Unlock Europe: Your Complete Guide to the 29 Schengen Countries and Visa Requirements

One Visa, 29 Destinations

Imagine strolling from the canals of Venice to the Parisian boulevards without a single border check. Who doesn't want to travel freely without the hassle of paperwork or limitations? That dream is a reality for people living in the Schengen Zone, and the visitors permitted here.

What is the Schengen Zone?

The Schengen Agreement was signed in 1985 in the small village of Schengen, Luxembourg. It is a zone where 29 countries have abolished internal border controls. It offers seamless travel across a large part of Europe, spanning 29 countries. Earlier, there were 27 countries in the Schengen Zone but recently Bulgaria and Romania also joined the agreement.

While EU nationals can travel throughout this zone, foreigners need a special permit to visit this Schengen Zone. This power is wielded by the uniform Schengen visa, which eliminates the hassle of applying for multiple national visas.

If you have been meaning to visit the Schengen area or you're simply here to learn more, this guide provides the official list of countries, explains the visa essentials, and offers destination ideas.

Schengen vs. EU: What is the Difference?

Now that you know the 29 Schengen countries, let's return to the bigger picture.

Yes, all these countries are in Europe, but not all European countries are a part of the Schengen zone.

Similarly, EU or European Union is another entity which is a common confusion. EU is a political entity comprising of 27 members, whereas the Schengen zone is made up of 29 countries.

Many countries are a part of both European Union as well as Schengen Zone, but they are not the same entity.

Not all EU countries are in Schengen (e.g., Ireland & Cyprus), and some non-EU countries are in Schengen (e.g., Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein).

The Complete List of 29 Schengen Countries (2025)

Here is the latest list of Schengen countries, along with some of their most popular highlights, attractions and best time to visit them.

Austria

Known for classical music and stunning alpine scenery, Austria has also been famous for Bollywood shoots like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge in Salzburg.

• Popular Cities: Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck
• Tourist Season: April–May and September–October are the best times to visit Austria.
• Popular Attractions: Schönbrunn Palace, Hallstatt, Alps
• Foods to Try: Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte

Belgium

Belgium is extremely well known for its Belgian chocolates, waffles, and for being the headquarters of the EU.

• Popular Cities: Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp
• Tourist Season: April–June and September–October are the best times to visit Belgium.
• Popular Attractions: Grand Place, Atomium, Ghent canals
• Foods to Try: Belgian Waffles, Moules-frites, Chocolate

Bulgaria

A hidden gem in Eastern Europe, Bulgaria is famous for its Black Sea beaches and is one of the most affordable European destinations for Indians.

• Popular Cities: Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna
• Tourist Season: May–June and September is the best time to visit Bulgaria
• Popular Attractions: Rila Monastery, Sunny Beach, and Bansko are among the best places to visit in Bulgaria
• Foods to Try: Banitsa, Shopska Salad

Croatia

Croatia surged in popularity for its Adriatic coast and for having the filming locations of Game of Thrones. However, the country has a lot more to offer.

• Popular Cities: Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb
• Tourist Season: May–June and September is considered the best time to visit Croatia.
• Popular Attractions: Plitvice Lakes, Dubrovnik Walls, Hvar
• Foods to Try: Black Risotto, Peka

Czech Republic

Czechia, or the Czech Republic, is best known for its musical history and Prague's fairytale charm. It is also home to ancient Gothic castles.

• Popular Cities: Prague, Brno, Český Krumlov
• Tourist Season: The best time to visit Czechia is from May to September
• Popular Attractions: Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Old Town Square
• Foods to Try: Goulash, Trdelník

Denmark

The land of Vikings, Denmark, is among the most sustainable cities, known for its fairytale castles and modern cities. It also has the world-famous Legoland.

• Popular Cities: Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense
• Tourist Season: May to September is among the best time to visit Denmark
• Popular Attractions: Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, Legoland Billund
• Foods to Try: Smørrebrød, Danish Pastries

Estonia

This Baltic country may be a small one, but it is packed with rich history. It has beautiful medieval towns with advanced digital life, making it a great economy. The best part is that Estonia has stunning natural beauty.

• Popular Cities: Tallinn, Tartu, Pärnu
• Tourist Season: The best time to visit Estonia is from May to September
• Popular Attractions: Tallinn Old Town, Lahemaa National Park, Saaremaa
• Foods to Try: Verivorst, Kama

Finland

This Nordic country is also known as the happiest country in the world, along with its forests, lakes and infrastructure. It is also one of the most sought-after places due to the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights.

• Popular Cities: Helsinki, Rovaniemi, Turku
• Best Time to Visit: June–August, December–February if you wish to chase Northern Lights
• Popular Attractions: Santa Claus Village, Lapland, Suomenlinna
• Foods to Try: Karjalanpiirakka, Salmon Soup

France

Known as the most visited city in the world, France is every romantic's dream. It continues to be in great demand due to Paris, the iconic Eiffel Tower, its high fashion, and the French Riviera beaches.

• Popular Cities: Paris, Lyon, Nice
• Tourist Season: April to June & September to November is the best time to visit France
• Popular Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre, French Riviera
• Foods to Try: Croissant, Escargot, Crêpes

Germany

Germany is a famous destination among international students and the job opportunities it offers to immigrants. However, it is also known for its iconic Oktoberfest, the Berlin Wall, numerous museums and beautifully preserved old towns still hidden in the country.

• Popular Cities: Berlin, Munich, Hamburg
• Tourist Season: May to September is the best time to visit Germany, but December is perfect for Christmas markets and festivities.
• Popular Attractions: Brandenburg Gate, Neuschwanstein Castle, Cologne Cathedral
• Foods to Try: Bratwurst, Pretzel, Sauerbraten

Greece

Greece is known as the cradle of democracy and the among the most memorable Bollywood backdrop, especially Santorini. One of the most visited locations in the Schengen area, this country is known for its exotic beaches and scenic beauty.

• Popular Cities: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos
• Tourist Season: April to June & September to October is considered the best time to visit Greece
• Popular Attractions: Acropolis, Meteora, Greek Islands
• Foods to Try: Moussaka, Souvlaki, Baklava

Hungary

Known for its thermal baths and magnificent architecture, this country is a popular destination among people travelling to Schengen. It should be at the top of your list if you are looking for a relaxing vacation.

• Popular Cities: Budapest, Debrecen, Szeged
• Tourist Season: March to May & September to November is the best time to visit Hungary
• Popular Attractions: Buda Castle, Thermal Baths, Lake Balaton
• Foods to Try: Goulash, Chimney Cake

Iceland

Iceland is no news when it comes to adoring Northern lights. Apart from this stunning natural phenomenon, this Nordic country is famous for its landscapes and glaciers.

• Popular Cities: Reykjavik, Akureyri, Vik
• Tourist Season: June to August is the best time to explore Iceland but February to March gives you the best chance to view the Northern Lights
• Popular Attractions: Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Foods to Try: Skyr, Lamb Soup

Italy

Southern Europe's beloved country is most famous for its history, Rome's beauty, Venice's canals, delicious food, and historical architecture.

• Popular Cities: Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan
• Tourist Season: April to June & September to October is the best time to visit Italy
• Popular Attractions: Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Amalfi Coast
• Foods to Try: Pizza, Pasta, Gelato

Latvia

This Baltic country is known for having some of the best beaches in Europe and rich history. It is also known for its Art Nouveau architecture and scenic coastline.

• Popular Cities: Riga, Jurmala, Liepaja
• Tourist Season: May to September is the best time to visit Latvia
• Popular Attractions: Riga Old Town, Gauja National Park, Rundale Palace
• Foods to Try: Grey Peas with Bacon, Rye Bread

Liechtenstein

Situated between Austria and Switzerland, it is one of the world's smallest countries. Liechtenstein is nestled in the Alps and offers some of the best skiing opportunities in the world. If you plan to ski here, don't forget to buy an adventure sports cover along with your Liechtenstein travel insurance plan.

• Popular Cities: Vaduz, Triesen, Balzers
• Best Time to Visit: May to September
• Popular Attractions: Vaduz Castle, Malbun, Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein
• Foods to Try: Käsknöpfle, Ribel

Lithuania

On the list of Schengen countries is this small country which attracts a lot of tourists. Lithuania has good tourism opportunities and is known for baroque Vilnius and the historic Hill of Crosses.

• Popular Cities: Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipeda are among the best places to visit in Lithuania
• Best Time to Visit: May to September
• Popular Attractions: Vilnius Old Town, Trakai Castle, Hill of Crosses
• Foods to Try: Cepelinai, Cold Beet Soup

Luxembourg

This tiny but extremely wealthy country has well preserved old towns and nature. It is famous for having stunning castles, Echternach, and EU headquarters.

• Popular Cities: Luxembourg City, Esch-sur-Alzette, Vianden
• Best Time to Visit: May–September
• Popular Attractions: Vianden Castle, Old Quarter, Bock Casemates
• Foods to Try: Judd mat Gaardebounen, Bouneschlupp

Malta

Located in the Mediterranean sea, this island country is full of history, beaches, and stunning views. Many popular Bollywood shoots may make it memorable for a lot of Indians coming here.

• Popular Cities: Valletta, Mdina, Sliema
• Best Time to Visit: April–June, September–October
• Popular Attractions: Blue Lagoon, Valletta, St. John's Co-Cathedral, Mdina
• Foods to Try: Pastizzi, Rabbit Stew

Netherlands

Among the most visited Schengen countries, Netherlands is famous for the tulips in Holland, its vast windmills, and cycling culture. It also has a vast canal system that have been used for a millenia.

• Popular Cities: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht
• Tourist Season: April to October is the best time to visit Netherlands
• Popular Attractions: Keukenhof Gardens, Van Gogh Museum, Canals of Amsterdam
• Foods to Try: Stroopwafel, Haring

Norway

This Scandinavian country is known for stunning fjords, breath taking Northern Lights, and scenic train journeys. It also offers amazing hiking trails along with skiing avenues during winters, so plan your Norway itinerary accordingly.

• Popular Cities: Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø
• Tourism Season: Best time to visit Norway is from June to August, however December–February is better if you want to experience the Northern Lights
• Popular Attractions: Fjords, Lofoten Islands, Preikestolen
• Foods to Try: Rakfisk, Salmon

Poland

This central European country offers a lot without stretching your budget. It is rich in history, especially the restored WWII sites. It has beautiful architecture and offers affordable European travel for those who don't want to compromise on attractions or experience.

• Popular Cities: Warsaw, Krakow, Gdansk
• Tourism Season: May to September is the best time to visit Poland
• Popular Attractions: Wawel Castle, Auschwitz, Tatra Mountains
• Foods to Try: Pierogi, Bigos

Portugal

The land of beautiful beaches is also popular for its football, the country of Cristiano Ronaldo. It has stunning beauty, great wine, and Algarve beaches.

• Popular Cities: Lisbon, Porto, Faro
• Tourism Season: March–May & September–October are the best months to visit Portugal
• Popular Attractions: Belem Tower, Douro Valley, Algarve
• Foods to Try: Pastel de Nata, Bacalhau

Romania

This southeastern European country is a recent addition to the Schengen zone and offers an unforgettable experience to all. It has the famous Dracula's castle in the Transylvania forest, and the Carpathian mountains.

• Popular Cities: Bucharest, Brasov, Sibiu
• Best Time to Visit: May–September
• Popular Attractions: Bran Castle, Transfagarasan Highway, Painted Monasteries, Mamaia Beach and Bucovina are among the most visited places in Romania.
• Foods to Try: Sarmale, Mici

Slovakia

This central European gem is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor activities fans. Slovakia offers vibrant yet serene natural beauty thanks to its mountains and medieval castles.

• Popular Cities: Bratislava, Kosice, Poprad
• Best Time to Visit: May to September
• Popular Attractions: Bratislava Castle, High Tatras, Spis Castle are among the most popular places to visit in Slovakia
• Foods to Try: Bryndzové Halušky, Kapustnica

Slovenia

This small and compact central European country is among the most off-beat locations in Europe. Known for stunning landscapes, this green country best known for Lake Bled.

• Popular Cities: Ljubljana, Bled, Maribor
• Best Time to Visit: May–September
• Popular Attractions: Lake Bled, Postojna Cave, Triglav National Park
• Foods to Try: Potica, Kranjska Klobasa

Spain

Among the most beautiful countries in the world, Spain is popular for football, flamenco, beaches, and Gaudí's architecture.

• Popular Cities: Madrid, Barcelona, Seville
• Best Time to Visit: March–May, September–November
• Popular Attractions: Sagrada Familia, Alhambra, Park Güell and Ibiza are among the most popular places to visit in Spain
• Foods to Try: Paella, Tapas, Churros

Sweden

This Scandinavian country is known for its stunning infrastructure, quality of life and vibrant culture. It is also known for ABBA, one of the most popular bands in the world. To experience the famous Scandinavian natural beauty, make sure to plan a good itinerary for Sweden.

• Popular Cities: Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö
• Best Time to Visit: May–September
• Popular Attractions: Vasa Museum, Stockholm Archipelago, Abisko National Park
• Foods to Try: Meatballs, Gravlax

Switzerland

This landlocked European country is perhaps on most traveller's bucket list. Famous among Indians for Bollywood movies and the stunning Alps, Switzerland offers picturesque villages and peaceful lakes.

• Popular Cities: Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne
• Best Time to Visit: June to September & December to March are among the perfect time to visit Switzerland, especially if you want to ski.
• Popular Attractions: Matterhorn, Jungfraujoch, Lake Geneva
• Foods to Try: Fondue, Rösti

Must-Visit Destinations & Local Flavour

To give you an idea about how to club your destination, here are some broad categories for different kinds of travellers:

Essential Schengen Visa Requirements & Facts

Here's a quick overview for you to understand the entry requirements for the Schengen Zone and ensure a safe trip.

Conclusion

Travelling to the Schengen region is a thrilling experience; it offers endless possibilities and experiences that people dream of. Obtaining a Schengen visa provides access to all these experiences and more. However, to make sure that your experiences go well and undeterred, don't forget to invest in a good international travel insurance for Schengen visa.