The Schengen Zone is drawing significant attention and interest today because of the emergence of a new travel authorisation called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System). This is an electronic system that serves as a pre-screening process for travellers from countries that are visa-exempt for the Schengen Area, such as the UK. While it aims to enhance security measures in the region, it also functions as a gateway to some of best European places to visit. The Schengen Area encompasses 27 countries, each with its own unique set of reasons to welcome foreign travellers in. From stunning architecture and ancient ruins, to picturesque landscapes, the Schengen Zone offers an array of experiences for travellers to various destinations. Here are some of them.
Rome, Italy
Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of cultural riches. It’s the heart of Catholicism with Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica, displaying Michelangelo’s Pieta and the stunning Sistine Chapel. The city breathes art, from the ancient sculptures in the Capitoline Museums to the Baroque fountains adorned with mythological figures.
As the former centre of the Roman Empire, Rome’s history spans over 2,500 years. The Colosseum stands as a symbol of ancient Rome’s glory, while the Roman Forum takes you back to the political, social, and commercial hub of the empire. Every cobblestone seems to narrate tales of gladiators, emperors, and artists.
Besides the historical landmarks, Rome offers breathtaking vistas from the Janiculum Hill, enchanting squares like Piazza Navona, and the charm of the Spanish Steps. The romantic allure of the Tiber River and the panoramic views from Gianicolo Hill are equally captivating.
Paris, France
Paris is synonymous with art, fashion, and sophistication. The Louvre houses iconic masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, while the Musée d’Orsay showcases Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. The city’s cafe culture, haute couture boutiques, and exquisite cuisine define its cultural essence.
The history of Paris is etched in its architecture—the grandeur of Notre Dame Cathedral, the opulence of the Palace of Versailles, and the historically significant Bastille. Each street corner holds a story from the French Revolution to the Belle Époque.
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of romance, offers panoramic views of the city. The Seine River’s banks, adorned with historic bridges and quaint bookstalls, invite leisurely strolls. Montmartre’s bohemian charm and the gardens of Luxembourg Palace add to Paris’ allure.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona boasts an avant-garde vibe mixed with rich Catalan heritage. The architecture of Antoni Gaudí, seen in Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, is an embodiment of the city’s unique style. The lively street life, vibrant markets, and love for football contribute to its culture.
The Gothic Quarter with its labyrinthine streets and remnants of Roman walls juxtaposed with modernist structures narrates Barcelona’s diverse history. The Catalonian identity, evident in language and traditions, reflects the city’s historical struggles.
The Mediterranean coastline offers sandy beaches, while the Montjuïc hill provides panoramic city views. La Rambla, a bustling boulevard, and the colourful Boqueria Market capture the essence of Barcelona’s lively atmosphere.
Athens, Greece
Athens is a cradle of Western civilisation, boasting an unparallelled legacy in philosophy, arts, and democracy. The Acropolis, with the Parthenon as its centrepiece, stands as an enduring symbol of ancient Greek culture. The National Archaeological Museum houses various treasures from antiquity.
From the classical era to the Byzantine Empire and Ottoman rule, Athens has a layered history. The Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Theatre of Dionysus take visitors on a journey through time.
Aside from its historical flavour, Mount Lycabettus provides a panoramic view of Athens. The bustling Plaka district with its narrow streets and charming cafes offers an authentic Athenian experience.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague enchants travellers with its fairy-tale architecture and rich artistic heritage. The Charles Bridge, adorned with statues, and the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square are iconic cultural symbols. The city’s love for classical music, evident in concert halls and operas, adds to its charm.
Prague’s history spans from the medieval era to the Velvet Revolution. The Prague Castle, a complex of palaces and churches, embodies centuries of Bohemian history. The Jewish Quarter with its synagogues and cemetery reflects the city’s diverse past.
Vltava River offers picturesque views of Prague’s skyline. The hilltop fortress of Vyšehrad and the beauty of Petřín Hill provide stunning panoramic cityscape vistas.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna exudes elegance and sophistication, known for its classical music, refined coffeehouse culture, and imperial grandeur. The city resonates with the melodies of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss, showcased in venues like the Vienna State Opera. The café culture invites leisurely conversations over coffee and local pastries.
Once the centre of the Habsburg Empire, Vienna is steeped in history, as seen in the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Imperial Palace, and the opulent Belvedere. The city’s legacy in art, architecture, and philosophy is noticeable in its streets.
The Ringstrasse Boulevard offers a glimpse into Vienna’s historic and architectural splendour. The Prater Park’s giant Ferris wheel provides panoramic views, while the Danube River adds tranquillity to the cityscape.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, straddling the Danube River, is a fusion of two distinct cities—Buda and Pest—united by numerous bridges. The city is renowned for its thermal baths, such as Széchenyi and Gellért, showcasing a unique cultural experience. Its vibrant nightlife and rich cuisine add to its charm.
The Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion stand as testaments to Budapest’s legendary history. The city bears the scars of both World War II and the subsequent communist era, visible in its architecture and resilience.
The panorama from the banks of the Danube, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases the city’s iconic landmarks. The Liberty Statue atop Gellért Hill and the Chain Bridge provide stunning views of Budapest’s skyline.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a picture-perfect Greek island, famous for its whitewashed buildings perched on cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. Its iconic blue-domed churches, stunning sunsets, and Cycladic architecture define its cultural allure. The island’s vineyards and local cuisine are equally enticing.
Once the site of a volcanic eruption, Santorini’s dramatic landscape includes archaeological sites like Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement preserved in ash. The island’s history is entwined with myths and legends.
The villages of Oia and Fira offer breathtaking views of the caldera and sunsets that attract visitors from around the world. The black sand beaches, like Kamari and Perissa, provide a unique coastal experience.
Each of these destinations within the Schengen zone offers a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in their captivating stories. This makes ETIAS a strategic travel authorisation for visitors from the UK.
ETIAS: Transforming Travel from 2025
Beginning in 2025, travellers venturing into the Schengen region will encounter the ETIAS. This will require travellers to prepare themselves for a number of changes in the way that European travel is commonly done.
1. Application Process and Requirements
ETIAS is designed to facilitate travel authorisation for visitors from countries that are part of the visa-exempt programme. Travellers need to complete an online application providing personal information, passport details, travel itinerary, and answer security-related questions. The process is generally straightforward and aims to enhance security measures while ensuring a smooth entry process.
2. Impact on Spontaneous Travel
ETIAS might pose a challenge for those who prefer spontaneous travel plans. Previously, travellers from visa-exempt countries could decide on a whim to visit Europe. With ETIAS, pre-planning becomes necessary, potentially limiting spontaneous trips due to the need to apply well before departure.
3. Enhanced Security Measures
The implementation of ETIAS aims to enhance security within Europe’s Schengen Zone by pre-screening travellers before their arrival. This system allows authorities to identify potential security threats before individuals reach European borders, contributing to a safer travel environment overall for anyone who wishes to explore the beauty of Schengen.
Conclusion
The Schengen region, adorned with a mosaic of cultural riches and natural splendour, calls travellers to immerse themselves in its uniquely diverse charm. As ETIAS becomes a requisite for visa-exempt travellers in 2025, it embodies a harmonious blend of enhanced security measures and unhindered exploration of some of the best European places to visit.
Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through Europe’s top destinations, embracing the fusion of history, culture, and scenic beauty that awaits within the enchanting Schengen Zone.