17 Most Stunning Royal Palaces in Europe
Do you ever dream about walking in the footsteps of kings and queens?
Europe has stunning royal palaces that offer a mixture of architectural nerves, royal splendor, and history. The Grand Palace of Versailles welcomes over 8 million visitors a year. As a testament to several centuries of regal splendor, Windsor Castle is the world’s oldest royal residence.
Here’s a list of Europe’s 17 most stunning royal palaces to ignite your wanderlust and transport you back in time.
Buckingham Palace, United Kingdom
Buckingham Palace is not only a royal residence but also a unique cultural icon. It is renowned for its 775 rooms and is an office of the British royal family. Visitors come here to witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, a spectacular pageant of British pomp.
While public tours of the palace’s lavish interiors are available during select months, its iconic façade captures people’s fascination year-round.
Palace of Versailles, France
Synonymous with opulence, the Palace of Versailles epitomizes absolute monarchy at its peak during the reign of Louis XIV.
One of the most famous rooms in the world is still the Hall of Mirrors. With 357 mirrors, crystal chandeliers, and 17 windows offering a view of the famed gardens, it has long been one of the most photographed rooms in the world.
Also, 2,000 acres of manicured gardens, fountains, and sculptures surround the baroque architecture of the palace. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO as a masterpiece of French art and architecture.
Schönbrunn Palace, Austria
The summer residence of the Habsburgs, Schönbrunn Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural gem of Vienna. It has 1,441 rooms that showcase stunning Baroque elements, from ornate frescoes to meticulously designed gardens.
It also houses the oldest operating zoo, the Tiergarten Schönbrunn, founded in 1752. Schönbrunn exudes timeless elegance, whether rambling through the gardens or touring.
Peterhof Palace, Russia
Often dubbed the “Russian Versailles,” Peterhof was commissioned by Peter the Great and remains a testament to the imperial grandeur. Famous for its 150 fountains, including the spectacular Grand Cascade, the palace’s grounds leave visitors awestruck. The gilded halls and period furniture give Russia an imperial history.
Royal Palace of Madrid, Spain
Covering 3,418 rooms, the Royal Palace of Madrid is Europe’s largest functioning royal palace. Although no longer the primary residence of Spain’s royal family, it’s still used for state ceremonies.
One of Europe’s finest armories, also found in the palace, showcases the weapons and armor from the 13th century. The admirable staircase, crafted from a single block of San Agustín marble, demonstrates exquisite craftsmanship.
Royal Palace of Amsterdam, Netherlands
This stunning neoclassical palace, the official reception palace of the Dutch monarchy, sits in the heart of Amsterdam. Originally a town hall, the castle was converted into a royal palace and features typically royal rooms filled with chandeliers and art.
Public exhibitions are presented, showing the rich royal history of the Netherlands, and visitors can explore the site.
Royal Palace of Brussels, Belgium
The Royal Palace of Brussels combines neoclassical architecture with regal sophistication. Despite being the King of Belgium’s administrative residence, the palace does open its doors to visitors in the summer. The Mirror room is decorated with iridescent shells of scarab beetles, which is quite a sight!
Royal Palace of Stockholm, Sweden
This palace is located in Stockholm’s oldest part and is the Swedish royal family’s daily home. It is a must-see for visitors, with five museums on site, including the Treasury and the Museum of Antiquities. It’s also worth seeing if you are interested in Swedish tradition because the Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs here.
Royal Palace of Turin, Italy
This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once the home of the House of Savoy and is known for its baroque architecture. The carefully preserved Royal Apartments and the Royal Armory are open to visitors and boast one of Europe’s best collections of arms and armor.
Wawel Royal Castle, Poland
A symbol of Poland’s national pride, Wawel Castle, perched on a limestone hill above Krakow, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Poland’s Crown Jewels are housed in a Gothic and Renaissance interior, which allows us to explore many of its legends, like stories about the Wawel Dragon.
Pena Palace, Portugal
The Palace of Pena rises on the Sintra hills like an old fairytale. Its romanticist architecture, characterized by bold yellows and reds, instantly gets attention. The surrounding landscape sweeps away as you explore, giving you sweeping vistas comprising breathtaking views.
Thus, they have one of the most distinct palaces in Europe, and this can explain why people from everywhere visit this palace. It’s undoubtedly an unmissable destination for those who want to see the beautiful Portugal.
Royal Palace of Bucharest, Romania
Once the royal family’s residence, this palace stands as one of Bucharest’s gems. The old building predates the modern structure of the People’s Palace, which used to house King Carol I. As a result, it is a considerable emblem of Romania’s royal history. Apart from its rich history, it is a tryst with the country’s royal past.
Royal Palace of Oslo, Norway
The Royal Palace of Oslo is a regal crowd-pleaser that combines neoclassical architecture with Norwegian tradition. The changing of the guard is a tradition that is very popular among locals and foreigners. Furthermore, the palace gardens are a windy haven in the city’s center.
Royal Palace of Luxembourg
Gothic and Renaissance architecture combine in the Grand Duke’s residence in Luxembourg City. In summer, the palace opens its doors to visitors who can experience the life of Luxembourg’s monarchy. The guests have this chance to feel the beauty of the palace while learning about the royal family’s rich history.
Royal Palace of Copenhagen, Denmark
Amalienborg Palace is famous for its Rococo and is the Danish royal family’s winter residence. Furthermore, visitors can see the daily changing of the guard, which is a popular tourist attraction, and explore the museum.
Windsor Castle, United Kingdom
Windsor Castle, located in Berkshire, England, is the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle. Spanning 13 acres, it has served as a royal residence for over 900 years and has housed 39 monarchs.
Nearly one and a half million visitors each year explore its rich history and the Royal Collection’s art treasures.
The castle’s strategic location on the River Thames is central to British history. Its enduring presence continues to captivate visitors worldwide.
Catherine Palace, Russia
Located just outside St. Petersburg, the Catherine Palace dazzles visitors with its Rococo-style interiors and the famed Amber Room, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Its lavish design leaves little doubt about the riches and power of the Russian Empire.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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