10 Jaw-Dropping Palaces in Europe You Can’t Miss
Europe houses some of the most spectacular palaces ever built, with incredible design, wealth, and history. Here’s a look at some of the most impressive palaces worth visiting.
1. Palace of Versailles, France (Versailles)
Year Built: 1682
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous palaces in the world. Built during the reign of Louis XIV, it became the center of French royalty. It features grand gardens, marble halls, and the iconic Hall of Mirrors. Versailles was designed to showcase power and luxury, and today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can tour its lavish rooms and explore its fountains and sculptures.
2. Buckingham Palace, UK (London)
Year Built: 1703
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch. It has 775 rooms, including the famous Throne Room. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a popular attraction. Originally built as a townhouse, it became a royal palace in 1837. It also serves as the center for national celebrations and events.
3. Schönbrunn Palace, Austria (Vienna)
Year Built: 1700
Schönbrunn Palace was the summer home of the Habsburg emperors. It has 1,441 rooms and stunning Baroque architecture. The palace gardens include fountains, statues, and a zoo that dates back to 1752. It is a symbol of Austria’s imperial history and a major tourist attraction.
4. Alhambra, Spain (Granada)
Year Built: 13th Century
The Alhambra is a palace and fortress built by the Moors. It features intricate Islamic art, arched doorways, and peaceful courtyards. Originally built as a military fortress, it later became a royal residence. Visitors can explore its towers, gardens, and reflecting pools.
5. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany (Bavaria)
Year Built: 1869
Neuschwanstein Castle looks like something out of a fairy tale. Built by King Ludwig II, it sits on a hill surrounded by forests and mountains. The castle’s design was inspired by medieval legends and operas. It’s one of Germany’s most photographed landmarks and a popular stop for tourists.
6. Catherine Palace, Russia (near St. Petersburg)
Year Built: 1717
Catherine Palace, built in 1717, is located in Tsarskoye Selo near St. Petersburg. Originally commissioned by Catherine I, it was later expanded and transformed by Empress Elizabeth. Architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli redesigned it in the lavish Rococo style. The Amber Room, its most famous feature, was crafted with amber panels, gold leaf, and mirrors. It was looted during World War II but later restored. The palace served as a summer home for Russian tsars and reflects their extravagant lifestyle.
7. Doge’s Palace, Italy (Venice)
Year Built: 1340
Doge’s Palace in Venice is one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks. Built in Venetian Gothic style, it was the residence of the Doge, the ruler of Venice. The palace has beautiful facades, arched windows, and stunning courtyards. Inside, visitors can see golden ceilings, massive frescoes, and the famous Bridge of Sighs. Once a center of power, it now attracts visitors with its rich art, history, and amazing views of the Grand Canal.
8. Peles Castle, Romania (Sinaia)
Year Built: 1883
Peles Castle is one of Europe’s most stunning palaces, built in the Neo-Renaissance style. Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, it served as the summer residence of Romania’s King Carol I. The palace has elaborate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and over 160 rooms filled with art and antique furniture. It’s a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture.
9. Pena Palace, Portugal (Sintra)
Year Built: 1854
Pena Palace sits high on a hill, offering views of Sintra’s forests. Its colorful walls and towers make it look magical. It combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish styles. The palace was a retreat for the Portuguese royal family and is now a UNESCO site.
10. Het Loo Palace, Netherlands (Apeldoorn)
Year Built: 1684
Het Loo Palace was built in 1684 as a royal residence for the Dutch royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau. It has Baroque-style gardens with fountains and hedges. The interiors are decorated with paintings, tapestries, and royal furniture. It served as a royal residence until 1975 and is now a museum showcasing Dutch history.