10 easiest & cheapest Schengen countries to visit
With dozens of Schengen countries to choose from, narrowing it down can be overwhelming—especially when balancing visa approval rates, travel costs, and ease of application. To simplify your planning, we’ve ranked the top 10 destinations that offer the best value and accessibility right now. Whether you’re on a shoestring budget or looking for a seamless application process, these countries stand out as the most traveler-friendly entry points to Europe.
As per the European Commission, the latest Schengen visa fees are as follows:
- Adults: EUR 90
- Children under 12: EUR 45
- Children under 6: Free
Please note that these fixed visa fees apply to all Schengen countries. Additional service charges may apply when using agencies like VFS Global or similar.
Latvia
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers and first-time applicants.
With an impressive 88.3% visa approval rate and minimal financial requirements, Latvia tops our list. The application process is clear and fully online, requiring a valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and valid for 3 months beyond departure), biometric data, and basic supporting documents like travel insurance and proof of accommodation.
Latvia’s financial requirements are refreshingly low—just EUR 14 per day for stays up to 30 days or EUR 740 total for longer visits, matching the country’s minimum monthly wage.
Budget travel is easy in Latvia. In Riga:
- A full meal at Lido Vērmanītis costs around EUR 5.
- A dorm bed at Cinnamon Sally Hostel is about EUR 18/night.
- Public tram rides are only EUR 1.50.
For a full day in Latvia, an adult can usually get by with around EUR 36, covering three meals, accommodation, local transport, and a bit of extra spending. Of course, it depends on personal habits and choices.
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Lithuania
Best for: Digital-savvy travelers seeking low daily costs.
Lithuania follows closely with an 87.2% visa approval rate and a similarly smooth application process via migracija.lt. The standard EUR 90 Schengen fee applies, along with a small service charge if using VFS.
The required documents include a valid passport, travel insurance covering at least EUR 30,000, hotel reservations or a host’s invitation, and financial proof such as stamped bank statements. Self-employed or sponsored travelers must provide additional documentation to verify income or purpose.
Despite slightly stricter paperwork, Lithuania’s low cost of living makes it a standout:
- A lunch with soup at Etno Dvaras: EUR 6.
- Private room at Downtown Forest Hostel: EUR 30/night.
- City bus ticket: EUR 0.65.
Simple digital applications, clear guidelines, and low travel costs make Lithuania an excellent entry point for frugal travelers.
EUR 50 (plus a EUR 90 visa fee) is generally enough for an adult to spend a full day in Lithuania with meals, accommodation, transport, and some extra cash, but individual preferences will affect that.
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Slovakia
Best for: Travelers seeking low costs and a straightforward visa process.
Slovakia maintains a solid Schengen visa approval rate of 87.1%. Applications must be submitted in person via a Slovak consulate or through VFS Global. While the visa form is available online, biometric data and original documents—like proof of accommodation, travel insurance (EUR 30,000 minimum), and bank statements—must be submitted physically.
The cost of living in Slovakia is among the lowest in Central Europe, making it ideal for budget travelers:
- Hearty lunch at Slovak Pub in Bratislava: EUR 11.
- Bed in a shared dorm at Patio Hostel: EUR 19/night.
- Single bus ticket in Bratislava: EUR 1.10.
With low daily costs and a high approval rate, Slovakia is a smart entry point for frugal travelers exploring the Schengen area.
Around EUR 55 (plus a EUR 90 visa fee) can be enough for an adult to get through a full day in Slovakia — meals, transport, a night’s stay, and even a little leftover. Still, it depends on how you spend.
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Italy
Best for: Culture lovers willing to navigate paperwork.
With a visa approval rate of around 88%, Italy is accessible but more document-heavy. In addition to the printed visa form and passport, applicants must submit a photo, biometric data, and various socio-professional documents—like employer letters, payslips, or student certifications. Travel insurance of at least EUR 30,000 is also mandatory.
Though the checklist is longer, Italy makes up for it with travel value, especially outside major tourist hubs:
- A plate of tagliatelle al ragù at Trattoria Anna Maria in Bologna: EUR 13.
- Bed at Dopa Hostel: EUR 25/night.
- Intercity train (e.g., Venice–Bologna): EUR 3.
Italy is ideal for those who don’t mind extra paperwork in exchange for rich culture and affordable travel outside hotspots like Rome and Milan.
If you’re spending a day in Italy as an adult, about EUR 70 (plus a EUR 90 visa fee) should cover food, lodging, transport, and a little extra, though your actual costs may vary.
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Iceland
Best for: Travelers prioritizing approval ease over cost.
Iceland leads with a 97.8% approval rate, the highest in the Schengen area. The application is simple, and the process emphasizes accuracy and security, requiring biometric data, travel documents, and travel insurance. Applications must be submitted no later than 15 days and no earlier than 6 months before your trip.
But while entry is easy, Iceland’s daily costs are among the highest:
- Lamb soup at Icelandic Street Food: ISK 2,300 (EUR 14).
- Bed at Kex Hostel: ISK 6,000 (EUR 52/night).
- Local bus ride: ISK 570 (EUR 3.60).
Iceland is perfect for travelers with a bigger budget, but cost-conscious visitors may find better value elsewhere.
An adult could comfortably spend a day in Iceland with around EUR 100 (plus a EUR 90 visa fee), which should cover meals, a place to stay, getting around, and a small buffer, depending on lifestyle of course.
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Germany
Best for: Practical travelers who value efficiency and consistency.
Germany maintains a strong 85.7% visa approval rate. Applicants must submit the application through a consulate or VFS Global after completing the visa form via the official videx.diplo.de portal. Biometric submission, proof of income or sponsorship, travel insurance, and accommodation details are required.
Travel in Germany ranges from modest to upscale, depending on the region:
- Currywurst with fries at Konnopke’s in Berlin: EUR 5.50.
- Dorm bed at Five Elements Hostel in Frankfurt: EUR 24/night.
- Single metro ticket (e.g., Berlin AB zone): EUR 3.20
With consistent visa processing and reliable infrastructure, Germany suits independent travelers looking for flexibility and efficient travel.
An adult might be able to enjoy a full day in Germany with EUR 40 (plus a EUR 90 visa fee), which generally covers three meals, transport, a night at a hotel, and a bit of money left over, depending on the person.
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Poland
Best for: History buffs and value-driven explorers.
Poland boasts a solid Schengen visa approval rate of 85.2%. The application process is partially digital—forms are filled online via the e-Konsulat system, but applicants must schedule an in-person appointment at a Polish consulate or VFS center to submit biometric data and original documents. Requirements include a valid passport, travel insurance (EUR 30,000 coverage), confirmed accommodation, proof of financial means, and a detailed travel itinerary.
Poland stands out for its affordability across the board:
- Pierogi plate with soup at Bar Mleczny Górnik (milk bar): PLN 22 (EUR 5).
- Bed in a dorm at Greg & Tom Hostel in Kraków: PLN 90 (EUR 21/night).
- 24-hour public transport ticket in Warsaw: PLN 15 (EUR 3.50).
Thanks to low daily expenses and efficient infrastructure, Poland is a fantastic pick for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore castles, cobblestone squares, and vibrant modern cities—without breaking the bank.
Spending a day in Poland as an adult with three meals, transport, a hotel, and some spare cash can usually be done on EUR 42 (plus a EUR 90 visa fee), but personal spending will vary.
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Greece
Best for: Beach lovers and Mediterranean adventurers.
Greece offers an 85.3% visa approval rate. The application process begins with an online form via the official consular platform. However, biometric data and supporting documents—like proof of accommodation, return flights, travel insurance, and financial means—must be submitted in person through a consulate or VFS Global.
Travel in Greece is very affordable outside peak tourist zones:
- Gyro wrap and soft drink at O Thanasis in Athens: EUR 11.
- Budget hotel room in Thessaloniki: EUR 30/night.
- 90-minute Athens metro ticket: EUR 1.20.
With stunning coastlines and historic cities, Greece delivers great travel value for every euro spent—even with some extra paperwork involved.
You can manage a full day in Greece on roughly EUR 66 (plus a EUR 90 visa fee) as an adult — that’s food, accommodation, and transport, assuming modest choices.
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Austria
Best for: Travelers seeking comfort without the capital city price tag.
Austria has an 85.7% visa approval rate. Visa applications are handled through the Austrian consulates or VFS Global. The online system allows form filling and appointment scheduling, but personal submission of documents and biometrics is mandatory. Applicants must show sufficient funds (around EUR 100/day), accommodation proof, travel insurance, and intent to return.
While Vienna can be pricey, other Austrian cities offer decent value:
- Burrata with tomatoes and basil pesto at Gasthaus Pöschl in Vienna: EUR 16.5.
- Hostel bunk at Wombat’s City Hostel in Salzburg: EUR 28/night.
- 24-hour public transport pass in Vienna: EUR 8.
Austria balances efficient visa processing with moderate travel costs—especially for visitors willing to explore beyond the capital.
About EUR 88 (plus a EUR 90 visa fee) is often enough for an adult to spend a full day in Austria including three meals, accommodation, local transport, and some extra money depending on their habits.
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Switzerland
Best for: Luxury travelers wanting seamless processes.
Switzerland’s visa approval rate is strong at 89.3%, and its process—via embassies, official portals, or VFS Global—is systematic and transparent. Applicants must submit a valid passport, proof of economic means, travel insurance, and additional status-based documents (e.g., employment or education).
But Switzerland’s high cost of living puts pressure on travel budgets:
- Light lunch with coffee at Sprüngli: CHF 25 (EUR 26).
- Hotel Marta in Zurich: CHF 140 (EUR 145/night).
- 24-hour public transport pass: CHF 8.60 (EUR 9).
While the visa process is reliable and quick, Switzerland ranks lower for budget travelers due to its premium prices.
For an adult in Swiss, EUR 235 (plus a EUR 90 visa fee) can typically cover three meals, a hotel stay, transportation, and a little extra for the day, though it depends on individual preferences.
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Summary
When combining visa approval rates and daily travel costs, a clear picture emerges of the most accessible Schengen destinations.
Latvia leads overall with a rare balance of low-cost travel and high approval rates. Iceland and Switzerland top the visa ease chart, while Germany, Poland, and Lithuania offer impressive affordability. Italy and Greece strike a middle ground with broad appeal, and though Switzerland is the most expensive, its visa process remains one of the easiest. This dual ranking highlights the best choices for both budget travelers and those prioritizing a smooth visa experience.
How does the rest measure up?
While the top 10 countries offer the best mix of affordability and visa accessibility, there are still many other Schengen countries worth considering. The following provides a detailed comparison of the remaining 19, highlighting costs, application methods, and visa requirements to help you explore all your options.
Note: Entries marked with N/A for visa approval rate indicate that recent, reliable public statistics were not available at the time of writing. Always check with the relevant consulate for the latest information.
Slovenia (84.4%) balances affordability with accessibility. The visa process includes an online form and an in-person appointment at an embassy or VFS center. With reasonably priced public transport and accommodation, Slovenia is a great option for those seeking a culturally rich yet budget-friendly experience.
Hungary (84.9%) is a great pick for travelers looking for low daily costs. The visa must be submitted via an embassy or VFS center. Budapest and other cities offer excellent value, especially for food and hostels, making Hungary a smart, wallet-friendly choice.
The Netherlands (82.7%) provides a smooth online application through VFS. While daily costs are slightly higher, the country’s modern infrastructure, transit network, and walkable cities make it a comfortable and convenient option for urban explorers.
The Czech Republic (82.6%) offers a well-established embassy-based application process. Known for its affordable food, beer, and public transit, it’s ideal for travelers who want an immersive European experience without high expenses.
France (83.3%) processes visas through the France-Visas portal plus VFS. Though more expensive than some Eastern European options, its reliable systems, rich culture, and strong connectivity across Europe make it worth the cost for many travelers.
Portugal (84.0%) stands out with its mix of simplicity and value. Applications go through an online form and VFS, while cities like Porto and Lisbon offer great food, transport, and accommodations for a modest price.
Finland (81.5%) requires in-person biometrics alongside its online application. While slightly pricier, its clean infrastructure, safety, and modern digital services appeal to organized, comfort-driven travelers.
Croatia (80.0%) has joined the Schengen zone recently, offering embassy or VFS processing. With low costs and scenic destinations, it’s a great new entry point for budget-minded tourists.
Spain (81.5%) accepts applications via online forms and consulates or VFS. Though daily expenses are higher, the rich culinary scene, history, and coastlines offer great payoff for travelers looking for diversity and culture.
Norway (84.1%) comes with high costs but offers a high approval rate and organized system. Ideal for travelers with a larger budget who want easy processing and spectacular natural landscapes.
Denmark (78.8%) processes visas via embassy submission. While the cost of travel is mid-to-high, Denmark is clean, efficient, and well-connected, suiting travelers who prioritize smooth systems and comfort.
Sweden (76.9%) uses an online form with VFS. Though its costs are above average, it’s reliable, modern, and welcoming to visitors who enjoy Nordic culture and efficient infrastructure.
Belgium (73.5%) is accessible through VFS with moderate daily costs. Compact and centrally located, it’s perfect for travelers interested in hopping between cities and countries on a tighter schedule.
Estonia (66.9%) might have a lower approval rate, but its affordability and simple online process appeal to digital nomads and low-cost explorers. Great internet, clean cities, and budget options make it unique.
Malta (63.0%) offers a relaxed Mediterranean vibe with budget travel options. The application goes through VFS or consulates, and the island nation rewards visitors with coastal charm and compact travel logistics.
Bulgaria (N/A) follows Schengen-like application steps but isn’t in the zone yet. Still, it’s one of the cheapest countries to explore, making it an ideal pre-Schengen destination with rich heritage and low overhead.
Romania (N/A) is another future Schengen candidate offering similar visa processes. Known for its historic towns and affordable travel, it’s a hidden gem for those exploring beyond the mainstream.
Liechtenstein (N/A) is served via Swiss visa channels. While expensive, it boasts pristine Alpine views and luxury experiences for short, high-end trips.
Luxembourg (87.3%) has a strong approval rate but is one of the most expensive Schengen countries. Best for travelers on short visits who want a premium, well-organized experience in a compact destination.
