What to see in Schwetzingen
From the "little Versailles of the Palatinate" and the only garden mosque of its kind in Europe to the rococo theater where Mozart once performed - these are the classics of the residence town.
Schwetzingen Palace
The baroque summer residence of the Electors Palatine, expanded from 1752 under Elector Carl Theodor. Often called the Palatinate's little Versailles, it anchors the whole town.
The Palace Gardens
A French baroque garden and an English landscape park in one - among the most important historic gardens in Europe, with the Arion fountain at its circular heart.
The Garden Mosque
The only surviving garden mosque of its kind in Europe, built by Nicolas de Pigage between 1779 and 1795 in the Turkish Garden - a monument to Enlightenment curiosity.
Temple of Apollo
An open circular temple (a monopteros) set on an artificial rock - a stage and a focal point in the English landscape garden.
The Rococo Theater
Opened in 1753, one of the oldest surviving tiered theaters in Europe. The seven-year-old Mozart performed here at court in 1763; today it hosts the Schwetzingen SWR Festival.
The Bath House
Carl Theodor's private retreat (from 1773), complete with the celebrated painted illusion of the End of the World - an intimate hideaway tucked into the gardens.
Stay close to the palace
Most of Schwetzingen's sights are within an easy walk of the palace square. Book a hotel nearby and you can be first into the gardens in the morning and at a concert in the evening without any driving.
Hotel map
Hotels near the palace & gardens
Compare availability and prices on the map, then plan your palace and garden visit around your stay.
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