HomeJust LifeTaking Advantage of That Schengen Visa with a multi-stop Europe trip: Part...

Taking Advantage of That Schengen Visa with a multi-stop Europe trip: Part 1

So, you’ve finally decided to take that trip to Europe! As a South African passport holder your first steps are to decide where to go and requirements for your Schengen visa – a “golden ticket” to explore multiple European countries with just one set of paperwork.

At Flight Centre South Africa, we’re here to help you make the most of your Schengen visa by helping you pack all the best spots into one unforgettable trip. Here are some routes which truly make the best of your Schengen visa by packing in the sights without packing on the stress.

Why Explore Multiple Countries at Once?

It’s crazy to think how many different cultures, customs, and sights there are just in Western Europe or The Balkans, let alone the whole continent. Because everything is so close together, travelling between countries is often as simple as hopping on a train or taking a short flight.

Exploring multiple destinations in one trip just makes sense when you’re in Europe. It allows you to experience little bits of everything —think of it as a tasting plate of the continent’s best.

Not only is it efficient, but it’s also cost-effective. With the Schengen visa, you won’t have to deal with border checks or additional visas for each country, saving you time and money. So, where will your Schengen visa take you next?

Do The Classic Circuit of Western Europe

There are some destinations which go together like salt and pepper, and Western Europe’s big-ticket cities are high up on every traveller’s bucket list. This route (or a variation of it) is popular because each country offers a distinct flavour while being conveniently connected. You’re not spending too much time in transit, so you get to fully enjoy each stop.

One of the best places to start your Schengen visa exploration is in the picturesque city of Amsterdam, Netherlands. With direct flights which take you to pretty canals, market squares, and world-class museums, it’s a destination that sets the tone for an exciting trip. From there, it’s a short journey to Belgium, where you can have your fill of Belgian waffles, beer, and chocolates.

Next up is Paris. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées in Paris and window shop till you drop, have a picnic under the lights of the Eiffel Tower at sunset, and lose yourself in the art at the Louvre Museum. If you have time, venture down south by train for a few days in the glitzy coastal town of Nice – where our very own Jan Hendrik lives and works.

Then, cross over to Germany. Visit Berlin to witness its historical landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and remnants of the Berlin Wall. Have a drink in the beer gardens of Munich – and make sure to visit the fairytale castles of Bavaria too.

One of the best ways to experience some of this journey is through the Glimpse of Europe tour by Costsaver, part of the Trafalgar family. You’ll enjoy comfortable accommodations, guided sightseeing, and plenty of free time to explore on your own.

Venture Further East For Something New

A journey across central and Eastern Europe is perfect for a second or third trip, when you’re craving something a little different to the famous big-ticket cities. Start in Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital. Stroll through the rooms of Schönbrunn Palace, catch a classical concert where Mozart once performed, or relax in a traditional coffeehouse with a cake and cappuccino. Then, make your way to Budapest, Hungary. Here, you can soak in the soothing waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of Europe’s largest spa complexes. As the sun sets, hop on a cruise along the Danube River, before heading out to dinner and drinks at the famous ruin bars – all on a rand-friendly budget.

Next up is Prague in the Czech Republic. This city is impossibly gorgeous, thanks to winding cobblestone streets and the historic Old Town Square. Cheap beer and good food flow freely here, and nothing beats a walk across Charles Bridge in the evening, stopping to admire the statues and street performers every few minutes.

Taking Advantage of That Schengen Visa

Finally, head down to Croatia, where you can plunge into the Adriatic Sea and relax on the beach, or explore ancient walled cities like Dubrovnik, the famous filming location of Game of Thrones.

Want to join a guided tour? Globus’ Imperial Europe is a great choice for the highlights of this region, giving you four-star accommodation and helping you experience top-quality shopping and food.

H2: Use Your Schengen Visa Smartly

Taking advantage of your Schengen visa to explore multiple countries at on. Instead of multiple trips and visas, you can see different bits of Europe in one go.

Planning such an extensive trip can be daunting, but that’s where we come in. At Flight Centre South Africa, we’re here to make your travel dreams a reality – minus the stress. Our experienced consultants take the time to understand what you’re looking for. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, we’ll tailor the itinerary to suit your interests. We have strong relationships with trusted tour operators like Costsaver, Trafalgar, and Globus, ensuring you get quality experiences and value for your money.

Let us help you craft the perfect multi-country itinerary that ticks all your boxes. Contact us at Flight Centre South Africa, and let’s start planning the adventure of a lifetime.

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