Discover Potsdam's Pristine Palaces and Parks

Affordable adventure awaits in Potsdam, Germany!

21 June 2023

With its stunning palaces, gardens and lakes, Potsdam is a must-visit destination for budget-conscious travellers. Visitors can take advantage of free admission days to explore the stunning Sanssouci Palace and Park, the tranquil New Garden and the picturesque Babelsberg Park. For affordable dining options, locals recommend the traditional German cuisine offered at Wirtshaus am Templiner See and Griebnitzsee restaurants.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Palaces and Parks in Potsdam

  • Start your day with a walk through Sanssouci Park, a stunning landscape garden featuring fountains, sculptures, and historic ruins.
  • Visit the Sanssouci Palace, former summer residence of Frederick the Great, and stroll through its terraced vineyards.
  • Head to the New Palace, a grand baroque-style building with a vast colonnaded courtyard, and explore its opulent rooms and galleries.
  • Have lunch at the charming Cafe & Restaurant Drachenhaus, surrounded by lush gardens and serving delicious German cuisine.
  • After lunch, take a guided tour of the Cecilienhof Palace, the site of the Potsdam Conference where the post-World War II peace agreements were signed.
  • End the day at the Alexandrowka, a Russian colony of wooden houses and a Russian Orthodox chapel surrounded by woodland. Enjoy a peaceful stroll and admire the architecture.
  • Potsdam offers visitors a unique combination of history, nature and architecture, making it a perfect day trip destination from Berlin.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Potsdam by plane is to fly to Berlin Tegel Airport, which is about 30 km away or Berlin Schönefeld Airport, which is about 40 km away. From there, take a train or bus to Potsdam.

Car

The best way to get to Potsdam by car is to take the A115 motorway from Berlin to Potsdam, which takes about 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Train

The best way to get to Potsdam by train is to take a regional train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof or Berlin Zoologischer Garten to Potsdam Hauptbahnhof, which takes about 30 minutes.

Boat

The best way to get to Potsdam by boat is to take a scenic boat tour from Berlin to Potsdam along the River Havel, which takes about 4 hours.

Bus

The best way to get to Potsdam by bus is to take bus 316 or 643 from Berlin ZOB bus station to Potsdam, which takes about 40 minutes.

More travel plans

5 Days of Fun and History in Picturesque Potsdam

Potsdam, situated just outside of Berlin, offers a plethora of attractions and historical sights that can be explored on a limited budget. Visitors can walk through the beautiful Sanssouci palace grounds, take a free guided tour of the historic Dutch Quarter or visit the Brandenburg Gate for a stunning view of Potsdam's city centre. Budget accommodations such as hostels and guesthouses can make staying in Potsdam affordable.

Potsdam: A Family Adventure of Palaces, Art, and Nature

Potsdam, Germany offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip with its rich history and beautiful landscapes. Explore the magnificent palaces and gardens of Sanssouci Park, where children can run freely and parents can marvel at the exquisite architecture. Engage in educational activities at the interactive museum, Extavium, offering a hands-on experience for kids of all ages.

Potsdam Delights: A Magnificent Day of Royal Wonders

Potsdam, located just outside of Berlin, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip with its rich history and beautiful parks. Explore the world-famous Sanssouci Palace, the former summer residence of Frederick the Great, where kids can marvel at the stunning gardens and grand architecture. Don't miss the Babelsberg Park, perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll, and visit the Filmpark Babelsberg, a theme park where children can immerse themselves in the world of film and television.

Potsdam's Royal Treasures: A Day of Romance

A romantic trip to Potsdam, Germany offers a perfect mix of culture, nature and relaxation. Walking through the vast gardens of Sanssouci Palace, visiting historic landmarks such as the Bridge of Spies, and enjoying a candle-lit dinner at a local restaurant are just some of the experiences that make Potsdam an ideal destination for couples. To add to the romance, a boat ride on the picturesque Lake Wannsee with a bottle of German Riesling is a must.