The city of Potsdam is the largest of the federal states of Brandenburg Germany. Located only a few minutes from the capital city of Berlin, Potsdam is full of history with grand historic palaces, gardens, and gates! Here’s a brief Potsdam travel guide for you.
Potsdam Travel Guide
The City of Gates
If you are staying in Berlin you can be in Potsdam in a few minutes, with it’s very efficient transport system. The train fare is a few euros per journey or you can purchase the Berlin Welcome Card which includes the transport for the duration of the pass.
Once in Potsdam, you can easily walk to the many palaces and gardens or you can hire a bicycle for the day or perhaps you would like to hear more on this historical city on-board the City Sightseeing Bus (there is also a discount with the Berlin Welcome Card).
Potsdam History
Explore the 300 years of history inside the Unesco World Culture Heritage sites, with the many Baroque creations and 17 palaces surrounded by opulent gardens which include The New Palace in Sanssouci Park, Cecilenhof, Marble Palace (Marmorpalais) and Charlottenhof.
Potsdam is also close by to the famous Babelsberg Film Studio, which is the oldest large scale film studio in the world. Where films such as V for Vendetta, Æon Flux, The Bourne Ultimatum, Valkyrie, Inglourious Basterds, Cloud Atlas, The Grand Budapest Hotel and Hunger Games were produced.
Not forgetting its historical quarters such as the Dutch Quarter which was built between 1733 – 1740 with its vibrant red bricks and the French Quarter which was badly damaged when the area was bombed in April 1945. Today the area has many shops, cafes and galleries.
Brandenburg Gate, Potsdam
The Brandenburg Gate in Potsdam was built earlier than the one in Berlin and was completed in the Neoclassical style in 1770.
After the seven years war the gate was built with joy and triumph on the order of Fredrick 11 of Prussia.
Hunter’s Gate, Potsdam
Jager Tor Gate is the smallest out of all the gates located in Potsdam. Built in 1733, it’s the oldest surviving Potsdamer Gate.
Nauen Gate Potsdam
Nauen Gate or Nauener Tor was built in 1755, is one of three preserved gates in Potsdam inspired by the English Gothic Rival architecture.
Like all old towns in Germany, Potsdam used to have a sturdy wall to protect the city and over time the architectural influences have changed along with its many gates.
It is a city with so much to offer including a number of accommodation possibilities available. Why not see more of this great country, Germany, by hiring a car to explore its many scenic roads, historic sites and schlosses (castles, palaces or stately homes)?
I hope this Potsdam travel guide inspired to visit the City of Gates. If you enjoyed reading, don’t forget to share. Happy Travels:) x