Europe Travel 2026 Guide for Indian Tourists: Key Updates Across the Schengen Area, United Kingdom and Bulgaria

Published on December 15, 2025

Travel to Europe, including destinations across the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, and Bulgaria, is expected to look noticeably different in 2026 for Indian tourists. A series of coordinated policy shifts, aviation changes, and cost adjustments are being rolled out across the continent, reshaping how journeys are planned and experienced. From the moment airports are entered to the final hotel checkout, travellers are likely to encounter new procedures and revised expenses that require advance awareness. Digital systems are being introduced to modernise immigration processes, while cities are recalibrating tourism taxes to manage rising visitor numbers. At the same time, airlines are adjusting schedules and expanding routes, creating both opportunities and challenges for long-haul travellers from India.

For Indian passport holders, visa procedures may remain familiar, but the broader travel environment is being transformed. Longer processing times at entry points, increased attraction fees, and structural changes such as a new national currency in Bulgaria are being implemented simultaneously. These developments are expected to influence travel budgets, itineraries, and even the timing of trips. When understood early, these updates can be managed smoothly and turned into informed planning decisions. A well-prepared approach is therefore being strongly recommended for anyone considering a European holiday in 2026.

Digital Entry and Exit System at Schengen Borders

From April 2026, the European Union is set to activate the Entry and Exit System across Schengen airports. Passport stamping will be phased out and replaced by a centralised digital record of arrivals and departures. For first-time visitors, biometric data including fingerprints and facial images will be collected. This initial enrolment process is expected to extend waiting times, particularly at major international hubs such as Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt.

During the transition period, both manual and digital systems may operate in parallel, adding further complexity. Once a traveller’s digital profile is created, subsequent entries are expected to become faster and more efficient. Extra buffer time at airports is therefore being advised, especially during summer and holiday travel periods.

ETIAS Approval for Visa-Free Travellers

A new online travel approval system, known as ETIAS, is scheduled to be introduced in late 2026 for travellers who currently enter the Schengen region without a visa. A short application and nominal fee will be required before departure. This system will not replace the Schengen visa for Indian travellers, but it may affect group travel where mixed nationalities are involved.

When itineraries include travellers of different citizenships, advance checks are being recommended to ensure all required digital permissions are secured. Delays caused by missing approvals could otherwise disrupt entire travel plans.

United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorisation

From February 2026, the United Kingdom will implement its own Electronic Travel Authorisation for eligible visa-free travellers. Indian passport holders who already require a UK visa will continue with existing procedures, but those qualifying under specific visa-free categories will need to complete this online step before travel.

For passengers transiting through London en route to other European destinations, this additional requirement is expected to become an important consideration. Boarding may be denied if approvals are not in place, making pre-departure checks essential.

Rising Tourism Taxes Across European Cities

Several popular European destinations are increasing visitor taxes in response to sustained tourism demand. Cities such as Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Rome have already revised their levies, while Edinburgh is scheduled to introduce its first tourism tax in 2026. These charges are typically added to hotel bills and can accumulate significantly during multi-city trips.

To manage costs, accommodation in well-connected suburbs or nearby commuter towns is increasingly being considered. Reliable public transport networks in Europe often make such alternatives practical without sacrificing sightseeing convenience.

Bulgaria’s Transition to the Euro

On 1 January 2026, Bulgaria will officially adopt the euro, replacing the lev. For travellers, this change is expected to simplify multi-country itineraries by reducing the need for currency exchange. During the initial phase, prices may continue to be displayed in both currencies, and limited dual acceptance is likely.

This transition is expected to enhance Bulgaria’s appeal as part of broader regional travel plans, especially when combined with nearby destinations such as Greece and Romania. Greater pricing transparency is also anticipated over time.

Higher Museum and Attraction Fees

Across Europe, many cultural institutions are preparing to revise entry fees in 2026. Renowned museums and heritage sites are adjusting prices to fund renovations, security enhancements, and visitor management systems. The Louvre is among the attractions expected to introduce updated rates.

Given the variability of pricing across cities, advance research on official websites is being advised. City passes and bundled tickets should be evaluated carefully, as rising individual entry fees may alter their overall value proposition.

Expanded IndiGo Direct Flights to Europe

IndiGo is continuing to reshape long-haul travel options for Indian passengers by expanding direct services to Europe. Existing routes from Mumbai to Manchester and Amsterdam, along with a daily service to London, have already altered travel patterns. Early 2026 is expected to see the launch of additional direct flights to Greece from both Mumbai and Delhi.

These routes are expected to reduce transit times, minimise connections, and potentially lower fares. Shorter journeys may also help offset longer airport processing times anticipated under new immigration systems.

Airline Schedule Adjustments and Fare Fluctuations

As operational costs and airport fees rise across Europe, airlines are expected to adjust schedules, frequencies, and pricing structures. Reduced capacity on certain routes during peak seasons could lead to higher fares. Careful comparison of options and early bookings are therefore being recommended.

Connections should be reconfirmed closer to departure dates, particularly when itineraries involve multiple carriers or tight layovers.

Budget Planning Tips for Europe Travel in 2026

Early hotel bookings are being encouraged, especially in cities introducing new tourism taxes. Suburban accommodation with strong transport links is increasingly being favoured to control expenses. Museum passes should be reviewed in light of revised ticket prices to ensure continued value.

Public transport networks remain one of the most reliable ways to manage daily spending. Additional funds should also be set aside for digital approvals, revised attraction fees, and potential airline surcharges.

Best Times to Visit Europe in 2026

Mid-April to early June is expected to offer pleasant weather and manageable crowds across much of Europe. September to mid-October remains ideal for museum-focused travel and city breaks. Winter months, excluding late December and early January, are generally considered the most budget-friendly period.

By avoiding major festivals and school holiday weeks, travellers are more likely to benefit from stable pricing and wider availability.

With multiple systems and policies launching in 2026, Europe travel is entering a period of transition. For Indian tourists, careful preparation and early planning are being positioned as the keys to a smooth and rewarding journey across the continent.