Arguably the most sought after weekend getaway destination outside Berlin is Potsdam. Only a 45 minute drive away at a distance of 36 kilometers south-west bordering the German capital, the picturesque historic town is dotted with innumerable parks and palaces, most notably the magnificent summer palace of Sanssouci. Often mentioned in the same breath as the iconic Chateau de Versailles, the palace was built by the Prussian king Frederick William I in 1747. The palaces and parks of Potsdam and areas extending up to Berlin-Zehlendorf are enlisted as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With over 1000 acres of parks and at least 150 buildings, most of which date back to the 18th and 19th century, it exudes a magisterial aura. Situated on the quaint Havel river and home to several heritage sites, Potsdam is one of the most imposing imperial cities you can lay your eyes on.