How to Turn Your Fascination With the Royals Into an Unforgettable Vacation

Because one big-city castle isn't enough, Queen Elizabeth has another special pad in the Scottish city of Edinburgh. This may be the palace in which she spends the least amount of time, but it's nonetheless a truly special place. It has a gorgeous location at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, which is capped on the other end by the uninhabited Edinburgh Castle.

Holyrood House has been the site of a great deal of official business for the Queen when she's in Scotland. A tour of the state rooms there sheds light on the Queen's doings in Scotland with the storied Order of the Thistle and her various international guests. The surrounding park is a must see, especially on a sunny day.