Introduction
Planning for a European adventure? Imagine how magical it will be if a single visa empowers you to travel across 29 diverse European countries. Yes, it's possible, and all credit goes to the Schengen visa. We know Europe offers some of the most iconic destinations in the world, and Schengen visa countries host most of them. For those who are not familiar with the term, let us make things clear.
What are Schengen countries?
A group of European nations decided to allow inter-border movements without the hectic border checks. All these nations are called the Schengen Area, which includes countries like Germany, France, Italy, and 26 others. This agreement simplifies travel within the region, promoting cooperation and security. With just one Schengen Visa, visitors can explore all these nations without the hassle of border checks. It’s an agreement to promote trade and tourism while controlling external borders.
Complete list of Schengen visa countries
Below, you can find out all those countries covered by Schengen visa. Remember to carry your passport and decent international travel insuranceto safeguard your journey!
| Schengen Country |
Capital |
Must Visit Places |
|---|
| Austria |
Vienna |
Grand Schönbrunn Palace, Salzburg |
| Belgium |
Brussels |
Bruges, Antwerp |
| Bulgaria |
Sofia |
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Rila Monastery |
| Croatia |
Zagreb |
Plitvice Lakes, Dubrovnik, Hvar |
| Czech Republic |
Prague |
Ceský Krumlov, Charles Bridge |
| Denmark |
Copenhagen |
Little Mermaid, Tivoli Gardens |
| Estonia |
Tallinn |
Saaremaa, Toompea Castle |
| Finland |
Helsinki |
Suomenlinna, Oulu |
| France |
Paris |
Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum |
| Germany |
Berlin |
Brandenburg Gate, Rhine Valley |
| Greece |
Athens |
Parthenon, Santorini |
| Hungary |
Budapest |
Chain Bridge, Lake Balaton |
| Iceland |
Reykjavík |
Architecture, Blue Lagoon |
| Italy |
Rome |
Amalfi Coast, Colosseum, Duomo |
| Latvia |
Riga |
Old Town, Sigulda, Jurmala |
| Liechtenstein |
Vaduz |
Vaduz Castle, Malbun |
| Lithuania |
Vilnius |
Hill of Crosses, Gediminas' Tower |
| Luxembourg |
Luxembourg City |
Vianden Castle, Ducal Palace, Echternach |
| Malta |
Valletta |
Hagar Qim, Blue Grotto |
| Netherlands |
Amsterdam |
Anne Frank House, Keukenhof, Dom Tower |
| Norway |
Oslo |
Geirangerfjord, Viking Museum |
| Poland |
Warsaw |
Krakow, Lazienki Park |
| Portugal |
Lisbon |
Algarve, Alfama, Belém |
| Romania |
Bucharest |
Parliament Palace, Brașov |
| Slovakia |
Bratislava |
Bratislava Castle, Spiš Castle, High Tatras |
| Slovenia |
Ljubljana |
Škocjan Caves, Lake Bled |
| Spain |
Madrid |
Prado Museum, Alhambra |
| Sweden |
Stockholm |
Gotland, Uppsala Cathedral |
| Switzerland |
Bern |
Chapel Bridge, Jet d’Eau, Lake Zurich |
Documents required for Schengen visa
- Duly signed visa application form
- A valid passport, valid for at least three months after your expected return date
- Residential proof
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Travel insurance plan
- Proof of financial status to support your journey
- Planned itinerary with all the details
- Proof of paid visa fee
- Documents that show your accommodation in the Schengen visa countries
Benefits of Schengen visa
- Travel freely across numerous countries in Schengen zone with one visa.
- Skip individual border checks between member states.
- Make trips faster and more efficient within the Schengen zone.
- Experience hassle-free business and leisure travel.
- Travel under robust security with unified border policies.
- Experience cultural and economic collaboration across Schengen area countries.
A trip to Europe sounds fun, but you must be knowledgeable about the adversities that come into our lives without prior notice. These incidents can quickly turn your adventures into stressful ordeal, be it an unexpected medical emergency or lost luggage. That's where international travel insurance comes to the rescue.
At Generali Central, we understand these situations very well. That's why we offer our Schengen plan to all travel enthusiasts. From bearing the medical expenses to compensating for lost luggage, we have your back 24x7. Not only that, we also help you if you need some extra funds or your flight is delayed.
FAQs
1. What is the maximum duration of staying in a Schengen state?
Typically, the visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period in all Schengen countries.
2. Can I visit the UK and Ireland with a Schengen visa?
No. These two countries haven’t signed the Schengen agreement. So, you need a separate visa for these countries.
3. What currency should I use for the Schengen area countries?
Most of these countries accept the Euro as the currency. But keep a payment card also for a stress-free adventure.
4. Can I get a visa extension?
No, you can’t have an extension beyond the 90-day limit without exceptional circumstances.
5. Can I visit Europe without travel insurance?
No. You must have it. You can’t obtain a visa without it.
