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Articles 04 Feb 2026

Explore Favorite Schengen Travel Destinations in 2026: New Year, New Europe!

A vacation to Europe is a dream for many people. Classic cities, historic buildings, local cuisine, and iconic natural scenery always place Europe high on travelers’ wishlists. One of the most practical ways to explore Europe is by visiting Schengen travel destinations.

That’s because within the Schengen Area, you can visit many European countries using just a single visa. It’s no surprise that these destinations are extremely popular, especially among Indonesian travelers who want to experience multiple countries in one trip.

If you’re planning a vacation to Europe, this article will help you understand what Schengen travel is and recommend destinations you shouldn’t miss. So, make sure you read until the end!

ALSO READ: Traveling Soon? Should You Visit Schengen Countries or Other Destinations?

What Is Schengen Travel?

Schengen travel refers to travel to countries that are part of the Schengen Area, a border-free region in Europe. This means that once you enter one Schengen country, you can travel to other Schengen countries without additional immigration checks.

Currently, the Schengen Area includes more than 20 European countries, such as France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany. With a Schengen visa, you can explore all of these countries in a single vacation trip.

For Indonesian travelers, Schengen travel is especially appealing because it allows you to enjoy many iconic European destinations more efficiently, both in terms of time and overall experience.

Why Schengen Travel Is So Popular Among Indonesian Travelers

There are several reasons Schengen travel remains a favorite among Indonesian tourists.

  • One Visa for Multiple Countries: You don’t need to apply for separate visas for each country. With just one Schengen visa, you can visit several countries at once.
  • Easy Cross-Border Transportation: High-speed trains, international buses, and regional flights make traveling between Schengen countries extremely convenient.
  • Iconic Destinations in One Trip: From the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum to the Alps, everything can be explored in a single itinerary.
  • Ideal for Long Vacations: Many Indonesian travelers take advantage of extended leave or year-end holidays to enjoy Schengen travel, as the experiences are incredibly diverse.

Favorite Schengen Travel Destinations You Must Visit

Below are Schengen travel destinations that frequently appear on Indonesian travelers’ itineraries, whether for first-time visitors or repeat travelers. So, make sure you don’t miss these spots.

1. Paris, France

Paris is a city in France that is familiar to many people. Known as the most romantic city in the world, its main attraction is the Eiffel Tower, which can be enjoyed from Champ de Mars or Trocadéro.

Besides the Eiffel Tower, you can visit the Louvre Museum to see the Mona Lisa or admire the grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral. While in Paris, don’t forget to try croissants and explore the streets of Montmartre.

2. Rome, Italy

If you love history or ancient architecture, this Schengen travel destination is a must-visit. Rome feels like an open-air museum, with the Colosseum as its main icon.

Here, you can walk through the Roman Forum, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and marvel at the Pantheon. Not far from Rome, you can also visit Vatican City, the center of Catholicism and home to the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica.

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has its own charm with calm canals and historic narrow houses. Must-visit attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Anne Frank House.

You can explore the city at a relaxed pace by cycling to various landmarks. If you visit Amsterdam in spring, don’t miss the opportunity to see the tulip fields at Keukenhof.

4. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is the next Schengen destination, offering a unique blend of art, culture, and beach life. When visiting this city, you should admire Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, such as Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló.

Not only that, but Barcelona is also known for its vibrant beaches, perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a vacation with a Mediterranean atmosphere.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a city with a strong classic ambiance. Charles Bridge and Old Town Square are two iconic destinations you shouldn’t miss.

In addition, you can visit Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral that offer panoramic views and an extraordinary historical atmosphere.

6. Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken is another Schengen destination in Switzerland worth visiting. Its location between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz makes this town ideal for exploring the Alps.

There is also a famous attraction you shouldn’t miss: the train journey to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway-accessible point in Europe. Sounds exciting, right?

7. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a volcanic island known for its spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. The iconic white houses with blue domes in Oia are a favorite sight among travelers.

This Schengen destination is also rich in historical sites, especially in Akrotiri. If you’re interested in unique beaches, you can visit Red Beach and Kamari.

8. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city full of history, particularly associated with musical legends such as Mozart and Beethoven. You can also visit Schönbrunn Palace and Hofburg Palace, both featuring impressive architecture.

If you enjoy opera, be sure not to miss a performance at the Vienna State Opera. Meanwhile, food lovers can try an authentic Viennese treat, the famous Sachertorte cake.

9. Bergen, Norway

Bergen is a city with stunning scenery on Norway’s western coast. The colorful wooden houses in the Bryggen area are the main icon of this city.

While in Bergen, you can explore spectacular fjords such as Sognefjord and Nærøyfjord. One of the city’s main attractions is the chance to see the aurora borealis during winter.

10. Budapest, Hungary

The final Schengen destination on this list is Budapest. One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Budapest is divided by the Danube River into Buda and Pest.

You can enjoy many activities while visiting Budapest, from visiting Buda Castle and cruising along the river to relaxing in the Széchenyi thermal baths and enjoying scenic views from Fisherman’s Bastion.

Tips for Planning a More Efficient Schengen Trip

To ensure your Schengen trip runs smoothly, here are some important tips you can follow:

  • Don’t Visit Too Many Countries: Ideally, visit only 2–4 countries in one trip to avoid exhaustion.
  • Pay Attention to City Distances: Choose cities connected by high-speed trains or direct transportation.
  • Create a Realistic Itinerary: Allow time to rest and avoid overpacking your schedule.
  • Adjust to the Season: Spring and autumn are generally more comfortable than peak summer, which can be extremely crowded.

ALSO READ: 5 Popular Thrifting Markets in Schengen Countries

Explore Schengen Travel More Comfortably and Safely with Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia

The list of Schengen travel destinations above can serve as inspiration if you’re planning a European vacation in the near future. To make your trip more comfortable and secure, you need extra protection from travel insurance.

Fortunately, Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia provides coverage for various travel risks, including medical protection, accidents, and other travel disruptions. This insurance can be purchased online, making it more practical and well-suited to the needs of Indonesian travelers.

With the right protection, you can enjoy your Schengen travel with greater peace of mind. Let’s secure your trip today with Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia for a safer and more comfortable vacation!

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