While Berlin is an exciting city to be in on its own, just nearby are places equally as magical waiting for you to explore. If you have some time to spare and you want to go venture outside of Berlin, here are some places you can start at!
Potsdam
Just an hour away from central Berlin, explore one of Germany’s most famous former imperial cities, Potsdam, known for the beautiful parks and lakes. Explore the intriguing Dutch Quarter, Russian-influenced Alexandrovka and the UNESCO-listed stunning main attraction, Sanssouci Palace. With an impressive Chinese teahouse and glorious gardens, the palace will definitely take your breath away. The palace is located within Sanssouci Park where you can also find other features like Neptune’s Grotto and the Great Fountain with its iconic representations of the four elements and mythological figures.
Dresden
Stretching along the Elbe River, Dresden is one of Europe’s greatest Baroque cities and is located about two hours south of Berlin. Riverside palaces and churches galore, Dresden is also home to an impressive collection of historic artifacts and arts. Within Dresden Royal Palace, you can find Dresden State Art Collection where brilliant collections of fine and decorative art are housed. Take time to also explore the main squares, Theaterplatz and Schlossplatz and of course, the charming Old Town where you can find the historic allure of the city come alive!
Tropical Islands Resort
Want to have a little island getaway after exploring the exhilarating city of Berlin? Head on over to Tropical Islands Resort - a colossal paradise and the largest tropical-themed indoor pool in Europe just an hour away from Berlin. From free-roaming flamingos to carps swimming free in rock pools, this “island” getaway will definitely rejuvenate you! On the roof, you can find a lazy river, rooftop pools, run beds and even a tiki bar. Who could resist a tropical paradise even in the midst of exploring culturally rich Berlin?
Spreewald
An hour’s drive south of Berlin, you will find the UNESCO-listed and picturesque Spreewald is embellished with over 200 brilliant canals, meadows and forest. Explore traditional log houses hidden in the forest, meadows full of wildflowers and incredible networks of springs and rivers! Perfect for hiking, camping, boat trips and a little breath of fresh air, learn about the local flora and fauna and the history of the Sorbs and Wends, communities of local people who have been living in Spreewald since the sixth century.