A method of controlling a charging pressure of an internal combustion engine having a particle filter for the treatment of exhaust gases, wherein the charging pressure is controlled to achieve a nominal charging pressure value and wherein the nominal charging pressure value is set as a function of operating parameters, wherein there is determined a first value for a charging pressure minimizing a fuel consumption, taking into account a direct influence of the charging pressure on the fuel consumption of an internal combustion engine; as well as an internal combustion engine having a particle filter for the treatment of exhaust gases, using such a control method.