From 1682 until the onset of the French Revolution in 1789, the Palace of Versailles reigned as France's primary royal residence. Situated in the Ile de France region, about 20km southwest of Paris, this palace stands as an exemplar of European opulence.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palace of Versailles has borne witness to pivotal historical moments, including the proclamation of the German Empire in the iconic Hall of Mirrors, the Peace of Paris in 1783, and the momentous Treaty of Versailles in 1919, marking the conclusion of World War I.

Today, this magnificent palace draws in tourists from around the globe, with over 7.7 million visitors in 2017 alone. Operating from Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 5pm (extended to 6pm in summer), the palace showcases its storied interiors.

The resplendent gardens and park of Versailles offer an exquisite backdrop for leisurely strolls, with varying hours depending on the season. Additional attractions like the Estate of Marie Antoinette and the Coach Gallery are accessible after midday, Tuesday to Sunday.

Given its popularity, securing a skip-the-line ticket in advance is highly recommended to fully savor the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles without the crowds.

Architectural style: Classicalism and Baroque
Location: Versailles, France

Website: https://en.chateauversailles.fr/

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The illustrious Windsor Castle, a living testament to history, serves as the Official Residence of Her Majesty The Queen. With a legacy stretching back nearly 1000 years, Windsor Castle stands as the world's oldest and largest inhabited castle, offering a captivating glimpse into the past.

Spanning approximately 13 acres, the Castle encompasses:

• Majestic State Apartments adorned with precious Royal Collection treasures
• St George's Chapel, an architectural marvel and the resting place of 10 monarchs
• Queen Mary's Dolls House, a miniature masterpiece

Immerse yourself in the grandeur and significance of Windsor Castle, where heritage and regal elegance converge to create an unparalleled experience. Witness centuries of history come to life within these hallowed walls.

Location: Windsor, Berkshire, southeastern England

Website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle

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The Winter Palace, situated in St. Petersburg, Russia, is a remarkable historical gem with a rich legacy. This iconic palace has stood as a symbol of Russian opulence and grandeur for centuries.

Originally constructed in the 18th century, the Winter Palace served as the official residence of Russian monarchs, housing a splendid array of art, culture, and history within its walls. Its architectural elegance and cultural significance have garnered international recognition.

Today, the Winter Palace is an integral part of the State Hermitage Museum complex, showcasing an extensive collection of art and artifacts from various periods and cultures. Its breathtaking interiors and stunning facade continue to captivate visitors, offering a journey through time and aesthetics.

Visiting the Winter Palace provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the lavish world of Russian royalty and explore a treasure trove of art and history.

Location: St. Petersburg, Russia

Website: http://www.saint-petersburg.com/palaces/winter-palace/

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Buckingham Palace stands as an internationally renowned symbol, serving as the cherished residence of the Queen of England. Originally named Buckingham House, the palace was acquired by King George III in 1761 and transformed into the grandeur it embodies today. The British monarchy established it as their London abode when Queen Victoria ascended to the throne in 1837, and currently, it serves as Queen Elizabeth's residence.

A focal point of numerous significant events in the United Kingdom, Buckingham Palace's balcony gatherings of the Royal Family during special occasions are iconic and celebrated worldwide.

While open to the public exclusively from July to October, Buckingham Palace invites visitors to explore its State Rooms and gardens during this period. For those visiting at other times of the year, opportunities include observing the free Changing of the Guard ceremony, capturing photos outside the palace gates, or exploring the Royal Mews. Don't miss a chance to experience the allure of Buckingham Palace during your London visit.

Location: City of Westminster, central London

Website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace

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Perched atop a picturesque hill in the enchanting Sintra mountains, Pena Palace is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts vibrant colors and breathtaking beauty. Situated just outside the charming town of Sintra, this palace is a true visual spectacle, set amidst the stunning landscapes of Pena Park.

Pena Palace is renowned for its mesmerizing array of hues, featuring shades like lilac, burnt red, and canary yellow, all wrapped in a romantic architectural style. As an iconic landmark, a visit to Sintra isn't complete without immersing yourself in the splendor of Pena Palace. Discover this gem of Portugal and relish in its unique charm and historic significance.

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival, Neo-Manueline
Location: Sintra, Portugal
Construction started: Middle Ages
Completed: 1854

Website: https://www.parquesdesintra.pt/en/parks-monuments/park-and-national-palace-of-pena/

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Claiming the prestigious title of Europe's largest palace by floor area, the Royal Palace of Madrid stands as a magnificent testament to grandeur. Serving as both the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family and a historic marvel in Madrid, this palace offers a glimpse into regal history.

Despite its immense size, the palace now primarily hosts state ceremonies, as the current King and his family opt for a more modest residence. The palace's origins trace back to a 9th-century Moorish castle, with the present structure erected between 1738 and 1755.

Due to its grandeur, only a curated selection of rooms are accessible to the public at any given time, with rotations occurring every few months. Visitors can revel in the palace's splendor, taking in its opulent interiors. The Royal Palace of Madrid is open for public exploration unless reserved for official state events, and booking a skip-the-line ticket is a viable option to enhance your visit.

Architectural style: Baroque, Classicism
Location: Madrid, Spain

Website: https://www.patrimonionacional.es/en/visita/royal-palace-madrid

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Kensington Palace, renowned as a cherished London residence, has held significance as the former abode of Prince Charles and Princess Diana. With strong ties to British royalty, it was also the birthplace of Queen Victoria, adding to its regal heritage.

Today, this iconic palace serves as the London home for notable couples including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. Following its 2012 reopening as a tourist attraction, Kensington Palace invites visitors to immerse themselves in its captivating history through various exhibitions.

Nestled beside the scenic Hyde Park, Kensington Palace enjoys proximity to one of London's most delightful green spaces.

Open to the public, Kensington Palace invites visitors to explore key areas, including the King's State Apartments, the Queen's State Apartments, and the Gardens. Notably, the palace hosts fashion exhibitions showcasing garments from Queen Elizabeth, Princess Margaret, and Princess Diana. Exhibitions are a regular highlight, and the Orangery offers a delightful afternoon tea experience, further enhancing your visit to this historical gem.

Location: Kensington Gardens, in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in London, England

Website: https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/#gs.4teatr

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Discover the historic Schönbrunn Palace, a magnificent summer abode for Habsburg rulers, boasting a legacy of more than three centuries. Serving as the principal Habsburg summer retreat, this architectural marvel has captivated visitors since the 1950s, with its 1,441 opulent rooms standing as a prime tourist magnet in Austria. The allure of Schönbrunn extends beyond its regal interiors – its sprawling gardens are a sight to behold.

As the seasons change, so does the palace's charm. In winter, visitors can indulge in the enchanting Christmas markets held within its premises, adding a touch of festive magic to a Vienna visit.

Maximize your experience with a 'beat the queue' ticket, granting you access to not just the splendid Schönbrunn Palace, but also to other prominent Vienna landmarks. Along the way, you can marvel at the Austrian Parliament, City Hall, Burgtheater, the Museum of Art History, and even Hofburg Palace – the very birthplace of Marie Antoinette. Immerse yourself in Austria's rich history and royal heritage with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace.

Location: Hietzing, ‎Vienna‎, ‎Austria

Website: https://www.schoenbrunn.at/en/

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Situated in Granada, Spain, the Alhambra stands as a captivating blend of palace and fortress. Originally established in 889 as a modest fortress, its transformation into an exquisite palace occurred in the 13th century.

The name 'Alhambra' finds its roots in Arabic, translating to 'red or crimson castle'. Beyond its castle-like facade, Alhambra encompasses the essence of a royal palace, a fortified stronghold, lush gardens, a thriving town, and a serene summer retreat. Recognized for its exceptional historical and architectural significance, Alhambra earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1984. Witnessing a staggering annual footfall of 2.7 million visitors, the site's allure remains enduring.

Planning a visit to Alhambra involves choosing from 6 distinct ticket options, each tailored to your preferred exploration. While none of these choices include a guided tour, securing skip-the-line tickets is also an option. Secure your Alhambra tickets up to a year in advance, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience in this iconic Spanish treasure."

Location: Granada, Andalusia, Spain

Website: https://alhambra-entradas.org/

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The Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam, also known as Paleis op de Dam, is one of the Netherlands' three monarch-disposed palaces according to parliamentary mandate. Originally erected during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century as a city hall, this iconic palace has transitioned through history to become a royal residence for King Louis Napoleon and subsequently the Dutch Royal House.

Situated prominently on the western side of Dam Square at the heart of Amsterdam, the palace stands opposite the War Memorial and neighbors the Nieuwe Kerk. While its historical significance is undeniable, the palace also offers a unique public experience.

Visitors can explore its grandeur, particularly the expansive first floor, which is accessible to the public. It's recommended to check online for available dates and secure your tickets in advance to ensure an enriching visit to this splendid architectural gem.

Architectural style: Classicism

Location: Amsterdam, ‎Netherlands

Website: https://www.paleisamsterdam.nl/en/

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