Sanssouci Palace Is The Little Palace I Loved Near Berlin

Sanssouci Palace may be small, but its impact is undeniable. Once a cherished retreat for Friedrich the Great, this stunning palace is just a short day trip from Berlin—and it exceeded all my expectations with its intricate decor and thoughtful design, all done by Friedrich himself.

With only 10 main rooms, exploring the palace won’t take up your entire day, but each room is a masterpiece of elegance. And a visit to Potsdam isn’t really a visit if you don’t see see Sanssouci.

One of the best daytrips from Berlin, Germany is out to Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam:

Basic Info
Simplicity with Friedrich the Great
A Personal Refuge
A Living Legacy
- Marble Hall
- Small Gallery
- A Bedroom Suite
- Guest Rooms
- The Voltaire Room
Friedrich’s Final Resting Place

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Basic Info

Address: Maulbeerallee, Potsdam, Germany 14469 DE
Hours: January – March: Tuesdays – Sundays: 10:00am ~ 4:30pm; April – October: Tuesdays – Sundays: 9:00am ~ 5:30pm; November – December: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00am ~ 4:30pm
Admission: €19.00

Simplicity with Friedrich the Great

Friedrich the Great was known for his modesty and famously said, “A crown is merely a hat that lets the rain in.” His leadership of Prussia in the 18th century reflected his preference for simplicity over extravagance.

Sanssouci became the physical representation of this philosophy, offering Friedrich a space where he could step away from the demands of governance. Small by royal standards, Friedrich kept it to the point and modest at just 12 rooms.

Did you know: Sanssouci means “without care” or “carefree”.

A Personal Refuge

Sanssouci was constructed on a small hill with vineyard terraces, offering Friedrich a private sanctuary where he could relax with his beloved dogs.

Friedrich actually sketched this palace in 1745 and really accepted no changes from the architect. It was meant to be small and just for him without any pomp and circumstance.

Though of course, the decor is still very intricate, golden, and stunning and is the example of Frederician Rococo you’ll want to take in. Definitely take your walk through the interior and on the grounds slow to appreciate every little detail.

He avoided making major repairs to the palace, stating it “should only last my lifetime.” Despite this, the palace and its grounds have stood the test of time thankfully so that visitors like me can walk through the gorgeous corridors taking it all in.

Fun Fact: Potsdam is Germany’s largest World Heritage Site and Sanssouci it its centerpiece.

A Living Legacy

The palace’s original furnishings and elegant design remain intact, providing a glimpse into the lifestyle of Friedrich’s era.

Marble Hall

The ballroom of the palace was the principal reception room and was the setting for celebrations. The Pantheon in Rome was the inspiration for the dome and opening that let in light from above. There are 8 pairs of Corinthian columns made of marble and gilded bases.

The ceiling is beautiful gilded stucco. You’ll want to spin around and around and look up at each arch and area to see the various emblems and medallions.

Small Gallery

After walking through the beautiful vestibule, take your time walking through a long narrow hall that features artworks from the floor to the ceiling.

One of my favorite things about visiting old European castles and homes is how they hung amazing artworks the entire way up the walls. There’s so much to see with each step.

A Bedroom Suite

The royal apartment has three of five rooms that are in an enfilade, meaning they are lined up to form a full suite. There is an audience and dining room, concert room, and bedroom and study. Due to the size, most rooms served multiple functions.

Guest Rooms

After Fredrich’s rooms, there are a number of guest rooms each with their own unique design and flair. Though this was the King’s very private residence, there were some close friends invited to visit and stay.

The Voltaire Room

This room was very memorable with its yellow lacquered walls and wood carving that featured birds, flowers, and fruit that never never seemed to repeat so look at each panel to see what you can see.

Fun Fact: Also called the “Flower Room”, this room was named after the French philosopher who was a frequent visitor to Sanssouci.

Friedrich’s Final Resting Place

Although Friedrich wished to be buried at Sanssouci alongside his dogs, this request was not fulfilled until 1991.

Today, his remains rest in a crypt on the highest terrace of the vineyard, where he is surrounded by the peaceful environment he loved.

Explore the palace’s intimate rooms, stroll through the gardens, and experience the serenity Friedrich envisioned. It’s gorgeous and the site that allows you to say you visited Potsdam.

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