Introduction
Potsdam, the capital of the German state of Brandenburg, is a historic city located about 25 kilometres southwest of Berlin's city centre. With over 1,000 years of history, it is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, which include the Palaces and Parks of Potsdam covering approximately 500 hectares of parkland and encompassing 150 buildings dating from 1730 to 1916. The city served as a residence for Prussian kings and the German Emperor until 1918, and its planning embodied ideas of the Age of Enlightenment through a careful balance of architecture and landscape. Key attractions include Sanssouci Palace, the summer residence of Frederick the Great, the New Palace, Cecilienhof Palace (site of the 1945 Potsdam Conference), and the Dutch Quarter with its 134 distinctive red brick houses. Potsdam also boasts the famous Studio Babelsberg, one of Europe's oldest film studios, earning the city UNESCO Creative City of Film status in 2019.
Interesting Facts about Potsdam
- Potsdam is the capital of Brandenburg and part of the Berlin/Brandenburg Metropolitan Region, located just 25 kilometres southwest of Berlin.
- The Sanssouci Palace and its expansive parks form Germany’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting Prussian Rococo architecture.
- It hosted the 1945 Potsdam Conference at Cecilienhof Palace, where Allied leaders decided post-WWII Germany’s fate.
- The Dutch Quarter features over 150 red-brick buildings in European-unique Dutch Baroque style, built for 18th-century immigrants.
- Babelsberg Studios, founded in 1912 in Potsdam, is the oldest large-scale film studio in the world.
- Russian Colony Alexandrowka includes wooden houses and an Orthodox chapel built for 19th-century Russian singers.
- Potsdam’s city layout embodies Enlightenment ideals, blending architecture and landscape to create a "picturesque, pastoral dream".
- It became a UNESCO Creative City of Film in 2019, recognising Babelsberg’s historic role in cinema.
History
Potsdam, first mentioned in 993 CE as "Poztupimi" (meaning "under the oaks" in Slavic), has a rich history spanning over a millennium. Archaeological evidence suggests the area was inhabited as early as the Bronze Age, with Slavic tribes settling along the Havel river around the 7th century CE. The settlement received its town charter in 1345, but remained relatively insignificant until the 17th century, when it suffered greatly during the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), losing nearly half its population.
The city's fortunes changed dramatically when Frederick William I, the Great Elector of Brandenburg, chose Potsdam as his hunting residence in 1660. This marked a turning point in the town's development, as the dilapidated old castle was reconstructed into a proper palace with pleasure grounds. Potsdam's prominence grew further with the Edict of Potsdam in 1685, which welcomed Huguenot refugees from France, accelerating population growth and economic recovery. Under Frederick the Great's reign (1740-1786), Potsdam flourished as an intellectual and military centre, becoming the virtual capital of Prussia. The magnificent Sanssouci Palace, completed in 1747, remains the most famous symbol of this golden age.
Throughout the 20th century, Potsdam witnessed pivotal historical moments. After World War I, it lost its status as a "second capital" when the German Empire fell in 1918. Following World War II, during which the city suffered severe bombing damage, Potsdam hosted the famous 1945 conference at Cecilienhof Palace where Allied leaders determined Germany's future. During the Cold War, Potsdam lay just outside West Berlin after the construction of the Berlin Wall, which isolated it from West Berlin and increased commuting times to East Berlin. Since German reunification in 1990, Potsdam has been revitalised as the capital of Brandenburg state, with extensive restoration of its historical buildings and recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991.
Main Attractions
Around SanssouciPark (West)
Sanssouci Palace and Park
Sanssouci Palace stands as Frederick the Great's most personal creation, a place where the Prussian king could escape the formality of the Berlin court. Built between 1745 and 1747 by Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff, this single-storey Rococo villa contains just ten principal rooms and sits atop terraced vineyards. The name "Sanssouci" means "without worries" in French, emphasising that the palace was meant as a place of relaxation rather than a seat of power.
The palace's exterior features a central dome and two lateral wings extending in a gentle curve. The façade is adorned with Atlas figures, caryatids, and ornate decorations that exemplify the Rococo style. Inside, visitors can explore Frederick's library, music room, and study, all decorated with intricate rococo ornamentation, gilded mouldings, and painted ceilings.
The surrounding 290-hectare park is a masterpiece of landscape design, featuring magnificent formal gardens, fountains, and several other palaces of different architectural styles. The terraced vineyard in front of the palace is particularly striking, with six levels connected by 132 steps. Throughout the park, visitors will discover numerous sculptures, follies, and carefully planned vistas that create a harmonious blend of nature and art.
New Palace (Neues Palais)
Located in the western part of Sanssouci Park, the New Palace presents a dramatic contrast to the intimate Sanssouci. This enormous Baroque palace was built between 1763-1769 to mark the end of the Prussian Seven Years' War and to demonstrate Prussia's power and prestige to the world. It features an impressive green-coloured dome and a red-brick façade adorned with more than 400 sandstone figures on the roof balustrade.
With over 200 rooms, the New Palace is significantly larger than Sanssouci. Its interior is a testament to Baroque splendour, with the Marble Hall (Marmorsaal) being particularly impressive. This two-storey hall features marble columns, gilded decorations, and a ceiling painting depicting the Olympian gods. The palace also houses the Grotto Hall, decorated with shells, minerals, and semi-precious stones, and a theatre where court performances were once held.
The palace's southern wing contains the royal apartments, while the northern wing housed guest rooms for visiting dignitaries. The communs, two smaller buildings connected to the main palace by colonnades, originally contained the kitchens and service areas but now house university facilities.
New Garden (Neuer Garten)
This 102.5-hectare park lies in northern Potsdam bordering the Heiliger See and Jungfernsee lakes. Created in 1787 under Friedrich Wilhelm II, it was designed as a departure from the baroque style of Sanssouci, following English garden principles of natural-looking landscapes.
The New Garden features gently rolling terrain, carefully placed groups of trees, and meandering paths that create the illusion of a natural landscape. Water plays an important role in the garden design, with two lakes integrated into the landscape. The garden includes several architectural elements including the Gothic Library, a dairy designed in the form of a ruined Roman temple, and an icehouse built to resemble an Egyptian pyramid.
The Marble Palace (Marmorpalais), located within the garden, was built between 1787 and 1793 as a summer residence for Friedrich Wilhelm II. This early neoclassical building features a cubic central block with a double-height domed hall and is clad in Silesian marble, giving it its name.
Chinese Tea House
Located in Sanssouci Park, this small Chinese pavilion was built for Frederick the Great between 1755 and 1764, designed by Johann Gottfried Büring. The Tea House exemplifies the 18th-century European fascination with Chinese art and architecture, interpreted through a Rococo lens.
The circular building features a golden roof crowned with a Chinese figure, and its exterior is adorned with life-size, gilded sandstone figures of musicians and Chinese characters grouped around the exotic building. These figures, created by sculptor Johann Peter Benckert, show Chinese people in various poses, drinking tea and playing musical instruments.
The interior is decorated with lacquer panels, Chinese porcelain, and gilded carvings. Frederick the Great used this pavilion for intimate gatherings where guests could enjoy the then-exotic beverage of tea.
Orangery Palace (Orangerieschloss)
Also known as the New Orangery, this impressive building was constructed between 1851 and 1864 under King Frederick William IV. Designed by Friedrich August Stüler, Ludwig Persius, and Ludwig Ferdinand Hesse, it was inspired by the Villa Medici in Rome and the Uffizi in Florence.
The palace consists of a central building with two long side wings extending over 300 metres, making it one of the largest orangery buildings in Europe. The central section houses grand halls and apartments that were used by royal guests, while the side wings provided winter shelter for exotic plants that adorned the terraces and gardens during summer months.
The Orangery's façade features ornate Renaissance-style decorations, with the central building crowned by a belvedere tower offering views across the surrounding landscape. The terraces in front of the palace are adorned with copies of ancient and Renaissance sculptures, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of an Italian villa garden.
Charlottenhof Palace
This beautiful neoclassical mansion resembles a Roman villa and was built on the ruins of a farmhouse. Designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, it was completed in 1829 for Crown Prince Frederick William (later King Frederick William IV) and his wife Elisabeth Ludovika. The palace has ten rooms fully preserved in their original state, each with its own distinct colour scheme and theme.
The highlight of Charlottenhof is the famous tent room, fashioned after Roman generals' tents. The blue and white striped walls and ceiling create the illusion of being inside a tent, with furniture designed to complement this theme. The room served as the crown prince's bedroom and reflects his romantic fascination with ancient Rome.
The surrounding landscape was designed by Peter Joseph Lenné in the style of an English garden, with gently rolling lawns, carefully placed tree groups, and artificial water features. The garden includes a rose garden, a perennial garden, and several small architectural elements that create picturesque views from different vantage points.
Roman Baths (Römische Bäder)
The Roman Baths, situated northeast of Charlottenhof Palace in Sanssouci Park, reflect the romanticised vision of Italy by Frederick William IV of Prussia. Constructed between 1829 and 1840, this architectural ensemble combines classical Roman and Italian styles with influences from archaeological discoveries in Herculaneum and Pompeii. Despite their name, the baths were never intended for bathing but were instead designed as a retreat and a picturesque addition to the park's landscape.
The ensemble includes several structures: the Court Gardener’s House, built in the style of a 15th-century Italian country villa; a pavilion modelled after a Roman temple; the Gardener’s Assistant’s House; and the Roman Bath itself, styled after ancient villas. These buildings are connected by pergolas adorned with vine leaves, arcades, and landscaped gardens. The asymmetrical layout creates intimate spaces such as the Atrium, Impluvium, Caldarium, Apodyterium, Viridarium, and even a Billiard Room. Each space reflects a blend of historical styles executed in a whimsical manner.
A terrace offers scenic views across an artificial pond towards Charlottenhof Palace, enhancing the idyllic atmosphere. The surrounding park was designed by Peter Joseph Lenné, incorporating Mediterranean plants and decorative elements like Dionysian herms and Pompeian column fragments. The Roman Baths served as a retreat for Frederick William IV and hosted notable visitors such as Alexander von Humboldt during his stays in Potsdam.
Bornstedt Crown Estate (Krongut Bornstedt)
Located near Sanssouci Park, this former royal estate dates back to the 18th century and was significantly expanded in the 19th century under Frederick William IV. The estate served as both a model farm and a summer residence for members of the royal family.
The complex includes a manor house, farm buildings, a brewery, and a church. The buildings are arranged around a central courtyard in the style of an Italian country estate, with the architecture combining functional agricultural elements with decorative features.
Today, the restored estate houses craft workshops, restaurants, and a brewery continuing the tradition of beer production that dates back to the 19th century. The estate also hosts a popular weekly farmers' market and seasonal events including a Christmas market and harvest festival.
Norman Tower on the Ruinenberg
The Norman Tower, standing nearly 23 metres high on Potsdam's Ruinenberg (Mount of Ruins), offers one of the city's most spectacular viewpoints. Built in 1846 under King Frederick William IV, this medieval-inspired watchtower provides a breathtaking 360-degree panorama spanning from Peacock Island across the entirety of Sanssouci Park to Wilhelmshöhe near Werder. The tower forms part of a fascinating landscape that dates back to the mid-18th century when Frederick the Great established a water basin on Ruinenberg to supply fountains in Sanssouci Park. This basin was artistically surrounded by gigantic columns, a Doric rotunda, a pyramid, and ruins resembling an ancient theatre—creating one of the first scenic landscapes with decorative architecture on the European continent. The Norman Tower and its surroundings were later integrated into Sanssouci Park by landscape architect Peter Joseph Lenné.
Around Pfingstberg (North)
Belvedere on the Pfingstberg
This magnificent viewpoint structure sits atop Pfingstberg hill, offering panoramic views over Potsdam and its surroundings. Commissioned by King Frederick William IV and designed by Ludwig Persius, Friedrich August Stüler, and Ludwig Ferdinand Hesse, construction began in 1847 but was halted due to the 1848 revolution and financial constraints.
The completed portion consists of two Italian Renaissance-style towers connected by a colonnaded semicircle. The structure features open staircases, arcades, and colonnades that frame views of the surrounding landscape. From the towers, visitors can enjoy spectacular vistas extending to Berlin, with Potsdam's palaces and lakes spread out below.
After years of neglect during the GDR period, the Belvedere was carefully restored in the 1990s through the efforts of a citizens' initiative. Today, it hosts cultural events including concerts and exhibitions, while continuing to serve its original purpose as a magnificent viewpoint.
Cecilienhof Palace
Located in the northern part of the New Garden, this imposing palace was built between 1913 and 1917 in an English Tudor style. It contains 176 rooms and was the residence of Crown Prince Wilhelm and his wife, Princess Cecilie. The palace was the last to be built by the Hohenzollern dynasty before the end of the German monarchy in 1918.
Cecilienhof's architecture is characterised by half-timbered façades, numerous chimneys of different designs, and multiple courtyards. Despite its traditional appearance, the palace was equipped with modern amenities including central heating, bathrooms, and electricity.
Cecilienhof played a significant role in history as the venue for the Potsdam Conference in 1945, where Stalin, Truman, and Churchill (later replaced by Clement Attlee) met to discuss Germany's future after World War II. The conference room remains preserved as it was during this historic meeting, with the original furniture and a large round table where the leaders sat.
Marble Palace
The Marble Palace (Marmorpalais) in Potsdam is a stunning example of Early Neoclassical architecture, romantically situated on the shores of the Holy Lake (Heiliger See) in the New Garden. Built between 1787 and 1793 as a summer residence for King Frederick William II of Prussia, this red brick structure with Silesian marble accents was designed by architects Carl von Gontard and Carl Gotthard Langhans, who also designed Berlin's Brandenburg Gate. The palace features magnificent interiors including the Grotto Hall, Concert Hall and luxurious royal chambers adorned with marquetry, silk wall coverings, marble fireplaces and one of Germany's most important collections of Wedgwood ceramics. After serving various purposes through the centuries, including as a residence for future German emperors and as a military museum during communist rule, the palace has been fully restored and is now open to visitors who can enjoy guided tours of its 40 rooms whilst taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding English-style landscape garden and the Havel river extending to Peacock Island.
Alexandrowka Russian Colony
Added to the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Potsdam in 1999, this Russian colony offers a glimpse into the city's multicultural history. Established in 1826 by King Frederick William III, it was built to house Russian singers who had previously served in a Prussian regiment of the Russian Army and had remained in Prussia after the Napoleonic Wars.
The colony consists of thirteen wooden houses built in the Russian style, arranged around an open area with an orchard. The houses feature decorative woodwork, steep roofs, and traditional Russian architectural elements. Each house was originally surrounded by a large garden where the residents could grow vegetables and fruit.
At the centre of the colony stands the Alexander Nevsky Memorial Church, built between 1826 and 1829 in the Russian Orthodox style. The church's design, with its characteristic onion dome, was based on drawings by Karl Friedrich Schinkel and Vasily Stasov.
In the Old Town of Potsdam (Centre)
Nauener Tor
The Nauener Tor (Nauen Gate) stands as one of Potsdam's three preserved city gates. Built in 1755 by architect Johann Gottfried Büring based on a sketch by Frederick the Great, it represents the first example of English Gothic Revival architecture on Continental Europe. Originally, the gate featured baroque elements with two plastered round towers, but these were replaced with neo-Gothic features in 1867 during the demolition of the city wall. Today, the area surrounding the Nauener Tor is a vibrant hub with numerous cafés, restaurants, and bars, making it a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike. Tram tracks run directly through this historic gateway, which is conveniently located near Potsdam's Dutch Quarter.
Brandenburg Gate of Potsdam
Located in the Old Town next to Luisenplatz, Potsdam's Brandenburg Gate was built in 1770-1771, predating Berlin's more famous landmark of the same name. Designed by Carl von Gontard and Georg Christian Unger in the style of a Roman triumphal arch, it was constructed to celebrate Prussia's victory in the Seven Years' War.
The gate features a single arch with Corinthian columns and is topped with statues representing ancient warriors. Originally, the gate marked the entrance to the city from the road to Brandenburg an der Havel. Today, it stands as one of the few remaining gates of Potsdam's former city wall.
The surrounding area has been carefully restored and now forms part of a pedestrian zone. The gate serves as a transition point between the more urban character of Potsdam's city centre and the beginning of the cultural landscape that extends towards Sanssouci Park.
Dutch Quarter (Holländisches Viertel)
Also called "Little Amsterdam", this unique district comprises four squares and 134 two-storey houses built between 1732 and 1742 by Dutch architect Jan Bouman. The facades consist entirely of red Dutch brick with white joints, and some houses feature white-green shutters. Originally constructed to attract skilled Dutch craftsmen to Potsdam, it is now the largest closed Dutch-style building complex outside the Netherlands.
The quarter was commissioned by Frederick William I, who admired Dutch architecture and wanted to provide suitable housing for Dutch craftsmen he had invited to Potsdam. The houses were designed to remind the Dutch immigrants of their homeland, with typical features including stepped gables, shuttered windows, and decorative doorways.
Today, the Dutch Quarter is a vibrant neighbourhood filled with boutiques, galleries, cafés, and restaurants. The area hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including a pottery market in September and a Dutch festival in spring.
St. Nicholas Church
St. Nicholas Church dominates Potsdam's Old Market Square as one of the city's most significant examples of German classicism. Construction began in 1828 according to plans by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, with contributions from his disciples Ludwig Persius and August Stüler. The church features a distinctive floor plan resembling a Greek cross, with one arm extended by a half-round apse. Its most recognisable feature is the impressive dome, which has become one of Potsdam's defining landmarks. The church suffered extensive damage during World War II but underwent decades of restoration, finally being re-consecrated in 1981. Today, St. Nicholas Church serves not only as an active parish but also hosts concerts and cultural events, offering visitors a glimpse of both architectural splendour and vibrant community life.
Glienicke Bridge (Glienicker Brücke)
Built in 1907, this steel truss bridge spans a narrow section of the Havel River, connecting Berlin and Potsdam. Known as the "Bridge of Spies", it was used for the exchange of captive spies between the Soviet Union and the United States during the Cold War. The bridge reopened to traffic after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and is now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The current bridge is the fourth to stand at this location, replacing earlier wooden and iron structures. Its distinctive green colour and steel truss design make it instantly recognisable. During the Cold War, the bridge marked the border between East Germany and the American sector of West Berlin, becoming a symbol of the divided Germany.
The first spy exchange took place in 1962 when American U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers was traded for Soviet spy Rudolf Abel. Two more exchanges followed in 1985 and 1986. The bridge's role in these exchanges was dramatised in Steven Spielberg's 2015 film "Bridge of Spies".
In Babelsberg (East)
Babelsberg Palace and Park
Rising majestically in the picturesque 124-hectare Babelsberg Park, this palace was once the summer residence of Emperor Wilhelm I and his wife Augusta. Construction began in 1834 in the Tudor style inspired by England's Windsor Castle, with designs by Karl Friedrich Schinkel and later Ludwig Persius and Johann Heinrich Strack.
The palace's exterior features Gothic elements including pointed arches, pinnacles, and battlements. The interior combines Gothic revival elements with comfort expected of a royal residence. The palace's tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding park and Havel River.
The park was designed by landscape architect Peter Joseph Lenné and later Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau. It features artificial lakes, mosaic borders, winding paths through naturalistic landscapes, and architectural elements such as viewpoints offering vistas across Potsdam's surroundings.
Filmpark Babelsberg
Located in the Babelsberg district, this seasonal amusement park offers visitors a glimpse into the world of filmmaking at the historic Babelsberg Film Studios, which date back to 1912 and are the oldest large-scale film studio in the world. The park features over 20 film-specific attractions, four shows, a 4D and XD cinema, original backdrops, and exhibition areas on film and film craft.
Visitors can explore sets from famous productions, including a medieval town used in numerous historical films and a submarine interior based on the film "Das Boot." The park also offers stunt shows, special effects demonstrations, and opportunities to see how films are made behind the scenes.
Babelsberg Studios has played a significant role in film history, from early German expressionist classics like "Metropolis" to modern international productions including "The Grand Budapest Hotel," "Bridge of Spies," and "The Hunger Games."
Top Museums
Historical Museums
Potsdam Museum - Forum for Art and History
Nestled within the historic confines of the former Old Town Hall, the Potsdam Museum serves as a dedicated repository and exhibition space for the city's rich and multifaceted 1,000-year history. With a vast collection comprising over 270,000 exhibits, the museum offers an exhaustive exploration of Potsdam's cultural, political, and urban development from its earliest origins to the present day. The permanent exhibition, aptly titled "Potsdam: Making City History," adopts a thematic approach, diverging from a purely chronological narrative to delve into key aspects of the city's evolution. These themes encompass urban planning and architectural transformations, the contributions of notable figures who shaped Potsdam's destiny, and the city's pivotal role as a royal residence and political capital. Through its meticulously curated displays, the museum sheds light on the social, economic, and cultural forces that have shaped Potsdam's unique identity. The Potsdam Museum is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the city's past and its enduring legacy.
House of Brandenburg-Prussian History (HBPG)
The House of Brandenburg-Prussian History assumes the crucial role of chronicling and interpreting the historical significance of Brandenburg and Prussia within the broader context of German history. Through a series of carefully curated exhibitions, the museum delves into the political, social, economic, and cultural developments that defined the region's trajectory. It explores the rise of the Hohenzollern dynasty, the establishment of the Kingdom of Prussia, and the subsequent impact of Prussian militarism and administrative efficiency on the shaping of modern Germany. The museum also addresses the complex and often controversial aspects of Prussian history, including its role in wars, its social hierarchies, and its cultural contributions. By providing a nuanced and critical examination of Brandenburg-Prussian history, the HBPG invites visitors to engage with the region's past and its enduring relevance to contemporary issues.
Art Museums
Museum Barberini
The Museum Barberini, a relatively recent addition to Potsdam's cultural scene, has rapidly established itself as a significant art destination. Situated in a meticulously reconstructed Baroque palace, the museum presents a diverse spectrum of art spanning from Old Masters to contemporary pieces. A cornerstone of its collection is a remarkable assembly of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, largely drawn from the personal collection of its founder, Hasso Plattner. These works offer visitors a captivating journey through the evolution of modern art, highlighting the techniques, themes, and perspectives that shaped the movement. Beyond the permanent collection, the Barberini hosts a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions that explore specific artists, periods, or themes, drawing both national and international attention. The architecture of the building itself, a faithful recreation of a historic palace, adds to the overall aesthetic experience, creating a harmonious blend of art and architecture. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and guided tours designed to enhance visitors' understanding and appreciation of the art on display.
The MINSK Art House
Emerging as a vibrant hub for contemporary art, the MINSK Art House provides a platform for innovative and thought-provoking artistic expressions. While specific details regarding its permanent collection may be limited, it distinguishes itself through a commitment to showcasing cutting-edge and experimental works that challenge conventional artistic norms. The museum's curatorial approach often emphasizes interdisciplinary collaborations and encourages artists to engage with social and political issues, making it a space for dialogue and critical reflection. Visitors can expect to encounter a diverse range of media, including painting, sculpture, video, performance art, and installation, reflecting the multifaceted nature of contemporary artistic practice. The MINSK Art House is a must-visit for those seeking to engage with the forefront of artistic innovation and explore the evolving landscape of contemporary art.
Villa Schöningen
Villa Schöningen, an elegant Italian-style villa designed by Ludwig Persius in 1843, stands at a historically significant location near the Glienicke Bridge in Potsdam. Originally built for Kurd Wolfgang von Schöning, the chamberlain of Prince Carl of Prussia, this architectural gem has witnessed dramatic chapters of German history, particularly during the Cold War when it stood directly on the GDR's heavily guarded "death strip". Following German reunification, the neglected villa was rescued from potential demolition and meticulously restored by Mathias Döpfner and Leonhard Fischer, reopening as an exhibition venue in 2009. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage site houses rotating exhibitions of contemporary art alongside a permanent collection focused on the history of the famous "Bridge of Spies", where East-West spy exchanges took place. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped sculpture garden, enjoy the on-site café, and participate in various cultural events including jazz concerts, talks and guided tours, making it a compelling destination that artfully blends history, art and natural beauty.
Specialised Museums
Film Museum Potsdam
As a tribute to Potsdam's significant contribution to the world of cinema, the Film Museum stands as a beacon for film enthusiasts and scholars alike. The museum delves into the captivating history of German cinema, with a particular focus on Potsdam's role as a center for film production. Through its extensive collection of artifacts, including costumes, props, set designs, and filmmaking equipment, the museum offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process and the technical innovations that have shaped the industry. Visitors can explore the evolution of German film from its early beginnings to its present-day prominence, discovering the iconic directors, actors, and films that have defined its unique aesthetic. The Film Museum also hosts screenings, lectures, and workshops, providing a platform for film enthusiasts to engage with the art and craft of filmmaking.
Natural History Museum Potsdam
Set within the charming confines of a former estate house, the Natural History Museum offers a captivating exploration of Brandenburg's diverse and fascinating wildlife. Through its meticulously curated exhibits, the museum provides insights into the region's flora, fauna, and ecosystems. Visitors can encounter lifelike displays of native animals, from birds and mammals to reptiles and amphibians, learning about their habitats, behaviors, and ecological roles. A highlight of the museum is its aquarium, which showcases the diverse array of fish species that inhabit Brandenburg's rivers and lakes. The museum also addresses important issues related to conservation and environmental protection, raising awareness about the challenges facing Brandenburg's natural heritage and promoting sustainable practices. The Natural History Museum is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to connect with the natural world and learn about the importance of preserving biodiversity.
Local Cuisine
Potsdam offers a delightful culinary journey that reflects both its royal heritage and diverse cultural influences. The city's cuisine is deeply rooted in traditional Brandenburg cooking, where the potato features prominently in many dishes, including potato pancakes and Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup). Given the abundance of lakes and rivers in the region, fish dishes are particularly popular, with pike, walleye, eel and carp being local favourites. For a sweet treat, head to the Eismanufaktur on Brandenburger Straße for what many consider Potsdam's best ice cream. The Dutch Quarter offers a melting pot of flavours, from traditional German fare to international cuisine, including the Brandenburger Plaumenmuskuchen, a delicious plum cake that balances sweet and tart flavours. Visitors should also sample Bratwurst, the classic German sausage, and experience the hearty Eisbein. For those seeking vegetarian options, Potsdam has embraced the "green" movement with many restaurants using locally grown produce, and there's even a vegan café called good dEATs in the Dutch Quarter offering delectable plant-based treats.
Shopping
Potsdam offers diverse shopping experiences across its charming districts. The pedestrianised Brandenburger Straße serves as the main shopping street, featuring numerous shops and modern shopping malls housed in old inner courtyards. The Dutch Quarter (Holländisches Viertel) adjacent to the city centre hosts upscale boutiques, galleries and speciality shops. For local produce, the weekly markets at Bassinplatz and Weberplatz offer seasonal and regional specialities, including cherries from Werder, fresh fish from the river Havel, and asparagus from Beelitz. The Stern-Center provides a comprehensive shopping experience with 120 shops and eateries in a central location. For international foods, Potsdam has speciality shops like A Slice of Britain, Mr. Phung Asia Markt, and Rams Arabische Lebensmittel. Organic and sustainable shopping options include Lebensquell Biomarkt, BIO COMPANY, and zero-waste shops like Kathi & Käthe and maßVoll. Unique finds can be discovered at Möbelbörse for vintage treasures, Salvere for handmade soaps, and Captain Card for stationery and paper goods.
Nature in and around Potsdam
Potsdam offers a wealth of natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is surrounded by lush forests and picturesque waterways, providing ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching. Babelsberg Park, a 124-hectare landscaped garden, features winding paths, artificial lakes, and scenic viewpoints. The Havel River allows visitors to explore Potsdam's iconic landmarks by kayak, including glimpses of Sanssouci Palace and Marble Palace. Nature reserves around Potsdam, such as the Nuthe-Nieplitz Niederung and Döberitzer Heide, offer diverse ecosystems and excellent birdwatching opportunities. For a unique indoor nature experience, the Biosphäre in Volkspark Potsdam houses a tropical botanical garden with over 20,000 plants and exotic animals. Potsdam's extensive network of parks, including Sanssouci Park and the New Garden, form part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing a harmonious blend of landscaped gardens and natural beauty.
Getting There & Around
Potsdam, the charming capital of Brandenburg, is easily accessible by various modes of transport. If arriving by air, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) offers convenient connections via the hourly RB22 regional train or the BER2 airport shuttle bus, which costs €10 (or €9 for VBB season ticket holders). From Berlin, the S7 train runs every 10 minutes, taking approximately 35 minutes to reach Potsdam Hauptbahnhof, while the faster RE1 and RB23 regional trains complete the journey in about 25 minutes. Motorists can access Potsdam via the Berlin Ring motorway (A10), with specific exits depending on your direction of approach. Within the city, an efficient network of trams, buses and even ferries operates day and night, making it simple to explore Potsdam's magnificent palaces and gardens. For the environmentally conscious traveller, Potsdam is also connected to Berlin via scenic cycling paths, offering a delightful alternative during pleasant weather.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Potsdam is during the late spring, particularly from May to early June, or in early autumn, from September to October. These periods offer a delightful blend of pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In late spring, visitors can enjoy the blooming gardens of Sanssouci Park and the reawakening of the city's flora, whilst autumn treats travellers to picturesque foliage and various cultural events, including the Potsdam Palace Night. Both seasons precede or follow the peak tourist months, ensuring that attractions are less crowded and accommodation prices are more reasonable. The mild climate during these times allows for comfortable exploration of Potsdam's baroque architecture, historic palaces, and charming parks without the sweltering heat of summer or the chill of winter.
