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It’s vacation time, and just like we common folk, kings and queens and other royals look forward to their summer getaways. That spells good news for the rest of us. While nobody’s home at the palace, in several countries it is standard procedure to open up these lavish spreads to a curious public. Take a glimpse at life behind the gilded gates in the following cities:
Brussels
The Royal Palace offers access to certain rooms including the Mirror Room, where over a million bejeweled beetles affixed to the ceiling and chandelier make up a delightful piece of artwork titled “Heaven of Delight.” Visit 10:30 a.m.-3:45 p.m. daily except Mondays through Sept. 2. Entry is free.
London
The Buckingham Palace tour highlights include the State Rooms, Grand Staircase, Throne Room, paintings by the likes of Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer, Canaletto and other masters, sculpture, Sèvres porcelain, furniture and more. Each summer opening offers a temporary exhibition; this year's edition celebrates the 70th birthday of Charles, Prince of Wales, with a display of handpicked artworks. Visit through Sept. 30. Adult tickets cost 24 pounds; ages 5-15 pay 13.50 pounds, ages four and under enter free. Family tickets for two adults and up to three children go for 61.50 pounds.
Luxembourg City
Guided tours of the Grand Ducal Palace are offered through Sept. 2. The handsome 16th-century structure, residence of the sovereign since 1890, is one of the main attractions of the Duchy’s capital. Adult entry costs 12 euros; ages 4-12 pay 6 euros, ages three and under enter free.
Monaco
The State Apartments are open to the public throughout the warm months of the year. Sights here include the Palace Chapel, Hercule Gallery, Mirror Gallery, York Room, Louis XV Bedroom and Throne Room, frescoes, Grimaldi family portraits and other treasures. Visit from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily through Oct. 14. Adult admission is 8 euros, ages 6-16 pay 4 euros, those five and under enter free. Combi-tickets offering entry to the private collection of antique cars are also available.
Oslo
A guided tour through the Royal Palace takes in the King Haakon VII Suite, Cabinet Parlour, Council Chamber and other gorgeous rooms, along with an exhibition dedicated to the bicentenary of King Carl Johan's coronation as King of Norway. English tours are given at noon, 2 p.m. 2:20 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily through Aug. 18. Adult tickets go for 135 Norwegian Krone, about US$ 17; ages 3-12 pay NOK 105; ages two and under enter free.
