Europe

If you want to explore Europe, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you want to explore the vibrant cities or the tranquil countryside, my Europe itineraries have what you’re looking for. From bustling capitals to charming small towns, ancient historical sites to breathtaking natural wonders, I’ve curated diverse trips designed to help you experience the best of Europe with ease and confidence.

British Isles
France, Belgium, and The Netherlands
Balkans and Greece
Nordic Countries
Central Europe
Southern Europe

British Isles

France, Belgium, and The Netherlands

Balkans and Greece

Nordic Countries

Central Europe

Southern Europe

What is the Schengen Area in Europe?

I mention whether European countries I have visited are part of the Schengen Area or not. The Schengen Area is a zone of 29 European countries that have officially abolished passport and other border controls at their common borders. For Americans, it is like traveling through different states.

Here is what this means in detail for travelers:

  • Free Movement: Once you enter any one of the Schengen countries, you can travel freely to any other Schengen country without having to go through border checks. This applies to citizens of Schengen countries, non-EU nationals residing in the EU, and tourists with a valid Schengen visa.
  • Common External Border: While there are no internal border controls, the Schengen Area maintains strong external border controls. This means that when you enter or exit the Schengen Area from a non-Schengen country, you will undergo passport and customs checks.
  • Common Visa Policy: Most non-EU nationals require a Schengen visa to enter the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period). This visa is valid for travel throughout all Schengen countries.
    • Note: Starting in mid-2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to obtain a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) authorization before traveling to the Schengen Area. There is a small fee, around €7. An approved ETIAS will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Important Note about the Schengen Area:

The Schengen Area is not the same as the EU: The Schengen Area is not synonymous with the European Union. While most EU member states are part of Schengen, some EU countries (such as Ireland and Cyprus) are not, and some non-EU countries (such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland) are members of the Schengen Area.

Members of the Schengen Area as of 2025:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland (non-EU), Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein (non-EU), Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway (non-EU), Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland (non-EU)