Welcome to a royal roundup that’s more exciting than the season finale of “The Crown.” Buckle up, because we’re diving into the lives of five fabulous European princesses who are poised to trade tiaras for crowns. Let’s get to know these future queens, shall we?
1. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden
First up, we have Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, the “princess next door,” who’s about to make history. Born in 1977, Victoria Ingrid Alice Désirée, Duchess of Västergötland, was initially second in line to the throne behind her younger brother, thanks to some old-school gender rules. But in 1980, Sweden decided to get with the times, and the Succession Act was made gender-neutral, putting Victoria back on top where she belongs.
Victoria is not just a future queen but also an accomplished academic. She studied political science and history at Yale University and took specialized courses at the Swedish Armed Forces International Center. A lover of the outdoors, Victoria enjoys hiking, skiing, and even scuba diving. She’s also a dedicated mother of two and a champion for environmental issues and mental health awareness, earning her people’s affection.
2. Leonor, Princess of Asturias
Next, let’s hop over to Spain and meet Leonor. Leonor is the youngest on our list (she was born in 2005), and she already has the weight of a kingdom on her shoulders. Her mom, Queen Letizia, swapped a career in journalism for the royal life when she married King Felipe VI. After King Juan Carlos I abdicated amid a scandal in 2014, Felipe and Letizia stepped up, with Leonor next in line.
Leonor is currently hitting the books at UWC Atlantic College in Wales, a place known as “Hogwarts for Hippies.” This prestigious school is preparing her for the royal duties ahead. She’s an accomplished linguist, fluent in Spanish, English, and Mandarin, and she’s also passionate about music, playing both the cello and the piano. Leonor has received the Order of the Golden Fleece, one of Spain’s highest honors, at the tender age of 13, showcasing her early dedication to her future role.
3. Princess Amalia of the Netherlands
Over in the Netherlands, Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia Beatrix Carmen Victoria—or just Princess Amalia if you’re on a first-name basis—is gearing up to follow in her father’s footsteps. King Willem-Alexander took the throne in 2013 after his mother, Queen Beatrix, abdicated.
But Amalia isn’t in a rush to rule. She even turned down a $1.8 million annual allowance on her 18th birthday. “I find it uncomfortable as long as I can offer little in return and other students have it so much more difficult,” she wrote to the Dutch Prime Minister. Humble and relatable? Check.
Amalia is currently studying politics, psychology, law, and economics (PPLE) at the University of Amsterdam, showing her keen interest in governance and society. She’s a talented equestrian and loves singing; she even performed in a choir that toured internationally. Amalia’s down-to-earth nature and sense of responsibility have already made her a beloved figure in the Netherlands.
4. Princess Elisabeth, Duchess of Brabant
Let’s not forget Belgium’s very own Princess Elisabeth, Duchess of Brabant. When her grandfather abdicated in 2013, Elisabeth became the heir apparent. Now Elisabeth is blazing a trail for future queens. Born 10 years after Belgium allowed the eldest daughter to ascend to the throne, Elisabeth is proving that she’s more than ready for the responsibility.
Elisabeth studied at UWC Atlantic College in Wales and is now pursuing a degree in history and politics at Oxford University. She also attended the Yale Young Global Scholars Program at Yale University. She’s an avid sportswoman, excelling in skiing, tennis, and sailing; she’s also a talented pianist. Elisabeth has been involved in numerous charitable activities, particularly those focused on children and education. Her compassionate nature and dedication to service are setting her up to be a queen who truly cares for her people.
5. Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway
Last but certainly not least, we have Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway. Ingrid is poised to become Norway’s first queen regnant. Thanks to a constitutional change in 1991, Norway embraced absolute primogeniture, ensuring that the eldest child, regardless of gender, ascends to the throne.
Ingrid is already making waves; she’s learning to pilot planes and even worked as a dishwasher at an Italian restaurant. She’s currently studying political science at the University of Oslo and is an avid sports enthusiast, competing in surfing and participating in the Norwegian Youth Olympics. Ingrid is passionate about environmental issues and has taken part in several initiatives to combat climate change. Her adventurous spirit and dedication to important causes make her a modern and inspiring future queen.
So there you have it—five incredible women who are ready to take their places in history. From Sweden to Spain, the Netherlands to Belgium, and Norway, these princesses are more than just royal figures. They’re trailblazers, breaking barriers and setting new standards for what it means to be a modern monarch. Pay close attention to these women, as they are paving the way for a brighter and more glamorous future for European royalty.