Travelling in Europe 2013-14.
Date: 2013-05-22
Institutions: Directorate-General for Communication
Subjects: Europe, statistics, tourism, travel

Travelling in
EuropE
2013–14

European Union

Travelling in

EuropE

2013–14

Europe: a continent with thousands of years of history, a rich 

cultural heritage and some of the world’s most breathtaking 

scenery. So much for the traveller to discover and explore and all 

made much easier thanks to the European Union (EU).

You can cross many borders within the EU without being checked 

and the euro makes it easier to shop around for bargains. You have 

easy access to healthcare should you need it and your dog or cat 

can travel with you. If you drive, your driving licence and motor 

insurance policy issued in one EU country are valid in all the others. 

And using your mobile phone abroad is getting much cheaper.

For more information, helpful tips and a map of Europe, see 

inside. The website ‘Your Europe’ gives more advice on your rights 

when you live, work and travel in the EU:  

ec.europa.eu/youreurope/

European Year of Citizens 2013 — join the debate:  

europa.eu/citizens-2013/

European Commission

Directorate-General for Communication

Publications

1049 Brussels

BELGIUM

Manuscript completed in November 2012

© European Union, 2013

Reproduction is authorised. For any use 

or reproduction of individual illustrations, 

permission must be sought directly from the 

copyright holder.

Photographs: Shutterstock

NA-30-12-850-EN-C

doi:10.2775/89080

Travelling in

EuropE

2013–14

Travelling in  
EuropE  

2013–14

The European Union of 28 countries, including Croatia from 1 July 2013, 
stretches over the continent of Europe from Lapland in the north to the 
Mediterranean Sea, and from the west coast of Ireland to the shores 
of Cyprus: a rich tapestry of landscapes from rocky coastlines to sandy 
beaches, from fertile pastureland to arid plains, from lakes and forests to 
arctic tundra.

The peoples of Europe with their diverse traditions, cultures and languages 
make up over 7 % of the world’s population. Their historic heritage is 
charted in prehistoric cave paintings, Greek and Roman antiquities, Moorish 
architecture, medieval fortresses, Renaissance palaces and baroque 
churches. The modern Europe too attracts the traveller with its vibrant cities, 
colourful cultural festivities, winter and summer sports, and varied cuisine.

Europeans love to travel and the removal of most passport and baggage 
formalities has made travelling much easier. Seventeen EU countries share 
the same currency, the euro, which makes price comparisons easy and 
removes the cost and inconvenience of changing money. The creation of a 
single market of more than 500 million people has brought wider choice 
and lower prices. In fact most Europeans find it as easy to travel within the 
EU as to travel within their home country. 

Documents you will neeD

For EU CitizENs

Passport or identity card

There are no longer any controls at the borders between 22 EU countries. This 

is thanks to the Schengen rules which are part of EU law. These rules remove 

all internal border controls but put in place effective controls at the external 

borders of the EU and introduce a common visa policy. All EU countries are 

full Schengen members except for Bulgaria, Ireland, Croatia, Cyprus, Romania 

and the United Kingdom. Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland are 

also Schengen members but are not in the EU.

You will therefore need to present a valid passport or ID card when travelling 

to or returning from the six non-Schengen countries and when entering or 

leaving the EU at the external borders. Carry them when travelling in the EU 

because they may be required for identification or security purposes. Before 

travelling outside the EU, check what documents are required by the non-EU 

country you plan to visit. Be aware that the only valid ID is the one obtained 

from national authorities.

Children must now have their own passport or ID card.

You will not need a visa for travelling within the EU.

For NoN-EU CitizENs

Passport

You will need a valid passport.

Visa

Visa

There are 41 countries whose nationals do not need a visa to visit the 

EU for three months or less. These include Australia, Canada, Japan, New 

Zealand and the United States. The list of countries whose nationals require 

visas to travel to the United Kingdom or Ireland differs slightly from other 

EU countries. Apply for a visa from the consulate or embassy of the country 

you are visiting.

If your visa is from a country fully applying the Schengen rules, it 

automatically allows you to travel to the other Schengen countries as well. 

Moreover, if you have a valid residence permit from one of those Schengen 

countries, it is equivalent to a visa. You may need a national visa to visit 

non-Schengen countries.

Travelling in

EuropE

2013–14

Travelling in  

EuropE  

2013–14

The European Union of 28 countries, including Croatia from 1 July 2013, 

stretches over the continent of Europe from Lapland in the north to the 

Mediterranean Sea, and from the west coast of Ireland to the shores 

of Cyprus: a rich tapestry of landscapes from rocky coastlines to sandy 

beaches, from fertile pastureland to arid plains, from lakes and forests to 

arctic tundra.

The peoples of Europe with their diverse traditions, cultures and languages 

make up over 7 % of the world’s population. Their historic heritage is 

charted in prehistoric cave paintings, Greek and Roman antiquities, Moorish 

architecture, medieval fortresses, Renaissance palaces and baroque 

churches. The modern Europe too attracts the traveller with its vibrant cities, 

colourful cultural festivities, winter and summer sports, and varied cuisine.

Europeans love to travel and the removal of most passport and baggage 

formalities has made travelling much easier. Seventeen EU countries share 

the same currency, the euro, which makes price comparisons easy and 

removes the cost and inconvenience of changing money. The creation of a 

single market of more than 500 million people has brought wider choice 

and lower prices. In fact most Europeans find it as easy to travel within the 

EU as to travel within their home country. 

Documents you will neeD

For EU CitizENs
Passport or identity card

There are no longer any controls at the borders between 22 EU countries. This 
is thanks to the Schengen rules which are part of EU law. These rules remove 
all internal border controls but put in place effective controls at the external 
borders of the EU and introduce a common visa policy. All EU countries are 
full Schengen members except for Bulgaria, Ireland, Croatia, Cyprus, Romania 
and the United Kingdom. Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland are 
also Schengen members but are not in the EU.

You will therefore need to present a valid passport or ID card when travelling 
to or returning from the six non-Schengen countries and when entering or 
leaving the EU at the external borders. Carry them when travelling in the EU 
because they may be required for identification or security purposes. Before 
travelling outside the EU, check what documents are required by the non-EU 
country you plan to visit. Be aware that the only valid ID is the one obtained 
from national authorities.

Children must now have their own passport or ID card.

Visa

You will not need a visa for travelling within the EU.

For NoN-EU CitizENs
Passport

You will need a valid passport.

Visa

There are 41 countries whose nationals do not need a visa to visit the 
EU for three months or less. These include Australia, Canada, Japan, New 
Zealand and the United States. The list of countries whose nationals require 
visas to travel to the United Kingdom or Ireland differs slightly from other 
EU countries. Apply for a visa from the consulate or embassy of the country 
you are visiting.

If your visa is from a country fully applying the Schengen rules, it 
automatically allows you to travel to the other Schengen countries as well. 
Moreover, if you have a valid residence permit from one of those Schengen 
countries, it is equivalent to a visa. You may need a national visa to visit 
non-Schengen countries.

money

thE EUro
The euro is the legal tender of over 332 million people in 17 EU countries: 
Belgium, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, 
Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia 
and Finland.

The symbol of the euro is €. Euro notes are identical in all countries but 
each country issues its own coins with one common side and one side 
displaying a distinctive national design. All the notes and coins can be used 
in all EU countries that have adopted the euro, including many of their 
overseas territories.

Andorra (as of July 2013), Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City use the 
euro as their national currency, in agreement with the EU. A number of 
countries and territories, such as Kosovo and Montenegro, use the euro as 
their de facto currency.

In European countries outside the euro area, many hotels, shops and 
restaurants, particularly in tourist areas, accept payment in euro as well as 
the national currency, although they are not legally obliged to do so.

CAsh ANd CArds
Thanks to EU rules, withdrawing euro from a cash machine costs you 
the same anywhere in the EU as it does in your own country from a cash 
machine that does not belong to your bank. The transaction fee for making 
a debit or credit card payment in the EU in euro is the same as in your own 
country. Banks in EU countries which do not use the euro must also charge 

the same fees for transactions in the EU as they would for a domestic 

transfer, if the payment or transfer is made in euros. International payments 

in currencies other than the euro are not subject to these provisions. 

Charges may of course differ between banks.

shoPPing

WithiN thE EU

There are no limits on what you can buy and take with you when you travel 

between EU countries, as long as it is for personal use and not for resale. 

Taxes (VAT and excise duties) are included in the price you pay and no 

further payment of tax can be due in any other EU country.

tobacco and alcohol

To determine whether tobacco and alcohol are for personal use, each 

country can set guide levels. If you carry a larger quantity of these goods, 

you may be questioned to check that you have no commercial intent. The 

guide levels may not be lower than:

800 cigarettes

400 cigarillos

200 cigars

1 kg of tobacco

10 litres of spirits

110 litres of beer

20 litres of fortified wine (such as port or sherry)

90 litres of wine (of which, a maximum of 60 litres of sparkling wine)

ComiNg From oUtsidE

If you enter the EU from outside, you can bring with you goods free of VAT 

and excise duties for personal use within the limits set out below. The same 

applies if you come from the Canary Islands, the Channel Islands, Gibraltar 

or other territories where EU rules on VAT and excise do not apply.

money

thE EUro

and Finland.

The euro is the legal tender of over 332 million people in 17 EU countries: 

Belgium, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, 

Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia 

The symbol of the euro is €. Euro notes are identical in all countries but 

each country issues its own coins with one common side and one side 

displaying a distinctive national design. All the notes and coins can be used 

in all EU countries that have adopted the euro, including many of their 

overseas territories.

Andorra (as of July 2013), Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City use the 

euro as their national currency, in agreement with the EU. A number of 

countries and territories, such as Kosovo and Montenegro, use the euro as 

their de facto currency.

In European countries outside the euro area, many hotels, shops and 

restaurants, particularly in tourist areas, accept payment in euro as well as 

the national currency, although they are not legally obliged to do so.

CAsh ANd CArds

Thanks to EU rules, withdrawing euro from a cash machine costs you 

the same anywhere in the EU as it does in your own country from a cash 

machine that does not belong to your bank. The transaction fee for making 

a debit or credit card payment in the EU in euro is the same as in your own 
country. Banks in EU countries which do not use the euro must also charge 
the same fees for transactions in the EU as they would for a domestic 
transfer, if the payment or transfer is made in euros. International payments 
in currencies other than the euro are not subject to these provisions. 
Charges may of course differ between banks.

shoPPing

WithiN thE EU
There are no limits on what you can buy and take with you when you travel 
between EU countries, as long as it is for personal use and not for resale. 
Taxes (VAT and excise duties) are included in the price you pay and no 
further payment of tax can be due in any other EU country.

tobacco and alcohol

To determine whether tobacco and alcohol are for personal use, each 
country can set guide levels. If you carry a larger quantity of these goods, 
you may be questioned to check that you have no commercial intent. The 
guide levels may not be lower than:

800 cigarettes

400 cigarillos

200 cigars

1 kg of tobacco

10 litres of spirits

20 litres of fortified wine (such as port or sherry)

90 litres of wine (of which, a maximum of 60 litres of sparkling wine)

110 litres of beer

ComiNg From oUtsidE
If you enter the EU from outside, you can bring with you goods free of VAT 
and excise duties for personal use within the limits set out below. The same 
applies if you come from the Canary Islands, the Channel Islands, Gibraltar 
or other territories where EU rules on VAT and excise do not apply.

Alcoholic drinks

1 litre of spirits over 22 % vol. or 2 litres of fortified or sparkling wine

4 litres of still wine

16 litres of beer

tobacco products

There is a higher or lower limit depending on the country you are visiting if 
you are coming from outside the EU. If an EU country decides to apply the 
lower limits, it may choose to apply them only to land and sea travellers 
(Bulgaria, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Sweden) 
or to all travellers (Estonia and Romania). 

Higher limit
200 cigarettes  
100 cigarillos  
50 cigars  
250 g tobacco

or 
or 
or 

Lower limit
40 cigarettes  
20 cigarillos  
10 cigars  
50 g tobacco

or 
or 
or 

other goods including perfume

Up to a value of € 300 per traveller or € 430 for travellers by air and sea is 
allowed. Some EU countries apply a lower limit for travellers under 15 but it 
may not be lower than € 150.

hElp For CoNsUmErs
As a consumer, you are protected by basic laws no matter where you are in 
the EU.
•	

EU laws on food labelling enable you to make informed choices about 
what you are buying. You can check the list of ingredients for those 
most commonly associated with allergies or intolerance.

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

The EU organic logo on all pre-packaged organic foodstuffs indicates 
that the goods comply with EU regulations on organic 
production and labelling, and that at least 95 % of the 

product’s agricultural ingredients are organic.

The unit price of products — the price per kilo or per litre — must be 
given by supermarkets to make it easier to compare prices.

Cosmetic products have to indicate how long they can be used after 
opening. Look out for the open jar symbol. Sunscreen products now 
have clearer labelling, including a standardised indication of UVA 
protection, standardised terms for describing levels of protection and 
no misleading terms such as ‘total protection’.

  marking on products such as toys, electrical products and  
  mobile phones indicates that they meet all relevant EU safety, 

health and environmental protection requirements. However, not all 
products sold in the EU need to bear the marking.

 European Consumer Centres give practical information on consumer 
rights as well as advice and assistance with cross-border complaints or 
disputes. There are centres in all EU countries.

rEspECtiN g thE ENviroNmENt

Most Europeans want to play an active part in tackling the 

problems of climate change and protecting the environment. 

When making your travel plans, consider ways of saving 

energy and resources and reducing emissions.

To help you find greener products, look for the EU ‘Ecolabel’ on everyday 

consumer goods from shampoos to shoes. You can also use it to help you 

identify environmentally friendly places to stay: a hotel, bed and breakfast, 

youth hostel or campsite. The EU Ecolabel tells you that the tourist 

accommodation or campsite limits its energy and water consumption, reduces 

waste and makes use of renewable energy sources.

getting there

By roAd

Driving licence

A valid driving licence issued in an EU country is valid throughout the EU. 

The new licence now being issued is a standard design plastic card. In some 

countries, in addition to carrying a valid driving licence, you will need to 

have your vehicle registration document with you.

motor insurance

Wherever you are travelling in the EU your car insurance policy will 

automatically provide the minimum cover (third party liability) required 

by law. This also applies to Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. If you 

have comprehensive insurance at home, check that the cover extends to 

travelling in other countries.

Your insurer can give you a European accident statement form, a standard 

document that makes it easier to make a declaration on the spot if you 

have an accident in another country.

A green card is not obligatory when travelling in the EU but it serves as 

internationally recognised proof of insurance and it makes it easier to settle 

claims arising from an accident. If you do not take a green card with you, 

you should carry your certificate of insurance.

 
 
1 litre of spirits over 22 % vol. or 2 litres of fortified or sparkling wine

Alcoholic drinks

4 litres of still wine

16 litres of beer

tobacco products

There is a higher or lower limit depending on the country you are visiting if 

you are coming from outside the EU. If an EU country decides to apply the 

lower limits, it may choose to apply them only to land and sea travellers 

(Bulgaria, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Sweden) 

or to all travellers (Estonia and Romania). 

Higher limit

200 cigarettes  

100 cigarillos  

50 cigars  

250 g tobacco

or 

or 

or 

Lower limit

40 cigarettes  

20 cigarillos  

10 cigars  

50 g tobacco

or 

or 

or 

other goods including perfume

Up to a value of € 300 per traveller or € 430 for travellers by air and sea is 

allowed. Some EU countries apply a lower limit for travellers under 15 but it 

may not be lower than € 150.

hElp For CoNsUmErs

As a consumer, you are protected by basic laws no matter where you are in 

the EU.

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

EU laws on food labelling enable you to make informed choices about 

what you are buying. You can check the list of ingredients for those 

most commonly associated with allergies or intolerance.

The EU organic logo on all pre-packaged organic foodstuffs indicates 

that the goods comply with EU regulations on organic 

production and labelling, and that at least 95 % of the 

product’s agricultural ingredients are organic.

The unit price of products — the price per kilo or per litre — must be 

given by supermarkets to make it easier to compare prices.

Cosmetic products have to indicate how long they can be used after 

opening. Look out for the open jar symbol. Sunscreen products now 

have clearer labelling, including a standardised indication of UVA 

protection, standardised terms for describing levels of protection and 

no misleading terms such as ‘total protection’.

  marking on products such as toys, electrical products and  

  mobile phones indicates that they meet all relevant EU safety, 

health and environmental protection requirements. However, not all 

products sold in the EU need to bear the marking.

 European Consumer Centres give practical information on consumer 

rights as well as advice and assistance with cross-border complaints or 

disputes. There are centres in all EU countries.

rEspECtiN g thE ENviroNmENt

Most Europeans want to play an active part in tackling the 
problems of climate change and protecting the environment. 
When making your travel plans, consider ways of saving 
energy and resources and reducing emissions.

To help you find greener products, look for the EU ‘Ecolabel’ on everyday 
consumer goods from shampoos to shoes. You can also use it to help you 
identify environmentally friendly places to stay: a hotel, bed and breakfast, 
youth hostel or campsite. The EU Ecolabel tells you that the tourist 
accommodation or campsite limits its energy and water consumption, reduces 
waste and makes use of renewable energy sources.

getting there

By roAd
Driving licence

A valid driving licence issued in an EU country is valid throughout the EU. 
The new licence now being issued is a standard design plastic card. In some 
countries, in addition to carrying a valid driving licence, you will need to 
have your vehicle registration document with you.

motor insurance

Wherever you are travelling in the EU your car insurance policy will 
automatically provide the minimum cover (third party liability) required 
by law. This also applies to Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. If you 
have comprehensive insurance at home, check that the cover extends to 
travelling in other countries.

Your insurer can give you a European accident statement form, a standard 
document that makes it easier to make a declaration on the spot if you 
have an accident in another country.

A green card is not obligatory when travelling in the EU but it serves as 
internationally recognised proof of insurance and it makes it easier to settle 
claims arising from an accident. If you do not take a green card with you, 
you should carry your certificate of insurance.

 
 
Driving safely

In all EU countries, seat belts must be worn in all vehicles in which they are 
provided. Children must also have appropriate child restraints in cars and 
lorries and, where possible, in other vehicles as well.

Using a mobile phone while driving greatly increases the risk of an accident 
and it is either explicitly or implicitly forbidden in all EU countries.

The maximum permitted blood alcohol level varies between 0 mg/ml and 
0.8 mg/ml. Further information on road safety rules in each EU country 
including speed limits, mandatory use of daytime running lights and of 
winter tyres, and safety equipment for motorists and cyclists can be found 
at ec.europa.eu/transport/road_safety/going_abroad/index_en.htm. Tracking 
down drivers who commit road traffic offences abroad will become easier 
from November 2013 with improved cross-border exchange of information.

Remember to drive on the left side of the road in Ireland, Cyprus, Malta and 
the United Kingdom and that in some countries, such as Belgium, France, 
the Netherlands and Portugal, you normally have to give way to traffic 
coming from your right.

By air
Creating a single European market in air transport has meant lower fares 
and a wider choice of carriers and services for passengers. EU rules allow 
travellers to compare prices of air travel. Airline companies must indicate 
their prices including the fare, all taxes, fees and surcharges.

In order to ensure a high level of security throughout the EU, common 
rules and standards on security controls of passengers, hand luggage and 
checked-in luggage have been laid down for all departing flights at EU 
airports. EU rules lay down a list of items that are not allowed into the cabin 
of an aircraft and items that are not allowed in checked-in baggage for 
carriage in the hold of an aircraft. The restrictions on the amount of liquids 
that can be carried as hand luggage through security points remain for 
the time being. They will gradually be lifted once they can be replaced by 
screening for liquid explosives.

The EU maintains a list of airlines banned from operating in the EU and 
using EU airports.  

By rail
The EU has over 212 000 km of railways with extensive international 
passenger services. There are over 6 000 km of high-speed lines in several 
countries with trains reaching speeds of up to 350 km/h, and the network is 
being extended.

By water

There are many key sea routes between EU countries offering regular, high-

quality services as an alternative to, or in combination with, road, air or rail. 

There are also 41 000 km of navigable inland waterways. The EU has been 

at the forefront of improving maritime safety and promoting high-quality 

standards with rules to protect passengers and crew sailing on ferries to and 

from European ports as well as on passenger ships sailing within the EU.

Passenger rights

The EU is the only part of the world where minimum standards for 

passenger rights have been set across all modes of transport: road, air, rail 

and water. Passengers in the EU, including disabled passengers and those 

with reduced mobility, enjoy the right to information, assistance and, in 

certain circumstances, compensation in case of cancellation or long delays.

Bus and coach passengers

All bus and coach passengers now have the right to receive adequate 

information before and during their journey. Passengers travelling 250 km 

or more have additional rights, such as assistance, reimbursement or re-

routing in case of delay or cancellation. Disabled passengers and those with 

reduced mobility can get free assistance at terminals and on board buses 

or coaches. Notify the carriers and terminal operators of specific needs at 

the time of booking, when buying the ticket in advance, or at least 36 hours 

before travelling.

air passengers

The number of passengers has increased by about 35 % since 2000 and so 

the need to provide a minimum set of rights for air passengers has become 

even more important. As an air passenger, you have the right to information, 

reimbursement, re-routing, compensation (under certain circumstances) and 

assistance if your flight is delayed, cancelled or if you are denied boarding. 

These rights apply to all scheduled and chartered flights, both domestic and 

international, when departing from an EU airport (or from Iceland, Norway 

and Switzerland). When arriving at an EU airport from a non-EU country, 

they apply only to flights operated by an airline licensed in the EU  

(or Iceland, Norway and Switzerland).

Air carriers are liable in the event of accidents or for lost, damaged or 

mishandled luggage. Travellers also have certain rights in relation to 

package holidays. Disabled passengers and those with reduced mobility are 

entitled to free assistance on the aircraft and at the airport so that they can 

travel as easily as anyone else. Give the airline at least 48 hours advance 

notice of your needs.

Driving safely

In all EU countries, seat belts must be worn in all vehicles in which they are 

provided. Children must also have appropriate child restraints in cars and 

lorries and, where possible, in other vehicles as well.

Using a mobile phone while driving greatly increases the risk of an accident 

and it is either explicitly or implicitly forbidden in all EU countries.

The maximum permitted blood alcohol level varies between 0 mg/ml and 

0.8 mg/ml. Further information on road safety rules in each EU country 

including speed limits, mandatory use of daytime running lights and of 

winter tyres, and safety equipment for motorists and cyclists can be found 

at ec.europa.eu/transport/road_safety/going_abroad/index_en.htm. Tracking 

down drivers who commit road traffic offences abroad will become easier 

from November 2013 with improved cross-border exchange of information.

Remember to drive on the left side of the road in Ireland, Cyprus, Malta and 

the United Kingdom and that in some countries, such as Belgium, France, 

the Netherlands and Portugal, you normally have to give way to traffic 

coming from your right.

By air

Creating a single European market in air transport has meant lower fares 

and a wider choice of carriers and services for passengers. EU rules allow 

travellers to compare prices of air travel. Airline companies must indicate 

their prices including the fare, all taxes, fees and surcharges.

In order to ensure a high level of security throughout the EU, common 

rules and standards on security controls of passengers, hand luggage and 

checked-in luggage have been laid down for all departing flights at EU 

airports. EU rules lay down a list of items that are not allowed into the cabin 

of an aircraft and items that are not allowed in checked-in baggage for 

carriage in the hold of an aircraft. The restrictions on the amount of liquids 

that can be carried as hand luggage through security points remain for 

the time being. They will gradually be lifted once they can be replaced by 

screening for liquid explosives.

The EU maintains a list of airlines banned from operating in the EU and 

using EU airports.  

By rail

The EU has over 212 000 km of railways with extensive international 

passenger services. There are over 6 000 km of high-speed lines in several 

countries with trains reaching speeds of up to 350 km/h, and the network is 

being extended.

By water
There are many key sea routes between EU countries offering regular, high-
quality services as an alternative to, or in combination with, road, air or rail. 
There are also 41 000 km of navigable inland waterways. The EU has been 
at the forefront of improving maritime safety and promoting high-quality 
standards with rules to protect passengers and crew sailing on ferries to and 
from European ports as well as on passenger ships sailing within the EU.

Passenger rights

The EU is the only part of the world where minimum standards for 
passenger rights have been set across all modes of transport: road, air, rail 
and water. Passengers in the EU, including disabled passengers and those 
with reduced mobility, enjoy the right to information, assistance and, in 
certain circumstances, compensation in case of cancellation or long delays.

Bus and coach passengers
All bus and coach passengers now have the right to receive adequate 
information before and during their journey. Passengers travelling 250 km 
or more have additional rights, such as assistance, reimbursement or re-
routing in case of delay or cancellation. Disabled passengers and those with 
reduced mobility can get free assistance at terminals and on board buses 
or coaches. Notify the carriers and terminal operators of specific needs at 
the time of booking, when buying the ticket in advance, or at least 36 hours 
before travelling.

air passengers
The number of passengers has increased by about 35 % since 2000 and so 
the need to provide a minimum set of rights for air passengers has become 
even more important. As an air passenger, you have the right to information, 
reimbursement, re-routing, compensation (under certain circumstances) and 
assistance if your flight is delayed, cancelled or if you are denied boarding. 
These rights apply to all scheduled and chartered flights, both domestic and 
international, when departing from an EU airport (or from Iceland, Norway 
and Switzerland). When arriving at an EU airport from a non-EU country, 
they apply only to flights operated by an airline licensed in the EU  
(or Iceland, Norway and Switzerland).

Air carriers are liable in the event of accidents or for lost, damaged or 
mishandled luggage. Travellers also have certain rights in relation to 
package holidays. Disabled passengers and those with reduced mobility are 
entitled to free assistance on the aircraft and at the airport so that they can 
travel as easily as anyone else. Give the airline at least 48 hours advance 
notice of your needs.

If you want to complain, first contact the airline or organiser of the package 
holiday. If they fail to fulfil their obligations then you can complain to the 
competent national authority. Call the Europe Direct freephone number 
00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 for more information.

rAil pAssENgErs
Rail passengers’ rights have been reinforced and improved by EU legislation 
with better information and rights in the event of delay, missed connections 
and cancellations on all international EU services. Disabled passengers and 
those with reduced mobility are entitled to free assistance at stations and 
on trains. Advance notice of 48 hours of the need for assistance should be 
given. Call the Europe Direct freephone number 00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 for 
more information.

sEA ANd iNlANd WAtErWAy pAssENgErs
Passengers travelling by sea or inland waterway also now enjoy new rights 
including reimbursement, re-routing, compensation and assistance if faced 
with cancellations or delays, and the right to receive information. Disabled 
passengers and those with reduced mobility also have the right to free 
assistance both at port terminals and on board ships. Notify the carriers and 
terminal operators of specific needs at the time of booking, when buying 
the ticket in advance, or at least 48 hours before travelling. These rights 
apply, with some exceptions, to those travelling on passenger services 
either departing from or arriving in a port within the EU and on cruises 
where the port of embarkation is in the EU.

stAying heAlthy

ACCEss to hEAlthCArE
As an EU national, if you are suddenly taken ill or have an accident during 
a temporary visit to any EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or 
Switzerland, you are entitled to the same public healthcare services as 
the people insured in the country you are visiting. Each country has its 
own rules for public medical provision. In some, treatment is free, in some 
you pay part of the cost, in others you have to pay the full cost and then 
claim a refund. So keep all your bills, prescriptions and receipts. Apply for 
reimbursement in the country you are visiting or, failing that, when you 
get home.

A European health insurance card simplifies procedures, cuts red tape and 
helps to speed up the reimbursement of costs. If you do not yet have  
a card, get it free from your local social security or sickness insurance office. 
Some countries incorporate the European card on the reverse side of  
a national card and others issue separate cards.

trAvEl iNsUrANCE
The European health insurance card is not a substitute for travel insurance 
as it may not cover all health costs and it never covers repatriation costs.  
So you may want to take out separate travel insurance to cover those risks.

mEdiCiNEs
Take your prescription with you if you are carrying prescribed medicines. Do 
not exceed the quantities needed for your personal use during your trip, as 
large quantities of drugs can create suspicion.

immUNisAtioN

There are, in general, no immunisation requirements when travelling in the 

EU. However, there are requirements or recommendations for certain of the 

EU’s overseas territories. Check with your doctor before you go.

BAthiNg WAtEr

Strict standards are set for bathing water throughout the EU and the overall 

water quality remains high. More than 90 % of the 22 000 bathing sites at 

beaches, rivers and lakes in the EU now meet the minimum water quality 

standards set. Official symbols give information on the quality of water at 

these bathing sites. In addition, voluntary schemes such as the Blue Flags 

let you know that a beach or a marina has met specific standards on water 

quality and standards on safety, services, environmental management and 

information.

communicAting

lANgUAgEs

Europe is rich in languages. The main language families in the EU include 

Germanic, Romance, Slav, Baltic and Celtic. The EU institutions have 

24 official languages but there are many other lesser-spoken ones.

Many Europeans speak at least one other language as well as their mother 

tongue and over a quarter of the adult population speak at least two 

foreign languages. However, during your travels in Europe, try using a few 

phrases of the local language when talking to local people. Here’s how to 

say ‘thank you’:

Bulgarian

Blagodarya

Go raibh maith agat

Croatian

Czech

Danish

Dutch

English

Estonian

Finnish

French

German

Greek

Hvala

Děkuji

Tak

Bedankt

Thank you

Aitäh

Kiitos

Merci

Danke

Efkaristo

Hungarian

Köszönöm

Irish

Italian

Latvian

Lithuanian

Maltese

Polish

Portuguese

Romanian

Slovak

Slovene

Spanish

Swedish

Grazie

Paldies

Ačiū

Grazzi

Dziękuję

Obrigado

Mulţumesc

Ďakujem

Hvala

Gracias

Tack 

If you want to complain, first contact the airline or organiser of the package 

holiday. If they fail to fulfil their obligations then you can complain to the 

competent national authority. Call the Europe Direct freephone number 

00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 for more information.

rAil pAssENgErs

Rail passengers’ rights have been reinforced and improved by EU legislation 

with better information and rights in the event of delay, missed connections 

and cancellations on all international EU services. Disabled passengers and 

those with reduced mobility are entitled to free assistance at stations and 

on trains. Advance notice of 48 hours of the need for assistance should be 

given. Call the Europe Direct freephone number 00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 for 

more information.

sEA ANd iNlANd WAtErWAy pAssENgErs

Passengers travelling by sea or inland waterway also now enjoy new rights 

including reimbursement, re-routing, compensation and assistance if faced 

with cancellations or delays, and the right to receive information. Disabled 

passengers and those with reduced mobility also have the right to free 

assistance both at port terminals and on board ships. Notify the carriers and 

terminal operators of specific needs at the time of booking, when buying 

the ticket in advance, or at least 48 hours before travelling. These rights 

apply, with some exceptions, to those travelling on passenger services 

either departing from or arriving in a port within the EU and on cruises 

where the port of embarkation is in the EU.

stAying heAlthy

ACCEss to hEAlthCArE

As an EU national, if you are suddenly taken ill or have an accident during 

a temporary visit to any EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or 

Switzerland, you are entitled to the same public healthcare services as 

the people insured in the country you are visiting. Each country has its 

own rules for public medical provision. In some, treatment is free, in some 

you pay part of the cost, in others you have to pay the full cost and then 

claim a refund. So keep all your bills, prescriptions and receipts. Apply for 

reimbursement in the country you are visiting or, failing that, when you 

get home.

A European health insurance card simplifies procedures, cuts red tape and 

helps to speed up the reimbursement of costs. If you do not yet have  

a card, get it free from your local social security or sickness insurance office. 

Some countries incorporate the European card on the reverse side of  

a national card and others issue separate cards.

trAvEl iNsUrANCE

The European health insurance card is not a substitute for travel insurance 

as it may not cover all health costs and it never covers repatriation costs.  

So you may want to take out separate travel insurance to cover those risks.

mEdiCiNEs

Take your prescription with you if you are carrying prescribed medicines. Do 

not exceed the quantities needed for your personal use during your trip, as 

large quantities of drugs can create suspicion.

immUNisAtioN
There are, in general, no immunisation requirements when travelling in the 
EU. However, there are requirements or recommendations for certain of the 
EU’s overseas territories. Check with your doctor before you go.

BAthiNg WAtEr
Strict standards are set for bathing water throughout the EU and the overall 
water quality remains high. More than 90 % of the 22 000 bathing sites at 
beaches, rivers and lakes in the EU now meet the minimum water quality 
standards set. Official symbols give information on the quality of water at 
these bathing sites. In addition, voluntary schemes such as the Blue Flags 
let you know that a beach or a marina has met specific standards on water 
quality and standards on safety, services, environmental management and 
information.

communicAting

lANgUAgEs
Europe is rich in languages. The main language families in the EU include 
Germanic, Romance, Slav, Baltic and Celtic. The EU institutions have 
24 official languages but there are many other lesser-spoken ones.

Many Europeans speak at least one other language as well as their mother 
tongue and over a quarter of the adult population speak at least two 
foreign languages. However, during your travels in Europe, try using a few 
phrases of the local language when talking to local people. Here’s how to 
say ‘thank you’:

Bulgarian
Croatian
Czech
Danish
Dutch
English
Estonian
Finnish
French
German
Greek
Hungarian

Blagodarya
Hvala
Děkuji
Tak
Bedankt
Thank you
Aitäh
Kiitos
Merci
Danke
Efkaristo
Köszönöm

Irish
Italian
Latvian
Lithuanian
Maltese
Polish
Portuguese
Romanian
Slovak
Slovene
Spanish
Swedish

Go raibh maith agat
Grazie
Paldies
Ačiū
Grazzi
Dziękuję
Obrigado
Mulţumesc
Ďakujem
Hvala
Gracias
Tack 

Telephone
There is just one prefix for making international telephone calls anywhere in 
the EU. It is 00.

The country codes are:

A 
B 
BG 
CY 
CZ 
D 
DK 
E 
EST 
F 
FIN 
GB 
GR 
H 

Austria 
Belgium 
Bulgaria 
Cyprus 
Czech Republic 
Germany 
Denmark 
Spain 
Estonia 
France 
Finland 
United Kingdom 
Greece 
Hungary 

43
32
359
357
420
49
45
34
372
33
358
44
30
36

HR 
I 
IRL 
L 
LT 
LV 
M 
NL 
P 
PL 
RO 
S 
SK 
SLO 

Croatia 
Italy 
Ireland 
Luxembourg 
Lithuania 
Latvia 
Malta 
Netherlands 
Portugal 
Poland 
Romania 
Sweden 
Slovakia 
Slovenia 

385
39
353
352
370
371
356
31
351
48
40
46
421
386

Mobile phones
Thanks to new EU roaming rules which came into effect on 1 July 2012, 
consumers now enjoy savings of 75 % across a range of mobile services, 
calls, text messages and data, compared to 2007 prices. Using mobile 
Internet to access maps, photos, social networks and e-mail will now be 
much cheaper while travelling in other EU countries as will making and 
receiving voice calls and texts as a result of the new price caps.

New maximum prices, excluding VAT

1 July 2012 1 July 2013 1 July 2014

Data (per MB)

70 cents

45 cents

20 cents

Voice calls made (per min.)

29 cents

24 cents

19 cents

Voice calls received (per min.)

8 cents

SMS (each)

9 cents

7 cents

8 cents

5 cents

6 cents

These price caps are maximum charges. Operators are free to offer 

cheaper rates so look out for the best deals. Also as of 1 July 2012, people 

travelling outside the EU get a warning text message, e-mail or pop-up 

window when they are nearing € 50 of data downloads, or their pre-agreed 

level. This extends the alert system currently in place within the EU.

From 1 July 2014, consumers will be able to choose a mobile roaming 

contract, separate from their contract for national mobile services but using 

the same number. They will also be able to use mobile Internet abroad by 

connecting directly to a network in the country they are visiting, if it offers 

mobile data roaming services, and be billed by that provider.

Postage stamps can only be used in the country in which you buy them, 

posTage

even when priced in euro.

elecTriciTy

All of Europe has 220–240 volt, 50 cycle alternating current. Ireland, 

Cyprus, Malta and the United Kingdom have square three-pin plugs but, in 

general, all other EU countries have two-pin plugs. These may vary but you 

should be able to use your appliances, such as hairdryers  

and shavers, anywhere. Adaptors can usually be bought  

in airports and tourist resorts.

There is just one prefix for making international telephone calls anywhere in 

Telephone

the EU. It is 00.

The country codes are:

A 

B 

BG 

CY 

CZ 

D 

DK 

E 

EST 

F 

FIN 

GB 

GR 

H 

Czech Republic 

Austria 

Belgium 

Bulgaria 

Cyprus 

Germany 

Denmark 

Spain 

Estonia 

France 

Finland 

Greece 

Hungary 

United Kingdom 

43

32

359

357

420

49

45

34

372

33

358

44

30

36

Mobile phones

HR 

I 

IRL 

L 

LT 

LV 

M 

NL 

P 

PL 

RO 

S 

SK 

SLO 

Croatia 

Italy 

Ireland 

Luxembourg 

Lithuania 

Latvia 

Malta 

Netherlands 

Portugal 

Poland 

Romania 

Sweden 

Slovakia 

Slovenia 

385

39

353

352

370

371

356

31

351

48

40

46

421

386

Thanks to new EU roaming rules which came into effect on 1 July 2012, 

consumers now enjoy savings of 75 % across a range of mobile services, 

calls, text messages and data, compared to 2007 prices. Using mobile 

Internet to access maps, photos, social networks and e-mail will now be 

much cheaper while travelling in other EU countries as will making and 

receiving voice calls and texts as a result of the new price caps.

New maximum prices, excluding VAT

1 July 2012 1 July 2013 1 July 2014

Data (per MB)

70 cents

45 cents

20 cents

Voice calls made (per min.)

29 cents

24 cents

19 cents

Voice calls received (per min.)

8 cents

SMS (each)

9 cents

7 cents

8 cents

5 cents

6 cents

These price caps are maximum charges. Operators are free to offer 
cheaper rates so look out for the best deals. Also as of 1 July 2012, people 
travelling outside the EU get a warning text message, e-mail or pop-up 
window when they are nearing € 50 of data downloads, or their pre-agreed 
level. This extends the alert system currently in place within the EU.

From 1 July 2014, consumers will be able to choose a mobile roaming 
contract, separate from their contract for national mobile services but using 
the same number. They will also be able to use mobile Internet abroad by 
connecting directly to a network in the country they are visiting, if it offers 
mobile data roaming services, and be billed by that provider.

posTage
Postage stamps can only be used in the country in which you buy them, 
even when priced in euro.

elecTriciTy
All of Europe has 220–240 volt, 50 cycle alternating current. Ireland, 
Cyprus, Malta and the United Kingdom have square three-pin plugs but, in 
general, all other EU countries have two-pin plugs. These may vary but you 
should be able to use your appliances, such as hairdryers  
and shavers, anywhere. Adaptors can usually be bought  
in airports and tourist resorts.

things to Do
There is a dazzling choice of things to do and see in Europe. For ideas 
and information on all countries, have a look at the European tourist 
destinations website (www.visiteurope.com) or go to the websites of the 
official national tourist organisations of each EU country.

A
B

BG
CY
CZ
D
DK
E
EST
F
FIN
GB
GR
H
HR
I
IRL
L
LT
LV
M
NL
P
PL
RO
S
SK
SLO

Austria
Belgium

Bulgaria
Cyprus
Czech Republic 
Germany 
Denmark 
Spain 
Estonia 
France 
Finland 
United Kingdom 
Greece 
Hungary 
Croatia
Italy 
Ireland
Luxembourg 
Lithuania 
Latvia 
Malta 
Netherlands 
Portugal 
Poland 
Romania 
Sweden 
Slovakia 
Slovenia 

www.austria.info

www.visitflanders.com
www.opt.be 

www.bulgariatravel.org
 www.visitcyprus.com
www.czechtourism.com
www.germany-tourism.de
www.visitdenmark.com
www.spain.info
www.visitestonia.com
www.franceguide.com
www.visitfinland.com
www.visitbritain.com
www.visitgreece.gr
www.hungary.com
www.croatia.hr
www.enit.it
 www.discoverireland.ie
www.ont.lu
www.lietuva.lt/en/tourism
www.latviatourism.lv
www.visitmalta.com
www.holland.com
www.visitportugal.com
www.poland.travel
www.romaniatourism.com
www.visitsweden.com
www.slovakia.travel
www.slovenia.info

The abbreviations for countries are those used on nationality plates on cars.

The EU supports and contributes to many cultural projects and events 
across Europe every year. One of these is to designate a cultural capital of 
Europe. The EU helps to fund exhibitions and events highlighting the cultural 
heritage of the chosen cities and brings together a vast array of artists and 
performers from across the EU.

The ancient port city of Marseille, on the Mediterranean coast in France, and 
Košice, in the valley of the River Hornád in eastern Slovakia, share the title 
of European Capital of Culture in 2013. Riga, the capital of Latvia, at the 
mouth of the Daugava on the Baltic Sea, and Umeå, the university town 
400 km south of the Arctic Circle in northern Sweden, are European Capitals 
of Culture in 2014. 

time zones

GMT

GMT +1

GMT +2

GMT +3

GMT +4

GMT +5

sUmmEr timE

Daylight saving time begins across the EU on 31 March 2013 when clocks 

are moved forward an hour and it ends on 27 October 2013 when clocks 

are put back an hour. The dates for 2014 are 30 March and 26 October.

Pets

Travelling with a dog or cat is now much easier with the new EU pet 

passport, available from any vet. All dogs and cats must have a passport 

and, for identification purposes, be fitted with an electronic microchip or 

have a clearly readable tattoo applied before July 2011.

All pets must be vaccinated against rabies and the details entered in their 

pet passport. The vaccination must be carried out after the microchipping or 

tattooing.

Dogs must be given specific tapeworm treatment by a vet before travelling 

to Finland, Ireland, Malta and the United Kingdom. Details of the treatment 

must appear in the pet passport and the dog can then travel between one 

to five days after treatment.

 
things to Do

There is a dazzling choice of things to do and see in Europe. For ideas 

and information on all countries, have a look at the European tourist 

destinations website (www.visiteurope.com) or go to the websites of the 

official national tourist organisations of each EU country.

A

B

BG

CY

CZ

D

DK

E

F

EST

FIN

GB

GR

H

HR

I

IRL

L

LT

LV

M

NL

P

PL

RO

S

SK

SLO

United Kingdom 

Czech Republic 

Austria

Belgium

Bulgaria

Cyprus

Germany 

Denmark 

Spain 

Estonia 

France 

Finland 

Greece 

Hungary 

Croatia

Italy 

Ireland

Luxembourg 

Lithuania 

Latvia 

Malta 

Netherlands 

Portugal 

Poland 

Romania 

Sweden 

Slovakia 

Slovenia 

www.austria.info

www.visitflanders.com

www.opt.be 

www.bulgariatravel.org

 www.visitcyprus.com

www.czechtourism.com

www.germany-tourism.de

www.visitdenmark.com

www.spain.info

www.visitestonia.com

www.franceguide.com

www.visitfinland.com

www.visitbritain.com

www.visitgreece.gr

www.hungary.com

www.croatia.hr

www.enit.it

 www.discoverireland.ie

www.ont.lu

www.lietuva.lt/en/tourism

www.latviatourism.lv

www.visitmalta.com

www.holland.com

www.visitportugal.com

www.poland.travel

www.romaniatourism.com

www.visitsweden.com

www.slovakia.travel

www.slovenia.info

The abbreviations for countries are those used on nationality plates on cars.

The EU supports and contributes to many cultural projects and events 

across Europe every year. One of these is to designate a cultural capital of 

Europe. The EU helps to fund exhibitions and events highlighting the cultural 

heritage of the chosen cities and brings together a vast array of artists and 

performers from across the EU.

The ancient port city of Marseille, on the Mediterranean coast in France, and 

Košice, in the valley of the River Hornád in eastern Slovakia, share the title 

of European Capital of Culture in 2013. Riga, the capital of Latvia, at the 

mouth of the Daugava on the Baltic Sea, and Umeå, the university town 

400 km south of the Arctic Circle in northern Sweden, are European Capitals 

of Culture in 2014. 

time zones

GMT

GMT +1

GMT +2

GMT +3

GMT +4

GMT +5

sUmmEr timE
Daylight saving time begins across the EU on 31 March 2013 when clocks 
are moved forward an hour and it ends on 27 October 2013 when clocks 
are put back an hour. The dates for 2014 are 30 March and 26 October.

Pets
Travelling with a dog or cat is now much easier with the new EU pet 
passport, available from any vet. All dogs and cats must have a passport 
and, for identification purposes, be fitted with an electronic microchip or 
have a clearly readable tattoo applied before July 2011.

All pets must be vaccinated against rabies and the details entered in their 
pet passport. The vaccination must be carried out after the microchipping or 
tattooing.

Dogs must be given specific tapeworm treatment by a vet before travelling 
to Finland, Ireland, Malta and the United Kingdom. Details of the treatment 
must appear in the pet passport and the dog can then travel between one 
to five days after treatment.

 
if things go wrong
siNglE EUropEAN EmErgENCy  
NUmBEr:  112
To contact the emergency services in any EU country from any phone, fixed 
or mobile, dial 112, free of charge.

loss or thEFt
Report any theft to the local police. You will need to enclose the police 
report when making your insurance or compensation claim. Cancel any lost 
or stolen credit cards immediately. If your passport has been stolen, report it 
to your country’s consulate or embassy as well as to the police. Remember 
that if you are outside the EU you can get help from the consulate or 
embassy of any other EU country if yours is not represented.

getting in touch with the eu

online
Information in all the official languages of the European 
Union is available on the Europa website: 
europa.eu

in Person
All over Europe there are hundreds of local EU information 
centres. 
You can find the address of the centre nearest you at: 
europedirect.europa.eu

on the Phone or By mAil
europe Direct is a service which answers your questions 
about the European Union. You can contact this service 
by freephone: 00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 (certain mobile 
telephone operators do not allow access to 00 800 
numbers or may charge for these calls), or by payphone 
from outside the EU: +32 2 2999696, or by e-mail via 
europedirect.europa.eu

reAD ABout euroPe
Publications about the EU are only a click away on the  
EU Bookshop website:  
bookshop.europa.eu

You can also obtain information and booklets in English about  

the European Union from:

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT OFFICES

office in Ireland

43 molesworth street,

dublin 2

irElANd

tel. +353 16057900 

internet: www.europarl.ie

E-mail: epdublin@europarl.

europa.eu

united Kingdom office

Europe house

32 smith square 

london sW1p 3EU

UNitEd KiNgdom

tel. +44 2072274300

internet: www.europarl.org.uk

E-mail: eplondon@europarl.

europa.eu

office in Scotland

the tun, 4 Jackson’s Entry

holyrood road,

Edinburgh Eh8 8pJ

UNitEd KiNgdom

tel. +44 1315577866

internet: www.europarl.org.uk

E-mail: epedinburgh@europarl.

there are European Commission 

and parliament representations 

and offices in all the countries 

of the European Union. the 

European Union also has 

delegations in other parts of the 

world.

EUropEAN 

CommissioN 

rEprEsENtAtioNs

representation in Ireland

European Union house

18 dawson street

dublin 2

irElANd

ireland/

tel. +353 16341111

internet: www.ec.europa.eu/

E-mail: eu-ie-info-request@

ec.europa.eu

representation in  

the united Kingdom

Europe house

32 smith square 

london sW1p 3EU

UNitEd KiNgdom

tel. +44 2079731992

internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

representation in Wales

2 Caspian point, Caspian Way 

Cardiff CF10 4QQ

UNitEd KiNgdom

tel. +44 2920895020

representation in Scotland

9 Alva street 

Edinburgh Eh2 4ph

UNitEd KiNgdom

tel. +44 1312252058

internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

representation  

in Northern Ireland

74–76 dublin road 

Belfast Bt2 7hp

UNitEd KiNgdom

tel. +44 2890240708

internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

Delegation in  

the united States

2175 K street, NW

Washington dC 20037

UNitEd stAtEs oF AmEriCA

tel. +1 202 8629500

internet: www.eurunion.org

internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

europa.eu

if things go wrong

siNglE EUropEAN EmErgENCy  

NUmBEr:  112

To contact the emergency services in any EU country from any phone, fixed 

or mobile, dial 112, free of charge.

loss or thEFt

Report any theft to the local police. You will need to enclose the police 

report when making your insurance or compensation claim. Cancel any lost 

or stolen credit cards immediately. If your passport has been stolen, report it 

to your country’s consulate or embassy as well as to the police. Remember 

that if you are outside the EU you can get help from the consulate or 

embassy of any other EU country if yours is not represented.

getting in touch with the eu

Information in all the official languages of the European 

Union is available on the Europa website: 

online

europa.eu

in Person

centres. 

All over Europe there are hundreds of local EU information 

You can find the address of the centre nearest you at: 

europedirect.europa.eu

on the Phone or By mAil

europe Direct is a service which answers your questions 

about the European Union. You can contact this service 

by freephone: 00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 (certain mobile 

telephone operators do not allow access to 00 800 

numbers or may charge for these calls), or by payphone 

from outside the EU: +32 2 2999696, or by e-mail via 

europedirect.europa.eu

reAD ABout euroPe

EU Bookshop website:  

bookshop.europa.eu

Publications about the EU are only a click away on the  

You can also obtain information and booklets in English about  
the European Union from:

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT OFFICES

office in Ireland
43 molesworth street,
dublin 2
irElANd
tel. +353 16057900 
internet: www.europarl.ie
E-mail: epdublin@europarl.
europa.eu

united Kingdom office
Europe house
32 smith square 
london sW1p 3EU
UNitEd KiNgdom
tel. +44 2072274300
internet: www.europarl.org.uk
E-mail: eplondon@europarl.
europa.eu

office in Scotland
the tun, 4 Jackson’s Entry
holyrood road,
Edinburgh Eh8 8pJ
UNitEd KiNgdom
tel. +44 1315577866
internet: www.europarl.org.uk
E-mail: epedinburgh@europarl.
europa.eu

there are European Commission 
and parliament representations 
and offices in all the countries 
of the European Union. the 
European Union also has 
delegations in other parts of the 
world.

EUropEAN 
CommissioN 
rEprEsENtAtioNs
representation in Ireland
European Union house
18 dawson street
dublin 2
irElANd
tel. +353 16341111
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/
ireland/
E-mail: eu-ie-info-request@
ec.europa.eu

representation in  
the united Kingdom
Europe house
32 smith square 
london sW1p 3EU
UNitEd KiNgdom
tel. +44 2079731992
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

representation in Wales
2 Caspian point, Caspian Way 
Cardiff CF10 4QQ
UNitEd KiNgdom
tel. +44 2920895020
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

representation in Scotland
9 Alva street 
Edinburgh Eh2 4ph
UNitEd KiNgdom
tel. +44 1312252058
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

representation  
in Northern Ireland
74–76 dublin road 
Belfast Bt2 7hp
UNitEd KiNgdom
tel. +44 2890240708
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

Delegation in  
the united States
2175 K street, NW
Washington dC 20037
UNitEd stAtEs oF AmEriCA
tel. +1 202 8629500
internet: www.eurunion.org

Things To do
There is a dazzling choice of things to do and see in Europe. For ideas 
and information on all countries, have a look at the European tourist 
destinations website (www.visiteurope.com) or go to the websites of the 
official national tourist organisations of each EU country.

A
B

BG
CY
CZ
D
DK
E
EST
F
FIN
GB
GR
H
HR
I
IRL
L
LT
LV
M
NL
P
PL
RO
S
SK
SLO

Austria
Belgium

Bulgaria
Cyprus
Czech Republic 
Germany 
Denmark 
Spain 
Estonia 
France 
Finland 
United Kingdom 
Greece 
Hungary 
Croatia
Italy 
Ireland
Luxembourg 
Lithuania 
Latvia 
Malta 
Netherlands 
Portugal 
Poland 
Romania 
Sweden 
Slovakia 
Slovenia 

www.austria.info

www.visitflanders.com
www.opt.be 

www.bulgariatravel.org
 www.visitcyprus.com
www.czechtourism.com
www.germany-tourism.de
www.visitdenmark.com
www.spain.info
www.visitestonia.com
www.franceguide.com
www.visitfinland.com
www.visitbritain.com
www.visitgreece.gr
www.hungary.com
www.croatia.hr
www.enit.it
 www.discoverireland.ie
www.ont.lu
www.lietuva.lt/en/tourism
www.latviatourism.lv
www.visitmalta.com
www.holland.com
www.visitportugal.com
www.poland.travel
www.romaniatourism.com
www.visitsweden.com
www.slovakia.travel
www.slovenia.info

The abbreviations for countries are those used on nationality plates on cars.

The EU supports and contributes to many cultural projects and events 
across Europe every year. One of these is to designate a cultural capital of 
Europe. The EU helps to fund exhibitions and events highlighting the cultural 
heritage of the chosen cities and brings together a vast array of artists and 
performers from across the EU.

The ancient port city of Marseille, on the Mediterranean coast in France, and 
Košice, in the valley of the River Hornád in eastern Slovakia, share the title 
of European Capital of Culture in 2013. Riga, the capital of Latvia, at the 
mouth of the Daugava on the Baltic Sea, and Umeå, the university town 
400 km south of the Arctic Circle in northern Sweden, are European Capitals 
of Culture in 2014. 

Time zones

GMT

GMT +1

GMT +2

GMT +3

GMT +4

GMT +5

Summer time
Daylight saving time begins across the EU on 31 March 2013 when clocks 
are moved forward an hour and it ends on 27 October 2013 when clocks 
are put back an hour. The dates for 2014 are 30 March and 26 October.

PeTs
Travelling with a dog or cat is now much easier with the new EU pet 
passport, available from any vet. All dogs and cats must have a passport 
and, for identification purposes, be fitted with an electronic microchip or 
have a clearly readable tattoo applied before July 2011.

All pets must be vaccinated against rabies and the details entered in their 
pet passport. The vaccination must be carried out after the microchipping or 
tattooing.

Dogs must be given specific tapeworm treatment by a vet before travelling 
to Finland, Ireland, Malta and the United Kingdom. Details of the treatment 
must appear in the pet passport and the dog can then travel between one 
to five days after treatment.

if Things go wrong
Single european emergency  
number:  112
To contact the emergency services in any EU country from any phone, fixed 
or mobile, dial 112, free of charge.

loSS or theft
Report any theft to the local police. You will need to enclose the police 
report when making your insurance or compensation claim. Cancel any lost 
or stolen credit cards immediately. If your passport has been stolen, report it 
to your country’s consulate or embassy as well as to the police. Remember 
that if you are outside the EU you can get help from the consulate or 
embassy of any other EU country if yours is not represented.

geTTing in Touch wiTh The eu

onLine
Information in all the official languages of the European 
Union is available on the Europa website: 
europa.eu

in Person
All over Europe there are hundreds of local EU information 
centres. 
You can find the address of the centre nearest you at: 
europedirect.europa.eu

on The Phone or BY mAiL
europe direct is a service which answers your questions 
about the European Union. You can contact this service 
by freephone: 00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 (certain mobile 
telephone operators do not allow access to 00 800 
numbers or may charge for these calls), or by payphone 
from outside the EU: +32 2 2999696, or by e-mail via 
europedirect.europa.eu

reAd ABouT euroPe
Publications about the EU are only a click away on the  
EU Bookshop website:  
bookshop.europa.eu

You can also obtain information and booklets in English about  
the European Union from:

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT OFFICES

Office in Ireland
43 molesworth Street,
Dublin 2
irelanD
tel. +353 16057900 
internet: www.europarl.ie
e-mail: epdublin@europarl.
europa.eu

United Kingdom Office
europe house
32 Smith Square 
london SW1p 3eu
uniteD KingDom
tel. +44 2072274300
internet: www.europarl.org.uk
e-mail: eplondon@europarl.
europa.eu

Office in Scotland
the tun, 4 Jackson’s entry
holyrood road,
edinburgh eh8 8pJ
uniteD KingDom
tel. +44 1315577866
internet: www.europarl.org.uk
e-mail: epedinburgh@europarl.
europa.eu

there are european commission 
and parliament representations 
and offices in all the countries 
of the european union. the 
european union also has 
delegations in other parts of the 
world.

european 
commiSSion 
repreSentationS
Representation in Ireland
european union house
18 Dawson Street
Dublin 2
irelanD
tel. +353 16341111
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/
ireland/
e-mail: eu-ie-info-request@
ec.europa.eu

Representation in  
the United Kingdom
europe house
32 Smith Square 
london SW1p 3eu
uniteD KingDom
tel. +44 2079731992
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

Representation in Wales
2 caspian point, caspian Way 
cardiff cf10 4QQ
uniteD KingDom
tel. +44 2920895020
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

Representation in Scotland
9 alva Street 
edinburgh eh2 4ph
uniteD KingDom
tel. +44 1312252058
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

Representation  
in Northern Ireland
74–76 Dublin road 
belfast bt2 7hp
uniteD KingDom
tel. +44 2890240708
internet: www.ec.europa.eu/uk

Delegation in  
the United States
2175 K Street, nW
Washington Dc 20037
uniteD StateS of america
tel. +1 202 8629500
internet: www.eurunion.org

THE EUROPEAN UNION

BASIC STATISTICS ON EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
European Union Member States

Area
(1 000 km2)

Population
(million)

Per capita
gross domestic product
(PPS ())

Area
(1 000 km2)

Population
(million)

Per capita
gross domestic product
(PPS ())

België/Belgique
Belgium
България
Bulgaria
Česká republika
Czech Republic
Danmark
Denmark
Deutschland
Germany
Eesti
Estonia

Éire/Ireland

Ελλάδα
Greece
España
Spain
France
France
Italia
Italy
Κύπρος
Cyprus
Latvija
Latvia
Lietuva
Lithuania

31

111

79

43

357

43

70

132

505

544

301

9

65

65

11.0

7.3

10.5

5.6

81.8

1.3

4.6

11.3

46.2

65.4

60.8

0.9

2.0

3.0

Luxembourg
Luxembourg
Magyarország
Hungary
Malta
Malta
Nederland
Netherlands
Österreich
Austria
Polska
Poland
Portugal
Portugal
România
Romania
Slovenija
Slovenia
Slovensko
Slovakia
Suomi/Finland
Finland
Sverige
Sweden

United Kingdom

30 400

12 000

20 500

32 400

31 300

17 800

32 800

19 200

24 900

27 800

25 100

23 500

15 800

17 600

3

93

0.3

34

84

313

92

230

20

49

305

411

244

0.5

10.0

0.4

16.7

8.4

38.5

10.5

21.4

2.0

5.4

5.4

9.5

69 300

16 700

22 400

33 500

33 400

17 000

19 600

12 200

21 000

19 500

29 500

32 900

63.0

27 900 

Candidate and potential candidate countries

Area
(1 000 km2)

Population
(million)

Per capita
gross domestic product
(PPS ())

Bosnia and 
Herzegovina

Montenegro 

Iceland
Kosovo under 
UN Security 
Resolution 
1244
The former 
Yugoslav
 Republic 
of Macedonia

Albania

Serbia 

Turkey

51

13

100

11

25

27

77

3.8

0.6

0.3

1.8

2.1

2.8

7.2

770

74.7

7 400 (2)

10 500 (2)

29 500

—

9 200

7 300 (2)

8 400 (2)

13 600

EU Member State from 1 July  2013

Area
(1 000 km2)

Population
(million)

Per capita
gross domestic product
(PPS ())

Hrvatska
Croatia

56

4.4

15 100

Europe and the world
Population
(million)

Area
(1 000 km2)

Per capita
gross domestic product
(PPS ())

4 234

3 287

9 327

365

16 889

9 159

503.7

25 700

1 205.4

1 343.3

127.4

142.5 

313.8

2 800 (2)

6 400 (2)

28 000 (2)

 12 900 (2)

37 100 (2)

The 27 European 
Union countries 
together

India

China

Japan

Russia

United States

Figures are for 2012. Source: Eurostat (epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu)

(1) Gross domestic product is the total value of all goods and services produced within a country in a year. 
It is often used to express wealth. PPS, purchasing power standard, is a unit representing an identical volume of goods 
and services in each country, irrespective of price levels. The value of 1 PPS unit corresponds roughly to 1 euro.
(2) 2011

United in diversity: The European Union is made up of 27 European countries that share the same 
democratic  values  and  are  committed  to  working  together  for  the  common  good.  They  have 
transferred speciﬁc powers to shared European institutions so that democratic decisions on questions 
of Europe-wide importance can be made at European level. At the same time, the EU is committed to 
safeguarding the diversity of European cultures and ways of life. Some other countries are candidates 
for EU membership. Learn more about the European Union at europa.eu

NON-CONTINENTAL AND OVERSEAS TERRITORIES
OF MEMBER STATES

28°W

Graciosa

39°N

39°N

31°W

Terceira

Faial

São Jorge

Pico

38°

KEY

EU Member State

Corvo

Flores

Candidate or 
potential candidate country

Headquarters of EU institutions

National frontier

National capital

Seat of government

Regional boundary

Regional capital

Major waterway

GUADELOUPE (FR)

AÇORES (PT)

MADEIRA (PT)
CANARIAS (ES)

MARTINIQUE (FR)

GUYANE (FR)

MAYOTTE (FR)

LA RÉUNION (FR)

29°W

17°W

AÇORES (PT)

28°

MADEIRA (PT)

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Madeira

Porto Santo

33°N

Funchal

Ilhas Desertas

37°N

São Miguel

18°N

Ponta Delgada

Santa Maria

Saint-Martin

(FR)

Saint-Barthélemy

63°W

GUADELOUPE (FR)

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Grande-Terre

Ilhas Selvagens

30°N

16°W
100 km

27°

26°

25°

18°W

17°

16°

15°

14°

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Alegranza

Graciosa

Lanzarote

CANARIAS (ES)

Basse-Terre

16°N

Basse-
Terre

Marie-
Galante

61°30’ W

100 km

MARTINIQUE (FR)

LAS PALMAS

Lobos

Fort-de-France

14°30’ N

Fuerteventura

ATLANTIC OCEAN

La Palma

Santa Cruz
de Tenerife

Tenerife

SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE

La Gomera

Las Palmas
de Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria

El Hierro

18°W

17°

100 km

55°

Paramaribo

16°

15°

14°

61°W

100 km

MAYOTTE (FR)

INDIAN OCEAN

Mamoudzou

50°W

ATLANTIC OCEAN

13°S

Cayenne

5°N

45°E

100 km

LA RÉUNION (FR)

Saint-Denis

21°S

SURINAME

M
aro
ni

GUYANE (FR)

29°

28°N

Published January 2013 by the
European Commission
Directorate-General for Communication
Publications
1049 Brussels
BELGIUM

Publications Oﬃce of the European Union
bookshop.europa.eu 

Map originally created by Lovell Johns,
www.lovelljohns.com

© European Union, 2013

100 km

ock
p
Oya

BRASIL

50°

INDIAN OCEAN
55°30’ W

100 km

 
Travelling in

EuropE

2013–14

European Union

Travelling in
EuropE

2013–14

Europe: a continent with thousands of years of history, a rich 
cultural heritage and some of the world’s most breathtaking 
scenery. So much for the traveller to discover and explore and all 
made much easier thanks to the European Union (EU).

You can cross many borders within the EU without being checked 
and the euro makes it easier to shop around for bargains. You have 
easy access to healthcare should you need it and your dog or cat 
can travel with you. If you drive, your driving licence and motor 
insurance policy issued in one EU country are valid in all the others. 
And using your mobile phone abroad is getting much cheaper.

For more information, helpful tips and a map of Europe, see 
inside. The website ‘Your Europe’ gives more advice on your rights 
when you live, work and travel in the EU:  
ec.europa.eu/youreurope/

European Year of Citizens 2013 — join the debate:  
europa.eu/citizens-2013/

European Commission
Directorate-General for Communication
Publications
1049 Brussels
BELGIUM

Manuscript completed in November 2012
© European Union, 2013

Reproduction is authorised. For any use 
or reproduction of individual illustrations, 
permission must be sought directly from the 
copyright holder.

Photographs: Shutterstock

NA-30-12-850-EN-C
doi:10.2775/89080