Often missed as tourists flock to nearby Berlin, Potsdam is a hidden gem. Rich with history, Potsdam is known for its 16 palaces (many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites), which is the highest number of palaces per inhabitant in Germany. It has a marvelous city center, green space galore, charming neighborhoods, and was also recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Film thanks to its rich history of cinematography and being home to one of the first silent movies in 1912. Here are four ideas for where to start your Potsdam adventure.

Explore the architecture of Potsdam’s city center

In Potsdam’s city center, you’ll find no shortage of impressive architecture. Visit the Nikolai Church, built in 1830 and known for its copper dome. It was badly damaged during World War II in a British air raid and by Soviet artillery, but restorations have made it like new. 

St. Peter and Paul Church is made of a lovely yellow brick and has a beautiful interior where visitors can find three paintings by the Baroque artist Antoine Pesne. It was originally designed to have two bell towers, but after the death of the first architect the design was changed to have one Italian-styled tower, despite the church’s other Byzantine and Romanesque aspects.

The Brandenburg Gate is a must-see, and it’s not the one in Berlin you’re thinking of. Potsdam’s Brandenburg Gate is both older and smaller, but no less impressive. It has two distinct architectural sides, one designed by a student and the other by his teacher.

The historic Schiffbauergasse, a downtown area where steamships were once built, is more than an old industrial lot. Today, it offers an incredible cultural scene with different concerts, dance venues, art galleries, restaurants, and the Hans Otto Theater. 

Explore Babelsberg Palace and Park 

On the banks of the Havel River sits a majestic English Gothic palace. It was originally built in 1833 for Emperor William I, who was at the time of construction still the prince of Prussia, as a summer palace and used as such for over fifty years. When he was appointed King of Prussia, Babelsberg Palace was expanded and was a central spot for social and political activity in Prussia.

Today visitors come to see the terraces and magnificent gardens, with active water features from April to October. The castle itself is an architectural marvel – stunning on both the inside and outside, and has a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

Forget your worries in the stunning Sanssouci Palace and Park

Let yourself be swept away in the majesty and splendor of the Sanssouci Palace. Literally translating from the French “without worries,” this charming castle was built in 1745 for Frederick the Great, King of Prussia. It was constructed in a Rococo style with six terraced vineyards and a sprawling garden, and deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. Both the palace itself and the garden are unmissable while in Potsdam.

Additionally, visit the nearby Bildergalerie, a museum full of the collected arts of Frederick the Great and the oldest preserved museum in all of Germany. Not only is the art stunning, but the architecture and interior design are delicately beautiful in accordance with the Rococo style.

Immerse yourself in the charming Dutch Quarter

For lovers of cute stores, pubs, restaurants, and cafes, the Holländisches Viertel, or Dutch Quarter, is the place to be. Constructed in 1742 for Dutch settlers in Potsdam, the district covers four squares and includes 150 red brick buildings. It is a cozy spot to spend a bit of quiet time while still remaining near to the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Close by you will find the Lindenstraße Memorial, which is a former prison that bears testimony to persecution and violence in Germany under the Nazis, the Soviets, and the Stasi. Exhibitions and tours are available.

Getting There 

By car, Potsdam is approximately 6.5 hours from Kaiserslautern and Stuttgart, and 5.5 hours from Wiesbaden. Check with Deutsche Bahn for train options.

Featured image by Nejdet Duzen / Shutterstock.com