All About Schengen Countries | 26 Popular Destinations In Europe
Right from exploring the picture-perfect locales to enjoying a gamut of enriching experiences, Europe has always been a dream destination for every traveler even if getting a Schengen visa is hands down arduous. The sprawling region comprises 26 popular tourist Destinations in Europe that are legitly beautiful and worth traveling. Trust me, nothing is far in Europe if you are really keen on discovering the paradisical wonders of the continent. Good news! Most of the countries here have abolished internal and external barriers between each other under the Schengen treaty to ease the comfort of cross-border traveling.
So here’s the list of 26 Schengen countries that are always on travelers’ wish lists. Take a dekko!
1. Austria
Located in Central Europe, Austria is a landlocked country that is a paradisiac medley of vibrant culture, rich heritage and nature’s beauty. Known for dramatic Alps, pristine lakes, quaint villages, gourmet hubs, verdant meadows, marvelous Baroque monuments, exhilarating activities and whatnot, a tour to Austria is totally memorable.
Capital City of Austria: Vienna
Top Tourist Attractions of Austria: Vienna, Innsbruck, Sandburg, Hallstatt, Graz, Zell am See
Best Time to Visit Austria: April to May and September to October
Currency Used in Austria: Euro
2. Belgium
One of the smallest countries in the Schengen region, Belgium is still impactful as it is studded with many iconic and popular travel destinations in Europe. Right from boasting the imposing Grand Palace in Brussels, and fascinating canal systems in Bruges to featuring the striking Battlefields of Flanders, the mini paradise is significant for its rich ancient past and idyllic landscape.
Capital City of Belgium: Brussels
Top Tourist Attractions of Belgium: Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and Mechelen
Best Time to Visit Belgium: April to June and September to October
Currency Used in Belgium: Euro
3. Czech Republic
Another fascinating Schengen country that is flooded with a massive tourist influx is the Czech Republic which sits beautifully in the heart of Central Europe. Right from well-preserved historic cities such as Prague to imposing castles, buzzing nightclubs, magnificent colonnades, romantic narrow streets, and Bohemian culture, the Czech Republic is an idyllic pad for history buffs, and nature lovers, holidaymakers, and party animals alike.
Capital City of Czech Republic: Prague
Top Tourist Attractions of Czech Republic: Prague, Olomouc, Ostrava, Liberec, Ceske Budejovice, Brno, Adršpach Rock City, Loket
Best Time to Visit Czech Republic: End of May and September to October
Currency Used in Czech Republic: Czech koruna or Czech crown
4. Denmark
One of the happiest countries in the world, Denmark is a place where you can meet healthy wealthy, and caring folks, enjoy freedom and find virtues like generosity, honesty, and good governance. This Scandinavian country offers a classic blend of soaring mountains, sprawling gardens, quaint towns, bustling cities, and sandy beaches along with unique flora and fauna which are really captivating.
Capital City of Denmark: Copenhagen
Top Tourist Attractions of Denmark: Copenhagen, Jutland, Faroe Islands, Grenen, Tivoli Gardens, Aarhus, Rubjerg, Funen Island, Aero Island, Kronborg Slot
Best Time to Visit Denmark: June to August
Currency Used in Denmark: Danish krone
5. Estonia
Located in the northern part of Europe, Estonia is a less explored country and a pretty affordable option in the entire continent. Travelers can discover the classic townships of Tallinn to the breathtaking coastal resort city of Parnu. Besides, the country features a shimmering coastline, offshore islands, beautiful heritage buildings from the medieval era, fairytale forests, and vibrant culture which fascinates people a lot.
Capital City of Estonia: Tallinn
Top Tourist Attractions of Estonia: Tallinn, Saaremaa, Tartu, Parnu, Hiiumaa, Viljandi, Narva Castle, Rakvere Castle, Lahemaa National Park, Soomaa National Park, Matsalu National Park, Lake Peipus
Best Time to Visit Estonia: May to August
Currency Used in Estonia: Euro
6. Finland
Perfect for island hopping and beach vacation, Finland is yet another European paradise that is a dream for many travel junkies. You can also enjoy the ethereal view of the Northern Lights, grab great culinary experiences and meet friendly folks in this popular travel destination in Europe. The country is known for its breathtaking landscapes along with boasting an array of architectural marvels that are very popular among tourists. Finland is also a Mecca for shopaholics as it boasts a unique shopping experience in its massive arcades and shopping malls.
Capital City of Finland: Helsinki
Top Tourist Attractions of Finland: Helsinki, Levi, Turku, Aland, Savonlinna, Porvoo, Suomenlinna, Tampere, Santa Claus Village, Northern Lights, Sibelius Monument, Nuuksio National Park
Best Time to Visit Finland: June to August
Currency Used in Finland: Euro
7. France
One of the top-rated Schengen visa countries, France is utterly beautiful and brims with myriad marvels worth witnessing. Right from featuring the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the breathtaking palace of Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, the charming countryside of Provence, and many other fascinating spots, France is among the most popular travel destinations in Europe that is a dream for every traveler. Besides this buzzing country is famous for picture-perfect landscapes, delectable cuisines, and many delightful experiences.
Capital City of France: Paris
Top Tourist Attractions of France: Paris, Mont Saint-Michel, French Riviera, Fontainebleau, Normandy, Bordeaux, Biarritz, Strasbourg, Chambord, Annecy, Lourdes, Arles, Burgundy, Nice, Lyon, Noumea
Best Time to Visit France: April to October
Currency Used in France: Euro
8. Germany
Germany is among the best European travel destinations where you can grab every experience. Being an economic hub of the European continent, the country possesses a staggering number of well-developed cities and ultra-modern towns. Besides offering myriad attractions, this rich country boasts a royal heritage dating back to 2000 years. There is a gamut of attractive museums, grand palaces, and magnificent cathedrals in Germany that are worth visiting. Also, the landscape of Germany is quite intriguing.
Capital City of Germany: Berlin
Top Tourist Attractions of Germany: Berlin, Hamburg, Fussen, Bamberg, The island of Rugen, The Rhine Valley, Rothenburg, Cologne Cathedral, Black Forest, Konigssee
Best Time to Visit Germany: May to September
Currency Used in Germany: Euro
9. Greece
One of the most picturesque destinations in the world, Greece is at the top of Europe’s Tourism circuit. Pristine beaches, mesmerizing islands, white-washed houses and blue-domed churches, the beauty of its gorgeous place is hard to resist. While Santorini is popular for architectural marvels, Mykonos on the contrast buzz with stunning beaches; Athens is dotted with striking archaeological sites and Crete is known for imposing gorges; definitely this Schengen country in Europe is totally breathtaking.
Capital City of Greece: Athens
Top Tourist Attractions of Greece: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Delphi, Acropolis, Mount Athos, Parthenon, Lyndos, Myrtos beach, Meteora, Crete
Best Time to Visit Greece: May to October
Currency Used in Greece: Euro
10. Hungary
The landlocked country located right in the heart of Europe, Hungary is among the oldest countries in Europe and is a popular tourist hub in the continent. This European country is studded with many touristy attractions that are worth witnessing. Its buzzing capital, Budapest is known as the city of lights for an apparent reason and boasts classic monuments from the bygone eras. Besides its rich history, there are quaint villages, sparkling rivers, verdant valleys, etc. that offer undeniable charm to the visitors.
Capital City of Hungary: Budapest
Top Tourist Attractions of Hungary: Budapest, Szentendre, Eger, Esztergom, Debrecen, Tihany, Lake Balaton Aggtelek, Lillafured, Sopron, Tapolca, Tokaj, Pecs, Holloko, Visegrad, Hortobagy, Siofok
Best Time to Visit Hungary: June to August
Currency Used in Hungary: Hungarian Forint
11. Iceland
Owing to exceptional topography and a gamut of thrilling experiences, Iceland has gained massive popularity in the tourist circuit. It is among the most popular summer destinations in Europe that are visited by a large number of travelers from across the globe. This snow paradise has seven geographical regions that possess striking beauty and are unique in their own way.
Right from its stunning capital city, Reykjavik to the virgin natural marvels of Westfjords, this place offers an array of delightful facets that are worth discovering.
Capital City of Iceland: Reykjavík
Top Tourist Attractions of Iceland: Reykjavik, Westfjords, Reykjanes, North Iceland, West Iceland, East Iceland, South Iceland
Best Time to Visit Iceland: July and August
Currency Used in Iceland: Icelandic krona
12. Italy
The birthplace of opera and the culinary hub of Europe, Italy is marked on the top-notch position when we talk about the best Schengen countries for tourism. This delightful place in Europe is majorly known for its beautiful culture, rich heritage, brilliant art scene, great architectural marvels, religious sites, scenic wonders, trending fashion, buzzing nightlife, extraordinary underwater experience, and whatnot. Right from exploring the imposing relics of Rome to indulging in retail therapy at Milan, watching opera in Venice discovering the art galleries of Florence, taking a wine tour in Tuscany to visiting the breathtaking site of Lake Como, Italy is a place that satiates the wanderlust of every traveler.
Capital City of Italy: Rome
Top Tourist Attractions of Italy: Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Tuscany, Lake Como, Genoa, Naples, Siena, Verona
Best Time to Visit Italy: May, June, September and October
Currency Used in Italy: Euro
13. Latvia
One of the smallest Schengen countries in Europe, Latvia is humongous when it comes to sophisticated cities and heartwarming hospitality. This Baltic gem that is located in Eastern Europe is known for breathtaking valleys, gorgeous beaches, imposing castles, UNESCO heritage sites, and the untouched beauty of nature. It is among the most affordable and safest havens in the continent that is totally worth visiting. Besides, this mini European paradise is dotted with many national parks that intrigue nature lovers, bird watchers, and wildlife enthusiasts a lot.
Capital City of Latvia: Riga
Top Tourist Attractions of Latvia: Riga, Jurmala, Sigulda, Kuldiga, Cesis, Liepaja, Daugavpils, Ventspils, Latgale, Jelgava, Bauska, Tukums, Gauja National Park, Slitere National Park, Kemeri National Park, Razna National Park
Best Time to Visit Latvia: April to September
Currency Used in Latvia: Euro
14. Liechtenstein
Located in the middle of Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein is an Alpine paradise that is known for its scenic charm. This European country boasts an array of striking castles, art galleries, museums, and churches that are totally worth discovering. Sprawling over 160 sq km, this petite country is the prominent economic center and has significance from the stone age era. In all, it is a small wonder that is beautifully etched on the European continent.
Capital City of Liechtenstein: Vaduz
Top Tourist Attractions of Liechtenstein: Vaduz Castle, Gutenberg Castle, the ruins of Schellenberg, the Red House, Cathedral of St. Florin, Government House, City Hall, the National Art Gallery, the National Museum, Malbun, Balzers, Triesen, the small towns of Nendeln and Eschen, Ruggeller Riet Nature Reserve
Best Time to Visit Liechtenstein: September and October
Currency Used in Liechtenstein: Swiss franc
15. Lithuania
Located in the Baltic region of Europe, Lithuania is yet another affordable country that is delightful in many ways. The country features a massive coastline and is known for its gorgeous beaches. Along with its beautiful landscape that includes verdant forests, sparkling lakes, and shallow marshes, travelers can enjoy an impressive range of activities and culinary delights. Besides, there are museums, churches, bunkers, monasteries, palaces, UNESCO world heritage sites, etc . dotted around its breathtaking cities which are quite enriching to discover.
Capital City of Lithuania: Vilnius
Top Tourist Attractions of Lithuania: The Curonian Spit in Vilnius, The Gate of Dawn, Presidential Palace, St. Anne’s Church, Kaunas, Atomic Bunker Museum, Trakai Historical National Park, the Hill of Crosses in Siauliai, Money Museum, Grutas Park, Aukstaitija National Park, Pazaislis Monastery, Užupis, Neringa
Best Time to Visit Lithuania: September to April
Currency Used in Lithuania: Euro
16. Luxembourg
One of the smallest countries in the world, Luxembourg is, however, quite popular when it comes to tourism in the European continent. The small country shares its borders with prominent European destinations such as Belgium, France, and Germany so it’s always easy to access its beautiful landscape by combining your trip whilst visiting any of these countries. The high points of tourism here are enjoying its cosmopolitan culture along with mind-blowing museums, nature parks, quaint villages, and charming towns.
Capital City of Luxembourg: Luxembourg City
Top Tourist Attractions of Luxembourg: The Old Quarter of Luxembourg City, Grand Ducal Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, The Luxembourg Ardennes, The Bock Casements, National Museum of History and Art, Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art, The Walls of the Corniche, Place Guillaume II, Bettembourg, Bock Cliff, Echternach and It’s Benedictine Abbey, Bourscheid Castle, Berdorf, Upper Sure Natural Park and Esch-sur-Sure
Best Time to Visit Luxembourg: May to September
Currency Used in Luxembourg: Euro
17. Malta
Malta is one of the breathtaking archipelago countries in Europe that can give you major travel goals with its jaw-dropping offerings. The country boasts a fascinating heritage of the fierce and legendary Knights of Malta. The popular Maltese Islands such as Malta, Gozo, and Comino are absolutely delightful for beach bodies and are considered as the ultimate unwinding pads for tourists. Picturesque towns like Mdina are typically derived from fairytales while there are many well-preserved prehistoric sites in Malta that grab the attention of many travel enthusiasts.
Capital City of Malta: Valletta
Top Tourist Attractions of Malta: Valletta, National Museum of Archeology, Island of Gozo, Mdina, Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum, Blue Lagoon Island, Rabat, Casa Bernard, Domvs Romana Museum, Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, Tarxien Temples, the Blue Grotto
Best Time to Visit Malta: May to September
Currency Used in Malta: Euro
18. Netherlands
With classic windmills, criss-cross canals, a floating flower market, world-class museums, vibrant Tulip gardens, heritage sites, and whatnot, Amsterdam is a visual treat for visitors. This charming European destination is a perfect romantic escapade owing to its picture-perfect backdrops and pristine vibes. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe that is known for its great party scene. There are elaborate places to dine and magical waterways to experience along with other attractions.
Capital City of Netherlands: Amsterdam
Top Tourist Attractions of Netherlands: Amsterdam, Delft, Rotterdam, Maastricht, Eindhoven, Giethoorn, Keukenhof, Kinderdijk, Breda, Arnhem, De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Alkmaar Cheese Market, Canals of Amsterdam, Anne Frank House, Nijmegen, Den Bosch
Best Time to Visit Netherlands: June and September to November
Currency Used in Netherlands: Euro
19. Norway
Often referred to as the Land of the Midnight Sun, Norway is indeed one of the most popular Schengen Visa countries where travelers can experience the exceptional beauty of nature. Right from enjoying the spectacular vistas of Northern lights and shimmering fjords to exploring its buzzing cities and remote villages, this beautiful country in Europe unfolds many unique aspects for travel enthusiasts. Other attractions include whale watching, hiking, cycling etc which are totally worth experiencing.
Capital City of Norway: Oslo
Top Tourist Attractions of Norway: Oslo, Tromso, Lofoten, Narvik, Helgeland, Nordland, Bergen, Geirangerfjord, Andalsnes, Stavanger, Trondheim, Innherred
Best Time to Visit Norway: June to August
Currency Used in Norway: Norwegian krone
20. Poland
A perfect European destination that fascinates history lovers, tree huggers, and architecture enthusiasts alike, Poland has everything to keep them calling. This beautiful country lies in Central Europe and shares its borders with Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, and Russia. It is home to 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites along with the world’s oldest salt mine. People can grab an ethereal view of the dramatic Alps, national parks, rugged coastlines and many other natural wonders.
Capital City of Poland: Warsaw
Top Tourist Attractions of Poland: Wieliczka Salt Mine, Main Market Square, Slowinski Sand Dunes, Rynek, Malbork, Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, Royal Castle, Krakow Old Town, Gdansk, Museum of History of Polish Jews, Palace of Culture and Science, Vistula River Beach, Ostrow Tumski, Bydgoszcz, the Royal Palace, Białowieża Forest
Best Time to Visit Poland: May to June and October to September
Currency Used in Poland: Polish zloty
With this, the long list of Schengen countries ends. Hope you enjoyed reading our blog. If you are planning to visit any of these tourist destinations in Europe, do give us a shout. We will be happy to assist you with custom itineraries at the best possible prices. Also, get Schengen countries tour packages at special fares.
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