12 Beautiful European Palaces for Your Bucket List
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Visiting European palaces is like walking through time. Many have stood for centuries, and some have witnessed some of the most noteworthy moments in history. However, it is not just about history. The luxury and architectural elegance of these European palaces are definitely worth a visit.
If you are a fan of ancient grandeur, history, and architectural marvels, consider visiting these European palaces; you will be impressed. Come ready with your photography equipment, as many of these are outright scenes from a fairy tale.
Prague Castle, Czech Republic
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world, spanning an impressive 750,000 square feet (70,000 square meters). The castle complex, situated on a hill overlooking the city, includes palaces, churches, gardens, and other historical buildings.
Prague Castle is a gem that is sure to enchant architectural enthusiasts. Its architectural styles range from Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, reflecting the castle’s rich history spanning over a millennium. Within its walls, visitors can explore iconic structures such as St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and the Golden Lane.
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Over the centuries, Prague Castle has been home to Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and later Czechoslovakian presidents. Today, the castle still serves as the official residence of Czech presidents.
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Alhambra, Granada, Spain
The Alhambra is the world’s most outstanding Moorish fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the peak of Islamic architectural designs, featuring stunning palaces, defensive walls, fortifications, and lush gardens. The palace complex is set on top of a hill, offering amazing views of Granada City, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and the surrounding countryside.
If you are an architectural enthusiast, you want to take a keen interest in the intricate stucco work, horseshoe arches, geometric patterns, and serene courtyards adorned with fountains.
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The Alhambra dates back to 889 A.D. when it was first built by the last Nasrid rulers in Spain. However, when the Moors fell, King Ferdinard and Queen Isabella recaptured it and transformed it into the palace it is today. Touring this palace takes visitors through some critical moments of Spain’s history.
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Palace of Versailles, Versailles, France
Located just outside Paris, Chateau de Versailles is an architectural marvel with a rich history and elegance. Built by King Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles is one of the most popular palaces in Europe. The palace served as a royal residence until the French Revolution in 1789.
Today, tourists can visit it and marvel at its French Baroque styles, detailed decorations, and well-manicured gardens as an easy day trip from Paris.
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Some of the unmissable highlights include the Hall of Mirrors, adorned by numerous mirrors and chandeliers; the meticulously maintained gardens featuring flower beds and fountains; Marie Antoinette’s bedroom; and the Queen’s Hamlet, which is a rustic village created for Marie Antoinette, complete with cottages, a farm, and a lake.
Other than royal history, the Palace of Versailles was the signing venue for the Treaty of Versailles, which officially ended World War I.
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Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria
The Schonbrunn Palace used to serve as the summer home of the Hapsburgs, a dynasty that governed the Austro-Hungarian Empire for close to seven centuries. Today, this UNESCO-listed site is a destination where you can marvel at some of its opulent rooms, which are open for public exploration.
Some of its most notable past residents include Maria Theresa, Emperor Franz Joseph, and Empress Elisabeth (Sisi).
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While Schonbrunn Palace is full of numerous gems to discover, some noteworthy highlights include the Gloriette, which offers panoramic views of the palace and the city of Vienna; the Privy Garden, which features ornamental flower beds, sculptures, and a charming orangery; and the Tiergarten, which is one of the oldest zoos in the world.
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Pope’s Palace, Avignon, France
Interesting, fun fact: the popes didn’t always live in the Vatican. In the 14th century, during a period called the Avignon Papacy (1309 to 1376), seven successive popes resided in Avignon, Southern France, rather than in Rome. The papal residence was temporarily shifted from Rome following political turmoil in the city.
Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace) is a gothic-romanesque building that served as the official residence of the popes during the Avignon Papacy.
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Even more interesting, the Pope’s Palace has witnessed six papal conclaves – private meetings held by Roman Catholic cardinals while choosing popes.
The palace is a complex comprising Palais Vieux (Old Palace), Palais Neuf (New Palace), chapels, towers, courtyards, and gardens.
The palace, a former residence of notable popes like Clement V, John XXII, and Benedict XII, is now a UNESCO World Heritage site that welcomes tourists from far and wide.
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Royal Palace of Brussels, Belgium
Located in the heart of Belgium’s capital, the Royal Palace of Brussels is an architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the country’s rich past. This palace dates back to the 18th century when it was initially built as a city residence for the Austrian governors of the Netherlands. This palace is used for state functions, official receptions, and ceremonies.
The expansive complex consists of the main palace building, lush gardens, the Throne Room, the Mirror Room, and various ceremonial halls. The Throne Room, with its high ceilings, opulent chandeliers, and mosaic floors, is an absolute stunner.
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This palace has served as the residence of notable figures in Belgian history, including King Leopold I, King Leopold II, and King Albert I, as well as their queens and consorts. It is, however, not where the Belgian royal family lives today.
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The Buckingham Palace, London, UK
Buckingham Palace is an iconic symbol of the British monarchy and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Located in the heart of London, the palace complex comprises the main palace building, the State Rooms, the Royal Mews, and the palace gardens.
Visit it to admire the Neoclassical architectural style, which has touches of other styles, such as Baroque and Rococo. If you are into architecture, you will love the attention to detail in the symmetrical facade, grand porticoes, ornate balconies, and central dome.
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Buckingham Palace was built in the early 18th century for the Duke of Buckingham. It was later acquired by King George III in 1761 and has since served as the primary royal residence in London. Over the years, it has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, becoming the iconic palace that stands today. It has been home to generations of British monarchs, including Queen Victoria, King George VI, Queen Elizabeth II, and their families.
While it still serves as the official residence of the British Monarch, it opens its doors from July to September for tourists to tour the lavish staterooms, magnificent artworks, lavish furnishings, and treasures collected over centuries. The Changing of the Guard ceremony, which is held daily during the summer months, is also a popular attraction for visitors.
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Doge’s Palace, Venice, Italy
Located in St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace (or Palazzo Ducale ) symbolizes Venice’s past opulence and rulership. The Venetian Gothic building served as the seat of government and the official residence of the Doge’s, who ruled Venice for more than 1000 years.
The palace complex comprises the main palace building, the Bridge of Sighs, the New Prisons, and the Doge’s apartments, all interconnected by elegant courtyards and arcades.
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Take a keen interest in the delicate marble carvings, elegant arches, and ornate sculptures that only add to the allure and elegance of this history-filled palace.
When we say history-filled, Doge’s Palace is not just about opulence, royalty, and dignitaries. This palace had a prison called a Piombi, which held (and tortured) some popular prisoners like Giacomo Casanova, an adventurer and author; Marco Polo, a Venetian explorer and merchant; and Silvio Pellico, an Italian writer and poet.
Visiting the palace today is like taking a virtual journey through Venetian history, art and architecture.
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Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle, nestled in the Bavarian Alps Schwangau, is a fairytale-like masterpiece that stands as a symbol of romanticism and Bavarian identity. The picturesque castle is strategically perched on a hilltop, surrounded by lush forests, and overlooks the scenic Bavarian landscape.
It has consistently been mentioned as the most photographed castle in the world, and all this love it receives can be attributed to its whimsical towers, intricate stonework, turrets, ornate balconies, elaborate frescoes, and its blend of romantic and neo-Gothic styles.
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The castle’s construction began in 1869 and took 24 years to complete. It was constructed to serve as a private refuge for King Ludwig II, who spent much of his time there in seclusion, indulging in his passion for music, art, and literature. After his death, the castle was opened to the public and has since become one of Germany’s most popular tourist attractions.
Some unmissable highlights of the castle are the grandeur of the Throne Room, Ludwig’s bedroom, and the Singer’s Hall.
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Hofburg Palace, Vienna, Austria
Hofburg Palace is a must-see when visiting Vienna. Besides holding so much history, the sheer size and opulence of this palace complex will surely captivate you. Generations of Hapsburgs lived in this palace for centuries, up until 1918. Today, it serves as the official residence of the President of Austria.
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The palace complex is divided into several parts, but those open to the public include the Imperial Apartments, The Silver Collection, and Sisi Museum. The Sisi Museum is the most captivating spot in the entire palace, as it showcases the life of Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), whose life was just as tragic, controversial, and misunderstood as Princess Diana’s. Stop by the museum to see Sisi’s personal belongings, portraits, and memorabilia when visiting Hofburg Palace.
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Château de Chenonceau, Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is sprinkled with charming castles, but Chateau de Chenonceau is definitely the most iconic. The palace spans the Cher River, featuring arches letting boats pass under. It is truly an architectural masterpiece that wins photographers’ hearts.
The palace is characterized by so many elegant features such as intricate carvings, facades, ornate furnishings, tapestries, and artworks, all of which are a journey into the way of life of the nobles of the past generations.
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Chenonceau is affectionately nicknamed “the ladies’ chateau” because it has been owned by notable women figures, including Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de’ Medici, and Louise Dupin. The owners are known to have hosted notable historical figures in the chateau, including Voltaire and Rousseau.
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The Palacio Real, Madrid, Spain
Located in the heart of Madrid, the Palacio Real serves as the official residence of the Spanish Monarch. Although the royal family often stays at Palacio de la Zarzuela, Palacio Real is still recognized as their official residence.
Palacio Real, overlooking the stunning Plaza de Oriente and the Sabatini Gardens, is one of the largest palaces in Europe. It has over 3,000 rooms, lavish reception halls, and extensive gardens.
The Baroque building is adorned with intricate carvings, statues, and balconies, while its interiors feature ornate decorations, frescoes, and chandeliers.
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The palace has served as the official residence of the Spanish royal family since the 18th century. It has hosted some major royal events, ceremonies, receptions, official state functions, and diplomatic meetings.
While the Palacio Real is still used for official state functions and ceremonies, it is also open to the public as a museum and cultural attraction. Visitors can explore its magnificent rooms, art collections, and royal armory and attend guided tours and cultural events held within the palace.
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
