The Hidden Gems of Europe: Non Schengen Countries in Europe to Visit from UAE

Best Non Schengen European Destinations for UAE Travelers

The first places on any traveler’s list to visit in Europe are the popular Schengen countries, but they don’t know about the amazing world awaiting them beyond the Schengen area.

In our blog post, we will reveal the best non-Schengen European destinations to visit from UAE that offer unique experiences for intrepid travelers who are searching for one-of-a-kind trips.

What are the non-Schengen countries in Europe?

Non-Schengen countries are the European countries that don’t belong to the Schengen area. This area contains 29 countries that have an agreement to erase the borders between them, so you can travel to any Schengen country with one visa. However, not all European countries need Schengen visas for tourism or business trips; the continent offers other beautiful destinations in European countries without Schengen visa to visit and enjoy. Non-Schengen countries require travelers to apply for a separate national travel visa to visit or gain entry into those countries. Doesn’t it sound interesting?

List of non Schengen countries in Europe 2024:

Here is the list of 19 countries that do not belong to the Schengen area. You can visit these amazing destinations around Europe without the requirement of a Schengen Visa.

1. United Kingdom
2. Turkey
3. Georgia
4. Albania
5. Andorra
6. Armenia
7. Azerbaijan 
8. Belarus
9. Bosnia and Herzegovina
10. Cyprus 
11. Holy See
12. Kosovo
13. Moldova
14. Monaco 
15. Montenegro
16. North Macedonia
17. Republic of Ireland
18. San Marino
19. Serbia

What are the visa requirements for non Schengen countries?

Each non Schengen country will have its visa requirements. The basic requirements include:

• Valid passport
• Biometric data
• Purpose of your visit
• Proof of financial means
• Itinerary
• Valid travel or medical insurance

Non Schengen countries impose border checks on travelers coming from the Schengen Zone, but many of them have visa-free travel arrangements. It is advised to refer to the visa regulations from the country’s original site before applying.

The microstates of San Marino, Monaco, and Vatican City are not official members of the Schengen Zone. However, they are considered ‘de facto’ (in practice) inside the area; and,  therefore, do not impose border controls.

Best non Schengen countries in Europe to visit from UAE:

The United Kingdom is one of the top European tourist destinations in the world that sits northwest of mainland Europe. The island country boasts a rich history with its 32 World Heritage sites, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes for all travelers.

Top Destinations to Visit in UK

• London
• Edinburgh
• Oxford
• Cambridge
• York
• Canterbury.

Apply for tourist visa for UK from Dubai and explore its iconic landmarks, international music festivals, breathtaking coastal views, and world-class restaurants.

What is the best time to visit the UK?

March-June and September-November are the best times to visit the UK

Best tourist attractions in the UK

Tower of London, The British Museum, London Eye, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge, The Roman Baths, National Gallery

2. Turkey

A small part of Turkey is located in Southeastern Europe. Istanbul is one of the most important tourist spots not only in Turkey but also in the world.

One can enjoy delicious food, the Mediterranean the golden beaches, and the amazing landscapes in Turkey. Apply for a Turkey visa from UAE and explore this amazing country in Europe.

What is the best time to visit Turkey?

June to August is the best time to visit Turkey from UAE

Best tourist attractions in Turkey

Hagia Sofia Mosque, The Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, Grand Bazaar, Cappadocia, Galata Tower, Istanbul, Antalya, Pamukkale

3. Georgia

Georgia is a hidden gem nestled in the Caucasus Mountains, offering amazing landscapes to explore, such as wide deserts, coastal areas, breathtaking lakes, canyons, waterfalls, and mountains. The country is a paradise for hiking and camping lovers who want to indulge in nature’s beauty and have an unforgettable travel experience. This potential makes Georgia one of the best non Schengen European destinations to visit from UAE.

What is the best time to visit Georgia?

May to October is the best time to visit Georgia

Best tourist attractions in Georgia

Bridge of Peace, Batumi Boulevard, Tbilisi, Batumi Dolphinarium, Mtskheta, Gergeti Trinity Church, Jvari Monastery

4. Albania

Albania is one of the best non Schengen European destinations to visit from UAE to experience the white beaches. It’s popularly called the “Maldives of Europe” because of its turquoise waters and white beaches that give the same experience as Maldives.

The country can give its travelers a relaxing trip with its beautiful beaches, on the other side it can give the best exploring trips within its medieval-era castles, Ottoman architecture lined up on the streets, and picturesque towns.

What is the best time to visit Albania?

March-April and September-October are the best times of the year to visit Albania.

Best tourist attractions in Albania

Butrint National Archaeological Park, The Blue Eye, Grunas Waterfall, Koman Lake, The Llogara National Park, Saranda Beach, Durres Beach, BunkArt 2, Rozafa Castle

5. Andorra

Andorra is located high in the eastern Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain. Andorra is a small country, boasting lovely mountain scenery. It is well-known as a winter destination in Europe for its superb ski hills, while popular things to do in summer include hiking and mountain biking.

Andorra is one of the few countries in the world where 10% of the country has been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

With its breathtaking natural scenery, rich history and culture, and exciting outdoor activities, this small country has a lot to offer visitors.

What is the best time to visit Andorra?

April to October is the best time to visit Andorra.

Best tourist attractions in Andorra

Casa de la Vall Museum, Grandvalira Ski Resort, Basílica Santuari de Nostra Senyora de Meritxell catholic church, Pal Arinsal – Sector Arinsal Ski Resort, Parc Central Park and Garden

6. Armenia

Armenia is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites that is full of destinations that need to be explored. One of its biggest advantages is 3rd-best in Europe on tourist-friendly visa requirements, allowing almost everyone to visit it.
Also, Armenia is a cheap country compared to other European countries. Armenia has world-renowned brandy, unspoiled nature, beautiful landscapes, cuisine, and culture; all these attractions make it one of the best Non Schengen European destinations to visit from UAE.

What is the best time to visit Armenia?

The Autumn season which is between September and October is the best time to visit Armenia.

Best tourist attractions in Armenia

Yerevan, Lake Sevan, Khor Virap Monastery, Cafesjian Center for the Arts, Republic Square, The Monastery of Geghard, Matenadaran, Dilijan National Park

Suggested Read: Europe Travel Checklist of Most Important Things That You Must Know

7. Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan lies on Eastern Europe and Western Asia, making it have different attractions and landscapes. The country owns amazing architecture, primitive culture, and multifaceted national cuisine which attract tourists from all over the world. Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is full of beautiful destinations and uniques activities, so there are amazing places to visit in in Baku, Azerbaijan from UAE.

What is the best time to visit Azerbaijan?

April to June and September to October are the best times to visit Azerbaijan.

Best tourist attractions in Azerbaijan

Baku old city, Flame towers, Highland parks, Fountain Square, Atashgah Fire Temple, Baku Eye, Azerbaijan carpet museum, Palace of the Shirvanshahs, Bibiheybat

8. Belarus

Belarus is popularly called the “lungs of Europe” because of the amount of forests and lakes it has. Its rich history and distinct heritage make Belarus one of the best non-Schengen European destinations to visit from UAE for exploring nature and make some adventures.

What is the best time to visit Belarus?

Mid-May to mid-September is the best time to visit Belarus.

Best tourist attractions in Belarus

Mir Castle, Belarusian State Museum of the History of the Great Patriotic War, Dudutki, Brest Fortress, Park Horkaha, Belarusian Folk Museum of Architecture and Rural Life in Minsk

9. Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina has some of the most breathtaking natural sites in Europe. Abundant natural beauty, and stunning landscape—mountains, rivers, waterfalls, all attract tourists to Bosnia.

Rafting the country’s gorgeous rivers is hugely popular as well as winter sports. Impressive peaks in the Dinaric Alps, Bosnia & Herzegovina also a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

What is the best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina?

June to September is the best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina

Best tourist attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Kravica waterfall, Nacionalni Park Una, Latin Bridge, Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, Vrelo Bosne, Sarajevo City Hall, Bascarsija Sarajevo, Tunnel of Hope, Pliva Waterfall, Buna Springs

10. Cyprus

Cyprus is an island country in the Eastern Basin of the Mediterranean Sea that is famous for its incredible natural beauty and stunning landscapes. The country offers plenty of spectacular breathtaking views.

It is one of the cheapest European countries to visit. Cyprus is home to the world’s oldest perfumes. Clean beaches with clear water, tasty traditional dishes, amazing nightlife, historical monuments, and skiing in winter are some of the reasons why you should visit Cyprus from the UAE.

What is the best time to visit Cyprus?

May-June and September-October is the best time to visit Cyprus.

Best tourist attractions in Cyprus

Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos, Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock), Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark, WaterWorld Themed Waterpark Ayia Napa, Nissi Beach, Larnaca, Cape Cavo Greco, Fig Tree

11. Kosovo

Kosovo is the newest country in Europe with the most spectacular natural landscapes situated at the heart of the Balkans. It is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe.

The country is generally peaceful and the people are friendly and welcoming. spectacular mountains, limestone peaks, Europe’s deepest gorges, captivating streams, waterfalls, an abundance of caves, curvy roads, medieval villages, and a warm welcoming culture all these things attract a large number of tourists to Kosovo from all around the world.

What is the best time to visit Kosovo?

April-June is the best time to visit Kosovo.

Best tourist attractions in Kosovo

Orthodox Monastery Graçanica, Newborn Monument, Prizren Fortress, Gërmia Park, Monastery Visoki Decani, Pristina, Rugova, Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park

12. Monaco

Monaco is a small yet beautiful country in Western Europe packed with full of things to do and see. It’s a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to the French Riviera and tax-free status.

Monaco is a country where mostly rich and famous people visit to explore luxurious hotels, resorts, and casinos. Monaco is better known for its shopping and big city activities, pretty palaces, fascinating museums, and exotic gardens.

What is the best time to visit Monaco?

April, May, and September is the best time to visit Monaco.

Best tourist attractions in Monaco

Casino de Monte-Carlo, Prince’s Palace of Monaco, Exotic Garden of Monaco, Jardins Saint-Martin, Roseraie Princesse Grace, Monaco City, Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo, Fort Antoine Theatre

13. Montenegro

Montenegro means “Black Mountain” and is a small, mountainous state in southwest Balkans. Montenegro is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, with an abundance of natural, historic, and cultural gems and treasures to explore.

Compared to Western Europe Montenegro is quite affordable to travel. The country is famous for its spectacular mountains, glacial lakes, the elegant beach resorts of the Budva Riviera, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bay of Kotor.

What is the best time to visit Montenegro?

May to June and September to October is the best time to visit Montenegro.

Best tourist attractions in Montenegro

Durmitor National Park, Ostrog Orthodox Monastery, Lipa Cave, Kotor, Sveti Stefan, Perast, Lovcen National Park, Biogradska Gora, Bay of Kotor

14.North Macedonia

North Macedonia is quite small and landlocked but has lots to interest travelers wanting to experience a different side of Europe. It is the 7th most mountainous country in the world.

Tourists can explore monuments that have stood for centuries, including medieval castles and grand monasteries. Its lively culture, delicious food, unique flora and fauna, and warm hospitality welcome a lot of tourists from around the world.

What is the best time to visit North Macedonia?

July to October is the best time to visit North Macedonia.

Best tourist attractions in North Macedonia

Galicica National Park, Lake Ohrid, Sveti Naum Monastery, Mavrovo National Park, the old Ottoman bazaar in Skopje, Lake Prespa

15. Republic of Ireland

Ireland is off the northwest of continental Europe, and west of Great Britain. It is a beautiful place with dramatic cliffs, remote islands, and atmospheric towns of the Wild Atlantic Way to the fairytale castles, craggy mountains, and placid lakes of the Ancient East.

Ireland ranks 18th as the most beautiful country in the world, making it one of the top European places to visit without Schengen visa. The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction. The Halloween festival was originated in Ireland.

What is the best time to visit the Republic of Ireland?

May to September is the best time to visit the Republic of Ireland.

Best tourist attractions in the Republic of Ireland

Rock of Cashel, The Little Museum of Dublin, Dublin Zoo, Killarney National Park, Blarney Castle & Gardens, Titanic Belfast, Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Irish Whiskey Museum

Final Words:

Schengen is almost a magic word for non-European travelers. No doubt the Schengen area in Europe has the most beautiful tourist attractions in the world, but other non Schengen countries in Europe are almost equally spectacular and worth visiting.

So don’t miss out on an opportunity to visit these non-Schengen countries in Europe and experience another world of adventure! Contact us now and Travnook Team will help you for further travel assistance to these non-Schengen countries. We wish you a happy and safe travel.

Frequently Asked Questions about Non Schengen Countries

1. Can I travel to Europe without a Schengen visa?

Yes, several European countries are not under the Schengen area as we mentioned above, and give you a unique travel experience similar to Schengen countries in Europe.

2. Can I enter a non Schengen country with a Schengen Visa?

There are a few non Schengen countries that allow entry by holding a valid Schengen Visa. These countries usually issue E-Visas to Schengen Visa holders.

3. Which non Schengen countries I can travel to with a Schengen visa?

You can travel to the below non-Schengen countries with a Schengen multi-entry visa.

• Serbia
• Cyprus
• Bosnia
• Monaco
• San Marino
• Andorra
• Albania