Buckingham Palace London

Those hoping to catch a glimpse of "the Royals" at home at Buckingham Palace will probably be disappointed. Although the Palace has been the official residence of the British Royal Family since 1837, today it is used primarily for state functions and administrative issues. There are 600 rooms in the palace. Most of them now are now the offices and bedrooms of the enormous palace staff. The Queen maintains a small apartment here, and when she is in residence the royal standard is flown above the building.

The wait for a tour of the Palace is long, but those who are determined are rewarded with a look at 19 State Rooms, each one gilded and adorned with a generous measure of pomp. While you probably won't get a glimpse of the Queen, you will be able to get a look at the Throne Room and a fair number of the treasures that have been collected by British Royalty over the years, including the artwork in the Picture Gallery and the rotating collection in the Queen's Gallery.

Perhaps the best part of Buckingham Palace is outside, and is still free. The colorful Changing of the Guard still takes place daily. Get their early to ensure a good view.