Every journey deserves to include a bit of regal flair. Live like a king (or queen) on your next trip with a visit to one of these royal residences around the world, each renowned for its history and splendor.

The Forbidden City — Beijing, China

Don’t let its name deter you — Beijing’s Forbidden City is anything but off-limits to those wanting to step a few centuries back in time in China. Completed in 1420, this extraordinary complex of 980 wooden buildings served as the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) to the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911).

Grand Palace — Bangkok, Thailand

It’s hard to miss the glimmering golden spires of Bangkok’s iconic Grand Palace. Arrive by water taxi (the palace isn’t located along the city’s Skytrain or MRT systems but is situated just steps from the Chao Phraya River) and explore the official residence of the Thai king since 1782. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, considered the most sacred temple in Thailand, is especially worth a visit.

Drottningham Palace — Stockholm, Sweden

Although the Swedish royal family has called this elegant 17th-century palace home since 1981, visitors can still enjoy much of its lush grounds and ornate buildings — located just a short drive from central Stockholm. Stroll along the Versailles-inspired avenues of the Baroque garden or take a guided tour of the Chinese Pavilion (included in your entry fee).

Fasiladas Palace — Gondar, Ethiopia

Venture 450 miles north of Addis Ababa to the commanding stone castle of 17th-century emperor Fasiladas, restored by UNESCO and declared a World Heritage site in 1979. It’s little wonder the city of Gondar has been called “The Camelot of Africa” — and you, too, could soon be holding court on top of the palace’s parapet and 32-meter-high (105-foot-high) watchtower.

Abdeen Palace — Cairo, Egypt

See beyond the pyramids and bustling bazaars to a different side of Cairo inside this quiet, elegant residence, on which construction began in 1863. While not all of its 500 gilded rooms are open to the public, a ground-floor museum houses silver (including the royal family’s silverware), key historical documents, and a vast collection of both ancient and modern weaponry.