Still planning your trips for the season ahead? Then this is your chance for a once-in-a-lifetime experience to discover the magical royal palaces of Europe. Explore the magnificent residences of royals and dive into their rich history and art. From the masterpieces of Andalusian architecture to the breathtaking, lush gardens of Versailles, this is more than just a tour; it’s a whole different experience. We’ve gathered 7 palaces in Europe you must visit before the end of the year.
If you’re in London, then visiting Buckingham Palace definitely should be on your list. It’s where His Majesty the King resides, and it’s an incredible chance to tour one of the world’s few remaining working royal palaces. The good news? It’s open until 28 September 2025. And if you’re a huge royal wedding fan like me, you’ll get to see the very room where all the iconic British royal wedding portraits were taken. Get your tickets from here.
If your next Euro trip includes France, then don’t miss the chance to visit the historic Palace of Versailles. It’s truly worth the trip. Touring the Hall of Mirrors and strolling through the stunning gardens alone make it unforgettable, and for art lovers, don’t miss the Coronation Room, which features several iconic paintings by one of France’s most famous neoclassical artists, Jacques-Louis David. Avoid the line and book your ticket here.
This palace is a must-visit if Germany is on your bucket list. You’ll be stepping into a fairytale palace that’s all about luxury and grandeur wherever you look. It’s a Versailles-style masterpiece nestled in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps — and once served as the personal retreat of King Ludwig II. Definitely a must to visit!. Grab your tickets here.
If you’re a fan of the Netflix series The Empress and its leading character, Elisabeth, Empress of Austria — better known as Sisi — then visiting this Viennese palace is an absolute must. It’s also where legends like Mozart and Salieri once performed. Built in the mid-18th century, this Baroque masterpiece is Vienna’s answer to Versailles. You can snap photos by the grand Neptunbrunnen fountain or discover the outstanding architecture and the lavish interiors of the palace. It’s better to book your tickets in advance.
Big Game of Thrones fan? Then this Spanish gem belongs on your list. It stood in as the Water Gardens of Dorne, House Martell’s palace. Once home to Muslim rulers, it’s still used by the Spanish royal family and is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. A visit takes you through Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, telling the rich story of Andalusia’s past. A must for history lovers, architecture fans, and garden dreamers alike. Tickets here
Obsessed with destiny tales and princesses? Then you need to visit this stunning French royal palace in the Loire Valley. Once built by King Francis I as a hunting lodge, Château de Chambord was the inspiration behind Beauty and the Beast, and was even designed by Leonardo da Vinci himself. Surrounded by forests, turrets, and moats, Chambord is as cinematic as it gets — especially in the golden glow of autumn.
Step into a real-life royal fairytale at Pena Palace. Rising above the clouds in the hills of Sintra, Portugal, this vibrant palace was once the romantic hideaway of King Ferdinand II and Queen Maria II. With its whimsical turrets, Gothic-Moorish flair, and forested gardens, it feels like something out of a storybook.
