Europe remains one of the top travel destinations for Africans looking for tourism, business opportunities, cultural experiences, and unforgettable holidays. If you’re planning a trip, this guide explains the best European countries to visit, estimated travel costs, required documents, and how to prepare for your visa application.
1. France
France is famous for Paris, the Eiffel Tower, world-class museums, luxury shopping, and beautiful countryside.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget traveler: €80–€150 per day
- Mid-range traveler: €180–€300 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Completed Schengen visa application
- Two passport photographs
- Travel insurance
- Flight reservation
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Bank statement (last 3–6 months)
- Employment letter or business registration (if applicable)
2. Spain
Spain offers beautiful beaches, exciting nightlife, historic cities, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget: €70–€140 per day
- Mid-range: €150–€280 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Valid passport
- Schengen visa application
- Travel insurance
- Hotel reservation
- Return flight booking
- Recent bank statements
- Proof of employment or income
3. Italy
Italy is one of Europe’s most visited countries with Rome, Venice, Milan, and Florence attracting millions every year.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget: €80–€160 per day
- Mid-range: €180–€320 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Passport
- Visa application form
- Passport photographs
- Travel insurance
- Flight itinerary
- Hotel booking
- Proof of financial support
4. Germany
Germany is ideal for tourism, exhibitions, business trips, and cultural experiences.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget: €90–€170 per day
- Mid-range: €180–€330 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Passport
- Schengen visa application
- Bank statements
- Travel insurance
- Accommodation confirmation
- Return ticket
- Employment or business documents
5. Netherlands
The Netherlands is famous for Amsterdam, canals, museums, tulip gardens, and cycling culture.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget: €90–€180 per day
- Mid-range: €200–€350 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Valid passport
- Visa application
- Hotel booking
- Travel insurance
- Flight reservation
- Financial proof
- Employment documents
6. Portugal
Portugal is one of Europe’s most affordable travel destinations with beautiful beaches and historic towns.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget: €70–€140 per day
- Mid-range: €160–€280 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Passport
- Visa application
- Travel insurance
- Bank statements
- Hotel reservation
- Flight booking
7. Switzerland
Switzerland offers breathtaking mountain scenery, luxury shopping, skiing, and scenic train journeys.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget: €150–€250 per day
- Mid-range: €300–€500 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Passport
- Schengen visa application
- Travel insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Flight itinerary
- Financial documents
8. Greece
Greece combines ancient history with beautiful islands, sunny beaches, and Mediterranean culture.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget: €70–€140 per day
- Mid-range: €160–€280 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Valid passport
- Visa application
- Travel insurance
- Hotel reservation
- Return ticket
- Bank statements
9. Belgium
Belgium is known for chocolate, waffles, medieval architecture, and historic cities.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget: €90–€170 per day
- Mid-range: €180–€320 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Passport
- Visa application
- Travel insurance
- Hotel booking
- Proof of funds
- Flight reservation
10. Austria
Austria offers beautiful Alpine scenery, music, palaces, and winter sports.
Estimated Travel Cost
- Budget: €90–€180 per day
- Mid-range: €200–€350 per day
Documents to Prepare
- Passport
- Schengen visa application
- Passport photos
- Travel insurance
- Flight booking
- Accommodation confirmation
- Bank statements
General Documents Africans Should Prepare Before Applying
Regardless of the country, many applicants will be asked to provide:
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond the planned trip
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Schengen-compliant travel insurance
- Flight reservation or travel itinerary
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Recent bank statements
- Proof of employment, business ownership, or school enrollment (where applicable)
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the trip
Submitting all required documents does not guarantee a visa. Each application is assessed individually by the relevant embassy or consulate.