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5 (22)

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Potsdam & Sanssouci: Private, Luxurious Taxi Tour

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Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo Experience Potsdam and Sanssouci on a private taxi tour, lasting 6-8 hours, with a local guide who has called Berlin home for over 20 years. This isn't just a tour; it's a personalized journey tailored to individual interests. Forget crowded bus tours; this experience offers a personal touch with plenty of information and stories. Customers get to decide what they want to see, skip, or spend more time on!

Explore Sanssouci Park, seeing not just a small section but landmarks like the Sanssouci Park Entrance Obelisks, Ruin Mountain (Ruinenberg), Sanssouci Palace, Historic Mill of Sanssouci, Orangery Palace, Dragon House (Drachenhaus), New Chambers (Neue Kammern), Picture Gallery (Bildergalerie), Sanssouci Vineyard and Fountain, and Peace Church (Friedenskirche). Customers can choose to visit Sanssouci Palace. The tour also includes other attractions like the New Palace, the Chinese House, or Charlottenhof Palace during a walk through the park (visits upon request).

Afterward, take a short drive to stroll through the Dutch Quarter and enjoy a drink at a nice cafe at Nauener Tor. The journey continues by car past other landmarks back to Berlin, revealing the Brandenburg Gate of Potsdam, Hunter's Gate & Nauen Gate, Nauener Tor, Dutch Quarter, Brandenburger Straße, Potsdam City Palace, St. Nicholas Church, Museum Barberini, Cecilienhof Palace, Panoramic Structures in Potsdam Parks, Russian Colony Alexandrowka, Babelsberg Palace and Glienicke Bridge (Bridge of Spies) Glienicke Palace. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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Personalized Experience: Enjoy a tour tailored to your interests with a local expert.

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Luxury Transportation: Travel in comfort in a private, air-conditioned luxury car.

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Comprehensive Sightseeing: See Potsdam's highlights, including Sanssouci Park and the Dutch Quarter.

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Convenient Pickup: Get picked up from your hotel or desired location in the city.

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers generally enjoyed the private and personalized nature of the tour, highlighting the knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation. However, some felt the organization and guide's engagement could be improved. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers loved having a private tour guide who knew a lot about the area's history.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many enjoyed the flexibility to customize the tour and see what they wanted.

    Positive Highlight Icon The luxury car made the experience feel special and comfortable.

    Positive Highlight Icon Travelers appreciated being picked up from their hotel.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some customers felt the tour could have been better organized.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few mentioned that the guide could have been more engaging.

The Journey

1

Sanssouci Park Entrance Obelisks

Step into Sanssouci Park through a portal of handcrafted obelisks, a whimsical attempt to bring the grandeur of Egypt to Brandenburg. These faux-hieroglyphic adorned structures, commissioned as the main entrance, offer a quirky, slightly flawed welcome to Frederick the Great's iconic estate. Admire the ambition and artistry, even if the 'hieroglyphs' are purely fantastical—a testament to the king's unique vision.

2

Ruin Mountain (Ruinenberg)

Discover the Ruinenberg, a deliberately constructed ruin designed to conceal the technical marvels feeding Sanssouci Palace's fountains. This artificial ruin, commissioned by the Prussian electors and kings, serves as both an eye-catching architectural folly and a clever disguise for the higher-lying pond and pumping mechanism, a testament to the blend of aesthetics and engineering of the time.

3

Sanssouci Palace

Retreat to Sanssouci Palace, Frederick the Great's intimate rococo residence perched atop a vineyard. With just eight rooms, this palace offered the king a sanctuary for intellectual discourse and artistic pursuits, entertaining the likes of Voltaire amidst lush gardens and flourishing vines. Experience the essence of Frederick's absolutist ideal in this personal haven, where philosophy, music, and wine converged.

4

Historic Mill of Sanssouci

Visit the historic mill of Sanssouci, a symbol of Prussian legal independence. This mill, preserved due to its owner's successful legal battle against the king, offers a unique blend of history and picturesque views of the park. Witness a tangible reminder of a constitutional victory and, if you're lucky, see grain being ground as it has been for centuries. Enjoy a great view of the park while learning about a David-versus-Goliath story.

5

Orangery Palace

Explore the Orangery Palace, a majestic structure housing exotic plants and offering stunning views of Sanssouci Park. Built to shelter the park's sensitive flora during winter, this Roman-inspired palace also serves as an architectural centerpiece, adding to the park's diverse collection of eye-catching structures. Enjoy the beauty of both nature and architecture in one impressive location.

6

Dragon House (Drachenhaus)

Delight in the whimsical charm of the Dragon House, originally built for the winegrowers of Potsdam's vineyard in the style of a Chinese pagoda. This architectural curiosity blends Chinese aesthetics with Prussian practicality, offering a unique sensory experience. Today, it houses a cafe where you can enjoy refreshments amidst the chinoiserie-inspired decor.

7

New Chambers (Neue Kammern)

Discover the New Chambers, a private palace designed to accommodate guests of Frederick the Great, ensuring their comfort while maintaining the intimacy of Sanssouci Palace. Though not quite as grand as the main residence, these chambers offered opulent accommodations, even featuring Voltaire as a guest, demonstrating the importance of hospitality and intellectual exchange at the Prussian court.

8

Picture Gallery (Bildergalerie)

Immerse yourself in art at the Picture Gallery, a dedicated museum built by Frederick the Great to house his extensive collection of paintings. Marvel at the masterpieces within these halls, where the king's discerning eye for art transformed a passion into a cultural treasure for all to admire.

9

Sanssouci Vineyard and Fountain

Experience the iconic "postcard view" of Sanssouci: the terraced vineyard leading up to the palace and the grand fountain below. Learn about the ingenious methods used to cultivate wine in the northern climate, including glass-covered vines, and explore the Ruinenberg, an artificial ruin concealing the fountain's water source. Witness the harmonious blend of landscape design, architectural ingenuity, and agricultural innovation that defines Sanssouci.

10

Peace Church (Friedenskirche)

Find serenity at the Peace Church, King Friedrich-Wilhelm IV's Italian-inspired sanctuary. Admire the campanile, a distinctly Italian bell tower, and the church's reflection in the surrounding pond. Discover the final resting place of the ruler, a peaceful retreat far from the bustling city of Berlin, within this tranquil and aesthetically beautiful setting.

11

Sanssouci Park

Wander through the sprawling expanse of Sanssouci Park, a meticulously designed landscape connecting Sanssouci Palace with the New Palace and encompassing numerous attractions. Explore hidden paths, discover small castles, Roman baths, and the Chinese Tea House, each adding to the park's rich tapestry of art, architecture, and natural beauty. Enjoy the seamless integration of nature and design that defines this remarkable landscape.

12

Chinese Tea House

Step into a world of chinoiserie at the Chinese Tea House, more than just a tea pavilion—it's an immersive experience into a fanciful interpretation of Chinese culture. Adorned with precious furniture, delicate Chinese porcelain, and lavish gold decorations, this gem invites visitors to indulge their senses in the exotic and opulent world of Mode Chinoise.

13

Roman Baths

Indulge in the romantic allure of the Roman Baths, a testament to the designers' passion for antiquity within Sanssouci Park. Commissioned by King Friedrich-Wilhelm IV, these baths were designed to evoke the splendor of ancient Rome, delighting the senses with their architectural beauty and imaginative recreation of classical bathing culture, even if actual bathing was infrequent.

14

Charlottenhof Palace

Visit Charlottenhof Palace, a royal residence for the crown prince and princess, offering a glimpse into the tastes of future monarchs. This expanded and converted house features an oriental-themed living room, complete with a sultan's tent, and a seductive garden tailored to the preferences of Crown Princess Elisabeth, including a hillock with fir trees reminiscent of her Bavarian homeland. Discover a personal touch within the grand landscape of Potsdam.

15

Friendship Temple

Seek out the intimate Friendship Temple, a small and inviting structure perfect for a private tête-à-tête. Adorned with thoughtful details, this temple served as a delightful destination for a short walk or a picnic. Experience the charm of this hidden gem, designed to offer a serene and secluded escape within the larger landscape of the parks.

16

New Palace

Behold the grandeur of the New Palace, a testament to Frederick the Great's desire to impress his relatives with its opulent design and staggering 600 rooms. Explore the apartments designed for royal relatives, including reception rooms, music rooms, and lavish bedrooms. Learn about the palace's history, from its original intent to its later use by Kaiser Wilhelm II, and appreciate the sheer scale and ambition of this remarkable royal residence.

17

Communs of the New Palace

Discover the 'Communs' of the New Palace, now home to the University of Potsdam. Originally designed to house servants, kitchens, and the palace guard, these buildings are interconnected by stunning arcades that form a vast courtyard with the palace. Explore this blend of academic and historical significance, where education thrives within the framework of Prussian history.

18

Mosque at the New Palace

Marvel at the Mosque near the New Palace, a fusion of modernity and exoticism. This oriental-style building, complete with a minaret, cleverly conceals a steam turbine chimney. The turbine once powered a mechanical elevator and produced electricity, and it showcases the 19th-century's fascination with both technological advancement and romanticized Eastern motifs.

19

Grotto

Explore the Grotto in Sanssouci Park, a quintessential element of 18th- and 19th-century pleasure gardens. Discover the refreshing waters and shady caves that made these grottoes popular attractions. Immerse yourself in the romantic ambiance of this varied and fascinating highlight, a must-see feature of the park's carefully designed landscape.

20

Brandenburg Gate of Potsdam

Visit the Brandenburg Gate of Potsdam, a classicist structure mirroring its more famous counterpart in Berlin. Serving as a gateway to the city from Brandenburg, this gate embodies the architectural style and historical significance of Potsdam. Take a moment to appreciate its understated elegance and symbolic importance as a passage through the city's past.

21

Hunter's Gate & Nauen Gate

Explore the Jägertor and Nauener Tor, two historic city gates that once led to Potsdam's hunting grounds and the town of Nauen, respectively. These gates offer a tangible connection to the city's past, marking the paths taken by electors and kings as they pursued their leisure and administrative duties in the surrounding lands.

22

Nauener Tor

Admire the Nauener Tor, Potsdam's most imposing city gate, built in the medieval Romanesque style. Its sheer size contrasts with Potsdam's typically smaller buildings, creating a striking visual landmark. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the square, filled with inviting cafes and restaurants, and experience the charm of this historic gateway.

23

Dutch Quarter

Stroll through the Dutch Quarter, a charming district built by Dutch canal builders brought to Potsdam by the Great Elector. Admire the traditional Dutch architecture, characterized by red-clinker buildings, and explore the small shops, craft stores, antique shops, bars, and cafes. Experience a slice of Holland in the heart of Potsdam and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that has even attracted royalty.

24

Brandenburger Straße

Wander along Brandenburger Straße, Potsdam's bustling main street and pedestrian zone. Admire the beautiful townhouses with their individual shops, and browse through the small department store with its Art Nouveau glass roof. Experience the city's blend of baroque architecture and modern commerce as you stroll through this lively and historically significant street.

25

Potsdam City Palace

Witness the resurrection of the Potsdam City Palace, a pearl of north-east German baroque that was destroyed during the socialist era. Rebuilt to its former glory, this palace now stands once again as the heart of the city. Explore the baroque splendor and the inner courtyard, now home to the Brandenburg state parliament, symbolizing the city's rebirth and democratic spirit.

26

St. Nicholas Church

Behold the striking presence of St. Nicholas Church, a prominent landmark that rises imposingly above the old town of Potsdam. Marvel at the dome, surrounded by colonnades, which soars proudly towards the sky. Be sure to plan a visit to admire the architectural details of this impressive church.

27

Museum Barberini

Explore the Museum Barberini, a meticulously reconstructed noble palace showcasing a remarkable art collection. Thanks to the support of patrons like Hasso Plattner, this former palace has been revived, offering a worthy home for both historical artifacts and stunning artworks. Immerse yourself in the blend of art, history, and philanthropy within this cultural gem.

28

Cecilienhof Palace

Venture slightly beyond Sanssouci Park to discover Cecilienhof Palace, the youngest of the Prussian palaces, built for Crown Prince Wilhelm and his wife Cecilie. Experience the blend of modern comfort and English country house charm that defined this early 20th-century residence. Explore the historic site of the 1945 Potsdam Conference, where Stalin, Truman, and Churchill shaped the post-war world, with the conference room preserved as it was during that pivotal event.

29

Panoramic Structures in Potsdam Parks

Seek out the various panoramic structures scattered throughout the palaces and gardens of Potsdam, commissioned by the royal builders to enhance the landscape. Decide for yourself whether to climb to the top and admire the views. These features serve as both aesthetic enhancements and vantage points, inviting you to discover the beauty of Potsdam's carefully designed landscape from different perspectives.

30

Russian Colony Alexandrowka

Visit the Russian Colony Alexandrowka, a unique settlement of high-rise log houses built for Russian immigrants. Learn about the history of this colony, established as a gift from the absolutist rulers and connected to the wedding celebration of a Russian princess. Discover the descendants of these original settlers who still reside in the picturesque village.

31

Babelsberg Palace

Explore Babelsberg Palace, an English-style castle with battlements and turrets. It was built for the Prussian crown prince, who later became Kaiser Wilhelm II. Ascend the medieval tower, a replica of the Eschenheim Tower in Frankfurt/Main, to discover the Kaiser's study and enjoy stunning views of Potsdam's palace landscape.

32

Glienicke Bridge (Bridge of Spies)

Cross the Glienicke Bridge, a bridge that resonates with history and espionage. Closed for 40 years as the border between West Berlin and the GDR, it served as a site for covert spy exchanges between the US and the Soviet Union. Relive the cloak-and-dagger tales that have made this bridge famous and inspired Hollywood films.

33

Glienicke Palace

Located on the Berlin side, Glienicke Palace is a must-see destination on the way to and from Potsdam. Explore the palace's beautiful patio overlooking the Tiefer See and Griebnitzsee. Discover the Italian-style architecture and the separate casino that once provided entertainment. Enjoy the serene beauty of the New Garden and Marble Palace across the lake, all part of this picturesque landscape.

Know Before You Go

This private tour includes pickup from your desired location in Berlin and covers both the taxi ride (with 7% VAT) and the city tour (with 19% VAT). Parking fees are also included. If you choose the option to visit Sanssouci Palace, the admission fee covering all castle tours is included. The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle. Gratuities and snacks are not included.

Hot Tip

Many reviewers suggest discussing your must-see locations with your guide beforehand to make the most of your personalized tour. Planning the route together ensures you cover everything that interests you.

From €149 Price

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