Things to do in Potsdam
Discover the best attractions and experiences Potsdam has to offer
Historic Monuments
Potsdam is rich with royal estates and imperial-era landmarks set in expansive parks.
Sanssouci Palace
The rococo-style summer residence of Frederick the Great, surrounded by meticulously terraced gardens.
Neues Palais
A grand 18th-century palace at the western edge of Sanssouci Park with opulent interiors.
Charlottenhof Palace
A neoclassical villa within the Sanssouci grounds known for its serene setting.
Museums
Art, history and film heritage mirror Potsdam’s royal past and cinematic present.
Museum Barberini
A modern art museum housed in a glass cube, featuring rotating exhibitions.
Stadtmuseum Potsdam
The city museum offering insights into Potsdam’s local history and culture.
Filmmuseum Potsdam
A museum dedicated to the history of film and the Potsdam-Babelsberg studios.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites reflect Potsdam’s diverse religious heritage.
St. Nikolai Church (Potsdam)
A historic church on the Alter Markt with a classic facade and interior.
Alexander-Newski-Kirche (Alexandrowka)
A Russian Orthodox church built for the Alexandrowka colony, notable for its onion domes.
National & Theme Parks
Green spaces and grand estates define Potsdam’s outdoors.
Sanssouci Park
A vast historic park surrounding the palace, ideal for leisurely walks and picnics.
Babelsberg Park
A picturesque landscape garden with sweeping avenues and river views.
Filmpark Babelsberg
A family-friendly theme park celebrating film and television with live shows.
Neighborhoods
Quaint districts give Potsdam its distinctive character.
Holländisches Viertel (Dutch Quarter)
A charming enclave of brick houses, canals, and cozy cafes with a distinctly Dutch flair.
Alexandrowka (Russian Colony)
A historic neighborhood built for Russian settlers, notable for its wooden architecture.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Potsdam without spending a euro by exploring public spaces and views.
Sanssouci Park grounds walk
Stroll through the expansive grounds and admire the exterior views of the palaces.
Havel River promenade
Walk along the scenic riverfront and enjoy the tranquil views.
Alter Markt exploration
Roam the historic square with colorful facades, fountains and lively atmosphere.
Gastronomy
Taste Brandenburg flavors and seasonal specialties.
Potsdamer Weihnachtsmarkt
Seasonal market offering crafts, snacks and festive ambience in the city center.
Dutch Quarter food stroll
A relaxed walk sampling local bites and pastries in a historic, picturesque district.
Nightlife
Evenings in Potsdam offer cozy bars and live performances.
Hans-Otto-Theater Potsdam
A local venue with plays, concerts and captivating performances.
Schiffbauergasse culture quarter
Riverside area with bars, venues and regular live events.
Entertainment
Film history and theater collide in Potsdam’s cultural scene.
Filmpark Babelsberg
A film-themed park with attractions and live shows inspired by cinema.
Kino im Filmmuseum Potsdam
A cinema venue offering curated screenings and related exhibitions.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy Potsdam's waters and trails.
Boat tour on the Havel River
Relaxing boat trips to view Potsdam’s waterways from the water.
Cycling along Sanssouci Park trails
Bike paths weaving through the palace gardens and green spaces.
Off the Track
Unusual and lesser-known spots to explore.
Pfaueninsel (Peacock Island)
Scenic island with a small palace and nature-rich grounds, ideal for a day trip.
Glienicker Brücke (Glienicke Bridge)
Historic bridge famed for Cold War exchanges and scenic river views.