Potsdam, City of Kings: Private Walking Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Potsdam was a city of kings – a German Versaille where the Hohenzollern monarchy of Prussia constructed lavish palaces in which they could spend their summers. It was also the setting for the Potsdam Conference, where geopolitical giants Josef Stalin, Harry Truman and Winston Churchill met in the summer of 1945 to seal the post-war fate of Germany and Europe.
This 6-hour walking tour takes you to the heart of Potsdam's UNESCO-listed palace gardens to experience the pomp and grandeur of Prussia and explore the origins of the Cold War. You professional, local guide will provide an in-depth commentary throughout and lead you through lavish gardens, past myriad architectural gems, over the 'Bridge of Spies', and much more. Please note that his tour does not include inside visits to Potsdam palaces. For palace interiors, we recommend our 8-hour private tour with dedicated time for visits.
Available options
Potsdam, City of Kings: Private Walking Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private local professional tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Climb through the tiered vineyard up to Frederick the Great's iconic summer palace, and visit the grave of Prussia's most famous monarch to learn how he became a legend. Palace admission will need to be booked prior to your visit – we're happy to help you organize your booking.
2
Stop 2
Stand where Truman, Churchill and Stalin stood, when they met to shape the fate of post-war Germany and Europe at the Potsdam Conference.
3
Stop 3
Cross the 'Bridge of Spies', from West Berlin into East Germany, where the US and USSR swapped captured agents during the Cold War.
4
See where Frederick the Great would entertain his summer guests when they picnicked in the grounds of the Sanssouci Gardens, and marvel at one of the first and finest examples of 18th century 'chinoiserie' in Germany.
5
Explore the private church of the Prussian monarchy, and descend into the crypts to visit the graves of Frederick William IV and his wife Elizabeth, queen of Prussia and former princess of Bavaria.
6
Stop 6
Gaze out over the Heiligen See (the 'Holy Lake') and take in stunning views of Frederick William II's Marble Palace.
7
Walk beneath the towering arch of Potsdam's Brandenburg Gate – built to celebrate the Prussian triumphs in the three Silesian Wars, and predating Berlin's Brandenburg Gate by roughly 20 years.
8
Wander through the close-set streets of picturesque, red-brick houses in the Dutch Quarter and learn how Dutch craftsmen were drawn to Potsdam in the early 18th century to contribute to the expansion of the then garrison town.
9
Pass beneath another of Potsdam former city gates, built to designs created by Frederick the Great and the first example of British Gothic Revivalist architecture appearing in Germany.
What's not included
Entrance fees
Public transportation tickets (approx. 9EUR per person to be paid on the spot)
Food & drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
PT
EN
ES
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues
Important notes
Please note that this tour does not include inside visits to Potsdam palaces. If you wish to visit any palace interiors, we recommend our 8-hour private tour, which includes dedicated time for palace visits. You can find more details and book here:
https://www.viator.com/tours/Berlin/Potsdam-City-of-Kings-Private-Tour-with-a-Vehicle-Palace-Entries-Included/d488-63772P39
Thank you for your understanding!
About Berlin
Berlin, Germany's capital and largest city, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic nightlife. The city's eclectic mix of modern and historic architecture, world-class museums, and thriving arts scene make it a must-visit destination in Europe.
Top Attractions
Brandenburg Gate
A neoclassical monument and one of Berlin's most iconic landmarks, the Brandenburg Gate was built in the 18th century and has been a symbol of the city's history and reunification.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery
The Berlin Wall Memorial and the East Side Gallery are important historical sites that commemorate the division of Berlin during the Cold War and the fall of the Wall in 1989.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Museum Island
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Museum Island is home to five world-renowned museums, including the Pergamon Museum, the Neues Museum, and the Alte Nationalgalerie.
Museum
Half-day to full day
€19 (Museum Island Day Ticket) or individual museum tickets
Reichstag Building
The Reichstag Building is the seat of the German Bundestag (parliament) and a symbol of German democracy. The glass dome on top offers panoramic views of the city.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (but advance registration is required)
Potsdamer Platz
Potsdamer Platz is a major public square and traffic intersection in the heart of Berlin. It is known for its modern architecture, shopping, and entertainment options.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining
Must-Try Local Dishes
Currywurst
A popular Berlin street food, currywurst is a sliced sausage served with a curry ketchup sauce and often topped with curry powder.
Snack
Contains pork, vegetarian and vegan options available
Boulette
A German-style meatball, usually served with potato salad or mashed potatoes and a creamy sauce.
Main Course
Contains beef or pork, vegetarian and vegan options available
Döner Kebab
A Turkish dish popularized in Berlin, consisting of seasoned meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in flatbread with vegetables and sauces.
Main Course
Contains meat, vegetarian and vegan options available
Berliner Pfannkuchen
A jelly-filled doughnut, similar to a Berlin-style donut, often eaten during Carnival season.
Dessert
Contains wheat, dairy, and egg, vegan options available
Popular Activities
Cycling
Hiking
Boat tours
Rock climbing
Spa and wellness
Picnicking in parks
Café hopping
Boat tours on the Spree River
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is lively with tourists and locals enjoying the summer weather.
20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
68°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: German
- Widely spoken: English, French, Turkish, Arabic, Russian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Berlin is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- • Keep your passport and valuables in a safe place, and carry a copy of your passport and important documents.
Getting there
By air
- Berlin Brandenburg Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center
By train
Berlin Hauptbahnhof
By bus
Berlin Central Bus Station (ZOB)
Getting around
Public transport
The U-Bahn is a fast and efficient way to get around Berlin, with 10 lines serving 173 stations. It operates from early morning to late at night.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Mitte
Kreuzberg
Prenzlauer Berg
Friedrichshain
Charlottenburg
Day trips
Potsdam
35 km (22 miles) from Berlin • Half-day to full day
Potsdam is a charming city near Berlin, known for its stunning palaces, parks, and lakes. It was the former residence of Prussian kings and German emperors and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Spreewald
100 km (62 miles) from Berlin • Full day
Spreewald is a picturesque region of forests, lakes, and canals, known for its traditional wooden houses, pickles, and gondola rides. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial
35 km (22 miles) from Berlin • Half-day
The Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial is a somber and important historical site, dedicated to the victims of the Nazi regime. The memorial includes the preserved camp buildings, a museum, and a memorial cemetery.
Festivals
Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) • February
Berlin Carnival of Cultures (Karneval der Kulturen) • Late May to early June
Berlin Festival • September
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in German, as it's appreciated by locals and can enhance your travel experience.
- Consider purchasing a Berlin WelcomeCard for unlimited public transportation and discounts at attractions.
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions.
- Visit Berlin's many parks and green spaces, which offer a peaceful and relaxing escape from the bustling city.
- Be open to trying new foods and culinary experiences, as Berlin's diverse food scene offers something for everyone.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
