palace.

Built on grounds given by King Frederick William III of Prussia to his son, the Crown Prince, in 1825 as a Christmas gift, it's a pretty property to explore for its parklike setting and its many charming outbuildings. Much of the ensuing summer palace was in fact designed by the Crown Prince himself, evidence of which can still be seen in the interior design flourishes in the 10 rooms that are open to the public.

Highlights of a tour include the original elegant furniture and the famous "tent room," a colorful room said to be modeled after a royal tent from Roman times and once used as a guest room. As you tour the garden, you'll no doubt be impressed by its English styling, including its fountains and porticos, the creation of landscape designer Peter Joseph Lenné.

Address: Geschwister-Scholl-Straße 34A, 14471 Potsdam

If you're able to squeeze in another garden attraction on your already busy Potsdam itinerary, make sure it's Biosphäre Potsdam . This huge indoor tropical garden, found in Volkspark Potsdam near Sanssouci Park, is home to more than 350 species including some 20,000 individual plants.

Among its collections are beautiful orchids, a palm grove, a mangrove swamp, and tropical wildlife including snakes, lizards, butterflies, and spiders.

Address: Georg-Hermann-Allee 99, 14469 Potsdam

Built in 1841 to provide water for the numerous fountains in Sanssouci Park, the Steam Pump House , or Dampfmaschinenhaus, resembles a Moorish-style mosque with its chimney cleverly disguised as a minaret. Prior to its construction, Frederick the Great's plans for his fountains couldn't be realized.

Located on the edge of the Neustädter Havelbucht, today you can explore the facility during the warmer months via guided tours. These fascinating behind-the-scenes experiences take in the old steam machinery, permanent exhibits on the facility's history, as well as its architecture.

Address: Breite Straße 28, 14467 Potsdam

Those interested in science won't be disappointed with a visit to the Einstein Tower (Einsteinturm). Located in the Albert Einstein Science Park, the tower was built in 1924 and is in fact an important astrophysical observatory built to hold a large solar telescope.

The telescope itself was designed to prove Einstein's theory of relativity through observations and experiments and is still in operation as a solar laboratory, housed in its basement.

The brick and stucco building's unusual Expressionistic design reflects the great scientist's theories, rather euphemistically (and somewhat generously) described by Einstein as "organic."

Highlights of a visit include a rare pre-war sculpture that had evaded detection (the Nazi government would have destroyed them), and the curious, small bronze brain sculpture that references the theories of German scientist Ernst Poppel.

Address: Albert-Einstein-Straße, 14473 Potsdam

The houses in the little settlement of Alexandrowka in Potsdam were built to demonstrate the close friendship that existed between the rulers of Germany and Russia, Frederick William III, and the Czar Alexander. The houses were based on Russian models, and the settlement was laid out in the form of a St. Andrew's cross.

Other highlights of this quaint community include the Alexander Nevsky Church , a Russian Orthodox church built in 1829, with rich furnishings from St. Petersburg, as well as the Jewish cemetery started in 1743.

Address: Russische Kolonie 2, 14469 Potsdam

The district of Babelsberg, the largest area of Potsdam, was famous in the early days of cinema as the home of UFA film studios. Originally developed around Nowawes, an old colony of spinners and weavers, the district's heritage can still be detected near the church on Weberplatz, a modest building constructed in 1753.

Other highlights of this delightful area include Babelsberg Park . The third-largest public green space in Potsdam, it was laid out in 1832 and enlarged from 1843 onwards. You'll also want to take a look at Schloss Babelsber, or Babelsburg Palace, a Neo-Gothic English-style palace built in 1834.

Address: Park Babelsberg 10, D-14482 Potsdam-Babelsberg

For a fascinating yet chilling look at the often tough life in East Germany, pay a visit to the KGB Prison (Memorial Leistikowstraße). Operated by SMERSH, the Soviet counter-intelligence organization, this former detention center started off, ironically, as the offices of a Christian charitable group.

The prison also served the adjacent military camp and German KGB headquarters and was notorious for holding both German and Russian prisoners suspected of being spies or collaborators throughout the 1950s right up until the 1980s.

Now a memorial to those who were held and tortured here, you'll get to tour the former prison cells, some still with prisoner graffiti scratched into their walls. You'll also see the notorious detention room. There's also a permanent exhibit relating to its terrible history. Free audio guides are included with the cost of admission.

Address: Leistikowstraße 1, 14469 Potsdam

Luxury Hotels :

• A great choice of luxury accommodation in this important cultural city is the Hotel Brandenburger Tor Potsdam . Named after the beautiful Brandenburg Gate Potsdam, which it's close to, this luxe hotel is popular for its classy rooms and apartments.
• The Potsdam Hotel Am Jägertor is situated across from another historic city gate, the Jägertor, and offers a variety of chic rooms and suites with great city or courtyard views.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The centrally-located Maxx Hotel Sanssouci Potsdam offers affordable four-star hotel quality along with friendly staff, a fun classic movie theme, and a variety of spa services, including a Finnish sauna.
• Other good mid-range accommodation options include NH Potsdam , popular for its great-value rates, its fabulous location near the city's top restaurants and shops, and its excellent breakfast; and the elegant Hotel Villa Monte Vino , a charming, family-owned boutique hotel set in a historic building within easy walking distance of Sanssouci Palace.

Budget Hotels :

• A high-quality big-brand hotel offering, the Mercure Hotel Potsdam City offers surprisingly affordable, budget-friendly rates with modern rooms in a convenient location. A great breakfast is also included.
• Other great accommodations offering affordable stays include the Seminaris SeeHotel Potsdam ; though located a little farther from the main sites, it's worth considering for its lovely lake views. Also worth checking into is the Wyndham Garden Potsdam, offering straightforward, clean rooms within an easy walk of the city's top attractions.

Take a Bike :

• Given its high density of top historic attractions, Potsdam is a great place to tour on two wheels. A great option for day-trippers arriving via Berlin, the fun 4.5-hour guided Potsdam Day Bike Tour takes in such important tourist attractions as Sansoucci Palace, the historic Dutch Quarter, and the famous Cecilienhof Palace (audio-guide provided), scene of the famous Potsdam Conference at the end of WWII. In addition to return rail fares from Berlin, insurance, bike rentals, and helmets are included (suitable ages 12 and up).

Take a Hike :

• If you prefer foot-power to pedal-power, there are also a variety of great walking tours of Potsdam worth shelling out for. One of the best is the Potsdam Half-Day Walking Tour . Highlights of this six-hour walk around one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in Germany, if not Europe, include the exquisite Sanssouci Palace and Gardens, plus Cecilienhof Palace. Along the way, you'll see the Marble Palace, the Dutch quarter, and the city's Babelsberg castle, as well as enjoy a lunch break (the latter at your own expense). This particular walking tour experience starts in Berlin (meet up at the Hackescher Markt train station) where you'll be greeted by your guide before embarking on the short ride to Potsdam. And if you need more time to see additional sites, you can carry on touring afterwards at your own pace (your guide will provide you with maps and tips). A note regarding rail tickets: the handy Berlin Transport ABC Zone Day Pass will also get you all the way to Potsdam.

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The Nation's Capital, Berlin : Less than a 30-minute train ride northwest of Potsdam, Berlin is also worth visiting for its many fine cultural attractions. Of particular interest are its many museums and art galleries , some of the best of which can be found on its famous Museum Island. It's also possible to enjoy some great day trips from Berlin , too, including to beautiful Peacock Island, and the lovely Spree and Havel rivers.

Germany's Best Castles : Germany has done a magnificent job of preserving (or, in some cases, rebuilding) its many old castles. Some of the best places to view these majestic fortresses, some of which date back to medieval times, include the lovely Rhine Valley , including Marksburg Castle and more than 20 others, and the Mosel Valley , home to the imposing Etz Castle. One of the most impressive old fortresses, though, is Nuremberg Castle, the home of German kings since the early 11th century, and one of the top attractions in Nuremberg .

Top Vacation Spots in Germany : One of the largest countries in Europe, Germany has many great places to spend a vacation. Those seeking a big-city getaway should consider either Munich , famous for its magnificent cathedral and royal palace, and Frankfurt , a great choice for those who enjoy walking pedestrian-friendly streets and market squares. For those seeking a slightly slower, rural pace, head for lovely Lake Constance , home to some of the prettiest scenery in the country.

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Things to Do in Potsdam (Germany)

15 Best Things to Do in Potsdam (Germany)

The capital of Brandenburg, Potsdam is a World Heritage city of palaces and royals parks for the Kings of Prussia. After being devastated in the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century, Potsdam was remodelled 100 years later by Frederick the Great.

And even after the Kingdom of Prussia was dissolved in 1918, the town witnessed a momentous event in 1945 when the Cecilienhof palace hosted the Potsdam conference. Potsdam’s palaces all tell us something about their Kings and Princes, as well as Prussia’s standing in the world at the time.

Take the Sanssouci, the compact palace where Frederick the Great would get away from it all, the colossal Neuer Schloss, built when Prussia was more confident than ever, or the Orangery Palace, representing Frederick William IV’s love for the Italian Renaissance.

Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Potsdam :

1. Sanssouci Palace

Frederick the Great’s summer palace was built between 1745 and 1747 as somewhere he could escape from the strictures of the Berlin court.

That thinking is clear from the name, Sanssouci, which roughly translates to “without cares”. This sublime Rococo palace is also surprisingly intimate in its scale, standing at only one storey tall (only the secondary wings have upper floors) and settled at the top of a terraced vineyard that holds his simple mausoleum.

Inside, despite the virtuoso stuccowork, carved marble and gilding of the Rococo period, the main purpose was comfort and conviviality.

The finest of the rooms is the ceremonial Marmorsaal (Marble Hall), that has pairs of Corinthian columns from Carrara marble rising from a marble intarsia floor to a white and gilt dome.

2. Sanssouci Park

The palace and its terraced garden are at the centre of an expansive park designed and landscaped in the decades that followed.

The size of this project is almost bewildering, as the park encompasses almost 300 hectares and is crisscrossed by alleys framed by hedges trimmed at right angles.

To get an idea of scale it’s 2.5-kilometres from Sanssouci to the Neues Palais in the west, also built by Frederick the Great in the 1860s.

You’ll need a map, but there’s a host of smaller buildings to discover, all beautiful in their own way, and most containing something exciting.

Take the Bildergalerie holding the King’s art collection, which has pieces by Van Dyck, Caravaggio and Rubens.

Frederick also ordered the Chinese House, a captivating example of Chinoiserie, built from 1755 to 1764 to accompany his vegetable and flower garden.

3. Dutch Quarter

During Potsdam’s second expansion between 1733 and 1742 a whole neighbourhood of Dutch-style red brick gabled houses cropped up either side of Mittelstraße.

There are 134 buildings in all, designed by the Dutch architect Jan Bouman.

The quarter is testament to Frederick William I of Prussia’s love for Dutch culture and desire to attract Dutch artisans and engineers to Potsdam as they were famed for their technical knowhow.

Today these fine houses are in perfect condition, and are occupied by antiques shops, cafes, galleries, design stores and ateliers.

There’s museum about the quarter’s background at the Jan-Bouman-Haus, as well as a tulip festival in April, a pottery market in September and a Dutch-style Christmas market in December.

4. Cecilienhof

The House of Hohenzollern’s final palace was built during the First World War in the style of an English Tudor mansion.

Cecilienhof is half-timbered and has decorative turreted chimney stacks.

The whole palace was inspired by Hill Bark on Merseyside, which itself is a Victorian reproduction of a Renaissance half-timbered design and was adored by German Crown Prince Wilhelm when he visited.

But far outweighing the architecture, what makes Ceclienhof so significant is that it was the stage for the Potsdam Conference from 17 July to 2 August 1945. President Truman, Winston Churchill (followed by Clement Atlee) and Josef Stalin all slept and worked here as they thrashed out a plan for the future of Germany and Europe in the wake of the Second World War.

5. Neues Palais

The other end of the spectrum to the cute, personal Sanssouci, the Neues Palais is a huge Baroque palace built as a statement of Prussian power by Frederick the Great at the conclusion of the Seven Years’ War with France.

Frederick had a preference for the outdated Baroque over the new Neoclassical style, and he roped in Johann Gottfried Büring, who had already designed the Chinese House and the Bildergalerie.

The Neues Palais was intended to create an impression on foreign visitors at banquets and has 200 rooms and four galleries in the Rococo style.

The most peculiar is the Grottensaal, where the walls are clad with over 24,000 seashells, gemstones, fossils and minerals.

To the rear are the Communs, utility structures linked to the palace by a tunnel.

6. Brandenburg Gate

Not to be mixed up with the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Potsdam’s own Neoclassical arch was built around 20 years earlier, in 1770/71. The monument, based on Rome’s Arch of Constantine, was ordered by Frederick William II to celebrate Prussia’s victory in the Seven Years’ War.

It replaced the Medieval gate that stood here before, and was part of Potsdam’s walls until they were torn down at the start of the 20th century.

Something worth noting about the Brandenburg Gate is how it has completely different designs on the city and “field” side.

They were created by separate architects: The city side and its pilasters was by Carl von Gontard, while the busier field side and its double rows of Corinthian columns was by his pupil Georg Christian Unger.

7. Belvedere auf dem Pfingstberg

Frederick William IV commissioned this grand viewing platform in the middle of the 19th century to take advantage of the view from the top of the Pfingstberg hill, which rises to 76 metres.

Although the structure is only a small piece of what was here before it’s still a marvellous piece of heritage: The belvedere was restored in the 1990s after being closed off during the days of the wall for providing a view of West Berlin.

Sitting on a tall podium around a courtyard are two towers, above three viewing terraces.

The east and west sides have dignified colonnades with Corinthian style pillars, while the north side has Renaissance-style arches.

8. Park Babelsberg

On Potsdam’s northeastern fringe is a 124-hectare park bordering the Tiefen See lake on the River Havel, laid out for Frederick William IV in the 1830s and 1840s.

The undulating terrain descending to the lake was first shaped by Peter Joseph Lenné, followed by Hermann, Fürst von Pückler-Muskau another celebrated landscape architect.

The latter designed a system of narrow, winding and criss-crossing paths in this hilly scene, which is now sprinkled with mature trees and has uplifting vistas of the lake.

Frederick William IV’s palace in the park was designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel in the Gothic Revival style and looks like fairytale castle.

Other structures around the park have a similarly Romantic aspect, like the fortress-like pump house on the water and the Kleines Schloss (Little Place).

9. Neuer Garten

In the north of Potsdam on the shores of the Jungfernsee and Heiliger See lakes, Frederick William II (Son of Frederick the Great) plotted a new garden from 1787 onwards.

This differed from Sanssouci, and where his father’s park had arrow-straight alleys and parterres, the Neuer Garten was in the looser English style.

And as with Sanssouci there’s much to discover around this 102.4-hectare park.

The servants’ quarters were set in gabled Dutch-style houses, the palace’s ice house was in styled as an Egyptian pyramid, while there’s also an orangery with an Egyptian portal, a Gothic-style library and the Marmorpalais (Marble Palace) designed by Carl von Gontard.

10. Museum Barberini

The Palast Barberini was an 18th-century Italianate palace on Alter Markt that was completely destroyed in 1945. Since 2013 the facades of the palace have been resurrected, while the interiors are completely modern and are home to a new museum that only opened in 2017. Among the guests for the unveiling were Angela Merkel and Bill Gates, while the collection belongs to the American Hasso Plattner Foundation and focuses mainly on art from the GDR as well as movements the last 25 years.

There’s also a summary of painting from the Old Masters to the 2000s, via Impressionism and Symbolism, with pieces by Monet, Renoir and Munch.

11. Alexandrowka

A reminder of the kinship between the Prussian Hohenzollern and Russian Romanov houses, Frederick William III built this Russian colony in the 1820s in memory of the Tsar Alexander I, who died in 1825. The origins of the colony go back to 1812, when Russian soldiers captured by Napoleon settled in Potsdam and formed a choir with the permission of the Russian Tsar.

After Tsar Alexander I died more than a decade later, the remaining choir members were given Russian-style timber houses.

The colony was plotted in the shape of a St Andrew’s cross by Lenné, while the designs of the 13 houses were provided by the Italian-born Russian architect Carlo Rossi.

The last of the choir members died in 1861, but the houses were passed down through their families and the last direct descendant passed away only in 2008.

12. Neuer Markt

One place full of Potsdam’s typical grandeur is this market square bordered by striking palaces and townhouses from the 1700s and 1800s.

In the southwest of the square is maybe the most eye-catching of these buildings: The Neoclassical Kutschstall used to be the royal coach house and now has a museum for Prussian and Brandenburg history.

The Kabinetthaus at Am Neuen Markt 1 was Frederick William II’s “city palace” in the days that he was Crown Prince.

This building was the birthplace of the philosopher Wilhelm von Humboldt, as well as Frederick William III three years later in 1770.

13. Orangery Palace

One of the later additions to Sanssouci Park was a luxurious palace constructed for King William IV, who was famed for his devotion to Romanticism.

Built between 1851 and 1864 the Orangery Palace is in the Italian Renaissance style and took its cues from the famed Uffizi in Florence and the Villa Medici in Rome.

The facade is 300 metres in length, the longest of any in the Sanssouci Park, and its side wings are still used to store the gardens’ exotic plants in winter.

The plush royal apartments and the servants’ quarters are in the complex’s middle building, capped with two towers.

Also in this edifice is the “Raffael” hall, designed like the Vatican’s Sala Regia.

Illuminated by an enormous skylight, this hall is adorned with red silk and has 50 copies of famous Renaissance paintings.

14. Filmmuseum

In the majestic stables Potsdam’s old city palace is the oldest film museum in Germany.

The attraction has also just come through a renovation, and has more than a million exhibits on the evolution of filmmaking.

The main exhibition is on Studio Babelsberg, the world’s oldest film studio, in business since 1912. There’s a totally interactive step-by-step guide to how movies get made, going into the screenplay, casting, makeup, costume design, set design, filming, editing, sound design, marketing and much more.

There are also original props, costumes, cameras, microphones and much more, all used in productions down the years.

One fantastic exhibit is the working cinema organ, made for Chemnitz’s Luxor-Palast cinema in 1929.

15. Nikolaikirche

Opposite the rebuilt facade of the Palast Barberini on Alter Markt is a regal Neoclassical church grabbing your attention for its dome and portico.

Court architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel drew up the plans, and the church, the largest in Potsdam, was built in two phases from 1830 to 1850. The last thing to be completed was that dome, which rises 77 metres above the city streets and took inspiration from St Paul’s in London.

The Nikolaikirche was hit on two occasions during the war and its restoration and was only re-consecrated in 1981.

15 Best Things to Do in Potsdam (Germany):

• Sanssouci Palace
• Sanssouci Park
• Dutch Quarter
• Cecilienhof
• Neues Palais
• Brandenburg Gate
• Belvedere auf dem Pfingstberg
• Park Babelsberg
• Neuer Garten
• Museum Barberini
• Alexandrowka
• Neuer Markt
• Orangery Palace
• Nikolaikirche

©Sergey Kohl/500px

Potsdam, on the Havel River just 25km southwest of central Berlin, is the capital and crown jewel of the federal state of Brandenburg. Easily reached by S-Bahn, the former Prussian royal seat is the most popular day trip from Berlin, luring visitors with its splendid gardens and palaces, which garnered Unesco World Heritage status in 1990.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Schloss & Park Sanssouci

This glorious park and palace ensemble is what happens when a king has good taste, plenty of cash and access to the finest architects and artists of the…

Schloss Sanssouci

Frederick the Great's famous summer palace, this rococo gem was designed by Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff in 1747 and sits daintily above vine-draped…

Museum Barberini

The original Barberini Palace was a baroque Roman palazzo commissioned by Frederick the Great and bombed to bits in World War II. Since January 2017, a…

Chinesisches Haus

The 18th-century fad for the Far East is strongly reflected in the adorable Chinese House. The cloverleaf-shaped pavilion is among the park's most…

Alter Markt

Halfway between the Hauptbahnhof and the Altstadt, the Alter Markt is the site where Potsdam's settlement began. Under Frederick the Great, it evolved…

Neues Palais

The final palace commissioned by Frederick the Great, the Neues Palais has made-to-impress dimensions, a central dome and a lavish exterior capped with a…

Park Sanssouci

Park Sanssouci is the oldest and most resplendent of Potsdam's many green patches. It's open from dawn til dusk year-round and is dotted with numerous…

Memorial Leistikowstrasse (KGB Prison)

Now a memorial site, Potsdam's central remand prison for Soviet Counter Intelligence – colloquially known as 'KGB prison' – is a particularly sinister…

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Potsdam: a land of gardens, palaces and lakes

Prussian pomp and splendour, a heritage of great architects and scholars and a focal point during the Cold War: Potsdam offers breathtaking dimensions of culture and history.

300 years ago, Potsdam was transformed into one of Europe's most splendid royal cities. The Prussian kings created a Baroque dream in Potsdam and the surrounding area and commissioned great monuments to Classicism. The Palaces and Parks of Potsdam, which cover about 500 hectares of parkland and encompass 150 buildings dating from 1730 to 1916, were awarded UNESCO World Heritage status back in 1990. A good starting point for a walk is the Alter Markt square, taking in St. Nicholas Church, the Lustgarten park, the Old Town Hall, the Barberini Museum and the reconstructed former City Palace. Opposite Alter Markt, somewhat tucked away, lies the Neuer Markt square, one of the best-preserved Baroque squares in Europe.

Sanssouci Palace

Dutch quarter, inner city/old market, marble palace, cecilienhof palace.

Nauen Gate gives access to the Dutch quarter with its lovingly decorated courtyards, cafés, offbeat bars and galleries, where the ambiance and lifestyle of the city are a bit more laid back. No visit to Potsdam would be complete without a trip along the city's waterways on one of the Weisse Flotte steamboats. The vessels go as far as Glienicke Bridge, which connects Potsdam to Berlin and is where East and West exchanged secret agents and spies until into the 1980s. Over in Babelsberg, the cameras are always rolling at Europe's biggest and oldest film studios, which is no real surprise, as Potsdam was named UNESCO Creative City of Film in 2019.

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11 Best Things to Do in Potsdam, Germany

Potsdam, the capital of Brandenburg in east Germany , makes a great day trip from Berlin and provides some of the elegance missing from a modern big city. The Prussian kings left their royal imprint with lavish palaces, parks, and gardens, many of them with UNESCO World Heritage status.

Most people come to Potsdam to see the rococo style Palace Sanssouci, built for Frederick the Great, but the city has much more to offer. Here are the best things to do in Potsdam, Germany.

Vacation Like Royalty

Tripsavvy / Christopher Larson

When the King of Prussia, Friedrich der Große, wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life in Berlin, he would flee to the tranquility of his summer palace. Sanssouci ("without worries" in French) was built in 1774 and is as breathtaking today as when it was first built.

Buy a ticket to step inside Friedrich's world. The interiors are decorated in the elaborate Frederician Rococo style. The highlights include the Entrance Hall and Marble Hall, although all the structures offer decadent design. The palace is regally perched on top of a terraced vineyard, overlooking 700 acres of royal gardens.

Styled after Versailles in France, the ornate gardens are as attractive as the elegant interiors. There are fountains, marble sculptures, and a Chinese tea house sprinkled throughout the expansive grounds. On the highest terrace close to the palace, there is the tomb of Fredrick, relocated here after reunification in 1990.

Botaurus / Wikimedia Commons / Public Domain

Sweeping gables, red bricks, and white window shutters straight out of the Netherlands have found a home in Potsdam. The Dutch Quarter (Hollaenderviertel) was built in the 18th century for Dutch artisans and craftsmen who were invited to settle down here by Frederick the Great.

The ensemble of over 130 houses built in the traditional Dutch style is unique in Europe and also on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Walk down the cobblestone streets of Mittelstrasse and Benkertstrasse, which are brimming with lovely cafes, specialty shops, and restaurants.

Walk the Bridge of Spies

Ulf Boettcher / LOOK-foto / Getty Images

Before the wall fell and Germany was still divided into two, the Glienicke Bridge was one of the Cold War's most mysterious sites. Spanning the Havel River, the bridge connected the Soviet-occupied Potsdam in the east with U.S.-occupied West Berlin, and the two superpowers used this checkpoint to exchange captured Cold War spies and secret agents. Perhaps most famous is the 1962 trade of Russian agent Rudolf Abel for downed U.S. pilot Francis Gary Powers.

Now just a quiet bridge in the countryside, the bridge's infamous history gained international attention with the 2015 Academy Award-nominated movie, "Bridge of Spies."

Be in the Movies at Filmpark Babelsberg

Studio Babelsberg is the oldest large-scale film studio in the world. They have been producing films here since 1912!

Visitors to the studio can learn about Germany’s golden age of film. Babelsberg has contributed such cinematic masterpieces from "Metropolis" to "Valkyrie" to "Inglourious Basterds." However, the studio also has a darker past as a tool for the National Socialists to pump out anti-Semitic propaganda, often under Josef Goebbels himself.

When the studio is filming, stages and props can be seen on the tour. There are also seasonal events like an epic Halloween celebration.

Tour the Site of the Potsdam Conference

Gettyimages / Vladislav Zolotov

Another must-see for history buffs is Cecilienhof Palace, set in the beautiful park of Neuer Garten. The last palace the Hohenzollern family ever built, it offers an interesting contrast to Sanssouci as it was designed in the rustic English Tudor style.

Visitors can tour historical rooms such as the smoking salon, the music salon, and the royal family's bedroom, but of particular interest is the Great Hall. It was here that the Potsdam Conference was held in 1945. Stalin, Churchill, and Truman gathered here to decide to divide Germany into four different occupied zones.

(House of the Wannsee Conference just outside of Potsdam is another historical site for those seeking World War II history).

Enter Russia in Germany

Von A.Savin—Eigenes Werk / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY-SA 3.0

Just north of Potsdam’s city center, you’ll find the Russian Colony Alexandrowka. Built in 1827, there are 13 wooden Russian homes that the Prussian King erected. They were built to house the Russian singers of the First Prussian Regiment of the Guards. Briefly occupied by the Red Army following World War II, some of the original Russian descendants still lived in these beautiful historic homes until the early 2000s.

Visitors today find stunning architecture, community gardens, and a Russian Orthodox chapel and Russian teahouse. The colony was plotted in the shape of a St. Andrew’s cross.

Observe Church and State

GettyImages / Vladislav Zolotov

Distinguished St. Nicholas Church can be spotted by its stand-out turquoise dome and its size—the largest in Potsdam. Located in Potsdam’s Old Market Square and completed in 1828, it is an excellent example of German classicism designed in the shape of a Greek cross. Damaged in World War II, it wasn't reopened until 1981. It now serves as the center of Potsdam's catholic community.

Located nearby is Brandenburg's pink parliament building, Landtag, which was once a palace. Potsdam is the capital of the German state of Brandenburg, and this is where state laws are decided. Steeped in history from its first elections in 1946 as part of the Soviet Occupation Zone to being abolished in 1952 to its re-establishment in 1990, it is worth a tour.

Raise a Glass at a Brewery

www.facebook.com/Meierei.Brauerei.Potsdam

Located on the picturesque lake of Jungfernsee in Neuen Garten, Meierei Brauerei provides a taste of the good life or good German life at least. The sprawling brewery features craft beers brewed in-house. There are pilsners and summery hefeweizens or the "Potsdamer" which mixes a beer with Fassbrause, a Berlin lemonade.

Complete the experience by sitting out in the sunshine facing the lake and add beloved German specialties to your order, like schweinshaxe (roasted pork knuckle). For a pleasant stroll, look for the point where the Berlin Wall once ran right next to the brewpub and follow the path with a wegbier (beer to go).

Walk Through the Gates

GettyImages / querbeet

Potsdam was once a heavily protected city with entry points only allowed through guarded city gates that lasted until the 20th century. Only three remain.

The oldest gate is Jägertor with its hunting decor. Nauener Tor was redesigned in 1755 and showcases neo-Gothic style. The third gate should remind you of another famous gate—Berlin's very own Brandenburger Tor! Potsdam's version is actually slightly older, replacing a medieval gate that stood here before. The current design is based on Rome’s Arch of Constantine, which was created to celebrate Prussia’s victory in the Seven Years’ War.

When walking through the gate, take note of the different designs on each side. This is the result of two different architects. The city side was by Carl von Gontard with his pupil, Georg Christian Unger, creating designs for the "field" side.

Stroll Through the Park

GettyImages / senorcampesino

Potsdam many parks offer spaces to run, lounge, and play. Expansive 114 hectares Babelsberg Park is part of Potsdam's recognized UNESCO World Heritage site and is pristine parkland.

Located in the northwest of Potsdam on the Havel River banks and Tiefen See, it has views of Glienicke Bridge. Its manicured lawns, leafy paths, and breezy waterfront connect historical buildings like Kleines Schloss , the mid-1800s tower, and Babelsberg Palace . This is a park in which to stroll, not run.

Eat Your Way Around the Neighborhood

GettyImages / Creativ Studio Heinemann

After a long day of exploring Potsdam's many attractions, there is no reason to trek back to Berlin to find a meal. There is something for every appetite, from wacky modern burgers to French cafe fare to East German classics. However, some of Potsdam's most unique meals can be found at restaurants that cater to one of its minority communities.

"The Flying Dutchman," or Zum Fliegenden Holländer, was built by the same court craftsmen who worked on the famed Sansoucci. The charming restaurant design of unfurling gables and red brick looks like they are straight out of Holland. Inside, both hearty German and Dutch food is served.

Note that Potsdam's crowds can make seating impossible in the busy summer months. Call ahead to reserve a spot and try out your restaurant German. Also, be advised: Most German restaurants only accept cash.

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Sightseeing walk in the historic city center of Potsdam (© TMB-Fotoarchiv/Seibt)

The cultural landscape of Potsdam with its palaces and parks, scenic beauty as well as the rich architectural and historical heritage of the city form the foundation of Potsdam’s tourist industry. That is the foundation on which we build.

Tourism is an important economic factor for Potsdam. About 20,000 Potsdam citizens work in this sector. Potsdam is focused on day-trips, conferences and international tourism. Possibilities for a tourist in the city are diverse and often unique. With dedication and innovative ideas like the “Potsdam Palaces Night”, the “Music Festivals Potsdam Sanssouci” or the “Tulip Festival” in the Dutch Quarter, organizers are committed and offer attractivepackage tours. The highest level of service in both dining and lodging is guaranteed through the program “Potsdam Hospitality”.

Potsdam is the No. 1 destination in eastern Germany. The ‘National Geographic Traveler’ puts Potsdam at No. 8 worldwide of the most beautiful and historical sites. More than 50 hotels and guesthouses with more than 5,000 beds are available for visitors to the city. There are around 1 million overnight stays in Potsdam every year, 10% of the guests come from abroad. These numbers continue to increase. New tourist destinations and opportunities like the Crown Estate Bornstedt, the Filmpark Babelsberg and the Potsdam Adventure Park contribute to a steady increase in attracting tourists.

An extensive river-and-lakescape offers the best conditions for water tourism. A compact network of bike paths invites you to discover Potsdam’s rural area. And those who have experienced enough of the “outdoors” can be in the metropolis Berlin in just a few minutes where a whole world of alternatives awaits.

» Contact person: Mr Frerichs

Tourisms - Permanent visitor survey 2013

Location facts 'tourisms'.

• Sights of Potsdam
• Potsdam Tourism Service (PTS)
• Tourism in Brandenburg
• German Hotel Association Brandenburg (DEHOGA)
• Tourism Association of Brandenburg
• Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg

24 Best Things To Do in Potsdam Germany: Day Trips from Berlin

• Written by Post author: Chloe Smulian
• Post last modified: Updated on April 2, 2024

Experience one of the best day trips from Berlin, Germany with this Things To Do in Potsdam Ultimate Guide.

Visit the largest World Heritage Site in Germany and explore the beautiful city of Potsdam. Travel back in time and catch a glimpse of how the Prussian and German Royalty once lived here.

The charming city of Potsdam is only a short 45 – 50 minute train ride from the capital of Germany and is one of the best day trips to experience from Berlin. So make sure you add this to your Berlin itinerary!

Discover the best things to do in Potsdam (along with some interesting historical facts) on this self guided tour. Most of these Potsdam attractions are free things to do too!

If you already know how to get from Berlin to Potsdam by train, skip straight to the Things To Do In Potsdam – Self Guided Tour .

Where Is Potsdam, Germany

The beautiful city of Potsdam lies along the banks of the Havel River, a short 35km distance from the city centre of Berlin, Germany.

The city captures more than 200 years of history and culture dating back from the Prussian Empire. It’s also famous for the role it played during World War II and the Cold War that followed.

Today, it is the capital and largest city of Brandenburg and world renowned for being home to the largest UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany.

Was Potsdam in East or West Germany

If you’ve read our Berlin Wall By Bike Tour , you’re probably wondering whether Potsdam was part of East or West Germany. Well, the answer may surprise you.

Although Potsdam lies on the western border of Berlin, which was technically West Berlin during the time of the Berlin Wall, the city was actually part of East Germany and therefore a part of the GDR (German Democratic Republic).

Is Potsdam Worth Visiting

If you love visiting fairytale cities in Europe like Prague , that are rich in history and opulent architecture, then Potsdam is definitely worth visiting. It’s referred to as ‘The Versailles of Germany’ and is also considered to be one of the most beautiful royal cities in Europe.

Potsdam is most famous for being the summer home of the Prussian Royalty during the 19th century. So if you love wandering down intricately crafted gardens and admiring extravagant palaces, then you’ll love Potsdam.

In addition to the iconic Sanssouci Palace, there’s 16 other grand palaces in Potsdam alone to see and explore! We’ll take you to see 5 of these palaces on this day trip from Berlin.

Besides palaces and gardens, the city of Potsdam also played a significant role during World War II and the Cold War.

And if all that is not enough to charm you. Then how about the fact that you can visit the largest UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany for free!? Yes, you can meander through the fairytale gardens of Sanssouci Park for free too. You only need an entrance ticket if you want to go inside the museums and palaces.

With the heritage site covering around 500 hectares and 150 buildings, there’s plenty of free things to do in Potsdam on your day trip from Berlin.

Day Trips From Berlin

Berlin to potsdam.

Potsdam is one of the best day trips from Berlin because there’s so much to do and see there, plus it’s an easy and short 45 – 50 minute train ride from Germany’s capital city.

To get from Berlin to Potsdam by train, buy the BVG ticket for A, B and C zones. You’ll need 2 single trip tickets (valid for 2 hours each) for a return trip from Berlin to Potsdam. The return train trip will cost you €7.20 in total.

If you already have the BVG transport ticket for A and B zones, simply buy an extension ticket for Zone C to take the train from Berlin to Potsdam. Extension tickets cost €1.70 each and are also valid for 2 hours. You’ll need 2 extension tickets for the return train trip from Berlin to Potsdam (i.e. total cost €3.40).

Taking Bikes On Board The Train

Bring your bikes with you if you plan to cover more ground in Potsdam. Just remember to buy train tickets for your bikes (or risk a €60 fine).

BVG Bike Single Trip tickets cost €2.60 each and are valid for 2 hours.

Getting Around in Potsdam, Germany

Once you’ve arrived in Potsdam, getting around is easy. Use some of the options below or simply walk. Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes as this Potsdam self guided tour is more than 10km.

Public Transportation in Potsdam

Potsdam, Germany is part of Berlin’s zone C. So you can use your BVG train ticket to get around in Potsdam. This way you won’t need to walk as much.

If you prefer using public transportation in Potsdam, buy the BVG Berlin ABC Day Ticket instead. It costs €9.60 but is valid until 3AM the next day so you won’t need to pay for any other transportation costs for the day.

Potsdam Bike Rental

Another great way to experience the best day trip from Berlin in Potsdam, is by bike. You can easily rent one if you don’t already have a bicycle.

Easily rent a bike in Potsdam via bike sharing. Nextbike bicycles is available in Potsdam. It will cost a maximum of €12 to rent a Nextbike for a 24 hour period if you select the €3 day tariff option.

Simply download the Nextbike app and pick up a bike when you’ve arrived in Potsdam.

Read our Berlin Bike Sharing Guide if you’ve never used bike share before and curious to know which one gives you the best value for money.

Another great Potsdam bike rental option (especially if you have kids) is to rent bicycles from Cityrad Rebhan Fahrradverleih . The store is located close to the main train station in Potsdam. They rent bikes for €11 for adults and €8 for kids.

Make sure you’re familiar with bike road rules for cycling in Germany before hopping on that bike. You don’t want any unexpected traffic fines.

Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

If you love exploring new cities from the iconic red Sightseeing Bus, you can combine this walking tour with the Potsdam Hop On Hop Off Bus .

Get live commentary as the bus drives past the main sights and attractions, and hop on and off at any of the 12 stops.

Another popular option is the Potsdam City and Castles Tour . It’s a 3 hour bus and walking tour to see the city of Potsdam and the castles that make the city so famous.

Potsdam Things To Do: Self Guided Tour

Well now that all the logistics is out of the way, let’s get straight to the best things to do in Potsdam and enjoy the ultimate day trip from Berlin!

Click on the interactive map below to easily find these Potsdam attractions from your location.

1. Town of Potsdam, Germany

Our first stop is to see the main town square in Potsdam, Germany. It’s a short 700m walk or cycle from the main train station. You’ll know you’ve arrived when your eyes can’t help but dart back and forth between one architectural masterpiece to another.

The town of Potsdam is filled with fascinating architecture. Most of which were built during the 18th and 19th centuries when the city was the residence of the Prussian Royalty.

The most outstanding landmark in the Old Town Square (or Alter Markt) of Potsdam, is St Nicholas’ Church.

St Nicholas’ Church (St. Nikolaikirche)

Does St Nicholas’ Church look eerily familiar? Well, that’s because its large dome was inspired by St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

Never seen St Paul’s Cathedral before? Visit this iconic landmark in London on a free virtual tour !

St Nicholas’ Church was badly damaged during World War II and was rebuilt to its original state again in the 1970s and 1980s. Today, it’s the largest church in Potsdam.

Alter Markt and Neuer Markt, Potsdam

Potsdam has two market squares: The Old Town Square (Alter Markt) and the New Town Square (Neuer Markt). Both exquisitely designed in the intricate and decorative Baroque architecture style that originated in Italy more than 400 years ago.

You can easily tell which market square you’re in by looking for the giant 16 meter tall obelisk. If you see the obelisk, it means you’re in Alter Markt.

Neuer Markt is tucked away behind a row of houses on the western part of the town of Potsdam. Make sure you see it because Neuer Markt square is one of the best preserved baroque squares in Europe.

Museum Barberini

Before Barberini became a museum, it was actually built as the stately mansion for the King of Prussia, Frederick the Great. Back then it was known as Barberini Palace and its design was modelled on the Palazzo Barberini in Rome – hence the name.

Today Museum Barberini in Potsdam, Germany, is known for exhibiting artworks from the Old Masters to contemporary art.

Film Museum Potsdam

If you love film and movies, then you must see The Film Museum in Potsdam. It’s located in Stadtschloss Palace (The Potsdam City Palace) and it’s the oldest film museum in Germany.

You can spend an entire afternoon in this interactive and immersive museum. Wandering through the rooms learning how movies are made. And if you’ve always wanted to try your hand at acting, you can even make your own audition tape or digitally insert yourself into famous movie scenes. How cool is that?!

But if you’d rather stick to watching movies instead, the museum also screens films everyday for a reduced price. Check out the Film Museum Potsdam Schedule to see what’s on.

2. Bassinplatz

Just outside one of the most famous Potsdam attractions, The Dutch Quarter, lies another one of the city’s lesser known town squares, Bassinplatz.

The square was named ‘Bassinplatz’ (which translates to ‘basin place’) because it was originally created to drain the surrounding swamp area almost 400 years ago.

Today, it’s home to the St Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church and the Soviet Cemetery of Honor.

3. Dutch Quarter, Potsdam Germany

There’s a reason why the Dutch Quarter, or Hollandisches Viertel, is one of the top things to do in Potsdam. It’s the only place in the world that has the most Dutch houses outside of the Netherlands and how it earned its name ‘Little Amsterdam’.

The Prussian King had 134 red brick, Dutch style houses built here in the middle of the 18th century, to help recruited expert craftsmen from Holland feel more at home in Potsdam.

Today, the Dutch Quarter remains the largest Dutch housing development outside of Holland and is home to cute cafes, pubs, boutique shops, galleries and workshops.

Make sure you stop by Poffertjes en Pannekoeken for some traditional Dutch poffertjes! They’re delicious, Dutch mini pancakes and they’re so yum you won’t want to share.

4. Cecilienhof Palace

This unassuming English Tudor manor house was first the royal residence of the Prussian monarchy. And later the meeting place for one of the most important events in history: The Potsdam Conference where the Potsdam Declaration was signed.

Today, it remains a significant site of world politics and a top attraction to visit in Germany.

You can take a guided tour inside Cecilienhof and see the meeting rooms and the infamous conference table used to discuss the Potsdam Declaration.

Ever wondered what the giant red star in front of Cecilienhof, Potsdam means?

The red star is crafted out of geranium flowers and was planted by the Soviets to mark the occasion of the Potsdam Conference.

Why was the Potsdam Conference and Potsdam Declaration important?

In short, the Potsdam Conference and the signing of the Potsdam Declaration was significant because of how it shaped world history.

Firstly, it was here at Cecilienhof where US President Truman had authorised (casually over the phone) the use of the world’s first weapon of mass destruction (i.e. the atomic bomb) to be used against Japan.

Two atomic bombs and more than 300,000 deaths later, Japan finally surrendered, bringing World War II to an end.

The Potsdam Conference therefore came to symbolise the end of World War II but also the beginning of the Cold War and the division of Germany into 4 different sectors. These events then led up to the division of East and West Berlin and the construction of the world famous, Berlin Wall.

If you loved this simplified explanation of the Potsdam Declaration, make sure you read our simplified version of the Berlin Wall Story too.

Save Me For Later

5. Belvedere Castle on Pfingstberg

The next stop on our day trip from Berlin in Potsdam, is to see the fairytale setting of Belvedere Castle on Pfingstberg.

Belvedere Castle is perched on the highest point in Potsdam, at 76 meters above sea level. More than 10,000 visitors visit the castle every year to enjoy the best views over Potsdam from Belvedere’s Palace towers.

Looking from the outside, you would never know that this magnificent building remains unfinished. Even in its incomplete form, Belvedere Castle on Pfingstberg is still a sight to behold and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can take a tour inside Belvedere Castle and see the permanent exhibition in the palace. And if you’ve always dreamt of a fairytale wedding, you can hire the venue out for the special occasion.

Interesting facts about Belvedere Castle, Pfingstberg

The story goes that the then King of Prussia, Frederick William IV, was inspired to build an Italian style villa after returning from his travels in Italy.

He was inspired by not one, but three Italian Villas. The soaring towers from Villa Medici in Rome, the water fountains and terraces from Villa D’Este in Tivoli and finally, the cascading waterfalls and rounded flights of stairs from Villa Farnese in Caprarola.

You can imagine how massive Belvedere Castle was envisioned to be. But sadly only a part of the original plan was completed. The King ran out of funds and had died before Belvedere was finished.

6. Alexandrowka

The next attraction in Potsdam will transport you to Russia.

Alexandrowka is a Russian colony that was build by the Prussian King, Frederick William III. He built 12 traditional Russian wooden houses, farms as well as a Russian orthodox church for the 12 Russian singers who entertained the Prussian troops during his reign.

King Frederick William III named Potsdam’s Russian colony ‘Alexandrowka’, after the Russian tsar, Alexander I, because of the close friendship they shared.

A few descendants of the former inhabitants still live in Alexandrowka today. Make sure to stop by the museum if you want to learn more about the history of the community.

7. Nauener Tor

We are slowly approaching the highlight of Potsdam, but first we must visit the Royal Palace Section Gates that lead you to Sanscoucci.

More than 300 years ago, Sansoucci was surrounded by an extended wall where you could only enter via its 7 Royal City Gates. Only 3 of Potsdam’s original city gates remain standing today and Nauener Tor is one of the them.

Nauener Tor was mostly used by the military, merchants, craftsmen and administrators back in the day. Today, it is surrounded by lots of cafes, restaurants, bars and is a popular meeting spot for locals.

8. Jagertor Potsdam, Germany

A few steps away from Nauener Tor, takes you to see the oldest of the 7 Royal City Gates in Potsdam – Jagertor.

Jagerstor, or Hunter’s Gate, is the only Royal Gate that has been preserved in its original state. The decorative sculpture on top of the gate, encapsulates a hunting scene that was very popular back in those times.

9. Obelisk Hauptallee, Sansoucci East Entrance

Now that you’ve entered the Royal Gates and breached Sansoucci’s walls, it’s time to officially enter the Royal Gardens.

It’s a short 700 meter walk from Jagertor before you’ll come across a mammoth obelisk at Sansoucci’s east entrance. The obelisk with what appears to be hieroglyphs seems out of place. And there doesn’t seem to be any particular reason why it was built here.

But what’s interesting is the fact that the ‘hieroglyphs’ contain no text or meaning. They were simply decorative and created from the imagination of the artist.

As you enter the garden gates of Sanssouci, you’ll see two sculptures on either side: Flora, the goddess of flowers and Pomona, the goddess of fruit.

You’ll notice that their backs are facing you as you enter. That’s not because they’re being rude, but rather that the eastern entrance was initially built to only serve as an exit. So both goddesses are positioned to look into the interior of Sanssouci so that they can bid guests a warm farewell as they leave.

Related Guide: Visiting Potsdam in spring? Then make sure you read our Cherry Blossoms in and around Berlin guide to find out where to see them in Potsdam.

10. Kaiser Friedrich Mausoleum

The first attraction you’ll see in Sanssouci to your left is the Kaiser Friedrich Mausoleum and Friedenskirche (Peace Church). The church was built by the same Prussian King who commissioned Belvedere Castle.

His love affair with Italian architecture did not end with Belvedere Castle because he then personally designed Friedenskirche to resemble a High Medieval Italian monastery.

It was only a few decades later, that Kaiser Friedrich Mausoleum was added. And this is where the artistically gifted, Frederick William IV and his family are buried.

11. Sanssouci

The moment you’ve been waiting for! The top thing to do in Potsdam and the ultimate highlight on your day trip from Berlin – Sanssouci Palace and the surrounding royal gardens in Sanssouci Park.

Sanssouci may be world famous and a top attraction to visit in Germany, but it’s also free. There is no entrance to pay except if you want to visit the museums.

King Frederick the Great named his summer residence ‘Sanssouci’ for good reason. The word literally translates to ‘without a care’ in French and it aptly describes it as the sanctuary he could go to escape the neighbouring city of Berlin.

Bonus Tip: Spend a day feeling like royalty and see the majesty interiors of Sanssouci Palace. Skip the queue and book your Sanssouci Palace tickets online or take this guided tour of the Sanssouci Palace and Park Tour .

Sanssouci Park

Most people visit Sanssouci in Potsdam, Germany, mistakingly believing Sanssouci Palace to be the highlight of this world-renowned park. When it is in fact the entire Sanssouci Park and gardens itself, that earned the park its UNESCO World Heritage Site status since 1990.

Beyond its beauty, Sanssouci Park captures 250 years of the highest level of garden design in history. It also united the best landscape designs and artworks by the most competent architects and sculptors of that time.

Interesting Facts About Sanssouci Park

Today, visitors can enjoy an entire day just admiring all the sights and attractions in Sanssouci Park alone. The park is as big as 420 soccer fields (300 hectares) and spans more than 2 kilometers from east to west. So make sure you’re wearing your most comfortable shoes on this day trip from Berlin in Potsdam.

As you wander around Sanssouci Park, you’ll find changing styles of exquisite garden design, buildings from different architectural periods, fountains and more than 1,000 sculptures.

A small army of gardeners (almost 60) are hired to maintain Sanssouci Park’s expansive lawns, flowerbeds, hedges, meadows and trees. Just on the landscaped platforms at the foot of Sanssouci Palace alone, there are more than 230,000 plants to maintain and care for.

Sanssouci Palace

Believe it or not, but Sanssouci Palace or Schloss Sanssouci was built to represent the Prussian King’s humble and artistic lifestyle. Not as a show of strength. The King never used Sanssouci Palace for state matters or formal meetings, but rather as a retreat and a place of relaxation.

The King had intended for his new palace to be built in the rococo style. This meant that Sanssouci Palace would be built to have a simple looking exterior but an intricate and highly decorative interior.

During its construction, the Prussian King often added new features to the palace. As more of his personal touches were added, Sanssouci came to become a unique piece of architectural style. The new style was named ‘Frederican Rococo’, named after King Frederick himself.

Today, you can see other buildings built in this unique style at Charlottenburg Palace in Berlin and the Potsdam City Palace (Stadtschloss).

12. Historic Mill of Sanssouci

The next stop on our Potsdam itinerary is to see the Historic Mill of Sanssouci. Walk behind Sanssouci Palace towards the left (west) to find it.

The Historic Mill of Sanssouci has been here for more than 280 years. Residents from the surrounding areas use to come to grind their corn at this mill.

The mill eventually became famous because King Frederick II had tried to get this mill removed and rebuilt elsewhere. The rattling sounds and noise didn’t appease his Royal Highness. Luckily one of the millers was brave enough to stand up to the King with a lawsuit, forcing him to reluctantly accept the mill and the noise that comes with it.

Today, the Historic Mill of Sanssouci is a museum and you can head inside to learn more about its history and how corn was milled back in the day.

13. Orangery Palace

Orangery Palace was the last and largest palace built in Sanssouci Park and was another one of King Frederick William IV’s (the romantic royal) commissioned designs.

He named it ‘Orangery Palace’ because it was literally a palace combined with an orangery. To combine what was essentially a greenhouse or plant conservatory with a palace, was quite a challenge for the architects.

But it was finally completed after 13 years and today you can still admire the two huge plant halls that connect the magnificent central building. And standing in the front and centre of Orangery Palace, is the marble statue of King Frederick William IV himself.

When you’re visiting Orangery Palace in Potsdam, make sure you see the Raphael Hall. It’s the jewel of Orangery Palace and one of the most important museums in Sanssouci Park and the whole of Germany.

The Raphael Hall houses more than 50 copies of paintings created by the famous Renaissance painter, Raphael. These copies were commissioned by young Prussian painters in Paris and are hung in the two-storey gallery hall.

14. Chinese House in Sanssouci

The Chinese House in Sanssouci (Chinesisches Haus) was built by Frederick the Great as a retreat within a retreat. The exotic garden pavilion of the Chinese House, was his escape to a far off and more cheerful world.

It was also incredibly ‘hip’ for royals and courtiers to embrace the Chinoiserie fashion during those times. Not only in Germany, but throughout Europe.

Today, you can still see the life-sized gilded figures, playing instruments, smoking tobacco and drinking tea, outside the Chinese House in Sanssouci.

15. Roman Baths, Potsdam Germany

The Roman Baths in Sanssouci, Potsdam is another one of Frederick William IV’s creations from his love of all things Italian. But his version of the Roman Baths was more of an inspiration, rather than an accurate representation of the Roman thermae.

These Roman Baths in Potsdam are composed of different elements. The Great Arbour, a tea house, a garden house, a gardener’s lodge and assistants’ house and finally, the Roman baths.

But these Roman baths were never actually built to be a bathing facility. It was built for the King to have a piece of Italy close to his summer residence in Sanssouci.

16. Neues Palais, Potsdam Germany

Whilst Sanssouci Palace was built to be humble and modest. New Palace or Neues Palais was built to impress and show the Prussian state’s undiminished power and wealth following the Seven Years’ War.

It was the last royal residence Frederick the Great built in Sanssouci, but he rarely stayed there himself. Instead, New Palace was mostly used to accommodate guests and as a venue to host celebrations.

The palace looks impressive enough from the outside, but did you notice something weird with the red brick facade? Well, that’s because it’s fake. The red brick facade was a painted imitation to save money.

Today, you can go inside Neues Palais and see its exquisitely lavish interiors. The recently restored Lower Royal Suite, with its Braided Room, Concert Room and Oval Cabinet is considered to be the most extravagant interiors in Europe.

Make sure to stop by the Fredersdorf Cafe & Restaurant here if you need a little break and an afternoon pick-me-up.

17. Charlottenhof Palace

Seeing any palace after Neues Palais can be underwhelming. But it’s worth visiting Charlottenhof Palace to see its beautiful gardens and its opulent, unique interiors. The interior design of the palace rooms are well preserved and the ‘tent room’ in particular, is a highlight to see in Potsdam, Germany.

The ‘tent room’ is the most distinctive room in Charlottenhof Palace because its design was inspired by Roman Caesar’s tent. The entire interior from its ceilings, walls, window treatments and even furniture are fashioned in the same blue and white striped draping.

18. Brandenburger Tor Potsdam, Germany

Brandenburger Tor is the last of the Royal City Gates to see as you leave Sanssouci. It’s easy to get this royal gate confused with the much bigger and grander Brandenburger Tor in Berlin, but it’s actually not the same.

Brandenburger Tor in Potsdam, was built 20 years before the one in Berlin and is therefore the original, not the mock up. This was also the most important gate in Potsdam because it marked the entrance to the city as well as the entrance to the entire Brandenburg region itself.

This gate started out as a more simple wooden gate and was rebuilt to what you see today after the Seven Years’ War. It was rebuilt to this grander version to commemorate the Prussian’s victory.

19. Glienicke Bridge, The Bridge of Spies

And your last destination on this Best Things to Do in Potsdam Tour – Glienickebrucke. It’s a little bit out of the way to get to from Brandenburger Tor, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Glienicke Bridge may look like an ordinary bridge today. But back in the day when the Berlin Wall was still standing, this was the spot where East and West exchanged secret agents and spies. And that’s how it got its other name, The Bridge of Spies.

You probably recognise it if you watched the movie with the same name, The Bridge of Spies (2015), that starred Tom Hanks.

It’s a must-visit for all the history fanatics out there. But if that’s not your thing, you should still see Glienicke Bridge for its views over the Havel River, Glienicke castle grounds, Babelsberg Castle and the Sacrower Heilandskirche church.

Other Things To Do in Potsdam, Germany

If you’re looking for more things to do in Potsdam on your day trip from Berlin, here’s some ideas:

20. Potsdam Palace Tour Boat Cruise

Admire the countless palaces and beautiful parks from the Hohenzollern Dynasty and see a true piece of history on a 90 minute boat cruise along the Havel.

The Potsdam Palace Tour By Boat is available in both English and German. Book online to avoid the queues.

21. Potsdam by Boat: Island Cruise

Enjoy this 4 hour boat cruise along the Havel and discover all of Potsdam and its surrounding villages.

Admire Caputh Castle, Babelsberg Castle, the fishing and vine town of Werder and other beautiful sights on the Potsdam Island Cruise Tour .

22. Potsdam to Wannsee 2 Hour Cruise

Enjoy a well deserved swim at Wannsee Lake after your long walking tour in Potsdam and swim in one of the most beautiful lakes in Berlin.

See the iconic residences of the Prussian Hohenzollerns, mansions of famous film and television stars as well as the residences of President Truman and Winston Churchill during the Potsdam Conference of 1945 on this 7 Lakes Tour from Wannsee Berlin .

Otherwise you can also make another day trip from Berlin to visit Wannsee Lake on your own. Check out our Best Outdoor Activities To Do In Berlin guide to find out how to get there.

23. Babelsberg Film Studio Tour

Last but not least – take a look behind the scenes and visit the famous Babelsberg Film Studio on this 5 hour guided tour from Berlin .

Studio Babelsberg is the world’s oldest studio and the largest of its kind in Europe. More than 3,000 productions have been made here. International cinema productions such as Inglorious Basterds , The Pianist , and Cloud Atlas were filmed here!

It was once considered Europe’s Hollywood, but after the Nazis came to power, many actors and artists moved to America.

24. Babelsberg Park (UNESCO)

Visit another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Potsdam – Babelsberg Park. Take a guided tour to find out what role Babelsberg played at the end of World War II and how it was once used as a point to escape across the Berlin Wall.

Best Things To Do In Potsdam – Day Trip From Berlin

• Town of Potsdam, Germany
• Bassinplatz
• Dutch Quarter
• Cecilienhof Palace
• Belvedere Castle on Pfingstberg
• Alexandrowka
• Nauener Tor
• Obelisk Hauptallee
• Kaiser Friedrich Mausoleum
• Historic Mill of Sanssouci
• Orangery Palace
• Chinese House in Sanssouci
• Roman Baths, Potsdam Germany
• Neues Palais
• Charlottenhof Palace
• Brandenburger Tor, Potsdam
• Glienicke Bridge
• Potsdam Palace Tour Boat Cruise
• Island Cruise: Potsdam by Boat
• Potsdam to Wannsee 2 Hour cruise
• Babelsberg Film Studio Tour
• Babelsberg Park

So there you have it, 23 awesome and free things to do in Potsdam on your day trip from Berlin! Feel free to do it in 1 day or split it over a 2 to 3 day itinerary.

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Germany Travel Guide

Potsdam Germany: 1-day Itinerary and Map

Potsdam is the state capital of Brandenburg , Germany located near the city of Berlin in an area of beautiful forests and lakes. This former residence of Prussian rulers is filled with palaces and gardens.

How to spend 1 day in Potsdam Germany

In this 1-day itinerary in Potsdam , discover the main attractions of the city.

Day 1 in Potsdam

The main attraction of Potsdam is Sanssouci Park , where you will find palaces, gardens. In the park, start by visiting the New Palace , head to the Chinese House , pass by the Orangerieschloss and head to the beautiful Sanssouci Palace , visit its interior and enjoy the view from the garden.

Schloss Cecilienhof is another attraction in the city, located 3.2 km (2 miles) from Sanssouci Palace .

Things to see

• Neues Palais Potsdam
• Chinese House in Sanssouci Park
• Orangerieschloss
• Sanssouci Palace
• Neptungrotte
• Brandenburg Gate Potsdam
• Schloss Cecilienhof

Day 1 Itinerary Map

Sights in Potsdam

1. sanssouci park.

The Sanssouci Park is a large park surrounding the Sanssouci Palace .

The park has numerous attractions such as the New Palace of Sanssouci , the Chinese House , the Ancient Temple , the Temple of Friendship , The Neptungrotte .

Zur Historischen Mühle 1, 14469

2. Cecilienhof

The Cecilienhof Palace was built between 1914 and 1917 for Prince William and his wife Cecilie.

At the site, the winning powers of World War II, Churchill Trumann, and Stalin wrote history. Today the castle is a historic memorial in which the conference rooms can be visited.

Im Neuen Garten 11, 14469

3. Russische Kolonie Alexandrowka

Frederick William III and Czar Alexander were close friends. To give expression to this friendship Frederick III built the Russische Kolonie Alexandrowka .

Russische Kolonie 2, 14469

4. Babelsberg Palace

The Babelsberg Palace was built in 1833. From 1871 the palace was the summer residence for Prince William.

It is closed for visits due to restoration. Only the park can be visited.

Park Babelsberg 10, 14482

Where to stay in Potsdam

1. mercure hotel potsdam city.

The Mercure Hotel Potsdam City is located near the Central Station and 2.6 km (1.6 miles) from the Sanssouci Park

Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV and a minibar.

Lange Brücke, 14467

2. NH Potsdam

Located in the center of Potsdam , NH Potsdam offers excellent value for money.

The rooms are cozy and have a TV, desk, and minibar

The hotel has a gym and a sauna.

Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 88, 14467

3. Steigenberger Hotel Sanssouci

The Steigenberger Hotel Sanssouci is located 1.3 km (0.8 miles) from the Sanssouci Park .

Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, minibar, safe.

Allee nach Sanssouci 1, 14471

4. Hotel Am Jägertor

Hotel Am Jägertor is an elegant hotel located in the city center opposite the historic Jägertor Potsdam Gate .

Rooms have a seating area, work desk, and TV.

The hotel has a bar and a terrace.

Hegelallee 11, 14467 Potsdam, Germany

5. INSELHOTEL Potsdam

INSELHOTEL Potsdam is located beside Lake Templiner See on Hermannswerder Island , 2.8 km (1.8 miles) from the city center.

All rooms have a TV, work desk and minibar. Some rooms have a balcony or a terrace.

The hotel has an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and a spa.

Hermannswerder 30, 14473 Potsdam, Germany

6. Seminaris Hotel Potsdam Griebnitzsee

Located on the banks of the Griebnitz See in Babelsberg , 6.8 km (4.2 miles) from the Potsdam city center , Seminaris Hotel Potsdam offers quiet and comfortable rooms.

Rooms have a small seating area, TV, and minibar. Some rooms offer lake views.

The hotel has a restaurant that serves seasonal German and international dishes.

Rudolf-Breitscheid-Straße 190, 14482 Potsdam, Germany

7. Hotel Brandenburger Tor Potsdam

The Brandenburger Tor Potsdam Hotel is located right in the heart of the city next to Potsdam’s Brandenburg Gate .

All rooms have a flat-screen TV, work desk and minibar.

The hotel has a terrace where you can enjoy delicious drinks.

Brandenburger Str. 1, 14467 Potsdam, Germany

8. Waveboard

Waveboard is an aparthotel located beside the Tiefer See lake , a 20-minute walk from the center of Potsdam .

The apartments are modern and equipped with a full kitchen. Some rooms offer a view of the lake.

Schiffbauergasse 13, 14467 Potsdam, Germany

Shopping in Potsdam

1. karstadt potsdam.

Karstadt is a German department store chain with many stores in Germany .

The company features brands like Cacharel, Clarins, Coach, Desigual, Estée Lauder.

Brandenburger Str. 49/52, 14467

2. Stern Center Potsdam

The Stern Center Potsdam is located 5.9 km (3.7 miles) from the Central Station .

Brands: Deichmann Schuhe, Camp David, Tom Tailor.

Stern-Center 1-10, 14480 

Plan your Trip

Potsdam  has easy train access from Berlin .

Berlin – 35.8 km (22.2 miles)

Lübeck – 279 km (173 miles)

Schwerin – 205 km (128 miles)

Bremen – 364 km (226 miles)

Dresden – 203 km (126 miles)

Leipzig – 160 km (99.5 miles)

Book a Train Trip

Potsdam Germany Map

Book your trip, book your accommodation.

Book your hotel with Booking.com as they consistently provide the cheapest and lowest rates.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights to Germany by using  Momondo . Momondo is a flight search engine that searches a lot of different airlines, including many budget carriers.

Book a Train Ticket

Check the train routes and schedules with Omio . Omio is an authorized Deutsche Bahn ticket seller, which compares and combines transport options for complete flexibility.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, and cancellations. It’s a protection in case anything goes wrong. You can book your travel insurance with Travelexinsurance.com .

Train from Berlin to Potsdam: Travel Tips & Guide

10 Reasons to Visit Berlin

10 Best Hotels in Mitte Berlin

10 Suggested Itineraries for Germany + Top Destinations

Outlets & Department Stores in Germany: Shopping Guide

40 Popular Train Routes in Germany

German States Map

German States and Regions

• Contrast Contrast

To the south-west of Berlin lies Potsdam , the capital of the federal state of Brandenburg. The city, with its rich cultural landscape and many attractions, is a worthwhile destination that makes a wonderful complement to a trip to Berlin. The main attractions of Potsdam include the palaces and royal parks, which have been named UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Potsdam's Palaces and Gardens

The beautiful natural landscape between Berlin and Potsdam became dotted with grand palaces and aristocratic houses in the 18th and 19th centuries. This glorious symbiosis of nature and architecture includes the royal parks of the Neuer Garten (New Garden) , Babelsberg and the world-famous Sanssouci . Glienicke and the Pfaueninsel (Peacock Island), with their fairy-tale miniature palaces, and Sacrow park, home to the Heilandskirche (Church of the Redeemer) standing right by to the water, are also world heritage sites. In 1999, an additional 14 historical buildings were added to the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Potsdam, including the Russische Kolonie Alexandrowka (Alexandrovka Russian colony) and the Belvedere palace on the Pfingstberg. This has now made Potsdam home to the highest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Germany. The best known palace is Sanssouci, the magical summer palace of Frederick the Great. The whole appearance of Potsdam is marked not just by the royal palaces and parks, but also the many luxury villas, which give Potsdam a certain Mediterranean flair.

The Dutch Quarter in Potsdam

The Holländerviertel (Dutch Quarter) is home to 134 red brick houses constructed in the 18th century in the typical Dutch style. These were originally planned as accommodation for Dutch settlers, but were later used to house soldiers. The lovingly restored little houses are now home to boutiques, craft shops and cafés.

Film in Potsdam: Studio Babelsberg and the Film Museum

The Studio Babelsberg is famous around the world. Films have been shot here since the 1920s, including great silent film classics like Die Nibelungen (The Nibelungs), Der letzte Mann (The Last Laugh), and Metropolis, as well as East German feature films by DEFA (the state-owned film studio of the GDR) such as Die Legende von Paul und Paula (The Legend of Paul and Paula), and modern blockbusters like The Bourne Supremacy or Inglourious Basterds. Filmpark Babelsberg lets you get a look behind the scenes in a real film studio and you won't be disappointed with the action in the spectacular stunt shows. The Filmmuseum Potsdam is housed in the Marstall, the former royal stables of the Prussian kings, and is dedicated to the history of filmmaking in Babelsberg and around the world.

Music + Theatre in Potsdam

The major theatre in Potsdam is the Hans Otto Theater , which has been putting on shows in its new building on the Schiffbauerdamm since 2006. The rococo theatre in the Neues Palais (New Palace) is still in use today and is easily one of the most beautiful historic theatres of the 18th century. Contemporary architecture isn't completely absent here: visitors will want to check out the Nikolaisaal Potsdam concert hall, which hides a bold, modern design from the year 2000 behind a baroque façade. The programme at the Nikolaisaal is as varied and exciting as the building's architecture.

Worth Seeing in Potsdam:

• Sanssouci and Park
• Neues Palais
• Schloss Babelsberg
• Alexandrowka Colony
• Holländerviertel
• Filmpark Babelsberg
• Schloss Cecilienhof

Use our Ticket Cecilienhof Palace with Exhibition for the palace and the permanent historical exhibition:

Ticket Cecilienhof Palace

Potsdam by app

As an alternative to traditional travel and city guides, visitors can explore the city of Potsdam on their own. By app. As a treasure hunt. The Global Treasure App provides exciting questions about various places across the city, with multiple choices for answers. At the end, many places will give the treasure hunters a small thank you gift.

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There are exactly 134 red, two-storey brick houses, arranged on four squares. Known as the Holländerhäuser (“Dutch houses”), they were built

THE 10 BEST Potsdam Sights & Historical Landmarks

Potsdam landmarks.

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1. Potsdam Paradise Garden

2. Sanssouci Palace

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (69)

3. Schloss Cecilienhof

4. Neues Palais

5. Holländisches Viertel

6. Museum Barberini

7. Belvedere Castle on the Pfingstberg

8. Glienicke Bridge

9. Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)

10. Chinesisches Haus (Chinese House)

11. Alexandrowka

12. Marmorpalais

13. Babelsberg Castle

14. St. Nikolai-Kirchengemeinde

15. Heilandskirche am Port von Sacrow

16. Potsdam Friedenskirche

17. Charlottenhof Castle

18. St. Peter Und Paul Kirche

19. Freundschaftsinsel

20. Stiftung Gedenkstätte Lindenstraße

21. Nauen Gate

22. Winzerberg

23. Landtag Brandenburg

24. Old Market Square

25. Neue Kammern

26. Einsteinturm

27. Altes Rathaus

28. Roman Baths

29. Ruinenberg

30. Jagertor

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Potsdam blog — the super potsdam travel guide for first-timers.

Less than an hour traveling by train from Berlin is the city of Potsdam, one of the best day trip destinations from Berlin , a tourist paradise for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Berlin and an ideal place to stop for those who love to explore history, quaint architectures, a peaceful atmosphere, grand gardens and magnificent palaces and churches. Potsdam is one of the most richest cities in terms of history of Germany. So, is Potsdam worth visiting, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Potsdam for the first-time? Let’s check out our Potsdam blog with the fullest Potsdam travel guide (Potsdam guide, Potsdam tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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Potsdam blog: Overview of Postdam

Potsdam is the capital of the state of Brandenburg and is 35 km from Berlin. This city was known as the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Prussia (1701-1918) with many famous, stunning palaces. The city has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Dec, 1990 and has officially became the largest recognized complex in Germany.

Potsdam is dubbed the Hollywood of Germany, the neighbor of Berlin, has the largest number of palaces in Germany. Multinational influences from France, Switzerland, the Netherlands and many other countries have strongly influenced the lifestyle, culture and architecture of this city. In addition, the unique architecture and landscape of Potsdam, which has long been chosen by kings as their residential place, is also chosen by filmmakers as an ideal filming location. A series of famous movie works were filmed in Potsdam such as: The Blue Angel (Der blaue Engel), The Pianist (Der Pianist), Around the World in Eighty Days (Reise um die Erde in 80 Tagen), Inglourious Basterds…

Potsdam blog: When to come?

Potsdam owns the oceanic climate prevailing with chilly winters and warm summers. The rainiest months fall in months of Nov, Dec and Jun. The average temperatures ranging from 3 Celsius degrees (Jan) to 24 Celsius degrees (Jul).

The best time to travel to Potsdam is from July to September with pleasant temperature (maximum of 25 Celsius degrees in July) and limited rainfall and during spring season (March through May) with pleasant weather and cherry blossoms bloom everywhere. However, winter is also a good time to come if you love snow and the atmosphere of Christmas markets while autumn is gentle, charm and calm.

Potsdam travel guide: How to get to Potsdam from Berlin?

There 2 ways to travel to Potsdam, one by S-bahn (skytrain) S7 or the other by RE1 (DB train) as describe in the table below.

You should buy Berlin Zone ABC ticket to be able to travel comfortably in the center of Berlin and the city of Potsdam. Because Potsdam is located in Zone C, so buying this type of ticket is more convenient than buying a single ticket to travel from Berlin to Potsdam. I highly recommend to buy a day pass (day ticket) of EUR 7.7 because a single ticket costs EUR 3.4/way. With a day pass, you can go all buses/trams in Potsdam for free! For more information about transportation and train tickets in Berlin, please refer to my previous post here .

Depending on where you stay in Berlin to choose to take S-bahn or DB train for your convenience. However, I recommend (for convenience and save time):

• If travel by RE1: Get off at Potsdam-Park Sanssouci station (don’t get off at Potsdam Hauptbahnhof because you have to take a bus ride to Sanssouci park).
• If travel by S7: Get off at Potsdam-Babelsberg station, walk about 2 minutes to Rathaus Babelsberg station, take bus 616 to visit the first Babelsberg Palace (vice versa the route above).

Potsdam tourist guide: Getting around Potsdam

You can also use the Berlin Zone ABC ticket above to take means of transport in Potsdam. The famous tourist attractions of Potsdam can be reach by bus easily.

Hop-on Hop-Off: €17. If you have a Welcome Card, it will be reduced to €12.5/person. The time I went in July was too hot, so I was afraid to find the way. So I bought hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour for convenience. The ticket counter is right at the entrance of the shopping mall where you will get off the train.

Potsdam blog: What to do and where to go?

• Sanssouci Park: Including the entire part in the leftmost circle in the diagram above which is extremely large with a number of castles, palaces, churches, structures and gardens scattered.
• Sanssouci Palace (Schloss Sanssouci): The palace of the Prussian Royal Family. This is probably the most famous palace in Potsdam (though it’s not the biggest).
• New Palace (Neues Palais): The largest and second famous palace in Potsdam. It is also the largest Baroque Prussian palace.
• Charlottenhof Palace (Schloss Charlottenhof).
• Orangery Palace (Orangerieschloss): A palace for guests from other royal families stay when they visit Potsdam.

• Old Market Square (Alter Markt): This old square is located in the center of Potsdam.
• Dutch Quarter (Holländisches Viertel): Including 150 old Dutch-style houses.

Cecilienhof Palace (Schloss Cecilienhof): For those who love history, this is the site of the Potsdam Conference in 1945 when the three great powers of Britain, the United States, and the Soviet Union discussed the fate of Germany after World War II.

Babelsberg Palace (Schloss Babelsberg): Located on the Eastern part of the city (rightmost circle in the diagram above).

Suggested Potsdam itinerary 1 day

With only one day, I chose to visit the Eastern and Western areas of the city, skipping the central area (with 2 years living in the Netherlands, the “Dutch Old Quarter in Germany” is not attractive at all ^^!) and the northern area. To explore all the remaining places, the itinerary will be arranged as the picture below.

Sanssouci Park

Built as a royal garden around the Sanssouci palace at the request of Frederick the Great of the Kingdom of Prussia, it is now a complex of parks – botanical gardens – chapels – large palaces. Besides the architectural works, you will have the opportunity to visit the large flower gardens with the lake and many sculptures placed all over the ground.

Sanssouci Park is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can visit it for free.

With seemingly endless roads but absolutely no vehicles, well-groomed hundreds of years old forests, ancient architectural works scattered all over the roads, Sanssouci Park is a Great destination for a day of outdoor activities, such as picnic, sports, travel, dating…

The fastest way to get to Sanssouci Park – Potsdam’s most popular tourist complex – is to take bus 695 from Potsdam Hbf Station. About 20 minutes by bus, then walking to come.

Sanssouci Palace

Referring to the city of Potsdam, the place cannot help but to mention is Sanssouci Palace – the summer palace of Frederick the Great II – King of Prussia, the Potsdam’s most famous attraction which was built in the architectural style of the 18th century and also one of the most visited places in Europe with more than 2 million visitors per year. The Palace of Sanssouci is often compared to the palace of Versailles in France with more than 200 large and small rooms, four ballrooms and a theater in Rococo style. Along with more than 400 statues from the ancient world of gods used to decorate the facades and railings, roofs.

This magnificent palace was built at the request of King Frederick the Great where he could rest and relax away from all the worries of court meetings in Berlin. The name of this palace is derived from a French word of “Sans Souci” which translates to “no worry”, “carefree” or “without worry” — is a resting place, relaxing, not involved in political affairs. The palace was built on top of a terraced hill in the center of the park of the same name.

Sanssouci Palace is located opposite a beautiful terraced garden. During the 19th century, this was the residence of King Frederick William IV of Prussia, although Germany was severely damaged after World War II, the Sanssouci Palace remained almost intact, it shows a prosperous period of Germany in 18th century and the great talent of the architect Von Knobelsdorff. It is no coincidence that the palace of Sanssouci is considered the most formidable “rival” of the famous French palace of Versailles.

Address: Maulbeerallee, 14469 Potsdam, Germany Hours: 9AM–5:30PM/Monday: Closed

The Church of Peace (Friedenskirche)

At the eastern end of Sanssouci Park is the Friedenskirche church (Church of Peace) built in accordance with the wishes of King Frederick William IV, this Protestant church completed in 1854, in medieval Italian style.

Address: Am Grünen Gitter 3, 14469 Potsdam, Germany Hours: Saturday: 11AM–4PM/Sunday: 11:30AM–4PM

Sanssouci Picture Gallery

King Frederick II of Prussia was a man with a passion for the arts. So he built this art gallery. Having existed since 1764, it is now the oldest private picture gallery of a German ruler.

A 3-min walk from Sanssouci Palace Address: Im Park Sanssouci 4, 14469 Potsdam, Germany Hours: 10AM–5:30PM/Monday: Closed

Chinese House and Roman Bath

On the walk from Sanssouci Palace to Charlottenhof Palace, you will pass these 2 places. These two works are small, so it only takes about 10 minutes to visit them.

Chinese House is a small pavilion built by King Frederick the Great to decorate his fruit garden. It is called “Chinese House” because it has a very Chinese “chinoiserie” architecture.

Address: Am Grünen Gitter, 14469 Potsdam, Germany

New Palace (Neues Palais)

It is the most magnificent architecture of Sanssouci Park, located at the western end of the park. Neues Palais was built between 1763-1969 with stand out of red brick walls and a large bronze dome. The interior of the palace is splendid decorated, especially in the Marble Hall, Upper and Lower State Apartments, Marble Gallery and Theatre. The palace has valuable furniture, paintings, porcelain and works of art.

The construction started in 1763 and completed in 1769, after the 7-year war, the New Palace is considered the largest Prussian baroque structure ever built. Some of buildings of this palace are also used by the University of Potsdam as its campus, the school is very beautiful.

Address: Am Neuen Palais, 14469 Potsdam, Germany Hours: 10AM–5:30PM/Tuesday: Closed

Charlottenhof Palace

The Neoclassical architecture palace is neither big nor flashy, but it has a corridor covered with grape vines. When autumn comes you will see the red and green grape leaves covering the corridor and full of fruit.

Address: Geschwister-Scholl-Straße 34A, 14471 Potsdam, Germany

Babelsberg Palace

This palace has a direct view of Lake Glienicker and the bridge of the same name. Not too famous, located quite far away from center, having to change buses many times, so it’s very deserted. In return, it’s a beautiful palace, beautiful view and peaceful, I like this beauty.

Located in the Babelsberg forest, Babelsberg Palace was the summer palace of Wilhelm I, the first emperor of the German Empire for almost 50 years. The palace was built in the English Middle Ages style from 1835-1849, a style that also influenced a number of other palace such as Kittendorf Palace in Mecklenburg. The palace once witnessed an important historical event when Emperor Wilhelm I appointed Otto von Bismack as chancellor, who then brought Germany into the ranks of the great powers in Europe.

Address: Park Babelsberg 10, 14482 Potsdam, Germany Opened: 1849

Orangery Palace

Actually, it is not very beautiful, but the walking path from this palace to Sanssouci passes through many beautiful gardens (especially in autumn).

Address: An der Orangerie 3-5, 14469 Potsdam, Germany Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture Opened: 1864

Marmorpalais (or Marble Palace)

Once the palace of the Prussian royal family until the early 20th century, the Marmorpalais was built by King Frederick Wilhelm II shortly after he succeeded King Frederick the Great. The palace was originally built of red brick, in neoclassical style, with a garden and river view. However, the palace was later named after the white or gray marble from Silesia that was used to support its pillars and decorative motifs.

The palace was given by the king to his mistress, Countess Lichtenau, and she was a direct influence on the interior design process for the palace. After World War II, the East German government used the palace as a military museum. Currently, the palace serves as a cultural and historical museum managed by the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg.

Address: Im Neuen Garten 10, 14469 Potsdam, Germany Opened: 1791

The Alte Rathaus (“Old Town Hall”)

Located in Alter Markt square, a splendid Baroque-style marble building built in 1753, featuring Corinthian stone columns. Extensively rebuilt after World War II, the building is used for exhibitions and concerts and houses the Potsdam Museum with its beautiful collections relating to local art, culture and history.

Address: Am Alten Markt 9, 14467 Potsdam, Germany Hours: 12–6PM/Monday: Closed

Babelsberg District

The Babelsberg district is Potsdam’s largest neighborhood, famous in the early days of cinema as the home of the UFA film company. Originally developed around Nowawes, an old quarter of spinners and weavers, the district’s heritage can still be discovered near the church of Weberplatz, a modest building built in 1753. Other highlights of this interesting area include Babelsberg Park, the third largest in Potsdam, established in 1832 and expanded from 1843 and Schloss Babelsberg, an Anglo-Gothic palace built in built in 1834.

Dutch Quarter (Holländisches Viertel)

Holländisches Viertel is home to the largest Dutch community abroad. The neighborhood was built between 1737 and 1742 by Dutch craftsmen, headed by Johann Boumann. The neighborhood is housed in 4 blocks, including 134 houses built with typical Dutch red brick and shuttered windows, gables, white borders.

Holländisches Viertel is popular with both locals and tourists for its small shops, cafes and typical Dutch restaurants. In the neighborhood there is also a small house that is used as a museum about Johann Boumann and Dutch culture. Strolling here, easily leads to the Brandenburger Strasse pedestrian area with houses built between 1733-1939 for the mobilization of the army.

New Garden (Neuer Garten)

The New Garden is located on the banks of the Heiliger See (Holy Lake) and covers an area of ​​253 acres. The stunning landscape is in the poetic style of the late 18th century and established in 1789, it is meant to reflect the style of an English countryside.

Address: Am Neuen Garten, 14467 Potsdam, Germany Hours: 8AM–8PM

St. Nicholas’ Church

St. Nicholas’ Church is the most majestic church in Potsdam is a neoclassical style built between 1830-1837. The most striking feature of this impressive structure is the 77-meter-high domed main hall. In front of the church is a memorial built in 1753.

The church was heavily destroyed during the Second World War, and then rebuilt in 1981. Today, in addition to its religious function, the church is also open to visitors and hosts concerts.

Address: Am Alten Markt, 14467 Potsdam, Germany Hours: 9:30AM–6:30PM

Filmmuseum Potsdam

This is Germany’s oldest film museum. Formerly, the museum used to be a Prussian royal horse farm, the building was built with the typical 17th century baroque architectural style. The museum is an interesting destination for visitors who love the Seventh Art, with a collection of the history of world cinema in general and German cinema in particular from the end of the 19th century to the present, in terms of techniques, ideas and originals of famous movies. The museum also displays images of the oldest film studio Babelsberg in German history.

Address: Breite Str. 1A, 14467 Potsdam, Germany Hours: 10AM–6PM/Monday: Closed Opened: 1977

Russische Kolonie Alexandrowka

During the nineteenth century a number of Russian soldiers were part of a choir serving the entertainment needs of the Prussians living in the city. In 1826, Frederick William II ordered the construction of a new neighborhood for these people. It is because of this that “the Russian city” was named Alexandrowka.

In total twelve picturesque wooden houses were built here, you will visit the Russian Orthodox small church, now this place is added another building, Kirche Alexander-Newski

If you don’t have too much time, focus on the main places like:

• Sanssouci complex including palace, flower garden and New palace
• Dutch Quarter
• Downtown Luisenpatz
• Palace of Cecilienhof

You can refer to Klook’s half day tour for €17 . The tour departs from Berlin and does not include entrance tickets or tickets from Berlin to Potsdam. A single ticket costs €3.4 if you do not have a Berlin Zone ABC card.

Potsdam blog: What to eat?

On the day I went, I ate at a Vietnamese restaurant in the shopping mall right next the station. In general, this area is quite large and has a variety of food stalls, restaurant, you can come here to try. If I remember correctly, there are 3 or 4 Vietnamese shops here. The price is also on par with Berlin about €7/meal.

Potsdam guide: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• NH Potsdam ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Dorint Sanssouci Berlin/Potsdam ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Seminaris Avendi Hotel Potsdam ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Brandenburger Tor Potsdam ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check-out more top hotels in Potsdam via Agoda or Booking .

In general, I find Potsdam quite beautiful. The atmosphere is peaceful and not too hustle and bustle like in Berlin. It feels very enjoyable to have a leisurely, gentle day walking around the city after a few days in the crowded capital :). If you are still wondering where to go when traveling to Berlin, then do more research on this place.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Potsdam you can refer to

• Potsdam Half Day Tour from Berlin
• Potsdam Day Tour from Berlin
• Potsdam Hop-On Hop-off City Sightseeing Bus Tour

See more Berlin travel guide here and Germany guide here .

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Discovery tours by foot, bike and paddle boat, audio tours via app "potsdam city guide", explore potsdam travel magazine 2023, #explorepotsdam-podcast, facts about potsdam, the german dream factory, suggested itineraries, plan your stay, rough guides e-book.