Traveling in the Schengen Area: moving around Europe for summer holidays

The Schengen Area, which today includes 29 countries such as Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and many others, is one of the largest free-movement zones in the world. For travelers from visa-exempt countries, moving within this territory during the summer is simple, provided certain key rules are respected.

The visa-waiver regime allows stays of up to 90 total days within any 180-day period. This calculation is made by considering the entry date as the first day and the exit date as the last, using a “rolling window” that looks at the 180 days preceding each day of stay or inspection. After an uninterrupted absence of 90 days, you may re-enter for a new period of equal duration. Those holding a residence permit or a long-stay visa are subject to different rules.

During this period, multiple entries and exits are permitted, as long as the total number of days does not exceed the allowed limit. Upon arrival, you must have a passport issued within the past ten years and valid for at least three months beyond the intended date of departure from the Schengen Area. However, visa exemption does not automatically guarantee the right to enter: border authorities may refuse entry if admission conditions are not met.

These conditions include justifying the purpose and circumstances of the stay (for example, hotel bookings, return tickets, invitations to events or private visits), possessing sufficient financial means for the stay and return, having no alerts in the Schengen Information System, and not posing a threat to public order, security, or health.

The assessment of financial means depends on the duration and purpose of travel, compared to the average cost of food and accommodation in the countries visited. Proof may be provided through cash, traveler’s checks, credit cards, letters of invitation, or guarantees from a host. It is always advisable to have the contact details and address of any friends or relatives you plan to visit.

As for travel medical insurance, it is mandatory even for citizens of visa-exempt countries, and it is strongly recommended, especially in the event of unexpected health issues.

Once inside the Schengen Area, there are no internal border checks between member countries, but travelers coming from or heading to Cyprus or Ireland will face border controls. It is still possible to be subject to occasional document checks even during internal travel.

Finally, it is important to remember that exceeding the permitted 90 days or working without holding a work visa and residence permit constitutes irregular stay, which may result in administrative penalties and the risk of being banned from re-entering the Schengen Area.

Traveling in Europe during the summer is an experience full of opportunities, but to fully enjoy the freedom of movement it is essential to know and follow the rules. Only then will the trip remain a pleasant and hassle-free memory.