Wander around Schloss Charlottenburg (Charlottenburg Palace) and take in the beauty and opulence of royal living.
The palace was originally built as the summer residence for Queen Charlotte of Prussia at the end of the 17th century. Like many buildings in the city, it was almost destroyed during World War II, but the stunning baroque and rococo architecture has been restored back to its former glory.
Enter under a duelling battle caught frozen in time between the two swordsmen standing atop the main gates. Then look up to see the huge 48-metre-high cupola, holding the gilded statue of Fortuna.
The palace itself has a number of chambers and rooms to explore, from the Reception Chamber, with its vaulted walls and exquisite tapestries, to the Porcelain Chamber, with its range of exotic oriental ceramics. To get the best out of the trip, audio guides are available (included in the admission charge) which will give you an insight into areas such as the private apartments in the New Wing, which also serve as an art museum.
Relax with a walk in the Schinkel Pavillion, an Italian-style summer villa, holding classic art from the 1800s. For a bite to eat, head to the Kleine Orangerie restaurant, next to the palace, or, if you like to enjoy classical music with your food, book into the larger Grosse Orangerie to see a concert performed by musicians dressed in baroque costumes.
The palace gardens are free to the public, so take a stroll through the 320,000-square-metre parkland, inspired by the grounds at the Palace of Versailles in France.
Schloss Charlottenburg is a 15-minute walk from nearby U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations.
