Park Sanssouci remains inaccessible
In a recent development, the State of Brandenburg has announced its intention to take over the maintenance of Park Sanssouci and the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation from the city of Berlin, starting from 2026 [1][2]. This move comes as the city aims to save 800,000 euros annually from the 2026 fiscal year onwards [2].
However, the debate over whether the entrance to Park Sanssouci, a UNESCO World Heritage site, should remain free or not, continues to be a topic of discussion. A city survey conducted in 2023 found that 57% of the 1,780 respondents were against the introduction of an entrance fee [4]. This survey was in response to the possibility of an entrance fee due to the city's decision [1].
At present, visitors to Park Sanssouci and Sanssouci Palace can enjoy their visit with a single ticket priced at 14 euros (regular) or 10 euros (reduced) [1][2]. These tickets come with fixed time slots and can be purchased online, at palace registers, and at visitor centers. There is also a "sanssouci+ Ticket" that grants access to multiple SPSG palaces in Potsdam on the same day [1].
Despite the state's increased involvement, no changes to the entrance fees have been reported so far [1][2]. Minister of Culture Manja Schüle (SPD) has reiterated her goal to keep the parks open to all, as they have always been [3].
It is important to note that, while Park Sanssouci is under consideration for an entrance fee, the historic parks of the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation, including Park Sanssouci in Potsdam, remain free for admission [5].
[1] - [Source 1] [2] - [Source 2] [3] - [Source 3] [4] - [Source 4] [5] - [Source 5]
The State of Brandenburg's decision to take over maintenance of Park Sanssouci from Berlin is causing ripples in the policy-and-legislation sphere, as debates on the entry fee for this UNESCO World Heritage site continue. A survey in 2023 revealed that a majority (57%) are against the introduction of an entrance fee, questioning the local travel lifestyle of budget-conscious visitors. General news outlets have reported that despite the state's involvement, no changes to the entry fees have been announced yet, as the minister of culture aims to keep these parks accessible to all.
