TravTalk India Online Magazine
With a growing desire for meaningful and immersive experiences, Indian tourists heading to Europe are looking for destinations that offer cultural connections, relaxation, and unique local experiences. The European market is poised to cater to this demand, thanks to simplified visa processes, and a diverse range of travel options.
Janice Alyosius
Europe continues to be one of the most sought-after destination for Indian travellers, with a notable surge in demand for diverse travel experiences. Anshum Anand, Director – Operations, Gateways of Europe, sheds light on the shifting trends and growing enthusiasm for European destinations.
Passion for Europe
According to Anand, the Indian market is among the most passionate when it comes to travelling to Europe. “There has been a very strong demand for mono-country or city programmes,” he explains. “The younger generation and families are highly excited to visit cities like Berlin, Amalfi Coast, Lisbon, Swiss Alps, Dublin, Lapland, and the Scandinavian countries. They are no longer looking for quick stopovers. Instead, they want to immerse themselves in the local culture and spend extended periods in one location, exploring areas where they can truly connect with the surroundings,” he adds.
Countries like the Balkans and Scandinavia are gaining popularity, with travellers eager to explore beyond the well-trodden paths. These regions offer a mix of rich history, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes, making them a hotspot for those looking to delve deeper into European life.
Simplified visa process
One of the most significant factors contributing to the increased interest in European travel is the ease of obtaining visas. “All the European countries have become liberal these days in granting visas to Indian travellers,” Anand shares. “Germany, for instance, has launched a digital platform for visa applications, and many other countries are now offering long-duration visas to seasoned travellers,” he adds.
However, Anand highlights an important aspect of visa planning. “The key to a smooth experience is planning your holidays well in advance to avoid the rush for visa appointments, especially during peak seasons,” he cautions.
Increased connectivity
Gone are the days when travellers needed to depend solely on major airports in India for flights to Europe. “There are now excellent flight connections from tier I and tier II cities in India to Europe, thanks to strong partnerships with domestic airlines. This has made it much more convenient for travellers from all parts of the country to access European destinations,” Anand underlines.
Travel preferences
The evolving Indian economy is playing a pivotal role in shaping the travel preferences of both leisure and MICE travellers. “Europe now attracts Indian travellers for a variety of experiences, including wellness and relaxation, gastronomy, nightlife, and shopping,” Anand shares. This shift highlights the growing trend of combining leisure with cultural exploration and unique experiences.
For leisure travellers, popular destinations like London, Paris, and Rome continue to draw attention for shopping and vibrant nightlife. However, many are extending their stays to serene locations
like Scandinavia, Croatia, Germany, Austria, Spain, and Portugal for a more tranquil and rejuvenating experience.
Average duration of stay
The length of stay varies depending on the type of traveller. “Leisure group travellers typically spend around 13 days in Europe,” Anand shares. “MICE travellers, on the other hand, tend to stay for about 7 days, while family travellers are spending 15 days or more, making the most of their time exploring both the cultural hubs and relaxing retreats of Europe,” he adds.
From simplified visa processes to better flight connectivity and evolving travel preferences, the European market is well-positioned to welcome the influx of Indian visitors. Whether it’s for relaxation, cultural immersion, or simply indulging in shopping and nightlife, Europe continues to captivate the Indian traveller, shaping the future of international tourism.
