Many travellers express concerns about Europe’s 90-day rule when planning their trips to the continent. The rule states that visitors from outside the European Union are limited to staying for only 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area. To overcome this limitation and make the most of their time in Europe, many travellers recommend breaking up their trip by visiting non-Schengen countries or regions. By strategically planning their route and including locations outside the Schengen Area, travellers can extend their overall time in Europe and experience a diverse range of cultures and landscapes.
One popular destination recommended by travellers to break up a trip is the United Kingdom. As a non-Schengen country, visitors can spend time exploring cities like London, Edinburgh, and Manchester while not counting towards their 90-day limit in the Schengen Area. The United Kingdom offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a popular choice for travellers looking to extend their time in Europe. Additionally, the UK’s proximity to Europe makes it an easily accessible destination for those looking to incorporate it into their travel plans.
Another recommended destination to break up a trip is the Balkan Peninsula, which includes countries such as Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro. These countries offer a rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, providing a unique contrast to the more well-known destinations in Western Europe. By visiting the Balkans, travellers can explore lesser-known regions and immerse themselves in local cultures while also extending their time in Europe beyond the 90-day limit. The Balkan Peninsula’s affordability and diverse attractions make it an attractive option for travellers seeking a unique and memorable experience.
When planning a trip to Europe, travellers may also consider visiting countries in Eastern Europe, such as Ukraine, Belarus, and Moldova. These countries offer a mix of Soviet-era architecture, vibrant cultures, and picturesque landscapes, providing a different perspective on European history and society. By including Eastern European countries in their itinerary, travellers can break up their time in the Schengen Area and diversify their travel experience with unique destinations that may not be as frequently visited by tourists. Eastern Europe’s affordability and authentic charm make it an appealing option for travellers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
For those looking to break up their trip with a beach getaway, countries in the Mediterranean region such as Turkey, Morocco, and Cyprus offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of European cities. These countries boast beautiful coastlines, sunny weather, and a laid-back atmosphere, making them ideal destinations for relaxation and rejuvenation. By including a beach destination in their itinerary, travellers can recharge and unwind before continuing their European adventure, all while not counting towards their 90-day limit in the Schengen Area. The Mediterranean region’s diverse attractions and warm hospitality make it a popular choice for travellers seeking a balance between exploration and relaxation.
In addition to visiting non-Schengen countries, travellers can also consider spending time in regions within the Schengen Area that are not subject to the 90-day rule. For example, countries like Bulgaria, Romania, and Croatia are part of the European Union but are not part of the Schengen Area, allowing visitors to spend additional time in these countries without affecting their 90-day limit in other Schengen countries. By strategically planning their itinerary and including these countries in their trip, travellers can make the most of their time in Europe and explore a diverse range of destinations while staying within the legal limits of their visa or entry requirements. Ultimately, breaking up a trip to Europe with a mix of Schengen and non-Schengen countries offers travellers the opportunity to maximize their time in the continent and create a well-rounded and memorable travel experience.
