Sanssouci Palace, Potsdam
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Sanssouci Palace - by Sandip Roy on Unsplash
Description
The Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam was built in the mid-18th century as the summer palace of Prussian King Frederick the Great. The word "Sans Souci" means "without worries" or "carefree" which indicated it was meant to be a place of relaxation. During the 19th century, the German imperial family often stayed there until the fall of the dynasty in 1918. The Palace was designed in Rococo style with a single storey and uses a terraced vineyard to transition to the surrounding park / gardens.
Access & Transport
The Palace and Park are situated about 1.5km west of Potsdam city centre and can be reached by public transport. By bus 695, use the stop "Potsdam, Schloss Sanssouci" or "Orangerie" and by tram (91, 94, 98) at "Luisenplatz-Süd/Park Sanssouci" For those arriving by car, there are paid parking spaces (P1) near the Historic Windmill. From Berlin it is a 40' car or train ride (S7 and regional trains)
Instructions & Recommendations
In the summer, it is strongly recommended to book a timed ticket online before visiting to ensure availability of slots We suggest combining a visit there with the Sanssouci Park (refer to separate review)
Environmental & Social
Not data available regarding environment and social practices and policies. The gardens are a positive but not the energy consumption required to operate the palace. Preserves the city's and country's cultural and architectural heritages
Conclusion
Sanssouci Palace is often compared to Versailles and whilst it would have been a source of inspiration, it is also clear that it wasn't designed to symbolize power and be surrounded by an entire court. In that sense it is less stately and flamboyant, but it feels more like a luxurious residence and, although the city of Potsdam has grown around it, it has retained some of this distinctive atmosphere. We can only recommend a visit there, including as a day trip from Berlin for those pressed for time but there is enough in the city and its surrounding area to justify one or two nights stay.
Key positive
One of the best palaces in Germany
Sumptuous interior decoration and enjoyable gardens
Key negative
None
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but best for children aged 10 and above. Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:2h
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY -
TUESDAY10:00 - 17:30
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 17:30
THURSDAY10:00 - 17:30
FRIDAY10:00 - 17:30
SATURDAY10:00 - 17:30
SUNDAY10:00 - 17:30
Start of Season 2:Nov, 01
MONDAY -
TUESDAY10:00 - 16:30
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 16:30
THURSDAY10:00 - 16:30
FRIDAY10:00 - 16:30
SATURDAY10:00 - 16:30
SUNDAY10:00 - 16:30