Sanssouci Palace, the most visited attraction in Potsdam, is the highlight of any trip to the capital of Brandenburg. Here you will find comprehensive information about its history, architecture, most beautiful views, and key events. You will also find everything you need to know about tickets, opening hours, and travel information.
Plan your visit in advance and secure your ticket early to enjoy an unforgettable experience.
Sanssouci Palace: Key Information at a Glance
We have compiled detailed information for you about the palace, including its history, construction and architecture, images, event tips, ticket information, and opening hours. You will also find a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ). If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us.
History of Sanssouci Palace
A heated dispute played a role in the palace’s origin story. Discover further facts and background information about the construction of the palace in our detailed article on its history.
Construction and Architecture
Frederick the Great already knew that Potsdam was one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. The single-storey, elongated palace was originally intended as a summer residence for Frederick the Great (Frederick II). However, he spent most of the year there.
The design was inspired by a French maison de plaisance (pleasure palace). The palace is particularly famous for its south-facing garden façade — one of the most photographed views in Germany. The garden façade is crowned by a domed central pavilion and decorated with 36 sandstone herms created by Friedrich Christian Glume the Younger.
To the north, the Court of Honour adjoins the palace, framed by a semi-circular colonnade.
Further information:
➤ More about the construction and architecture of Sanssouci Palace
➤ More about the palace interiors
Images
Pictures speak louder than words. We have compiled a selection of images of Sanssouci Palace to give you a first impression of its beauty. However, no photograph can replace experiencing it in person — we promise.
Recommended Reading
The following publications provide deeper insights into Sanssouci Palace and Sanssouci Park:
Sanssouci Palace (Royal Palaces in Berlin, Potsdam and Brandenburg)
Sanssouci Palace is one of the most outstanding royal residences of the 18th century, as it was designed entirely according to Frederick II’s personal vision. Completed in 1747 under the direction of Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff after only two years of construction, the single-storey building follows the French pleasure palace tradition. The official publication of the palace foundation presents a comprehensive overview of the palace and offers fascinating insights into its history and architecture.
Frederick the Great’s vineyard palace and its surrounding park form an impressive Gesamtkunstwerk (total work of art), presented in this book through striking photography. Over more than 250 years, this green jewel has evolved from a private royal retreat into a globally admired World Heritage Site. The book highlights rare plants, romantic hedge cabinets, lush floral displays, nostalgic roses, impressive fountains, and much more.
Discovering Sanssouci: Excursions through Potsdam’s Most Beautiful Palace and Park Ensemble
Sanssouci is more than just Frederick the Great’s famous palace; it is an extensive park designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Author Frank Goyke guides readers through this world-renowned ensemble of garden art and palace architecture, presenting all accessible highlights, including Sanssouci Palace, the New Palace, Charlottenhof Palace, the New Chambers, the Picture Gallery, the Orangery Palace, the Roman Baths, the Chinese House, and the Church of Peace.
Events
Several wonderful events take place in Sanssouci Park throughout the year. Internationally renowned is the Potsdam Palace Night (Potsdamer Schlössernacht), held on two evenings in August. The concerts of the Music Festival Potsdam Sanssouci are also highly recommended.
Further information about Potsdam Palace Night is available here.
Tickets for Sanssouci Palace
There is currently no entrance fee for Sanssouci Park. However, visitors may choose to make a voluntary contribution to support the preservation and maintenance of the gardens.
Admission tickets are required for the palaces. Several ticket options are available, which we introduce in detail in the following article. Booking a guided tour is recommended to avoid waiting times and to gain valuable historical insights. Please check directly with the provider prior to your visit.
Opening Hours
The palace is open year-round. However, opening hours differ between summer and winter seasons, and special regulations apply on public holidays.
Getting There
We have compiled useful information to help you plan your journey, including how to reach Sanssouci Park and Sanssouci Palace in the most convenient way. Potsdam is easily accessible by almost all means of transport.
➤ Travel information and tips for visiting Potsdam
➤ Parking options near the palace and park
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Does the Sanssouci+ Ticket Work?
The Sanssouci+ combined ticket entitles you to one-time admission to all open palaces operated by the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg in Potsdam*, including Sanssouci Palace, on a single day.
➤ Further information about the Sanssouci+ Ticket and additional ticket options
Sanssouci+ Combined Ticket
(Visit to all* open palaces of the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg in Potsdam)
Where and How Can I Buy My Ticket?
Tickets are available from 10:00 a.m. on the day of your visit at the palace ticket office. As the number of admission tickets per day is limited, the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg strongly recommends purchasing tickets in advance via the online ticket shop.
What Are the Current Opening Hours?
Opening hours vary depending on the summer or winter season. You can find the most up-to-date information on the opening hours of Sanssouci Palace here.
Are There Accessible Entrances to the Palace? Sanssouci Palace
Sanssouci Palace and Sanssouci Park are partially accessible.
Further information on accessible entrances and facilities can be found on the website of the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg (SPSG).
What Is the Best Way to Get to Sanssouci Park? Sanssouci Park
Sanssouci Park is located in Potsdam, the capital of the federal state of Brandenburg, and is easily accessible by almost all modes of transport. You can reach Potsdam conveniently by car or by train from all directions.
Although travelling by car may seem practical at first, we recommend using public transport. Within the city, trams, buses, and ferries operate day and night, providing convenient access to the park.
We have compiled useful travel information to help you plan your journey.
If you have any further questions, our comprehensive FAQ section is available to you at any time.