If a trip to Europe is in the pipeline, get ready for quite an exciting affair! With so many beautiful cities, historical places, and different cultures, this is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. However, before you get ready with your bags, it's very important to be apprised of Europe travel insurance. This will provide coverage for any unforeseen event like a medical emergency, cancellation of your trip, or loss of luggage, for example. Most importantly, imagine the peace of mind when covered while roaming through the charming streets of Paris or the scenic landscapes of Italy. So, as you go about planning your escapade through Europe, do not forget to secure your Europe travel insurance for a smooth, hassle-free experience.
Here is a list of some of the important features of Europe travel insurance:
Key Features | Details |
Maximum coverage | Offers coverage against various unforeseen events, like medical, travel and baggage-related emergencies. |
Constant support | Round-the-clock assistance via 24x7 customer care support and in-house claim settlement. |
Easy cashless claims | Offers cashless claims benefits accessible through multiple network hospitals. |
COVID-19 coverage | Coverage for hospitalisation expenses caused by COVID-19. |
Massive cover amount | Extensive coverage range from $40k to $1000K. |
The type of travel insurance you choose for the Europe should be based on your travel requirements. Here are the main choices that are offered;
When you make a trip to Europe, Europe travel insurance will serve as the perfect companion. Here's why:
In case of some unforeseen circumstances like a family emergency, for example, that forces you to cancel your trip, travel insurance will help you recover your costs. This way, you are not out of pocket for those non-refundable expenses.
Just imagine falling sick or having an accident amidst the sights and sounds of Europe. In such cases, Europe travel insurance would cover the cost of your emergency medical treatment, no questions asked. It's nice to know it's there if something goes wrong with your health that you didn't anticipate.
It is very irritating when your luggage is lost or misplaced. Europe travel insurance pays for lost or delayed bags and replaces the items with essentials until you retrieve your luggage.
Most insurance policies come with 24/7 emergency assistance for anything and anywhere in the world. It acts as a cushioning effect, always prepared to provide support at the slightest need.
Insurance covers you in case you miss your flight or any sudden change of plan, thus helping you in covering extra expenses and making alternative arrangements, rescuing you from possible stress and increased expenses.
Here are some of the things that are usually covered under travel insurance for Europe from India:
Our policy covers the costs related to medical emergencies, so you don’t have to break your pocket during your trip.
Europe travel insurance also covers the expenses related to dental emergencies that you may face.
In case of medical emergencies that require immediate care, our policy helps by covering the expenses related to air/land medical evacuation to the nearest healthcare centre.
Our policy also helps you to take care of petty hospitalisation-related expenses, so you don’t have to exceed your travel budget.
In the tragic event of death, our policy will be responsible for covering the expense of transferring one’s mortal remains to their home country.
In the unfortunate event of accidental death while travelling, our policy will offer a lump-sum compensation to your family.
To ease your burden if an unforeseen occurrence results in permanent disability, the policy will offer you a lump sum compensation.
If you find yourself responsible for third-party damage in a foreign country, our policy will make it simple for you to compensate for those losses.
In case you experience a cash crunch caused by theft or robbery, our policy will help facilitate emergency fund transfers from India.
In case your flight gets hijacked, we will do our part by offering compensation for the distress it causes you while the authorities handle the situation.
Our Europe travel insurance offers a reimbursement feature that will help you cover the expenses related to essential purchases arising out of a flight delay.
In case you need to extend your hotel stay due to a medical emergency, our policy will cover those additional expenses.
You will be covered for the expense of replacing lost or stolen personal documents and belongings with our Europe travel insurance.
Our policy will offer you compensation in case of loss of checked-in baggage. So, don’t worry about spending your Europe trip in the absence of your essentials.
In case your check-in baggage gets delayed, our policy will cover the essential purchases while things get sorted.
The above mentioned coverage may not be available in some of our Travel plans. Please read the policy wordings, brochure and prospectus to know more about our travel insurance plan.
Your travel insurance for Europe from India policy may not offer coverage for:
Health complications that are caused due to war, terrorism or breach of law are not covered under the travel insurance plan.
If you use intoxicants or banned substances, the Europe travel health insurance plan will not offer any coverage.
If you have a medical condition prior to the trip or receive treatment for a pre-existing disease, the plan will not cover those expenses.
Injuries or health complications suffered due to terrorism or war.
Injuries as a result of intentional harm or suicide attempts are not covered under international travel insurance.
The policy will not cover injuries and hospital expenses that are caused as a result of participating in hazardous activities and adventure sports.
During the foreign country trip, if you or a family member choose to receive cosmetic or obesity treatment, those associated expenses will not be covered under the plan.
If you want to buy travel insurance online for Europe, the following are the steps that you need to follow:
• Visit the official HDFC ERGO International Travel Insurance website.
• Find the “Buy Now” button and click on it.
• Enter the required details like trip type, total travellers and their respective age, and hit “Continue”.
• Provide the name of the country you are planning on visiting, which in this case is Europe, along with the dates of departure and return and press next.
• Enter your contact details, such as your name, email and phone number, on the pop-up window and click “View Quote”.
• Choose from the available plans, select “Buy”, and enter the verification code to move on to the next window.
• Follow up with the additional information required by the policy and complete the online payment.
• Upon successful payment completion, your travel insurance policy will be issued and sent to the inbox you provided.
Fact | Details |
Smallest Country | Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, with an area of just 44 hectares. It’s like a tiny enclave in Rome with a wealth of history and culture. |
Longest River | The Volga River in Russia is Europe’s longest river, stretching over 3,500 kilometres. It’s a vital waterway with rich cultural significance. |
Oldest University | The University of Bologna in Italy, founded in 1088, is the oldest continuously operating university in Europe. It’s where modern higher education began. |
Unique Language | In parts of Spain, people speak Basque, a language with no known relatives, making it one of Europe’s most unique and ancient languages. |
The World's Largest Art Museum | The Louvre in Paris is the largest art museum in the world, home to thousands of works, including the Mona Lisa. It’s a must-visit for art lovers. |
Home of the Most Languages | Europe is home to over 200 languages. From Welsh to Albanian, the continent is a rich tapestry of linguistic diversity. |
Hidden Forests | Romania’s Hoia Forest is known as the “Bermuda Triangle of Romania” due to its mysterious disappearances and paranormal activity. It’s a great spot for thrill-seekers. |
When applying for a Europe tourist visa as an Indian traveller, you'll need to gather a few key documents:
• Valid Passport: The passport is required to be valid for not less than three months beyond the intended stay in Europe.
• Visa Application Form: The application form for Schengen should be correctly filled out.
• Recent Photographs: Two passport-sized photos in conformity with the photo requirements for a visa.
• Travel Itinerary: A day-to-day itinerary that includes flights and accommodation.
• Travel Insurance: Proof of European insurance to cover medical emergencies and repatriation.
• Financial Proof: Bank statements or payslips that prove you can support yourself during your stay.
The best time to visit Europe depends on the purpose and intention of the trip. If you are looking to go when the weather is good but the crowds are smaller, then the spring months of April to June or autumn in September and October are just the time. During this period, the temperature is gentle, and the scenery is lovely, and you will not experience the crowds of peak summer. If you enjoy festivals and city life, the best time to visit would be in summer, from July to August. Nevertheless, you will have to put up with larger crowds and higher prices. If you love winter sports or you want to experience festive Christmas markets, then winter, from November to March, is magical in places like the Alps or Prague.
Whichever season you choose to go in, make sure to include Europe travel insurance. This will surely give you peace of mind against any unwanted events or emergencies. So choose your favourite season, plan your schedule, and enjoy everything Europe has to offer with an added layer of security with travel insurance.
Here’s a tailored list of essentials for traveling to Europe year-round:
• Layered clothing – Europe’s climate varies widely, so pack versatile layers like t-shirts, sweaters, and a lightweight, waterproof jacket.
• Comfortable walking shoes – With Europe’s historic cities and cobblestone streets, comfortable shoes are a must for walking tours and sightseeing.
• Universal power adapter – Europe uses various plug types (Type C, E, F), so a universal adapter will keep your devices charged.
• Travel documents – Ensure you have your passport, visas (if necessary), travel insurance, and copies of important documents.
• Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated during sightseeing, and refill your bottle at public fountains, which are common in many European cities.
• Weather-appropriate accessories – A compact umbrella for rainy cities like London and scarves or hats for colder destinations in northern Europe.
• Credit/debit cards with no foreign transaction fees – Europe is largely cashless, so use cards that work internationally without extra fees.
Safety and precautionary measures when travelling to Europe will ensure that you enjoy your trip without any worry. Here is a quick checklist for you:
• Be aware of your surroundings, most importantly in highly crowded places, such as tourist spots and public transportation.
• Invest in a money belt or anti-theft bag to protect yourself from pickpockets.
• Stay up to date with any vaccinations you may need, and bring a basic first-aid kit.
• Keep at hand local emergency numbers as well as details about your country's embassy.
• Take Europe travel insurance that covers you for medical emergencies, cancellations of trips, and loss of belongings.
• Understand and respect local laws and cultural norms to avoid misunderstanding.
Airport | City | IATA Code |
Heathrow Airport | London | LHR |
Charles de Gaulle Airport | Paris | CDG |
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol | Amsterdam | AMS |
Frankfurt Airport | Frankfurt | FRA |
Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport | Madrid | MAD |
Munich Airport | Munich | MUC |
Rome–Fiumicino International Airport | Rome | FCO |
Zurich Airport | Zurich | ZRH |
Vienna International Airport | Vienna | VIE |
Copenhagen Airport | Copenhagen | CPH |
Brussels Airport | Brussels | BRU |
Lisbon Portela Airport | Lisbon | LIS |
Warsaw Chopin Airport | Warsaw | WAW |
Edinburgh Airport | Edinburgh | EDI |
Oslo Gardermoen Airport | Oslo | OSL |
Istanbul Airport | Istanbul | IST |
Europe is full of amazing destinations that offer a certain charm and experiences you're unlikely to have elsewhere. Some must-see popular spots include the following:
Rome is a treasure of ancient history; the main highlights include the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. Some that are not to be missed are Vatican City, housing St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Its pulsating street life and mouthwatering Italian cuisine will keep you there. To ensure that your journey runs without glitches, as always take Europe travel insurance that would cover you during contingencies.
Paris known as the "City of Light" is renowned for its iconic landmarks, the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. On the Seine, charming neighbourhoods like Montmartre are home to countless cafes, boutiques, and museums. Be sure to try a real French pastry, and consider getting Europe travel insurance for any unforeseen events on your adventure to Paris.
From Gaudí's stunning architecture, Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, to the tapas-rich cultural heritage, combined with beachside relaxation, Barcelona bursts with unique energy. Take in the spirited activity of La Rambla and explore the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter. The Mediterranean climate and buzzing nightlife together create a heady cocktail that attracts people to Barcelona. As you go about discovering Barcelona, keep your mind at ease with Europe travel insurance.
Amsterdam is famous for its canals, world-class museums, and living culture. Visiting the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, or even taking a casual bicycle ride through the city would be a good idea. There are canal houses and bustling markets that add to the charm of Amsterdam.
Vienna is an imperial city steeped in history, with many of the most elegant architecture housing music and culture. From Schönbrunn Palace via the beautiful Ringstrasse to the State Opera, their palaces, concert halls, and gardens will give you a fully packed day.
Prague is also called the "City of a Hundred Spires." It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The must-see mainstays would be a visit to Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square. This gives the city a more charming route in the streets and delivers excitement for its vibrant history.
Europe is the ideal destination for an unforgettable trip due to the countless activities that it offers, fitting every taste. Here are a few things to do:
A gondola ride in the fascinating canals of Venice is the most stereotypical thing to do in Europe. Gliding past historic buildings and under quaint bridges, you will know why Venice is called one of the most romantic cities in the world.
Europe is replete with historical sites, and a visit without stopping at the Colosseum in Rome, the Acropolis in Athens, and the Berlin Wall is a no-go. These iconic features give you an idea about the past and will make history come alive before your eyes. Not to forget, check that you have Europe travel insurance, should your exploration go off in an unplanned direction.
Croissants at the café in Paris, tapas in Barcelona, and gelato in Rome are must-see. Each country has its foodie delights that simply can't be missed.
In winter, head towards Scandinavia to witness the unprecedented Northern Lights. This generally features on the bucket list because this natural view has a magic dance of colours in the sky.
Europe is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums, such as the Louvre in Paris, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, and the Vatican Museums in Rome. These institutions house masterpieces that will leave you in awe.
Music festivals in Europe are legendary. Be it the Tomorrowland in Belgium, Glastonbury in England, or the Salzburg Festival of Austria, it will be a great atmosphere and quality performance.
Travelling in Europe can be outrageously expensive, but if you use a few smart strategies, you'll find yourself saving money without sacrificing the experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your budget:
Public transportation in Europe is strikingly efficient and reasonably priced. Instead of taking so many cabs, it would be a lot easier to go about travelling by bus, tram, or metro. Extra savings in cities like Berlin and Prague are possible through the purchase of a day pass.
There are still shoulder seasons for Europe, and those will be in the spring and autumn. Also, you will have cheaper flights, and places to stay, not to mention fewer people. It is also a good time to tour popular destinations without all the hustle and bustle characteristic of peak tourist season.
You are saving quite a bit by staying in hostels, low-range hotels, or even an Airbnb. Many of the hostels in Europe offer a private room where you do not have to give up comfort for the price.
Most European cities include free attractions such as museums on particular days, beautiful parks, and iconic landmarks like London's British Museum or the Berlin Wall. Make use of them by saving on entry fees.
Steer clear of restaurants that cater specifically to tourists and instead seek out places where locals eat. Street food, local markets, and small cafes have great food at very affordable prices. In Italy and Spain, for example, it's quite possible to eat well without blowing your budget.
Flight bookings, train tickets, and popular attractions, if booked well in advance, fetch you a lot of discounts. This way, you will be able to save lots of money on high-speed trains and popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower.
Restaurant Name | City | Must-Try Dishes | Address |
Dishoom | London, UK | Chicken Ruby, House Black Daal | 22 Kingly St, Carnaby, London W1B 5QP, UK |
Surya Mahal | Paris, France | Butter Chicken, Naan | 14 Rue de Trevise, 75009 Paris, France |
Gandhi Restaurant | Amsterdam, Netherlands | Tandoori Chicken, Lamb Korma | Reguliersdwarsstraat 87, 1017 BK Amsterdam, Netherlands |
Rasoi by Vineet | Geneva, Switzerland | Malabar Lobster, Chicken Tikka | Rue Adhémar-Fabri 8, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland |
Masala Zone | London, UK | Thali, Prawn Moilee | 48 Floral St, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9DA, UK |
Madhu’s | Brussels, Belgium | Lamb Chops, Black Lentil Daal | Avenue Louise 459, 1050 Brussels, Belgium |
Saravanaa Bhavan | Frankfurt, Germany | Masala Dosa, Vada | Kaiserstraße 66, 60329 Frankfurt, Germany |
Balti House | Barcelona, Spain | Rogan Josh, Vegetable Biryani | Carrer de Balmes, 28, 08007 Barcelona, Spain |
When travelling in Europe, understanding local laws and etiquette can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
• Be Respectful to the Local Way of Life: Each country has its unique culture, for example, the people of Italy always dress discreetly when going to the church, while for Germans, being at an appointment right on time may make all the difference.
• Tipping: The habit of tipping varies from country to country. In France, it is usually covered in the bill itself; in Spain, a small tip is appreciated for good service.
• Respect the no-smoking rules: Generally, indoor smoking is banned in public areas in Europe. Look for rooms designated for smoking to avoid fines.
• Public Drinking: Laws regarding alcohol consumption in public areas vary. While in some cities, such as Paris, it is very common and almost expected to have a drink outdoors, the same act may be restricted in others.
• Public Transport Etiquette: In most European cities, it is considered good etiquette to yield your seat to elderly people, pregnant women, or even differently-abled people. Also, in public transport, avoid loud conversations.
• Trash disposal: Europe enforces recycling. Please dispose of trash properly; there are separate collection bins for different types of recyclables. Countries like Switzerland have fines if actions are not taken accordingly.
• Queueing: Queuing is a serious affair in most European countries. Whether at the bus stop, waiting at the ticket counter, or just browsing in a shop, respect the queue.
• Driving Laws: If you plan to rent a car, be reminded that driving laws are different. For instance, Germany prohibits overtaking on the right, and in the UK you will drive on the left-hand side of the road.
The contact details of the Indian Embassy in Europe are as follows;
Embassy Name | City | Working Hours | Address |
High Commission of India | London, UK | Mon-Fri: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM | India House, Aldwych, London WC2B 4NA, UK |
Embassy of India | Paris, France | Mon-Fri: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM | 15 Rue Alfred Dehodencq, 75016 Paris, France |
Embassy of India | Berlin, Germany | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | Tiergartenstraße 17, 10785 Berlin, Germany |
Embassy of India | Rome, Italy | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | Via XX Settembre, 5, 00187 Rome, Italy |
Embassy of India | Madrid, Spain | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | Avenida Pío XII, 30-32, 28016 Madrid, Spain |
Embassy of India | Brussels, Belgium | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | 217 Chaussee de Vleurgat, 1050 Brussels, Belgium |
Embassy of India | Vienna, Austria | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | Kärntner Ring 2, 1010 Vienna, Austria |
Embassy of India | Amsterdam, Netherlands | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | Buitenrustweg 2, 2517 KD, The Hague, Netherlands |
Permanent Mission of India | Geneva, Switzerland | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | 9, Rue du Valais, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland |
Take your pick from the options below, so you can be better prepared for your trip to a foreign country
International travel insurance makes flight delays, loss of baggage and other journey-related inconveniences less bothersome.
Yes, as an Indian citizen, you would like to see most of the European countries on a Schengen visa. The Schengen visa gives the right to journey throughout the Schengen Area for a period not to exceed 90 days.
It is always a good idea to have both cash and cards. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, carrying some euros in cash may be helpful for small purchases or in places where cards are not accepted.
For most European countries, you should be able to manage with an International Driving License along with your home country license. Others, like the United Kingdom, will let you drive with just your Indian license for a limited period.
Tipping practices vary by country. In many places, a 10-15% tip is appreciated if service isn’t included. In some countries like France, the service charge is often included in the bill.
Most European outlets are either Type C or F plugs and operate on 220-240V. It would be advisable to bring a universal adapter to charge your devices.
Do your research, plan, and avoid eating around major tourist areas; the prices are usually highly inflated. Just go to the local neighbourhoods for an authentic culture and food experience.