Europe is one of the seven continents of the world, comprising 45 countries. The continent of Europe is divided into many zones and unions. Two of these divisions are the Schengen Region and the European Union. 

Let’s look at what they are, and which European countries are not a part of the Schengen zone and the European Union.

The Schengen Area or Schengen Zone is a border-free zone in Europe where travellers can visit any member country with a single visa. It comprises 29 European countries that share uniform regulations on border controls and tourism. The creation of the Schengen area allows free movement of people by erasing internal borders, thus erasing border control checks and tedious formalities.

Before travelling abroad to a Schengen country, you must apply for a Schengen visa for Indians to that particular country and additionally, you have to avail of Schengen tourist insurance.

Now, the European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 states in Europe. These member states are subject to certain laws formed by common legislative and judicial institutions. These laws and policies also concern:

• The member states foreign affairs

• Citizens' freedom and protection

• Development of a strong and vibrant economic base

• Building a climate-neutral and social Europe

Tourists who wish to travel to a European country that is not a Schengen member state must apply for a separate visa. Each non-Schengen country will have its own visa requirements so you must check the official website of that country.

You will need to have a valid passport, provide biometric data, a legitimate reason to visit, the means to support yourself during your stay, an itinerary, and valid travel insurance to avail of a visa to visit these countries. Apart from this, you might also be required to share more details about your trip, so keep all the necessary documents ready. 

Adventure knows no bounds, but before you set off on your journey, always have a comprehensive travel insurance policy with you. This will help you protect your finances in case of any emergencies or unforeseen circumstances while abroad.

Below, we’ve listed a few important details about travelling to the Non-Schengen Non-EU countries.

1. Andorra

Andorra is a small, landlocked principality located between France and Spain. Surrounded by nature, it is a peaceful resort to visit for a break or a mini vacation. The picturesque views of the Pyrenees mountains will take your breath away. The country is famous for its ski resorts and offers a lot of adventure activities to indulge in.

Best Time to Visit: During the summer months of April to October.

How to Get There: Andorra is landlocked and does not have an airport; therefore, all visitors to Andorra must enter via Andorra's land border with either Spain or France. No visa is required to enter Andorra however, Indian tourists require a valid passport with two or multiple-entry Schengen visa.

2. Albania

Located in Southeast Europe, Albania is on the Balkan Peninsula and shares borders with Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece. Its western coastline is along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Known for its beautiful beaches like Ksamil, historical sites such as Berat (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and vibrant capital, Tirana.

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

How to Get There: There are no direct flights from India. You can transit via major European hubs like Istanbul or Vienna to reach Tirana International Airport. With an Indian passport, you will also require a visa to visit Albania.

3. Belarus

Belarus is a landlocked nation in Eastern Europe that shares borders with Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, and Ukraine. It's complex history and rich architecture makes Belarus a wonderful place to explore any time of the year. Belarus would be the ideal destination for an outdoor enthusiast, owing to its diversified landscape and natural history and wildlife.

Best Time to Visit: Warm summer days between May to September.

How to Get There: Indian nationals travelling to Belarus can travel visa-free only via Minsk National Airport. They must have a valid multiple-entry visa of any EU or Schengen member state along with tickets with a return date. For more details, visit Belarus official tourism website.

4. Greenland

Greenland is an island autonomous territory of Denmark in North America. It lies between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans and is the world’s largest island. It is an exciting destination in the Arctic for all adventure-minded travellers. Modern Greenland is a diverse, geographically extensive society with an adventurous population.

Best Time to Visit: One of the best times to experience Greenland is in March and April with the return of the sun after the long winter.

How to Get There: You will need a Schengen visa to enter Denmark and then travel to Greenland. Remember to take your passport with you, as proof of identity. To apply for a visa to Greenland, you must contact the Danish immigration service at Ny i Danmark or the Danish embassy in India.

5. Vatican City

Vatican City is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church and the smallest independent state in the world. It is encircled by Rome, Italy. There are many notable works of art and architecture there. One of Christendom's holiest locations, the Vatican City, bears witness to a rich past and a powerful spiritual endeavour. The basilica, the biggest religious structure in the world, was built atop the tomb of St. Peter the Apostle.

Best Time to Visit: September to October are the best months to visit the Vatican.

How to Get There: You do not need a passport to enter Vatican City. Vatican City has no separate border policy from Rome. Indians will be required to apply for a Schengen visa to Italy to visit the Vatican City.

6. Faroe Islands

Between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean lies a collection of islands known as the Faroe Islands. They are an autonomous archipelago that belongs to the Kingdom of Denmark. It consists of 18 rugged, volcanic islands connected by road tunnels, ferries and bridges in the North Atlantic Ocean between Iceland and Norway. The mountains, valleys, grassy heathland, and incredible coastal cliffs, which are home to thousands of seabirds, attract hikers and birdwatchers.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Faroe Islands are in the summer months between June and August.

How to Get There: Indian tourists travelling to the Faroe Islands need to have a Schengen visa to Denmark. When a visa is applied at the Danish Embassy, it must be specifically for the Faroe Islands. A visa for Denmark does not give the holder the right to enter the Faroe Islands unless stated in the visa.

7. Montenegro

Montenegro lies in Southeast Europe along the Adriatic Sea. This country is famous for its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches along the Adriatic Sea. The Bay of Kotor, often compared to a fjord, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its medieval towns and scenic beauty. It boasts rich cultural heritage which has  a mix of Slavic, Ottoman, and Venetian influences. 

Best Time to Visit: May to September is perfect for enjoying Montenegro’s beaches and outdoor activities.

How to Get There: Flights to Podgorica or Tivat are available via hubs like Istanbul, Vienna, or Belgrade. Indian citizens need a visa, which can be applied for at Montenegro's embassies or consulates.

8. Monaco

Monaco, the second smallest independent state in the world after the Vatican. The microstate is located on the Mediterranean Sea, surrounded by France. The Principality is treated as a part of the Schengen Area, though not an official member. The country is well developed, relying mostly on its casinos and tourism - and is known as the Billionaires Playground.

Best Time to Visit: You can visit Monaco any time of the year, but peak tourist time is between June to August.

How to Get There: Due to Monaco-France agreements and the established close relations, Indians need a visa to France, which means that you also need a visa to visit Monaco. A France visa entitles you to enter Monaco, and a France permit gives you the right to remain there for the appointed period, as well.

9. Kosovo

Kosovo is situated in the centre of the Balkan Peninsula, in Southeast Europe. It is the newest landlocked nation in Europe and borders Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, and Serbia. Kosovo is a unique country that offers travellers attractive mountain villages, fantastic hiking options, and domed Serbian monasteries from the 13th century that are covered in mediaeval art.

Best Time to Visit: Between April to September when the temperatures are cooler and pleasant.

How to Get There: You can apply for a Kosovo visa to visit the country. You can also travel via road routes while passing through its neighbouring countries. For this, even a valid Schengen visa to the countries, specifically mentioning your stay in Kosovo, is required.

10. Russia

Russia is a transcontinental nation that crosses Northern Asia and Eastern Europe. It is the world's largest nation. Russia is known for its Vodka production, climate and the Matryoshka Doll. The Russian Empire and the Soviet Union are significant to Russia's history. 

There are numerous notable landmarks, including the Winter Palace and the Kremlin. From the huskies racing up icy Siberian slopes to the Aurora Borealis natural light displays; there is an endless list of reasons to visit Russia.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn is the best time to visit Russia.

How to Get There: Indians travelling to Russia must apply for a visa from the official website.

11. San Marino

San Marino is the fifth-smallest nation in the world and is situated on the northeastern slope of the Apennine Mountains. It is one of the oldest republics in the world and has much of its original architecture. 

The capital, which is well-known for its walled, mediaeval old town and winding cobblestone lanes, is located on the slopes of Monte Titano. Rural sections of the Apennine Mountain range feature captivating scenery. If you can scale her height, you can see the Upper Valley of the Marecchia and the Titanium Hills at the highest point in the nation.

Best Time to Visit: The months of April – June or September – October is the best time to visit San Marino.

How to Get There:  San Marino is considered de facto of the Schengen Area. This means that there are no border controls, but you will need a visa for Italy. You can then travel to San Marino via car, train or air.

12. United Kingdom

An island country in northwest Europe, the United Kingdom is made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. London's capital city is a significant financial and cultural hub on a global scale. The UK has always been a popular tourist destination because of its rich history, stunning landscapes, and of course, its illustrious literary background and educational institutions. 

It has bustling cities, enchanting castles, captivating coastlines, the lush countryside, literary landmarks, and is a hub of art and culture on an international scale.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to travel to the UK from India is during the summer season from June to August.

How to Get There: Indians travelling to the United Kingdom need to apply for a visa to the UK from the official website.

13. Western Kazakhstan

The Republic of Kazakhstan is a landlocked nation that spans two continents. It is primarily located in Central Asia and a small portion of it is in Eastern Europe. However, it has not yet attained the same degree of integration into European institutions as states that are equivalent to it. It is renowned for the Caspian Sea, the wild horses, and its architectural wonders. 

In addition to Almaty's Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, there are numerous lakes there that are worth visiting.

Best Time to Visit: April-October is the best time to visit Kazakhstan.

How to Get There: Indians can travel to Kazakhstan visa-free.

14. Serbia

Serbia, a country in Southeast Europe, is home to medieval monasteries, UNESCO heritage sites, national parks and it’s capital Belgrade is one of Europe’s oldest cities.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather, perfect for sightseeing.

How to Get There: No direct flights are available. Transit options include Istanbul, Doha, or Abu Dhabi to Belgrade’s Nikola Tesla Airport. You will require a visa to travel to Serbia from India.

15. Ukraine

Ukraine is one of the world's largest producers of grains and sunflowers, earning its nickname as the "Breadbasket of Europe." Its fertile black soil is ideal for agriculture. Ukraine is in Eastern Europe, bordered by Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Moldova.

Best Time to Visit: May to September offers warm weather ideal for exploring its cities and nature.

How to Get There: You can fly to Kyiv or Lviv with layovers in cities like Istanbul or Dubai. Indian citizens require a visa for Ukraine.

16. Moldova

Moldova is a small landlocked country in Eastern Europe, bordered by Ukraine and Romania. Known for its vineyards, including the underground wine cellars of Cricova, and historic monasteries like Orheiul Vechi.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are great for exploring Moldova’s countryside and wine regions.

How to Get There: Indian citizens require a visa to visit Moldova. Flights to Moldova's Chisinau International Airport are available via Istanbul or other European cities.

Now that you know which countries are neither a part of the European Union or the Schengen Area, don’t miss out on an opportunity to visit them and experience another world of adventure! Remember to carry your travel insurance with you for a well-rounded, safe trip.