Are you an expat from Pakistan, Nigeria, Kenya residing in Europe with a Schengen visa? You probably know that your visa allows to go to the countries outside the Schengen area. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend escape, want to explore new cultures, or simply fancy a change of scenery from your European home, explore these destinations for Schengen visa holders.
Why this matters for you as an expat
Albania
Montenegro
North Macedonia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Kosovo
Cyprus
General tips
Why this matters for you as an expat
Going for a short trip can help you relieve stress without spending extra. The ability to visit other countries using your existing Schengen visa means:
- No extra visa fees: Save on additional visa applications
- No waiting: Skip lengthy processing times
- Spontaneous travel: Book last-minute trips – enjoy value deals
Let's explore these fantastic destinations where you may go with the Schengen visa.
Albania
Albania accepts travellers with valid multiple-entry Schengen visas, making it one of the most accessible non-Schengen destinations. This Balkan country offers Mediterranean beauty at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe. If you fancy a weekend by the beach, or do not want to spend a fortune on your next holiday – this destination is perfect for you.
Here is what Albania has to offer:
- Saranda and the Albanian Riviera: Crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches
- Berat: UNESCO World Heritage city with Ottoman architecture
- Tirana: Vibrant capital with colourful buildings and buzzing nightlife
- Gjirokastër: Historic stone city nestled in the mountains
A full meal costs 5-8 EUR and accommodation starts at 15-20 EUR per night. Your euros stretch incredibly far here, making it perfect for expats sending money home regularly. Direct flights from most European cities, with tickets often under €50. Buses from Greece and Montenegro are even cheaper.
Montenegro
Montenegro welcomes Schengen visa holders, and this small country packs an incredible punch. You may enjoy breathtaking views of the bays and mountains, explore Kotor and Perast for Venetian heritage architecture or simply enjoy the Balkan spirit – Montenegro has it all.
Spots you can't miss:
- Kotor: UNESCO-protected bay with fjord-like scenery
- Budva: Scenic old town with plenty of beaches to choose from
- Durmitor National Park: Mountains, lakes, and outdoor adventures
- Perast: Tiny historic town with stunning island church
Montenegro is slightly more expensive than Albania but still very reasonable at some 60 EUR daily. Rent a car to get around, or get local buses’ schedule in advance to plan your trip thoroughly.
North Macedonia
Often overlooked, North Macedonia is a treasure for budget-conscious travellers seeking authentic Balkan experiences.
Top attractions: Ohrid: Beautiful lakeside town with Byzantine churches Skopje: Quirky capital with a mix of Ottoman, brutalist, and neoclassical architecture Matka Canyon: Stunning natural beauty just outside Skopje Mavrovo National Park: Mountains and traditional villages
North Macedonia is believed to be one of Europe's cheapest destinations — 35 EUR daily covers everything comfortably.
Here are a few articles for your further reading:
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina accepts visitors with valid Schengen visas, offering a journey through complex history and incredible landscapes.
Essential visits:
- Mostar: Famous Ottoman bridge and charming old town
- Sarajevo: City where cultures meet—mosques, churches, and synagogues coexist
- Jajce: Waterfalls in the town centre
- Blagaj: Ottoman-era monastery built into a cliff
Bosnia has a significant Muslim population, making it easy to find halal food and mosques. Besides, it is one of the cheapest destinations for a weekend trip – some 30 euros may be enough for a daily budget.
Kosovo
Kosovo declared independence in 2008 and remains one of Europe's least-visited destinations. Get ready for authentic experiences and rock-bottom prices.
What to explore:
- Pristina: Buzzing young capital with great cafés and nightlife
- Prizren: Beautiful Ottoman-era town
- Rugova Canyon: Spectacular natural scenery
- Bear Sanctuary: Rescued bears in a natural environment
Kosovo has a large diaspora community, and locals are exceptionally welcoming to visitors. Again, this destination is super cheap: you may spend some 30 EUR daily.
Cyprus
Cyprus isn't in the Schengen Area, but it accepts Schengen visas for entry. It offers Mediterranean island life with excellent infrastructure. The local food is well-known outside the island, as is the local hospitality. Spend a lazy day on the beach, or go for a hike in the Trodos mountains – whatever you prefer. Island highlights:
- Paphos: Archaeological sites and coastal beauty
- Limassol: Cosmopolitan beach city
- Troodos Mountains: Cool mountain villages and monasteries
- Nicosia: The world's last divided capital
Cyprus may be more expensive than the Balkans – we recommend planning your budget for some 70 EUR a day – but (almost) everyone on the island speaks English, which makes your trip more pleasant.
General tips
Here are some tips for you to enjoy your short trip – whichever country from the list above you choose:
Get the transport schedule in advance.
If you are tired from transportation workers strikes in France, go to the Balkans and try not to miss your bus there. The cheaper the life in a country is, the less developed its public transport may be – buy tickets beforehand and plan your itinerary wisely. If you have a driving license, rent a car to simplify your travel.
Get ready for staying offline
Hiking spots, pristine lakes and beautiful but quiet old towns we described above are perfect for a weekend escape. Yet, do not expect the mobile network to be as good as it is in most touristy spots, so download your maps, tickets, booking confirmations and whatever you may need in advance.
Make your experience authentic
Go to local markets, spend some time admiring weekend festivals, visit small shops on your way – make your trip an experience to remember!
