Published on December 11, 2025

In 2026, Europe travel is expected to undergo a series of significant transitions that will reshape how international movement is experienced by visitors from India and other parts of the world. A combination of new digital entry checks, rising tourism taxes, higher attraction prices, changing airline operations, and updated immigration procedures is scheduled to influence travel routines across various European countries. Indian travellers, who already navigate established visa systems, will notice that although the paperwork remains familiar, the overall journey will be affected by several new layers of verification, revised costs, and updated airport processes. These adjustments are being introduced as part of Europe’s broader effort to modernise border control, enhance traveller data security, and streamline system-wide airport management. At the same time, policy changes in the United Kingdom and currency shifts in Bulgaria will contribute additional factors that travellers must keep in mind while planning their itineraries. With airport queues expected to fluctuate, museum fees likely to rise, and new flight options emerging, advance preparation will play a crucial role. By understanding these major updates early, Indian travellers can prepare for smoother, more efficient and better-planned European journeys throughout 2026.

Comprehensive Guide to Europe Travel Changes for Indians in 2026

1. Entry and Exit System at Schengen Airports

From April 2026, a major shift will be introduced at international airports across the Schengen region through the implementation of the Entry and Exit System. Traditional passport stamping will be discontinued and replaced with a digital system that records arrivals and departures. For first-time Indian travellers, fingerprints and facial images will be collected, resulting in longer wait times at immigration counters. Major hubs such as Paris, Amsterdam and Frankfurt are expected to experience heavier congestion during the initial months, especially throughout the summer rush. Once the digital identity profile is created, subsequent entries will be processed faster. However, during the transition period, both the existing and new systems will operate simultaneously, requiring travellers to allot additional time at airports.

2. ETIAS Online Travel Approval for Visa-Free Travellers

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Late 2026 will bring the introduction of ETIAS, an online travel authorisation designed for travellers entering the Schengen region without a visa. This approval requires a brief form and a nominal fee submitted before departure. Although ETIAS does not apply to Indian passport holders visiting Europe with a Schengen visa, mixed-nationality groups must ensure that everyone has obtained their required authorisation. A single missing approval can delay group travel or cause issues during boarding. This step emphasises the increasing importance of pre-departure compliance checks for seamless European journeys.

3. Electronic Travel Authorisation for the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom will implement its own Electronic Travel Authorisation from February 2026 for visitors who typically enter the country without a visa. Indian passport holders will continue using the standard UK visa process, but travellers who fall into visa-free categories must secure this approval before boarding. Those routing through London for European connections must remain aware of this added requirement to avoid complications during transit. The change underscores the UK’s move toward digital border verification similar to other global travel hubs.

4. Higher Tourism Taxes Across Major European Cities

Tourism taxes are expected to rise in major European cities throughout 2026. Destinations such as Amsterdam, Barcelona and Rome have already introduced increased levies, and Edinburgh is preparing to launch its first tourism tax in the same year. These charges are applied directly to hotel bills, adding to the overall budget for multi-city itineraries. Travellers seeking cost-effective options may consider staying in suburbs or well-connected commuter towns where accommodation rates are generally lower while transport facilities remain efficient. Such choices will help manage travel expenses without sacrificing convenience.

5. Bulgaria’s Transition to the Euro

On 1 January 2026, Bulgaria will adopt the euro, replacing the lev as its official currency. This shift will greatly simplify currency management for travellers visiting multiple European countries, as separate currency exchanges will no longer be required. For a brief adjustment period, prices may still appear in both lev and euro as businesses transition. Some establishments may also continue accepting both currencies. This change will make Bulgaria easier to combine with neighbouring regions such as Greece and Romania, encouraging more seamless cross-border tourism itineraries.

6. Increased Museum and Attraction Fees

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Cultural institutions across Europe are expected to revise ticket prices in 2026, with increases particularly noticeable at popular attractions. Many museums plan to introduce higher fees for international visitors, supporting renovation projects, security enhancements and modernisation efforts. The Louvre is among the major institutions preparing for updated price structures. As costs vary widely from one city to another, travellers should review official attraction websites before purchasing bundled passes or city cards. This ensures that these packages still offer financial value, especially in destinations where individual entry fees may have risen significantly.

7. Expansion of IndiGo’s Direct Flights to Europe

IndiGo continues to reshape long-haul travel for Indian passengers by increasing its direct flight offerings to Europe. Services already connect Mumbai to Manchester and Amsterdam, along with daily flights to London. Early 2026 will see additional direct routes from Mumbai and Delhi to Greece. These developments provide travellers with more convenient and potentially cost-efficient options, reducing the need for layovers. Shorter travel times will be especially beneficial in a year when airport processing durations are expected to increase due to new immigration systems.

8. Adjustments in Airline Schedules Due to Rising Costs

With operational and airport-related expenses increasing across Europe, airlines may revise flight timings or reduce frequencies on selected routes. When capacity tightens, fares typically rise, particularly during peak travel seasons. Travellers planning highly popular periods such as summer or winter holidays should compare available options, stay updated on schedule adjustments and book flights early. Doing so helps avoid last-minute price surges and ensures smoother travel planning.

Budget Planning Tips for Europe Travel in 2026

• Hotels should be booked well in advance, especially in destinations implementing new visitor taxes.
• Suburban stays connected by strong public transport systems offer significant savings.
• Museum and city passes should be assessed carefully to determine continued value.
• Public transport networks provide cost-effective and predictable daily expenses.
• Extra funds should be allocated for digital approvals, attraction fee hikes and airline surcharges.

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Tags: Budget Tarvel, Europe

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