Schengen visa holders may still be asked for supporting documents at borders for security (Source: Pexels)Endless paperwork can be a nightmare for any traveler, especially when planning an international trip. But if Europe is on your bucket list, here’s some good news! The continent has a special zone of 26 countries called the Schengen Area, where there are no border checks between member nations. This means you can travel freely between them, as if they were a single country. The Schengen visa allows a short stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Whether it’s for a quick holiday, a spontaneous getaway, or a work trip, these countries offer hassle-free travel. Here are five top Schengen countries you can visit without extra paperwork, each combining stunning landscapes, ancient wonders, and vibrant culture to make your journey unforgettable.
London, capital of the United Kingdom, has more Indian restaurants than Delhi or Mumbai, making it a paradise for curry lovers (source: pexels)
Step into history with the United Kingdom, one of the most visited destinations in Europe. Those who fancy grandeur will feel at home in its opulent royal residences, palaces, and medieval castles. Art lovers can go big in over 170 museums and galleries – most with free entry – including the British Museum and Tate Modern. Nature enthusiasts can reconnect with their soul in stunning national parks like the Lake District. And don’t forget to sip the iconic tea in vibrant cities where Shakespeare once roamed!
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November
Must visit places: London, Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge, Lake District
Ireland has more than 30,000 castles and castle ruins scattered across the country, many of which you can tour, stay in, or even rent for events. (source: unsplash)
If you love fairy tales, don’t think twice before booking a flight to Ireland. It boasts more than 3,000 castles: the highest density in the world. Its rich folklore, full of stories about fairies and banshees, keeps the magic alive. The Wild Atlantic Way, a 2,500 km rugged coastline dotted with towering cliffs, hidden coves, and green pastures, offers some of Europe’s most dramatic seaside scenery. Literature enthusiasts will fall in love with Dublin, a vibrant melting pot of culture, music, and history.
Best time to visit: May to September
Must visit places: Cliffs of Moher, Dublin, Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle
Croatia has over 1,200 islands, but only about 50 are inhabited, making it a dream for island-hopping. (source: unsplash)
Croatia may have recently joined the European Union, but it’s already winning big. This coastal gem is dotted with over 1,000 islands, offering picture-perfect beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and hidden coves waiting to be explored. What makes it even more fascinating is that it’s home to some of the oldest known human settlements in Europe, dating back over 100,000 years. No wonder the iconic HBO series Game of Thrones chose Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls to represent King’s Landing. If you are someone who likes to end their day with a party, its vibrant nightlife won’t disappoint.
Best time to visit: May to September
Must visit places: Dubrovnik, Plitvice Lakes, Hvar, Split
Cyprus is said to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, and you can even visit her mythical rock, Petra tou Romiou (source: pixabay)
Sun, sea, and ancient ruins: Cyprus offers a bit of everything. This Mediterranean paradise is believed to be the place where Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, rose from the sea. Sunny for most of the year, it’s a perfect destination for sun-seekers. Besides, it also boasts jaw-dropping ancient ruins and scintillating mountain trails, making it a complete package. There’s a bonus point for wine lovers! It is famous for its Commandaria wine, considered one of the world’s oldest named wines, dating back to 800 BC.
Best time to visit: April to October
Must visit places: Aphrodite’s Rock, Paphos Archaeological Park, Troodos Mountains, Nissi Beach
Instead of nodding for “yes” and shaking for “no,” Albanians do the opposite — nodding means “no” and shaking means “yes” (source: pexels)
Albania is a hidden Mediterranean treasure offering something for every kind of traveler. Its unreal coastline has some of the most beautiful beaches and landscapes in Europe. Adventure seekers will love the Accursed Mountains, while history buffs can explore ancient Greek, Roman, and Ottoman sites. Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed old town of Berat, also known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” showcasing charming Ottoman architecture.
Best time to visit: May to September
Must visit places: Berat, Ksamil Beach, Gjirokastër, Butrint Archaeological Site
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