One of Potsdam's greatest assets is its extensive, beautifully maintained parks and gardens, which can be visited completely free of charge. Topping the list is the famous Sanssouci Park, a true gem of Baroque garden art. Spanning nearly 300 hectares, the park offers miles of walking and biking paths that lead between fountains, sculptures and historic pavilions. Admission to the park is free, making it ideal for a day trip. It's a good idea to plan your route to see the main attractions, such as Sanssouci Palace (from the outside), the Chinese House and the New Palace.

For those looking for less crowded places, an excellent alternative is Babelsberg Park. This expansive English landscape park offers not only beautiful views of the Havel River and lakes, but also interesting architectural landmarks such as Babelsberg Palace and Flatow Tower. The park is ideal for long, relaxing walks or bike rides. Note the old, majestic trees that give the park its unique character.

Another place worth visiting is Volkspark Potsdam, a modern city park that combines elements of recreation and environmental education. It's a great place for families with children - you'll find playgrounds, sports fields and even a small zoo. The park is also a popular picnic spot among the local community, providing an opportunity to observe the daily life of Potsdam residents.

When comparing the three parks, it is worth noting their diversity. Sanssouci Park, with a rating of 4.7, offers the richest history and architecture, but can be crowded in high season. Babelsberg Park (rating 4.7) is just as beautiful, but less besieged by tourists, making it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Volkspark Potsdam (rating 4.5) is the youngest and most modern, offering the most activities for active recreation.

All of these parks are free year-round, although some attractions inside them may charge a fee. It's a good idea to take a map with you or use free travel apps so you don't miss the most interesting places. Also remember to bring water and snacks - spending a day in Potsdam's parks not only saves on admission tickets, but also on meals at restaurants.

Continuing our tour of Potsdam's green corners, we can't miss the New Garden, also known as the Neuer Garten. Established in the 18th century, this charming park offers a quieter atmosphere than the more famous Sanssouci Park. With a rating of 4.6, New Garden is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll along the shores of Lake Heiliger See. Look out for the Cecilienhof Palace, site of the historic Potsdam Conference, which can be viewed from the outside at no extra charge.

For lovers of botany and science, the Botanical Garden of Potsdam University should be a must-see. This place, although less known among tourists, offers a fascinating journey through the world of plants. With an impressive rating of 4.7, the botanical garden impresses with its variety of species and carefully designed plant compositions. Importantly for thrifty travelers, the outdoor part of the garden is available free of charge, and for a small fee (about 2 euros) you can visit the greenhouses with exotic plants.

Comparing the two places, it is worth noting that the New Garden offers more space and historical attractions, ideal for longer walks and picnics. The Botanical Garden, on the other hand, while smaller, provides a more educational experience and is perfect for those interested in nature and science. Both sites are easily accessible by foot or bicycle from the city center.

For those who want to combine sightseeing with physical activity, Potsdam offers an extensive network of bicycle paths. Consider renting a bicycle (often available at affordable prices) and discover the city on two wheels. The route around Potsdam's lakes is especially recommended - it combines beautiful views with the opportunity to visit various parks and gardens.

To get the most out of a day in Potsdam without straining your budget, it's a good idea to plan an itinerary that combines all the places mentioned. Starting from Sanssouci Park, you can bike or walk to the New Garden, then visit the Botanical Garden, and end the day with a relaxing visit to Volkspark Potsdam. Such an itinerary will allow you to see the most beautiful parts of the city, get active and at the same time save on transportation and entrance fees.

Keep in mind that most of these places are open all year round, but some attractions may have limited opening hours during the winter season. It's worth checking up-to-date information before visiting. In addition, taking your own provisions with you can significantly reduce the cost of a day trip. Many parks offer benches and picnic areas, making an outdoor meal an added attraction.

To get the most out of an active and budget-friendly visit to Potsdam, there are a few additional tips. First and foremost, consider purchasing the Potsdam Welcome Card, which offers free public transportation and discounts to many attractions. Although it requires an initial investment, it can pay for itself quickly, especially if you plan to stay for several days.

If you want to combine sightseeing with learning, be sure to visit Biosphäre Potsdam. This is a unique attraction with a 4.5 rating that offers a fascinating journey through different ecosystems. Although there is an admission fee (about 15 euros for adults), the educational value and the opportunity to spend a few hours in a tropical climate make this a worthwhile destination, especially in colder weather.

For those who prefer to explore wildlife, a great option is a trip to Sielmann Nature Park Döberitz Heath. It's a vast protected area, ideal for long hikes and wildlife watching. Admission is free, making it a great option for frugal travelers looking to get in touch with nature.

When comparing these places, it's worth noting that each offers a different kind of experience. Biosphäre Potsdam is ideal for families with children and exotic nature lovers, but requires an entrance fee. Döberitz Heath, on the other hand, is a paradise for hikers and wildlife lovers, completely free, but requiring more time and preparation.

To keep your lodging costs down as much as possible, consider options such as couchsurfing or youth hostels. Potsdam offers several affordable hostels, which are often in convenient locations for sightseeing. Alternatively, you can consider staying overnight in Berlin and getting to Potsdam by train, which can be cheaper, especially if you're only planning a day trip.

Keep in mind that many museums in Potsdam offer free entry on certain days of the month or hours. It's worth checking this information before planning your visit. In addition, some attractions, such as palaces, can be visited from the outside at no charge, allowing you to save money while admiring the architecture.

For active travelers, Potsdam offers many water sports opportunities on the surrounding lakes. In the summer, affordable canoe or pedal boat rentals can be found, providing a great alternative to traditional sightseeing.

All in all, Potsdam offers plenty of opportunities for active and budget sightseeing. The key to a successful and economical trip is good planning, taking advantage of free attractions such as parks and gardens, and taking advantage of options such as tourist cards and cheap accommodations. Remember that the most beautiful sights and experiences in Potsdam are often available for free - all you need is a good pair of shoes and a willingness to explore this fascinating city.