10. From Berlin: Royal Palaces & Gardens Private Black Van Tour
Start this fascinating tour with pickup at your hotel in Berlin. From there, you will be transported to the beautiful city of Potsdam to begin an 8-hour tour through an atmospheric city crammed full of history and cultural heritage. Whether it's the Prussian Royal Family or Cold War espionage that excites you most, you will not be disappointed.
Less than 1 hour from Berlin, Potsdam is a small city surrounded by picturesque landscapes, beautiful nature, abundant palaces, castles, and baroque architectural wonders. Led by an expert guide, explore the picturesque Potsdam and learn the stories behind the city’s spectacular façade.
You will visit Glienicker Brücke (Bridge), which crosses the River Havel and runs through the middle of the East/West division. There, hear exciting stories about the spies’ exchanges, undertaken by the allies 3 different times. Many other historic traces of the German division can still be found here as well. The tour will lead you through the former KGB headquarters, the unusual small colony of wooden houses built almost 200 years ago, and other highlights that expose the Soviet influence after the Second World War.
Next, visit the Dutch quarter, whose endless rows of red brick houses will remind you of Amsterdam. Potsdam is a city constructed from a patchwork of cultures. The New Garden was commissioned by King Frederick William II more than 200 years ago. After roaming this beautiful fairy-tale garden, the tour guide will lead you to Cecilienhof Palace, the location of the famous Potsdam Conference, built in 1916. There, walk through the very halls where Stalin, Truman, and Churchill negotiated after the war.
Perhaps one of the most visited places in Potsdam is the grave of Frederick the Great at Sanssoucci; situated at the top of a vineyard, it's a truly wonderful spot. You can also visit the other Prussian Royal Family graves at the awe-inspiring Peace Church. The spectacular design of the church is known to evoke spirituality even in those who do not believe. There is so much to see and hear about in this city. At the end of the tour, just sit back and relax as the tour guide transports you back to your hotel.