3Europe has always held a special appeal for travel enthusiasts, especially Southern Europe, which is home to centuries of history, classical architecture, and stunning coastlines stretching along the Mediterranean Sea. No wonder more and more travelers are making choosing Southern European countries for their dream vacation destinations.
What makes it even more appealing is that most of Southern Europe is part of the Schengen Area, making it easier to explore various destinations in a single itinerary. Discover the Southern European countries you can visit with a Schengen visa and explore their highlights in this article!
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Southern Europe offers a number ofmany destinations perfect for those who want to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere while exploring its historical and cultural heritage. Here are six Schengen countries that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
Italy never fails to captivate visitors with its magnificent historic architecture and romantic natural landscapes. Start your journey in the heart of Rome to witness the remnants of the Colosseum's grandeur, then continue by exploring Venice's iconic canals. If you enjoy coastal scenery, the dramatic cliffs and blue waters along the Amalfi Coast are also ready to offer an unforgettable vacation experience.
Italy is also known as a gastronomic paradise that every international traveler should explore. Don't miss the chance to sample authentic dishes such as handmade pasta, traditional pizza made with fresh ingredients, and gelato in a variety of flavors. The best time to explore its beauty is from mid-spring to early summer, when the weather is pleasantly mild.
Spain offers a warm Mediterranean climate, historic buildings with artistic charm, and a vibrant local culture. You can admire the eccentric architectural masterpieces designed by Antoni Gaudí scattered throughout Barcelona, or experience the lively energy of central Madrid.
If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere with a touch of the great outdoors, the Costa del Sol offers stretches of golden sandy beaches bathed in sunlight. Andalusia in southern Spain also features passionate flamenco performances and magnificent palaces left behind by the Moorish civilization.
Your visit will become even more enjoyable after sampling local specialties such as spice-rich seafood paella and tapas served in small portions. Visiting Spain in autumn is also recommended to avoid the peak tourist crowds in the summer holiday season.
Portugal is appealing for its friendly locals and relatively affordable travel costs. Lisbon offers the charm of winding cobblestone streets, complete with views of classic yellow trams passing by historic monuments that bear witness to the country's maritime golden age.
Just outside the city center, take some time to explore Sintra's countryside and admire its colorful palaces that seem to have come straight out of a fairy tale. If you love coastal getaways, the Algarve is a destination you shouldn't miss.
The beaches in this region feature crystal-clear blue waters, surrounded by limestone cliffs formations naturally sculpted by the waves. Enjoying a pastel de nata with a warm cup of coffee by the roadside will make your days in Portugal even more delightful.
Greece is a paradise for lovers of ancient mythology and travelers seeking exotic island getaways with picturesque scenery. In Athens, archaeological sites featuring majestic marble columns, such as the Acropolis, stand proudly as silent witnesses to the glory of ancient civilizations. A little farther toward the waters of the Aegean Sea, the pristine white houses with bright blue domes on the island of Santorini are well worth exploring and photographing.
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Greece's abundance of fresh local ingredients is ready to delight your palate. A variety of seafood freshly caught by local fishermen, authentic feta cheese, and vegetable salads with olives offer a healthy culinary experience. The transition toward the end of summer is the best time to sail through the beauty of this island chain without being overwhelmed by the scorching sun.
Although its land area is relatively small, this charming island country nestled in the Mediterranean Sea is rich in historical heritage. Valletta, the capital of Malta, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage gem, with streets lined with beautifully preserved Baroque architecture. Don't forget to explore the ancient Hagar Qim megalithic temples, which have stood for thousands of years.
Malta's natural beauty shines at the Blue Lagoon, where crystal-clear waters meet breathtaking scenery. Its coastline is also ideal for enjoying a variety of relaxing water activities. Don't miss the traditional Maltese delicacy of warm pastizzi, often enjoyed with a cup of freshly brewed tea in the morning.
Croatia has also made its mark on the global tourism scene thanks to its stunning Adriatic coastline and historic old towns rich in heritage. Dubrovnik, which is completely surrounded by massive stone walls dating back to the medieval era, is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of ancient European civilization.
You should also include Plitvice Lakes National Park in your itinerary. This nature conservation area showcases a series of cascading waterfalls flowing into tranquil turquoise-blue lakes. Croatia's rich gastronomy, which combines Mediterranean cooking techniques with inland Balkan traditions, is another highlight not to be missed.
There are several things you need to prepare to make your Southern European travel plans more organized. Here are some of them.
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Those are six Southern European countries in the Schengen Area that deserve a spot on your dream vacation list, from Italy to Croatia. Each country has its own unique character and attractions, allowing you to choose a destination that matches your interests and travel plans.
Since a Schengen visa requires travel insurance that meets certain coverage requirements, consider Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia as part of your travel preparations. This insurance is registered in accordance with Schengen visa requirements, making it ready to accompany your journey to Southern Europe.
In addition, this insurance provides benefits including coverage for accidents, medical expenses incurred while abroad, and even fire damage to your home. Premiums for the international package start at IDR 132,000, and you can purchase it online.
Ready for an unforgettable Southern European getaway? Don't forget to take Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia with you!
TRAVEL INSURANCE
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MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE
