Can you take photos inside Sanssouci Palace?

The short answer: yes, personal non-flash photographs are allowed in most rooms. Tripods, selfie sticks and flash are not, and the rules are posted at the entrance to each room, so read the sign before you raise the phone. SPSG has historically sold a photo permit; check on the day whether one is still required at the counter. Outside, on the terraces and in the park, photograph whatever you like.

Inside, no flashAllowed in most rooms

Tripods, selfie sticksNot allowed

FlashNot allowed

Photo permitAsk at the counter on the day

Park and terracesNo restrictions

Where the good pictures are

Inside, the Marble Hall with the south windows behind it, if you can wait for the gap between groups, and the circular library, which is small and dark and rewards patience. Outside, stand at the Great Fountain and shoot up the six terraces to the façade in the late afternoon, when the light is on the yellow; mid September to late October is the best of it, as I argue on the best time to visit. The 36 sandstone figures on the south front are worth a long lens.

Insider tip

Felt overshoes and a phone held at arm’s length in the Marble Hall is how people fall over. Take the picture standing still, then move. And put the bag in the lockers first; large backpacks do not go into the rooms.

The rooms you will want to shoot

The order is fixed, so know what is coming: vestibule, Marble Hall, then east through the king’s apartment to the library, back along the gallery, and west through the guest rooms to the Voltaire Room. There is no return, so the Marble Hall picture is taken on the way in or not at all. The full walk is on what to see inside.

Book the quiet slot for the pictures

The 10:00 slot is the one with empty rooms. Live availability for the day ticket below.

Check availability & book

Frequently asked questions

Is photography allowed in Sanssouci Palace?

Personal non-flash photography in most rooms, yes. No tripods, selfie sticks or flash, and the rules are posted at each room entrance. Ask at the counter whether a photo permit is still required. Ticket details on the tickets page.

Can I use a selfie stick in Sanssouci?

No, not inside. Selfie sticks and tripods are banned in the rooms. In the park and on the terraces they are fine. See the park page for the best outdoor spots.

Where is the best photo of Sanssouci from?

The Great Fountain, looking up the vineyard terraces to the façade, in afternoon light. Inside, the Marble Hall on a 10:00 slot. Timing on the best time to visit.