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 travelling. Trust me, nothing is far in Europe if you are really keen on discovering the paradiscial 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 travelling. 

So here’s the list of 26 Schengen countries that are always on the travelers wish list. 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, fascinating canal systems in Bruges to featuring 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, find virtues like generosity, honesty and good governance. This Scandinavian country offers a classic blend of soaring mountains, sprawling gardens, quaint towns, bustling cities, 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 mediaeval 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 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 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, 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 landscape, 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 are 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 picturesque destinations in the world, Greece is on the top of Europe Tourism circuits. Pristine beaches, mesmerising 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

Read More : Top 10 Places to Visit In Greece In 2022

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 gamut of thrilling experiences, Iceland has gained massive popularity in the tourist circuit. It is among the most popular summer destinations in Europe that is 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 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 to 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

Read More : Places To Visit In Italy | Top 6 Tourist Attractions

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 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 intrigues 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 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 is to enjoy 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 considered as the ultimate unwinding pads for the tourists. Picturesque towns like Mdina are typically derived from the 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

Classic windmills, criss-cross canals, floating flower market, world-class museums, vibrant Tulip gardens, heritage sites and whatnot, Amsterdam is a visual treat for the visitors. This charming European destination is a perfect romantic escapade owing to its picture perfect backdrops and pristine vibes. It is one of 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, 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 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

21. Portugal

Portugal is among the oldest countries in Europe that brims with a plethora of tourist attractions such as mediaeval villages, volcanic islands, pristine beaches, amazing vineyards, opulent castles, natural springs, fascinating museums and whatnot. This gorgeous country sits beautifully on the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula along with the Atlantic ocean and shares borders with Spain. There are unique attractions like a small village that is built from boulders and an interesting chapel made of human skeletons that are totally worth discovering on your trip to Portugal.

Capital City of Portugal: Lisbon

Top Tourist Attractions of Portugal: Lisbon, Sintra, Coimbra, Porto, Evora, Elvas, Obidos, Tavira, St George’s Castle, Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, Jeronimos Monastery, The Lisbon Oceanarium, Monserrate Palace, Sintra National Palace, News Museum, Evora Cathedral, Porto Bridge, Cais da Ribeira, Roman Temple, Mediaeval village

Best Time to Visit Portugal: March to May

Currency Used in Portugal: Euro

22. Slovakia

Another beautiful gem of Europe that lies in its heart is Slovakia. This landlocked country is fringed by countries such as Poland, Ukraine, Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic. The country brims with an array of cultural landmarks and imposing heritage sites that reflect its diversity. It is a less explored European country that can give you instant respite from hustle and bustle. There are quaint villages, craggy hilltops, rugged landscapes, sparkling waterfalls, deep canyons etc that will satiate your craving for nature.

Capital City of Slovakia: Bratislava

Top Tourist Attractions of Slovakia: Bratislava, Levoca, Vlkolinec, Orava Castle, Spis Castle, Dobsinska Ice Cave, the Slovak Paradise National Park, Sucha Bela Gorge, Kosice, Banska Stiavnica, High Tatras

Best Time to Visit Slovakia: December to March

Currency Used in Slovakia: Euro

23. Slovenia

Known for its breathtaking beauty of nature and classic heritage sites, Slovenia is a stunning European country that must be on every travelers wish list. Right from striking castles to fascinating museums, this breathtaking European country takes you back to its glorious era. Other prime attractions of the country are underground caves, sparkling lakes, Mercury Mine, Salt pans, nature parks etc. which piques the curiosity of nature lovers and other travel enthusiasts.

Capital City of Slovenia: Ljubljana

Top Tourist Attractions of Slovenia: Maribor, Lake Bled, Postojna Cave, Triglav National Park, Mercury Mine in Idrija, Lake Bohinj, Salt pans in the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park, Bled Castle, Vogel, Vintgar Gorge, Predjama Castle, Church of the Holy Trinity Preseren Square, Soča River, Planica Nordic Centre, Solkan Bridge in Nova Gorica

Best Time to Visit Slovenia: September

Currency Used in Slovenia: Euro

24. Spain

Brimming with myriad tourist spots and fathomless scenic marvels, Spain is indeed one of the best destinations in Europe that is a dream for travellers and surely for a valid reason. Right from striking heritage sites, museums and shopping hubs to marvelous vistas of magnificent mountains, sprawling spaces and shimmering beaches, Spain features an impressive landscape that is worth witnessing at least once in a lifetime.

Capital City of Spain: Madrid

Top Tourist Attractions of Spain: Royal Palace in Madrid, Park Guell, Ibiza, Santiago De Compostela Cathedral, Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències, Costa Brava, The Canary Islands, Costa Del Sol Beach, The Great Mosque of Cordoba, Guggenheim Museum, Plaza Mayor, The White Towns of Andalucía, La Rambla, El Teide, Diagonal Mar Centre Commercial, Pub Crawl, Granada 10, Centro Comercial Moda Shopping Centre, La Sagrada Familia, The Alhambra, La Rioja Vineyards, El Retiro Park, La Concha Beach

Best Time to Visit Spain: March to May and September to November

Currency Used in Spain: Euro

25. Sweden

Sweden is a beautiful Scandinavian nation that boasts a spectacular landscape. Right from snow covered mountains to coniferous forests, innumerable archipelagos and countless shimmering lakes, the country has many natural wonders that are worth discovering. Also, Sweden is home to a wide range of heritage sites, museums, palaces, ancient towns etc. that are truly a delight to visit.

Capital City of Sweden: Stockholm

Top Tourist Attractions of Sweden: Stockholm City Hall, Gamla Stan - Stockholm’s Old Town, Vasa Museum, Drottningholm Palace, Royal Palace in Queen's Island, Nobel Museum, Museum of Antiquities, Royal Coin Cabinet, Göta Canal, Kiruna in Lapland, Visby, on the island of Gotland, Liseberg Theme Park, Oresund Bridge, Fredriksdal Mansion, Botanic Garden, Grafiska Print Museum

Best Time to Visit Sweden: May and September

Currency Used in Sweden: Swedish krona

26. Switzerland

One of the most dreamy destinations in Europe, Switzerland is a totally breathtaking and wonderful place to visit if travelling to Schengen countries is your agenda. This landlocked country lies in Central Europe and is known for picturesque villages along the dramatic Alps. Right from verdant valleys, lakeside hamlets, snow covered mountains, world-class resorts, turquoise lakes, heart warming hospitality and whatnot, the enchanting beauty of Switzerland will take your breath away.

Capital City of Switzerland: Bern

Top Tourist Attractions of Switzerland: Bern, Zurich, the Matterhorn, the Rhine FallsJungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen Valley, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, Lucerne, Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, Swiss Transport Museum in India, Lake Geneva, Opera House, Grand Theatre, Montreux, St. Moritz Dorf, Bern Museum of Art, Lake Lugano, Lake Maggiore  

Best Time to Visit Switzerland: June to August

Currency Used in Switzerland: Swiss franc

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 best possible prices. Also get Schengen countries tour packages on special fares.

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