Charlottenburg Palace: A Prussian Jewel
Explore Berlin's largest palace: a journey through Prussian royalty, Baroque splendor, and tranquil gardens. A must-see landmark!
Charlottenburg Palace, located in the Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf borough of Berlin, is the city's largest and most significant palace, a testament to Prussian history and royal grandeur. Originally commissioned in 1695 by Sophie Charlotte, the wife of Friedrich III, as a summer retreat, it was initially known as Lietzenburg Palace. The palace has been expanded and remodeled over the years, incorporating both Baroque and Rococo styles. Visitors can explore the Old Palace (Alte Schloss) and the New Wing (Neuer Flügel), each offering a glimpse into different eras of Prussian royalty. The Old Palace features Baroque decorations, including the Porcelain Cabinet, which displays thousands of porcelain objects. The New Wing showcases the opulent Rococo State Apartments of Frederick the Great and the more modest Winter Chambers of Frederick William II. The Silver Vault displays stunning tableware of gold, silver, glass, and porcelain. The palace gardens, designed in 1697, provide a serene escape. Initially designed in the French Baroque style, they were later transformed into an English-style landscaped park. The gardens feature geometric designs, a carp pond, and a moat. Key features include the Belvedere Tea House, housing a collection of porcelain, and the Mausoleum, the final resting place of Queen Louise and other royals. Badly damaged during World War II, the palace has been meticulously reconstructed to its former glory. Today, Charlottenburg Palace stands as a symbol of Berlin's resilience and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
Local tips
- Purchase the Charlottenburg+ ticket for access to all attractions within the palace gardens, including the Old Palace, New Wing, Belvedere, Mausoleum and New Pavilion.
- Visit the palace gardens for free and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the baroque landscape.
- Consider visiting during the Advent season for the atmospheric Christmas market held at the palace.
- Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary between summer and winter.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
A brief summary to Charlottenburg Palace
- Spandauer Damm 10-22, Berlin, Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, 14059, DE
- +493319694200
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
Charlottenburg Palace is easily accessible via Berlin's efficient public transport system. Take the U7 U-Bahn line to Richard-Wagner-Platz or the U2 line to Sophie-Charlotte-Platz. From either station, it's a short walk to the palace grounds. Alternatively, several bus lines, including the 109, 309, and M45, stop at Luisenplatz/Schloss Charlottenburg, which is very close to the palace entrance. A single public transport fare within Berlin (AB zone) is typically around €3.50.
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Walking
From the S-Bahn station Westend, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to Charlottenburg Palace. Exit the station and follow the signs towards the palace. The walk takes you through pleasant residential streets. No costs are involved for walking.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Berlin. A taxi ride from central Berlin (e.g., Alexanderplatz) to Charlottenburg Palace typically costs between €15 and €25, depending on traffic. Parking is available, but can be limited. There are paid parking spaces for cars and buses. Expect to pay around €2-€3 per hour.
