Best Royal Palaces to Visit

Article provided by the Travel Channel

Enormous. Majestic. Stately. Royal palaces all over the world embody these qualities and many more. Whether inhabited by kings and queens or empty for centuries, royal palaces hark back to a time when monarchs lived large. In fact, these structures speak volumes about the people who once lived in them and about the nations they ruled. Though all palaces are impressive in some respect, some are simply more magnificent than others. We're here to guide you to the palaces most likely to take your breath away, from grand to grandest.

7. Jai Mahal Palace
Location: Jaipur*, India
What's Cool: Guests can spend the night

Once home to the prime minister of Jaipur, the Jai Mahal Palace now functions as a hotel. Built in 1745 and surrounded by 18 acres of gardens, the palace features brilliantly decorated hallways (each with its own theme), outdoor stone pathways and magnificent views. Visitors especially enjoy discovering the nearby Pink City of Jaipur where buggies, cars, and elephants all serve as equally acceptable modes of transportation, and artisans (specializing in classic 18th- and 19th-century Indian styles) line the streets to sell their wares.

6. Iolani Palace
Location: Honolulu*, Hawaii
What's Cool: Surrounding wall of coral

Iolani Palace

It wasn't so long ago that the state of Hawaii was an independent island nation ruled by a centuries-old monarchy, which made its home at Iolani Palace. Constructed in 1879, the building that stands today (termites ravaged an earlier palace) once housed such royalty as the famous Queen Liliuokalani*. After the island's annexation by the United States, the palace became the new state's first capital and, ultimately, a historic site, restored to its original splendor. The King's Suite and the sacred Royal Tomb deserve the special attention of visitors.

5. Buckingham Palace
Location: London, England
What's Cool: A 40-acre garden, the changing of the guard, and the Queen's private art collection

Changing of the Guard

The official residence of the reigning British monarchy, Buckingham Palace attracts thousands of visitors each year. Built in 1703, the palace is surrounded by three parks, including the famous Hyde Park, and boasts an abundant daffodil garden in the spring. Young visitors will especially enjoy studying the guards outside the palace gates; the rumors are true--they never crack a smile. See a video of the changing of the guard.

4. Topkapı Palace
Location: İstanbul, Turkey
What's Cool: Treasury labyrinths and the Harem

Construction on Topkapı Palace* began during the sixth century and continued for hundreds of years. By 1061, the palace was complete and became the monarchy's official residence. The palace also served as a residence for the harem (multiple wives) of former sultans until 1909. It became a public museum in 1924, after the founding of the Republic of Turkey. Surrounded by greenery, Topkapı Palace rests on a bluff overlooking the Bosporous, a narrow strait that links the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, and offers some of the most incredible scenery on Earth. Inside, visitors can observe many relics, such as paintings of the sultans who once ruled the Ottoman Empire, ornamental clocks, and the most valuable collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelains in the world.

3. Tower of London
Location: London, England
What's Cool: Special tours such as the Wall Walk, White Tower, and Yeoman Warders

Tower of London

One of England's most magnificent palaces, the Tower of London* has served as a royal residence, a fortress, and a prison. Construction on the palace began during the reign of William the Conqueror (1027-1087) and continued until the 14th century, when workers built the wharf. Visitors can tour the Medieval Palace (the section of the Tower where the kings and queens lived), see the magnificent Crown Jewels and Royal Amouries, and experience historical re-enactments, including the grisly deaths of many famous prisoners.

2. The Grand Palace
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
What's Cool: Views of the river

Grand Palace

Thailand's majestic Grand Palace sits high above the city of Bangkok. Constructed in the 18th century during the reign of King Rama I, the palace is an outstanding example of the blending of classic Thai architecture with more modern Western styles (see Thailand: History). Although the Grand Palace has not been used as a royal residence for many years, it still serves as a site for important events, including royal coronations. It's said that those who venture inside the Temple of the Emerald Buddha are guaranteed a spiritual experience. Click the image on the left for a 360-degree view of the Grand Palace.

1. Versailles
Location: Versailles*, France
What's Cool: The sights and eats in the town of Versailles

Palace of Versailles

One of the most famous sites in the world, the ornate Palace of Versailles welcomes thousands of visitors each year. Built during the 17th century, Versailles was the brainchild of Louis XIV, who conceived the structure not as a home but as a center for the French government. The grounds are exquisite, and a stroll through the park provides a real treat (the best scenery is the furthest away from the palace). History lovers won't want to miss the spot where Louis XV made coffee for his official guests. Click the image on the left for a 360-degree view of the Palace of Versailles.