Europe Trip from India: Schengen Visa, Itinerary and Budget

A Europe tour is a dream trip for many Indian families. With the right planning – especially the visa – it is very achievable.

The Schengen Visa

One Schengen visa lets you travel across 29 European countries, including France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Spain and more. (The UK and Ireland need separate visas.)

• Where to apply: at the consulate (via its visa centre, typically VFS Global or BLS) of the country where you will spend the most nights; if equal, the country of first entry.
• When: up to 6 months before travel; apply at least 6–8 weeks ahead in peak season (April–July), when appointments are scarce.
• Typical documents: passport (valid 3 months beyond return, issued within 10 years), application form, photos, flight and hotel bookings, day-wise itinerary, travel insurance (minimum €30,000 cover), last 3–6 months' bank statements, ITRs, employment/business proof and leave letter.
• Biometrics: fingerprints at the visa centre (valid for repeat applications for 59 months).

Book appointments through VFS Global or the relevant consulate's official partner.

Classic 12-Day Itinerary

1. Days 1–3: Paris – Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Seine cruise, Disneyland Paris or Versailles.
2. Days 4–7: Switzerland – Lucerne, Mount Titlis, Interlaken and Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen.
3. Days 8–9: Venice – gondolas, St Mark's Square, Murano and Burano.
4. Days 10–11: Florence & Pisa – Duomo, Uffizi, Leaning Tower.
5. Day 12: Rome – Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain; fly home.

Add Amsterdam, Brussels or Vienna for a 14–15 day grand tour.

Getting Around

High-speed trains connect most cities; book early on official rail sites for the best fares. A Swiss Travel Pass covers trains, buses, boats and discounts on mountain excursions. Budget airlines work for longer hops.

Best Time

• May–June and September: pleasant weather, long days, fewer crowds than peak summer.
• July–August: busiest and priciest.
• December: Christmas markets – magical but cold.

Budget (per person, 12 days, mid-range)

Flights ₹55,000–₹90,000 + visa and insurance ₹10,000 + hotels, trains, sightseeing and food ₹1.5–2.5 lakh. Group tours often work out cheaper and include Indian meals.

Europe Packages

• Grand Europe Tour – 10 Countries in 14 Nights / 15 Days
• Europe Explorer – Amsterdam, Berlin & Prague, 7 Nights / 8 Days

See all Europe tours.

Related reading: Azerbaijan trip from India · Dubai trip from India

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I apply for a Schengen visa?

At least 6–8 weeks before travel in peak season; applications open 6 months ahead.

Which country should I apply through?

The country where you spend the most nights; if equal, your first point of entry.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes – minimum €30,000 medical cover valid in all Schengen states.

Is a group tour better than independent travel?

For first-timers and families, group tours simplify visas, transport and Indian food.