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Travel in the European Union

Documents:

When travelling to the European Union, as a United States Citizen, you will need a passport to gain entry to member countries.

Citizens of the United States and of these countries are exempt from the requirement of obtaining a visa when visiting the EU for a period shorter than 90 days.

If you are not a citizen of the above mentioned countries, or If you are a citizen of one of these countries but planning a stay in an EU country that is longer than 90 days, you must contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country to apply for a visa.

Also, if you need a visa and are visiting a country that has signed the Schengen Treaty, you must apply for a Schengen visa within your main destination country.

For a deeper explanation of the Schengen agreement and to view a map, visit the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.

Insurance:

The European Union recommends that you take out travel insurance as only countries that have publicly funded health care such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, provide free or reduced cost treatment. "Illness or an accident abroad may mean extra travel, accomodation or repatriation costs, for which you will need to be insured."--(from Travelling in Europe 2006)

Before purchasing travel insurance check with your health insurance provider as it may provide you the coverage already.

If your health insurance provider doesn't offer travel coverage, check with your credit card company as travel insurance is a part of many credit card benefits.

Visit the official European Union website to learn about medicine, access to health care, immunizations, and to how to help prevent injury or illness during your visit to the European Union.

You may also need car insurance documents if you decide to rent a car. Before purchasing car insurance for a rental, check with your own car insurance provider to see if your coverage extends to international travel.

Most large American car rental companies also operate in Europe and offer comprehensive insurance options.

How to get there:

When planning your trip to Europe you may choose a local private travel agency or make your own reservations on-line.

For official tourist information check the web sites of the European Union members' official national tourist organizations. Also, learn how to contact the embassy or consulate in your home country.

Choosing a time to travel may be difficult. Check the Europe at a glance travel guide to find the average climates, public holidays and important cultural events and help you decide the best time to go.

Travel within Europe:

There are many different travel options available when remaining within the European Union. While there, consider taking advantage of the extensive rail system, not only for its economy but for the value of the cultural experience and convenience.

"Creating a single European market in air transport has meant lower fares and wider choice of carriers and services for passengers. The EU has also created a set of rights to ensure air passengers are treated fairly..."

"As an air passenger you have certain rights when it comes to information about flights and reservations, damage to baggage, delays and cancellations, denied boarding, compensation in the case of accident or difficulties with package holidays."--(from Travelling in Europe 2006)

Call the freephone 00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 to report complaints to the authorities.

Also, when travelling within Europe it is important to note that large cities, such as London, have more than one airport. Check here to ensure that your airport location is ideal for your desired destination point. Flying to more suburban/remote airports can be a very inexpensive alternative to travelling by bus or train.

Currency:

Check our EU member states page to find which currency your destination is using.

Also check the European Central Bank site for current exchange rates.

Communication:

Check our EU member states page to find the official European language that your destination is using.

Also, check the Europe at a glance communication guide to learn a greeting in 21 official European languages and find other important communication information pertaining to things such as mobile phone usage and country telephone codes.

Emergency # 112

Dial this number free from any land line, cell phone, or pay phone to contact emergency response services.