Potsdam, the capital of Brandenburg state in Germany, is a historic city full of gardens near Berlin.
Potsdam Facts
Potsdam is an island surrounded by lakes, with the Havel River running through town. This green city has several "palace gardens" making it one-half parklike green space. Five hills and fourteen palaces dot the landscape. Part of the former East Germany, Potsdam is now a very desirable place to live, and indeed the most expensive city in the former East Germany. The city was founded as a military base for the Prussian army, and later served as a military stronghold for the Soviets.
Proximity to Berlin
In addition to being a destination in its own right, Potsdam is a suburb of Germany's cosmopolitan capital, Berlin. An easy and inexpensive twenty minute train ride takes visitors directly into Berlin's city center. Alternatively, one can board a boat which will arrive in Berlin via a scenic journey that lasts about 3-4 hours. Both cities have extensive and reliable public transportation, and you can purchase a day pass that is good for both Potsdam and Berlin until three a.m.Potsdam Sights
Potsdam culture is inextricably linked with Russian, Dutch and English influences, with several UNESCO World Heritage sites. Highlights include the Cecilienhof (where Stalin, Churchill and Truman met at the end of World War II), Park Sanssouci (nearly as large as Central Park, with three palaces), the Dutch Quarter (Netherlands-inspired architecture housing cafés and pubs), and Charlottenhof Palace (with its original early 19th century furniture and decor).
Potsdam and War
Until recently, much of Potsdam was once inaccessible to Westerners (and even Potsdammers). Affording panoramic views, the Italianate Belvedere auf dem Pfingstberg in the Neuer Garten was once accessible only to Soviet soldiers who covered it with graffiti. From this newly restored landmark, one can see the Gliencke, a bridge where spies were exchanged. Nearby, the scenic Brauhaus restaurant has a children's playground; this area was part of the free-fire, no-man's-land outside the Berlin wall.
Potsdam Hotels
Potsdam hotels profiled include the historic Cecilienhof, the romantic Hotel Bayerisches House, the very modern Dorint, and the charmingly comfortable Hotel Jaegertor.
