Should You Visit Potsdam?

Is Potsdam worth visiting?

We loved visiting Potsdam and, yes, it's absolutely a city that any traveler should visit. By the end of our time here, it felt like a second home.

Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the fantastic museums and attractions and spectacular food.

It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in U.S. News Best Places to Visit in Germany.

Potsdam is located just a short distance from Berlin and it makes for a great day trip. There are convenient transportation options between the two cities. A highlight of a visit to Potsdam is exploring Sanssouci Palace which has gardens, fountains, and beautiful buildings that are fascinating to experience.

Potsdam Potsdam

5 Reasons to Visit Potsdam

1. Museums and Attractions

People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.

2. Food

You'll find a diverse restaurant scene, although the city is quite small. There are international restaurants as well as local venues where you can try regional specialties.

3. Nightlife

The city is not far from Berlin, so head in to Germany's nightlife capital for the most famous clubs and venues. In the town of Potsdam there are cocktail bars and breweries that make for a mellow and relaxed evening.

4. Shopping

There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

5. Authenticity

Potsdam has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.




Is Potsdam worth visiting in the Summer?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 19°C (66°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Potsdam, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat popular with travelers, and in the high season it's busier than usual.

You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. This is a great time of year to savor the small town atmosphere, wander through the museums, and grab some drinks at a bar.


Summer Weather in Potsdam
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
July 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
August 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
September 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)

Is Potsdam worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Potsdam. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 10°C (51°F).

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to admire the wonderful scenery, browse through museums, and explore the small town.


Autumn Weather in Potsdam
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
October 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
November 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
December 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)

Is Potsdam worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Potsdam. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The weather in Potsdam can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -0°C (31°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the cuisine, and the nightlife scene.


Winter Weather in Potsdam
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
January -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
February 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
March 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)

Is Potsdam worth visiting in the Spring?

The weather in Potsdam can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 9°C (48°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Potsdam, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

This is a great time of year to browse the shops, browse the museums, and admire the wonderful scenery. Also, you can check out the small town charm and the nightlife.


Spring Weather in Potsdam
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
April 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
June 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)

Related

What is Potsdam most famous for?

Potsdam is most famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin. The city is very popular for its museums and attractions and food. It's also known for nightlife and shopping. It is often described as historic, accessible, compact, and park-filled.


What is the most famous sight in Potsdam?

The most popular sight in Potsdam is The Sanssouci Palace. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Potsdam on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Sanssouci Palace and other attractions here.

How touristy is Potsdam? Is it a popular city to visit?

Potsdam is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)


  • In the Forbidden City - Potsdam Walking Tour: $21
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Sanssouci Park: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of the Garden's Landmarks: $9.99
  • Private Walking Tour of Potsdam and Sanssouci: $132
  • City and Palaces Tour Potsdam - Stadt- und Schloesserrundfahrt Potsdam: $26
  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Gems of Potsdam - Guided Walking Tour: $249
  • City Sightseeing Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21

How long should I spend in Potsdam?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Potsdam is one to two days. Since Potsdam has activities such as museums and attractions and dining, many visit for up to two days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Potsdam? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Potsdam?.

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