TEMPO.COM, Jakarta - Europe continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for Indonesian travelers. According to tiket.com, this trend is fueled by the implementation of the Schengen cascade visa policy, which offers a longer and more flexible validity period.
With this policy, tourists can conveniently travel across multiple European countries without the hassle of reapplying for a visa.
According to tiket.com’s data, which earned the Indonesia Top Agent Award Full Year 2024 from Singapore Airlines, five European cities top the list for Indonesian tourists: Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Zurich, and Milan.
If you’re planning a European getaway, here are some highlights you won’t want to miss.
1. Zurich
Zurich perfectly blends nature, culture, and luxury. A stroll along the shores of Lake Zurich offers fresh air and calming views, while the charming Altstadt (Old Town) showcases centuries-old buildings and cobblestone streets.
For adventure seekers, Uetliberg Mountain—just 20 minutes by train—rewards hikers with sweeping panoramas of the Alps. Art lovers can explore masterpieces at Kunsthaus Zurich, while a one-hour trip takes you to the breathtaking Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe.
Local flavors also await, from classic cheese fondue to festive delights at Zurich’s magical Christmas Market.
2. Paris
The French capital remains the ultimate city of romance. The Eiffel Tower on the Champ de Mars is a must-see, offering picnic-friendly views by day and a sparkling light show by night.
Art enthusiasts will be drawn to the Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa, and the bohemian charm of Montmartre, where cozy cafés and art studios line cobblestone alleys beneath the majestic Basilique du Sacré-Cœur.
For an unforgettable evening, a boat cruise along the Seine River reveals Paris at its most enchanting, with reflections of the city’s twinkling lights dancing on the water.
3. Frankfurt
Often seen as Germany’s business hub, Frankfurt also brims with history and culture. The old town square, Römerberg, charms visitors with traditional timber-framed houses, while the Main Tower offers panoramic city views from above.
Culture seekers can admire world-class art at the Städel Museum or step inside the Goethe House, birthplace of Germany’s literary giant Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Frankfurt’s seamless mix of modern skyscrapers and old-world tradition makes it a captivating destination beyond business.
4. Milan
Globally renowned as a fashion capital, Milan dazzles with elegance and heritage. The iconic Duomo di Milano impresses with Gothic grandeur, while its rooftop terrace reveals sweeping views of the city.
Nearby, the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers a luxury shopping experience beneath its striking glass dome. Art lovers shouldn’t miss Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, housed at Santa Maria delle Grazie.
History buffs can wander through the Sforza Castle, and for a quick escape, the serene Lake Como lies just a short trip away.
5. Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are best enjoyed by boat, giving visitors a unique view of the city. Its cultural treasures include the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the poignant Anne Frank House, which offers a moving glimpse into history.
For a taste of traditional Dutch life, a short trip to Zaanse Schans reveals iconic windmills, wooden houses, and artisanal crafts that feel straight out of a storybook.