TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The interest of Indonesian tourists in exploring Europe continues to rise, especially after the implementation of the Schengen cascade visa policy, which provides longer and more flexible validity. This policy makes cross-country travel in Europe more practical without having to repeatedly process visas.
"With the Schengen cascade visa, we see the potential increase of Indonesian tourists exploring Europe, and tiket.com is ready to support every step of their journey," said Andi Hendrawan, Director of Transportation, tiket.com, in a written statement.
Thanks to the combination of the convenience of the Schengen cascade visa, the credibility of tiket.com, and the global network of Singapore Airlines, traveling to Europe has become easier. Based on tiket.com's data, the top five European destinations most sought after by Indonesian tourists through Singapore Airlines flights are Jakarta-Paris, Jakarta-Frankfurt, Jakarta/Surabaya-Amsterdam, Jakarta-Zurich, and Surabaya-Milan.
1. Paris
Known as a romantic city with an intriguing history, the city offers a variety of tourist attractions. In the heart of the city, the Eiffel Tower looms tall in the spacious Champ de Mars park, a popular spot for relaxed picnics for couples and families. In the art world, the Louvre Museum, one of the largest museums in the world, houses thousands of works of art including the iconic painting of Mona Lisa.
Furthermore, the atmosphere of art and creativity also comes alive in Montmartre, a bohemian area with cobblestone streets, small cafes, and art galleries. While at the top of the hill stands the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a magnificent church offering a breathtaking view of the city of Paris. As night falls, the city lights up from the banks of the Seine River that cuts through Paris.
2. Frankfurt
Frankfurt is not just a business center in Germany, but also a city rich in history and culture. It is not only appealing to businessmen but also to history, art, and scenic enthusiasts. In the heart of the city, Rmerberg, an old square with typical German timber-framed houses, presents a charming classic European atmosphere.
However, for tourists who want to see the city panorama, the modern skyscraper Main Tower can be visited as it offers a 360-degree view of Frankfurt and its surroundings.
Art lovers can also enjoy a collection of great works at the Stdel Museum or visit the Goethe House, the childhood home of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe known as Goethe House to trace the footsteps of the German literary maestro.
3. Amsterdam
Amsterdam always captivates with its UNESCO-listed canals. Cruising the city by boat provides a unique perspective, as if seeing Amsterdam from a different angle, before stopping at the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum, where world-class art is housed.
At the Anne Frank House, visitors can learn the touching history through photos, videos, and original items, at the place where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. Just a short trip from the city center, Zaanse Schans presents the traditional side of the Netherlands, complete with iconic windmills and captivating classic wooden houses.
It would be incomplete to explore Amsterdam without savoring its local cuisine, such as warm stroopwafel, herring, or thick mayo-topped patat frites found in street vendors.
4. Zurich
Zurich brings harmony between nature, culture, and luxury. Tourists can take a leisurely walk along Lake Zurich, enjoy the fresh air and tranquil scenery, or explore Altstadt, the old town of Zurich filled with historical buildings and cobblestone streets.
Just about 20 minutes by train from the city center, Uetliberg offers an amazing hiking experience, where the sweeping panorama of the Alps mesmerizes the eyes. For art enthusiasts, Kunsthaus Zurich is a must-visit as it showcases art collections from classical to modern. Not far from Zurich, about a 1-hour journey, Rhine Falls awaits as the largest waterfall in Europe. Its spectacular views pamper the eyes and evoke admiration.
A visit to Zurich would be incomplete without savoring local cuisine such as perfect cheese fondue enjoyed in traditional restaurants after a day of activities. If visiting around Christmas, the city transforms into a magical land with a festive Christmas Market.
5. Milan
As the world's fashion capital, Milan offers an elegant yet historically rich experience. In the city center, the Milan Cathedral stands grand with stunning Gothic architecture, while its rooftop offers a breathtaking view of the city, always leaving visitors in awe.
Not far from there, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers a shopping experience in a classic atmosphere, with its grand glass roof emitting natural light, creating a luxurious yet warm atmosphere. For art enthusiasts, Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper awaits at the dining room of the Santa Maria delle Grazie monastery, a legendary work that attracts tourists from around the world.
A short walk from the city center, the Sforza Castle becomes a public space rich in culture and history, where you can enjoy the gardens, museum, and magnificent architecture in its surroundings. But if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while, Lake Como is a perfect destination. From Milan Centrale, a 40-minute train journey takes you to Como San Giovanni, where mountains, classic villas, and a romantic lake await to be enjoyed. Perfect for a full day trip of tranquility and beautiful scenery.
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