Islamabad, May 3, 2025: As the summer season heats up, a record-breaking wave of Indian tourists is setting its sights on Europe, with Schengen visa applications surging 29% compared to last year, reports leading visa platform Atlys.
This sharp rise signals a deepening love affair between Indian travellers and Europe’s enchanting mix of sunlit beaches, cultural treasures, and unforgettable experiences.
What’s fueling this surge? Countries like Portugal, Greece, Spain, and Italy are topping Indian travellers’ wish lists, thanks to their rich histories, lively cities, and well-developed tourism scenes.
Interestingly, it’s not just the metros driving this boom — applications from tier-two cities like Pune, Ahmedabad, and Chandigarh have spiked by 17.8%, showing that wanderlust is spreading far beyond Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru.
Gen Z and millennial travellers are leading this trend, with a 23.5% jump in their visa applications. Mohak Nahta, CEO of Atlys, explains, “Today’s travellers are looking for more than selfies at famous landmarks — they want authentic cultural encounters, personal connections, and meaningful memories.”
Luxury seekers continue to gravitate toward France, Italy, and Switzerland, where they indulge in everything from Tuscan wine tours to lakeside Swiss retreats.
On the flip side, adventure lovers are eyeing Austria, Slovenia, and northern Spain, drawn by alpine sports, scenic hikes, and off-the-beaten-path natural escapes.
Read More: Schengen Visa 2025 Guide: Stop Submitting Hundreds of Pages!
Compared to previous years, this summer’s travel rush marks a shift: it’s no longer just about Europe’s big names; Indian tourists are increasingly branching out, discovering lesser-known destinations and unique experiences.
Ready to plan your European escape? Whether you’re chasing luxury or adventure, make sure you secure your Schengen visa early — Europe is waiting! Where will your next summer journey take you?
