Charlottenburg Palace: A Prussian Jewel in Berlin

Charlottenburg Palace, Berlin's finest example of Prussian architecture, is a top tourist destination with a rich history tied to German royalty. The palace began as a modest country house in 1695, commissioned by Sophie Charlotte, the wife of Elector Frederick III. Despite the death of its original architect, Johann Arnold Nering, the work was completed by successors, including Johann Eosander Göthe, who contributed the central façade's projecting element and the iconic 50-meter-high dome.

The palace expanded over the years, with the addition of the Orangery in 1712, the New Wing in 1746, and later a theater and the Belvedere teahouse. It hosted grand events during the reigns of various monarchs and was meticulously restored after World War II damage, including the replacement of the golden Fortuna statue atop the dome.

Visitors can explore the palace's main attractions individually, with options for separate admissions or a comprehensive pass. For those needing transportation, car rentals are available at competitive rates.

The New Wing (Neuer Flügel)

The New Wing houses the Historic Apartments, showcasing royal living quarters restored to their original splendor. Notable rooms include Frederick I's bedroom and study, Sophie Charlotte's audience chamber, and the Palace Chapel. The Oak Gallery and State Dining Room are also highlights, with the latter's stucco walls and the Golden Gallery's gilded stucco decorations.

Address: Charlottenburg Palace - Neuer Flügel, Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin

Official site: www.spsg.de/en/palaces-gardens/object/charlottenburg-palace-new-wing/

The Old Palace (Altes Schloss)

The Old Palace features Baroque rooms like the Porcelain Cabinet, with a significant porcelain collection and royal treasures. Audio guides and guided tours are available.

Address: Altes Schloss, Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin

Official site: www.spsg.de/en/palaces-gardens/object/charlottenburg-palace-old-palace/

Charlottenburg Palace Park

The park, free to the public, was designed in the French style and later converted to an English landscape garden. It features the New Pavilion, the Belvedere Teahouse, and the Mausoleum with royal sarcophagi.

Address: Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin

Official site: www.spsg.de/en/palaces-gardens/object/charlottenburg-palace-gardens/

The Grand Courtyard

The Grand Courtyard is home to the statue of the Great Elector, Frederick William of Brandenburg, a Baroque masterpiece by Andreas Schlüter, honoring the founder of Brandenburg and Prussia.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Charlottenburg Palace

English language tours, including audio guides and private themed tours, are available. For a luxurious experience, consider the Evening at Charlottenburg Palace Dinner and Concert tour package, which includes a palace tour, candlelight dinner, and a classical music performance.

Access:

• Wheelchair access is limited to the ground floors of the Old Palace and Charlottenburg Palace.
• Boat tours are also a popular way to see the palace.

Getting to Charlottenburg Palace

• On Foot: The palace is within walking distance of central Berlin at Spandauer Damm 10-22.
• By Public Transit: Accessible by bus, U-Bahn (Sophie-Charlotte-Platz station), and train (Berlin Central Station).
• By Road: Parking is limited; consider using public transit or valet services.

Address

• Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin
• Official site: www.spsg.de/en/home/

What's Nearby?

Charlottenburg Palace is near the Brohan and Berggruen Museums, the Berlin Olympic Stadium, and the bustling Kurfürstendamm shopping street, with its array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.