Friedrichstadt – Little Amsterdam

Developed in the 17th century, Friedrichstadt is often called Little Amsterdam as it has so many canals and Dutch style homes. Designed in an unusual geometric style that was not seen in other German cities, it has broad streets which cross at right angles. Many of the houses were built on stakes or stilts as the ground was so boggy.

The city quickly became established with over 300 homes built during the first year of development, a huge achievement at that time. Just as in Venice or Amsterdam you can explore this city using the canal system. There are plenty of commercial trips or you choose to explore as an independent and rent either a boat or a canoe.

Markets And Squares In Friedrichstadt

There were two markets in Friedrichstadt. The Gendarmenmarkt and the Dönhoffplatz which was close to the former fortress of the city. A square plaza is planted with Linden trees and in each corner of the plaza is a different marble statue of famous Prussian generals. There is also the Rondell Plaza which is round and has been renamed several times after battles such as La Belle Alliance, a reference to the Battle of Waterloo.

The Gendarmenmarkt is considered to be one of the most wonderful squares in Europe. It has a theatre in the middle, two beautiful churches and each building that has been added to the plaza has been carefully designed and constructed to fit in with the original design.

Famous Landmarks And Museums At Friedrichstadt

One of the most famous landmarks at Friedrichstadt is Checkpoint Charlie where you could cross between East and West Berlin before the fall of the Wall. The museum Alte Münze is another example of beautiful Renaissance architecture and it now houses exhibitions that show you all about the city. You can learn about its history and religious diversity as well as the everyday life that was experienced in the past.

After The Reunification Of Germany

There was widespread damage to Friedrichstadt during the second world war and when the Berlin Wall was constructed right through the neighbourhood it also caused more destruction in the northern area of the city. In the western area of the city there were high rise blocks of apartments and in the eastern part construction was not started until the 1970s.

However after the reunification of Germany, the goal of the government was to rebuild the area in a way that was more sympathetic to its original roots. Even new buildings were designed with an historical style and the city has now regained its former pre war charm.

Friedrichstadt is a wonderful example of Renaissance architecture that has taken something of a beating but has now risen back to its original glory.

Accommodation Near Friedrichstadt

Hotel Aquarium, Ringhotel

This is a stylish hotel that is situated on a canal and very close to the coastline of the North Sea. The comfortable rooms are traditionally furnished with antique furniture and luxury bathrooms.

At the Hotel Aquarium, Ringhotel you will find a large indoor swimming pool, a sauna and a solarium. Eat your meal on the terrace or in the restaurant which serves regional and International dishes. This hotel is only 130 metres from the centre of the city and is ideal for visitors who want to explore Friedrichstadt which is renowned for its wonderful ambiance and architecture.

Appartements im Froschhaus

The Appartements im Froschhaus is ideal accommodation for families. There are two choices of room and the apartments are situated in an historic building with wooden floors and traditional features.

Situated just 60 metres from the centre of Friedrichstadt, if you stay here you will be in the heart of this historic city which has so many overtones of Amsterdam. Just a few minutes walk from many restaurants and bars, the apartments are also within easy walking distance of a supermarket. Free Wi-Fi and lovely views over the canal also feature in this superb accommodation in Friedrichstadt.

Hotel Pension Treenehof

A guest house set in in wonderful gardens, the Hotel Pension Treenehof delivers a daily free breakfast and all the rooms have a satellite TV and private bathroom. Wi-Fi is available upon request for a small fee.

There is a restaurant/cafe at the Hotel Pension Treenehof where you can choose from many dishes with meat or fish. Homemade cakes and soup are also served. There is a large garden with a children’s playground and plenty of room for sunbathing. Located 710 metres from the city centre, the hotel is on the canal and only 300 metres from the River Treene.

Travelling To Friedrichstadt

By Air

You can reach Friedrichstadt by flying into Hamburg and then take either the train or drive your car. The airport is 136 kilometres away and the motorway to use is the A23.

By Train

From Hamburg airport there is a train every 10 minutes to Hamburg-Ohlsdorf. Then change trains and go to Hamburg Hbf. Trains rung every 5 minutes to this main station. There is an hourly train to Berlin Hbf and you will then be about 1.6 kilometres from Friedrichstadt. The total journey time is 3 hours.

By Road

Leave Hamburg airport and take the motorway A24 to Berlin. Take the third exit A24 and continue heading for Berlin/Schwerin/Lübeck/Bremen. When you reach the interchange follow signs for Potsdam/Berlin. Continue on A24 until you see signs for A114 then take right lane for Berlin-Zentrum/Berlin-Pankow. Keep on A114 for approximately 6 kilometres then continue on B109 to Friedrichstadt.

Things To Do Close By To Friedrichstadt

Explore The Town By Boat Or Bike

There are many guided boat trips around the canals of Friedrichstadt but an alternative way to see around is to go cycling on the many special paths allocated for bike riders. The cycle paths are marked and two of the best are the Koldenbüttel-Treene bike path and the Frieling route. You can easily rent cycles from hotels and specialist bike shops.

A Special Event In The Summer

If you happen to be visiting Friedrichstadt when the Friedrichstädter Rosenträume (Queen of the Roses) festival is on it is a great event in which to to participate. There is good music and there are lots of markets where you can wander around and buy gifts or a present for yourself. Everywhere is decked out in roses and the area looks fabulous.

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