Potsdam's bell gables and brick buildings were built to help Dutch artisans in the 18th century feel at home and even today still characterise the feel of the compact town centre, which is a great place for shopping.

Gift from the 18th century
Many of Potsdam's diverse range of buildings and architectural styles were perfect copies created by its famous master architects, including the Dutch quarter also known as "Little Amsterdam". Its appeal lies in the many little shops which, weather-permitting, display their wares on the pavements. Potsdam's traditional shopping courtyards are also located nearby.

Potsdam's palaces and gardens are among the most beautiful places to visit. Palaces such as Sanssouci and Babelsberg, Cecilienhof and the New Palace are striking reminders of Potsdam's role in German history. The historical districts such as the Russian colony of Alexandrovka, the weavers' quarter and the Dutch quarter give Potsdam a real European feel.

Potsdam's museum scene is dominated by the Prussian royal palaces. The House of Brandenburg and Prussian History and the Potsdam Museum provide insights into the history of Prussia and Potsdam. The Film Museum's collection documents the history of the Babelsberg film studios UFA and DEFA.