With thousands of years of history, a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery, Europe is home to some of the world’s most popular destinations.
As well as attracting millions of visitors from overseas, those who call Europe home love to explore the multitude of cities and countries on their doorstep.
Today, it is as easy for Europeans to travel around the EU as it is to travel within their home country. The removal of most passport checks and the use of the same currency – the euro – in 20 EU countries have made travelling much easier. The creation of a single market where people, goods, services and money can move freely has brought wider choice and lower prices.
More and more young Europeans are also getting to know their continent better thanks to the DiscoverEU travel pass.
So, what’s new this year?
The Schengen area is growing – again! Bulgaria and Romania became the newest members of the world’s largest passport-free travel zone on 31 March. To begin with, border checks have been lifted for people travelling by air and sea between these two countries and other countries in the Schengen area, but controls at internal land borders remain in place for the time being.
If you are visiting Austria, Estonia or Norway, don’t forget to check out this year’s European Capitals of Culture. And if your travels take you to Ireland or Italy, then why not look up the European Capital and Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism?
Wherever you are travelling in Europe, keep safe and have fun!