Are you planning to visit a Schengen country? That’s an awesome choice! There are 26 countries that together make the Schengen Area, yet each of them has unique aesthetics of its own. From breathtaking landscapes to a snowy wonderland, Schengen countries are going to leave you in awe every time.
However, if you are wondering which Schengen country would be the best for you, we have curated a list of the top 5 Schengen countries that you can consider visiting.
From Schengen travel insurance to some essential tips, we have got you covered in all areas with this blog. So read along to learn more details.
What are the Top 5 Schengen Countries to Visit?
The following showcases a list of the top 5 Schengen countries you must add to your bucket list for Europe trip this year:
France
When you talk about tourist attractions, France comes first on the list. With around 200 million travellers from across the world, France is one of the leading destinations for international tourism.
With the Eiffel Tower being the main attraction, you can also find other exotic places to visit which include snowy mountains, cathedrals, museums, coastal villages etc. Apart from these, you can also wander across the local markets and indulge in exquisite French cuisine.
Switzerland
Switzerland has been considered the dreamland for travelling with your family. If you plan to visit the country with your partner, you can get no better honeymoon paradise than this. Matterhorn is one of the famous mountains from the Alps range and is the most popular tourist attraction in the country. Considered a Swiss jewel, the mountains of Switzerland are going to take your breath away.
Apart from this, you can also spend a great time with your loved ones in various ski resorts, countryside valleys etc. Also, you can visit the street side markets to bring back some souvenirs with you.
Germany
If you are on the hunt for natural forestry and some aesthetic natural beauty, Germany is the Schengen country you want to visit this year. Put Germany on your bucket list if you want to experience a roller coaster of scenic beauty and modernity at the same time.
With Black Forest being its main attraction for visitors, it also has some of the ethereal places to visit, which include Neuschwanstein Castle, Berchtesgaden, Berlin Wall, Heidelberg, Roman Amphitheatre, etc.
Hence, Germany is rich in culture and history, and you can feel it deeply as you pass through each colony of the country.
Iceland
When you talk about peace of mind, there can be no better place than Iceland. It is one of the most astoundingly beautiful countries in Europe and is known to be magical enough to provide you with absolute peace.
The Blue Lagoon of Iceland is among the most popular tourist attractions in the world. Its milky blue colour and high silica content make it no less than an outdoor spa for you. Besides, you can also witness wonders like frozen glaciers, waterfalls, massive geysers, etc.
Apart from this, you can also consider indulging in adventurous activities such as ice hiking, ski mountaineering and many more. Also, do not forget to visit the Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights with your loved ones to make it the best moment to cherish forever.
Italy
Italy is one of the rare countries in the world that still carries forward the authenticity and significance of culture and architectural excellence. With its breathtaking landscapes, astounding architectural styles and mouth-watering Italian cuisines, Italy is the third most visited country in the world.
You must note down some of the must-visit places in Italy, which include the Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Lombardy, Venice, Amalfi Coast, Florence, etc.
Along with visiting its sandy beaches, blue lakes and scenic landscapes, do not forget to try some of the best Italian pasta and pizza to end your food cravings once you are in the city.
Things to Consider Before Travelling to a Schengen Country
Once you have sorted out the Schengen countries you would like to visit, you need to consider the below points as part of your preparations to visit the country:
Applying for a Schengen visa is mandatory for travellers from India. Considering the visa approval process can be long, you must research your requirements and apply for them well in advance.
Hence, if you want to visit any Schengen country for a holiday, you can consider applying for a short-term tourist visa. You can opt for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa as per your travel requirements.
Research the validity periods for each type of visa and apply for the same at least 6 months before your planned due date for travel.
You must buy travel insurance to visit a Schengen country since having travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for the same. Travel insurance papers are the required documents for a Schengen visa. Besides, travel insurance is always an ideal option when visiting a new country. It provides a financial shield during unforeseen circumstances like loss of baggage, passports or cancellations of flights and tickets, etc.
However, the travel insurance you have must fulfil the below criteria to be considered for visiting a Schengen country:
Documents Required
It must be valid for up to 6 months from your visit to the Schengen country.
It must cover your transit and stay in the Schengen country for the entire period.
It must provide you with financial coverage that applies to all the Schengen countries.
It must have a minimum financial coverage of Rs. 2,681,961.73 (as of February 2024) with zero deductibles.
It should cover your loss of baggage, passports, medical evacuations, emergencies, etc.
A letter from the insurance company stating that you are ready to meet the requirements.
Along with a Schengen visa application form, quite a few documents are required to get a Schengen visa. Even though this list of documents is not very different from regular visas, it includes:
Recent passport size photo as per the recent photo requirement guidelines.
A valid passport issued within the last 10 years with a minimum of two blank pages. It should be good for up to 6 months from the travel date to the Schengen Area.
Flight tickets.
A cover letter mentioning the purpose of your visit to the country.
Medical reports to assess if you meet the health requirements to visit the Schengen country.
Proof of accommodation in the Schengen country, such as hotel reservations, etc.
Proof of financial ability to afford your expenses in the country, including bank statements, salary slips, etc.
Travel insurance papers.
Apart from the documents mentioned above, there can be some other documents that you need to carry with you to enter some of the places in the Schengen Area. This includes your passport and additional identity proofs. You can always contact the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country you plan to visit to confirm such details well in advance.
You must remember that getting a Schengen visa approved is not a hectic task, as long as you provide all the required documents on time. However, you must also pass a visa interview round to get your visa application accepted. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you research the commonly asked visa interview questions to prepare yourself beforehand.
Apart from this, each type of Schengen visa has different fee ranges depending on the purpose of your visit to the country and the duration of your stay there. So make sure you also research them to proceed with your planning accordingly.
So, you need to keep the above points in mind before you buy travel insurance. Please note that there can be additional requirements to confirm the kind of travel insurance you have, along with its detailed specifications. You can always consider contacting the Schengen visa application centre to confirm such essential details beforehand to avoid any unnecessary delays later.
Final Words
Travelling to a Schengen country can be sensational when you plan everything properly. Therefore, you must research the countries well and remember to get Schengen travel insurance as early as possible.