Schloss Charlottenburg

Experience the opulence, artistry and craftsmanship of royal times at the Schloss Charlottenburg (Charlottenburg Palace). Originally intended as the summer residence for Queen Charlotte of Prussia, the Old Palace was built at the end of the 17th century and is a stunning example of baroque and rococo architecture. Although they were almost completely destroyed at the end of World War II, the palace buildings and gardens are now meticulously restored. Enter through the main gates, passing beneath the statues of dueling swordsmen, frozen mid-fight upon each pillar. Have your camera ready to photograph the gilded statue of Fortuna, which crowns the soaring 157-foot (48-meter) high cupola.Inside, explore the palace’s many chambers, such as the Reception Chamber, with its vaulted ceilings and ornate tapestries. Oriental ceramics feature in the Porcelain Chamber. Listen to the audio tour (included with admission) as you tour the opulent private apartments in the New Wing, which is also an art museum. Don’t miss a walk through the Schinkel Pavillon, an Italian-style summer villa, which houses artworks from the 1800s. Enjoy refreshments in the Kleine Orangerie restaurant, next to the palace, or book a seat in the larger Grosse Orangerie to see a classical music concert performed by musicians dressed in baroque costume.There is no cost to explore the palace gardens, an 80-acre (32-hectare) parkland inspired by the grounds at the Palace of Versailles in France. Schloss Charlottenburg is about a 15-minute walk from nearby U-Bahn and S-Bahn train stations.