Best European Countries to Visit for First-Timers from India

Every Indian traveller has, at some point, dreamed of strolling through cobblestone streets, standing in front of a centuries-old cathedral, and sipping something warm at a sidewalk cafe. Europe has always held that kind of pull. Yet for many first-timers from India, the trip feels overwhelming before it even begins. Which country do you start with? Is it expensive? What about the visa?

The honest answer is that Europe is far more doable than it looks. Some of the best European countries to visit are also the most welcoming to Indian passport holders, with strong tourism infrastructure, a growing number of Indian-friendly dining options, and well-connected flight routes from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

This guide covers everything a first-time Indian traveller needs to know. You will find the top countries to visit in Europe, what makes each one special, rough budget estimates, visa details, and practical tips to make your trip smooth. Whether you want the romance of Western Europe or the affordability of the East, there is a destination here for you.

Understanding the Schengen Visa Before You Plan

Before picking your first European destination, you need to understand the Schengen visa. Indian passport holders cannot enter most European countries without one. The good news is that a single Schengen visa covers 29 countries, which means one approved application lets you travel across a large chunk of the continent without applying again.

Here are the key facts for Indian travelers:

• The Schengen visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within any 180 days.
• The visa fee is approximately 80 euros, which works out to around Rs 7,000 to Rs 8,000, depending on exchange rates. Children between 6 and 12 years pay half that. Children under 6 travel for free.
• Processing takes 15 to 30 days on average. Apply at least 45 to 60 days before your travel date to stay safe.
• Apply at the embassy or consulate of the country where you will spend the most days. If your stay is split equally, apply through the country you enter first.
• You must carry travel insurance with a minimum medical coverage of 30,000 euros. This is a mandatory Schengen requirement.
• Required documents include a valid passport, confirmed flight and hotel bookings, bank statements, and passport-sized photos.

Some countries outside the Schengen zone, such as the United Kingdom and Georgia, have their own separate visa processes. A valid Schengen visa also grants entry into Romania and a few other destinations, though rules change, so always verify before travel.

Best European Countries to Visit: Country-by-Country Breakdown

Below is a curated list of the best European countries to visit for first-timers from India. Each entry covers what makes it great, the must-see highlights, ideal travel season, and approximate budget.

1. France: The Classic First-Timer Choice

France is consistently ranked as the world’s most visited country, and for good reason. Paris, with the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Seine riverbanks, delivers that iconic Europe experience that most Indian travellers picture when they close their eyes and imagine the continent. Beyond Paris, you have the lavender fields of Provence, the wine regions of Bordeaux, and the glamour of the French Riviera.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• France processes a high volume of Indian visa applications, which means approval rates are relatively strong when documents are in order.
• Paris has a large Indian community and a solid range of Indian restaurants, particularly in areas like the Gare du Nord neighbourhood.
• Multiple direct and one-stop flights operate from Delhi and Mumbai.

Best time to visit: April to June and September to October.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 8,000 to Rs 15,000 per person, depending on accommodation and dining choices.

2. Italy: History, Food, and Endless Beauty

Italy is one of the most rewarding and best European countries to visit, especially for those who care about food and history. Rome pulls you into ancient civilization with the Colosseum and the Vatican. Venice gives you canals and gondolas that feel unreal. Florence holds some of the finest Renaissance art in the world. And then there is the food. Pizza, pasta, gelato, and espresso taste fundamentally different when you have them in the country where they were invented.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Italy is a reliable Schengen visa entry point. With a clear itinerary and organized documents, approvals are common.
• Milan’s Malpensa Airport is often one of the cheapest European entry points from India when booked early.
• The country is easy to navigate by train, with fast connections between Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan.

Best time to visit: April to June and September to November.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 7,000 to Rs 12,000 per person.

3. Switzerland: India’s Favourite European Destination

If you have grown up watching Bollywood films, Switzerland is already familiar. Decades of song sequences shot against snow-capped Alps and green meadows have made this country one of the most emotionally resonant destinations for Indian travellers. The reality matches the imagery. Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, and the Jungfrau region are genuinely spectacular.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Switzerland is ranked among the safest countries in the world with low violent crime rates.
• Indian restaurants are widely available in major Swiss cities.
• The Swiss Travel Pass makes getting around by train, bus, and boat extremely convenient.

Best time to visit: June to September for Alpine scenery; December to February for snow.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 12,000 to Rs 20,000 per person. Switzerland is one of the more expensive options on this list, but many Indian travellers feel it is worth every rupee.

4. Spain: Beaches, Architecture, and Vibrant Culture

Spain has become one of the fastest-growing European destinations for Indian travellers. Barcelona’s architecture alone makes it worth the flight. Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia and Park Güell are unlike anything else in the world. Madrid has world-class museums, including the Prado. Seville brings flamenco, orange trees, and stunning Moorish architecture to the picture. Add the Mediterranean beaches of Costa Brava, and you have a complete holiday in one country.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Spain’s Schengen visa has quicker processing times and strong approval rates for well-prepared applications.
• The country is slightly more affordable than France or Switzerland, making it a good choice for value-focused travelers.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in tourist areas, especially in Barcelona. Keep your belongings close in crowded spots.

Best time to visit: March to May and September to November.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000 per person.

5. Germany: Culture, Castles, and Connectivity

Germany is one of the best European countries to visit for travellers who want history, culture, and modern efficiency all in one place. Berlin is a fascinating city shaped by its divided past. Munich has Neuschwanstein Castle nearby and hosts Oktoberfest every autumn. The Rhine Valley, the Black Forest, and the Bavarian Alps add natural variety. Germany is also an excellent base for multi-country trips, with train connections to Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and France.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Indian restaurants and Indian grocery stores are widely available in German cities. Frankfurt, in particular, has a large Indian community.
• Germany’s public transport system is one of the most reliable in Europe.
• Well-policed cities and efficient infrastructure make it an easy country for first-time solo travellers.

Best time to visit: May to September. October for Oktoberfest.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 6,500 to Rs 11,000 per person.

6. Greece: Ancient History and Island Life

Greece combines ancient civilization with striking natural beauty. The Acropolis in Athens is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Santorini, with its white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches perched above the caldera, makes for photographs that look almost too beautiful to be real. Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes offer beaches and a relaxed pace that feels worlds away from urban life. Greece is also one of the cheap European countries to visit from India when you travel during the shoulder season.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Off-season travel from April to June or September to October brings costs down significantly.
• Athens is well-connected to Indian cities via one-stop flights through Dubai, Doha, and Istanbul.
• Street food and ferry transport between islands are surprisingly affordable.

Best time to visit: April to June and September to October.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 4,500 to Rs 8,000 per person, making it one of the more budget-accessible Western European options.

7. Portugal: Atlantic Charm on a Budget

Portugal has grown dramatically in popularity among Indian travellers, with visitor numbers rising sharply year on year. Lisbon is a city of hills, vintage trams, and viewpoints that open onto the Tagus River. Porto, further north, is where the famous port wine originates, and the historic riverfront has a character all its own. Sintra, a short day trip from Lisbon, feels like a place from a fairy tale. Portugal is one of the best cheap European countries to visit from India without sacrificing quality.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Porto is considerably more affordable than Lisbon and many Western European capitals.
• Locals are known for being warm and patient with first-time visitors.
• Portugal can be combined with Spain on a single Schengen itinerary, making it a natural two-country trip.

Best time to visit: March to May and September to November.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 5,000 to Rs 8,500 per person.

8. Czech Republic: The Fairytale City of Prague

Prague is one of the most visually stunning capital cities in Europe. Gothic cathedrals, the medieval Charles Bridge, an astronomical clock from the 15th century, and a hilltop castle overlooking the red-roofed old town make this a place that photographs itself. The Czech Republic is also one of the cheap European countries to visit from India, with accommodation and food costs well below the Western European average. Young Indian travellers and honeymooners alike find it an ideal destination.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Prague’s old town is walkable and easy to explore without a car.
• Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to boutique hotels in beautiful historic buildings.
• It pairs naturally with Budapest or Vienna for a Central Europe circuit.

Best time to visit: April to June and September to October.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 3,500 to Rs 6,000 per person, making it one of the most wallet-friendly destinations on this list.

9. Hungary: Budapest on a Shoestring

Budapest is one of the most underrated European capitals and one of the best cheap European countries to visit from India. Buda Castle sits on one side of the Danube River. Pest’s grand Parliament Building glows gold at night on the other side. The city’s famous thermal baths are a unique experience you will not find anywhere else. Ruin bars, which are quirky bars built in abandoned buildings in the Jewish Quarter, have become iconic. Hungary offers genuine European charm at a fraction of the cost of Western destinations.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Round-trip flights from India to Budapest run between Rs 30,000 and Rs 40,000 when booked in advance.
• Accommodation in the city center costs Rs 2,500 to Rs 5,000 per night for a decent mid-range hotel.
• Daily expenses, including meals and local transport, average Rs 3,500 to Rs 6,000.

Best time to visit: May to September.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 3,500 to Rs 6,000 per person.

10. Austria: Mozart, Mountains, and Imperial Grandeur

Austria offers a refined European experience that rewards travellers who appreciate culture and natural scenery in equal measure. Vienna is the city of Mozart and Beethoven. The Schonbrunn Palace rivals Versailles in scale. Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart and a gateway to the Alps. Hallstatt, a tiny lakeside village, is so picturesque it has become an international travel icon. Austria belongs comfortably among the best European countries to visit, particularly for travellers who want elegance without the crowds of Paris.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Vienna has a good range of Indian restaurants and efficient public transport.
• Austria is safe, clean, and easy to navigate even on a first international trip.
• It combines naturally with the Czech Republic and Hungary for a three-country Central Europe trip.

Best time to visit: April to October for Alpine scenery; December for Christmas markets.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 7,000 to Rs 12,000 per person.

11. Romania: Europe Without the Crowds

Romania is one of the most overlooked cheap European countries to visit from India, and that is precisely what makes it appealing. Peles Castle, a 19th-century royal palace nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, is arguably more beautiful than many of the famous castles in Western Europe, with far fewer visitors. Brasov is a charming medieval town that feels straight out of a period film. Bran Castle, associated with the Dracula legend, draws curious travellers. Bucharest blends communist-era architecture with ornate Baroque buildings in a way that feels unlike anywhere else.

Why it works for Indian first-timers:

• Romania accepts a valid Schengen visa, so no separate visa application is needed if you already have one.
• Round-trip flights from India are available in the Rs 38,000 to Rs 48,000 range when planned ahead.
• Daily expenses, including food and accommodation, run around Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,500 per person.

Best time to visit: May to October.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,500 per person, making it one of the most affordable European options for Indian travellers.

12. The Netherlands: Canals, Tulips, and Dutch Charm

Amsterdam is a city unlike any other. Its ring of 17th-century canals, the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum offer a mix of history and culture that keeps travellers engaged for days. A visit in spring, when the Keukenhof Gardens are in bloom with millions of tulips, is one of Europe’s most spectacular seasonal experiences. The Netherlands also has excellent transport links, making it easy to use Amsterdam as a base for day trips to Rotterdam, The Hague, and even into Belgium.

Best time to visit: March to May for tulips; June to August for pleasant weather.

Approximate daily budget: Rs 7,000 to Rs 13,000 per person.

How to Keep Costs Low: Cheap European Countries to Visit from India

Europe does not have to be expensive. The perception that only wealthy travellers can afford a European holiday has kept many Indians from booking a trip they could actually afford with the right planning. Here is how you keep costs manageable.

Focus on Eastern Europe

Countries like Hungary, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Bulgaria are significantly cheaper than Western European destinations. Accommodation, food, and local transport cost a fraction of what you would pay in Paris or Zurich, yet the historical depth and visual appeal are absolutely comparable. A well-planned 7-10 day trip through Eastern Europe can be done for Rs 80,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh per person, all-inclusive.

Book flights 2 to 3 months in advance

Early booking is one of the single most effective ways to save money on international flights. Routes from Mumbai and Delhi to European hubs through Doha, Dubai, and Istanbul offer competitive prices when booked well in advance. Flexible travel dates help too, as midweek departures are often cheaper.

Use public transport, not taxis

European cities have world-class metro, tram, and bus systems. Day passes and multi-day transport cards offer excellent value. Avoid tourist-facing taxis in city centres and use apps like Uber, Bolt, or local equivalents when you genuinely need a cab.

Stay in budget accommodation in well-connected areas

Hostels and guesthouses in Eastern European cities like Prague and Budapest can cost as little as Rs 800 to Rs 1,500 per night for a private room. In Western Europe, look for mid-range chain hotels slightly outside the city centre but close to a metro station. Apartment rentals also work well for families or groups of four or more.

Use a forex card

Carry a multi-currency forex card to avoid high conversion charges on your debit or credit card. Load euros before departure. Remember that while most countries in Europe use euros, places like Hungary use the Hungarian forint and the Czech Republic uses the Czech koruna. Confirm the local currency before you land.

Travel during shoulder season

Avoid June to August if budget is a concern. Peak summer in Europe means peak prices for flights, hotels, and popular attractions. April to May and September to October offer pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and noticeably lower prices across the board.

Practical Tips for First-Time Indian Travellers to Europe

Planning the trip is one part of the job. The other part is making sure your time in Europe goes smoothly. These practical tips will help.

• Apply for your Schengen visa early. Apply at least 45 to 60 days before your departure date. During busy seasons like April to July, processing can take longer than usual.
• Do not overpack your itinerary. A common mistake first-timers make is trying to cover six or seven countries in ten days. Two or three countries done properly is a richer experience than a rushed tour of eight.
• Get a local SIM or portable Wi-Fi. Navigation, train bookings, and instant translations all require internet access. A local SIM is usually the most affordable option in each country.
• Pack for variable weather. European weather is unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn. A light jacket, layers, and a compact umbrella will serve you across most seasons.
• Research Indian food availability. Major cities in Germany, the UK, Switzerland, and Spain have a strong presence of Indian restaurants. In smaller Eastern European towns, options may be limited, so keep some dry snacks handy if you prefer familiar food.
• Book popular attractions in advance. The Eiffel Tower, Colosseum, Sagrada Familia, and Anne Frank House all require pre-booked entry tickets. Turning up at the gate during peak season often means long queues or sold-out slots.
• Learn a few local phrases. A simple bonjour in France, grazie in Italy, or danke in Germany goes a long way. Locals respond warmly when visitors make even a small effort.
• Travel insurance is not optional. It is a Schengen visa requirement, and beyond paperwork, it is genuinely useful in a region where medical costs can be high.

Suggested Multi-Country Routes for First-Timers

Since a single Schengen visa covers multiple countries, planning a circuit makes strong sense. Here are three routes that work well for Indian travelers on their first Europe trip.

Route 1: The Classic Western Europe Circuit (10 to 14 days)

Paris (France) > Interlaken or Lucerne (Switzerland) > Rome or Florence (Italy). This route covers three of the most iconic European destinations and is popular with Indian honeymooners and families alike.

Route 2: The Budget Central Europe Circuit (10 to 12 days)

Prague (Czech Republic) > Vienna (Austria) > Budapest (Hungary). This route gives you the full European experience at roughly half the cost of a Western Europe trip. All three cities are connected by direct trains.

Route 3: The Iberian Peninsula (10 to 14 days)

Lisbon and Porto (Portugal) > Seville and Barcelona (Spain). This route combines Atlantic coastal beauty with Mediterranean flair. Culture, beaches, architecture, and food all in one trip.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Europe from India?

Timing your Europe trip well makes a real difference to both cost and experience.

• Spring (April to June): One of the best windows to visit. The weather is pleasant across most of Europe. Tulips bloom in the Netherlands. Crowds are still manageable before peak summer. Flights and hotels are priced below July rates.
• Summer (July to August): Peak season. Great weather and long daylight hours, but also peak prices and maximum crowds at popular attractions. Best suited for travelers who prioritize sunshine and have flexible budgets.
• Autumn (September to October): Another excellent window. Forests in Central Europe turn golden. Crowd levels drop. Prices fall. October brings Oktoberfest to Munich, which draws visitors specifically for that experience.
• Winter (December to February): Ideal for Christmas market lovers and those who want to see the Alps with snow. Fewer tourists at most sites. However, some attractions in Southern Europe close or run reduced hours.

Planning Your First European Trip? Sunraj Travels Can Help

Choosing between the best European countries to visit is the exciting part. Managing visa paperwork, flight bookings, hotel selections, and itinerary logistics is where expert help pays off. Sunraj Travels offers customized Europe travel packages designed for Indian travelers, covering both Western highlights and affordable Eastern Europe circuits.

If you are also considering an Asia trip alongside your Europe plans, check out our guide on Japan tour packages from India, which covers another bucket-list destination that pairs well with multi-continent planning.

Final Thoughts: Which Are the Best European Countries to Visit First?

There is no single correct answer, because the best starting point depends on what kind of traveler you are. If you want iconic landmarks and do not mind higher costs, France, Italy, and Switzerland deliver exactly that. If value for money is a priority, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, and Portugal are among the finest cheap European countries to visit from India. If you want beaches and vibrant city life, Greece and Spain offer a strong combination of both.

What all of these destinations share is a readiness to welcome Indian travellers. Infrastructure is reliable, visa processes are well established, and the sheer variety within each country means you could go back multiple times and still find something new.

The first European trip is almost always the one that changes how you think about travel. Plan it well, give yourself enough time in each place, and trust that the experience will be worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is the best European country to visit for first-timers from India?

France, Italy, and Switzerland are the most popular first-time choices for Indian travellers. For those looking for affordability combined with strong cultural experiences, the Czech Republic and Portugal are excellent options.

2. What is the cheapest European country to visit from India?

Romania, Hungary, and the Czech Republic are among the most affordable European destinations for Indian travelers. Daily costs, including accommodation, food, and local transport, can stay well below Rs 6,000 per person in these countries.

3. Do Indian citizens need a separate visa for every European country?

No. A single Schengen visa covers 29 European countries, allowing you to travel freely between them without additional visas. Some countries, like the United Kingdom, require a separate visa.

4. How much does a Schengen visa cost for Indians?

The Schengen visa fee is approximately 80 euros, which works out to around Rs 7,000 to Rs 8,000 depending on the current exchange rate. Children between 6 and 12 years pay approximately half that amount.

5. How far in advance should Indians apply for a Schengen visa?

You should apply at least 45 to 60 days before your planned travel date. During the busy April to July period, processing can take longer, so applying early gives you a comfortable buffer.

6. Which is the best time of year to visit Europe from India?

April to June and September to October are generally the best windows. The weather is pleasant, crowds are manageable, and prices are lower than the July to August peak season.

7. Is food a concern for Indian vegetarians traveling in Europe?

Vegetarian options are widely available across Europe, though the variety is greater in cities like London, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Zurich, which have large Indian communities and dedicated Indian restaurants. In smaller towns, it helps to research dining options in advance and carry some familiar snacks.