Buckingham Palace State Rooms Tickets

I just took the *summer tour of the Royal Salons at Buckingham Palace* and was absolutely blown away. It’s the only time of year when the palace opens its state rooms to the public, usually from July through September. *Tour Details* 1. *Duration*: ∼2 hours and 30 minutes, with an audio guide included in the price. It’s available in Italian and guides you room by room. 2. *Route*: You enter through the main gate and follow a one-way route. You can’t turn back, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. 3. *What you’ll see*: - *The Grand Staircase*: the grand staircase where official photos are taken - *The Throne Room*: featuring the two thrones used for coronations - *The White Drawing Room*: the most photographed room, all white and gold - *The Ballroom*: enormous, where state receptions are held - *The Picture Gallery*: featuring works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto from the Royal Collection - *The Gardens*: at the end, you’re given 20 minutes in the 16-hectare private garden. Direct view of the lake and the fountain. Spectacular. Photos and videos are *prohibited inside*; they’re only allowed in the gardens. *What sets this tour apart* It’s not just any museum. It’s the difference between “seeing a palace” and “stepping into a lived-in home.” All the flowers are fresh, the rugs are actually used, and the rooms are arranged as if the royal family were about to return at any moment. The audio guide also shares anecdotes: where Kate held her first reception, where the Queen used to receive Prime Ministers. It’s extremely well-organized: small groups, staggered times, and incredibly friendly staff who explain everything to you. *The Café with Traditional Sweets* At the end of the tour, in the gardens, there’s the *Palace Café*. It’s THE place to take a break after all that elegance. *Must-try items:* - *Scone with clotted cream and jam*: the English classic. - *Victoria Sponge Cake*: light and fluffy, served with cream. - *Afternoon Tea Box*: if you want to go all out, with sandwiches, pastries, and tea. - *English tea*: Earl Grey, English Breakfast. Served in cups featuring the Palace logo. You’ll sit at tables overlooking the palace lawn. It’s surreal to have tea right there. - *Tip*: Go early in the morning or in the late afternoon—the lines are shorter then. If you’re visiting London in the summer, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.