Compare & Buy the Best Travel Insurance for Europe

A vacation to Europe always attracts looks of envy. Protect your dream vacation with affordable and all-inclusive travel insurance.

Many Singaporeans love to visit Europe for its historic landmarks, diverse cuisines, and scenic landscapes. But sometimes, we hear unpleasant stories about theft and pickpockets there. Being far from home and the trip costing a lot, you’ll want to financially protect yourself from travel and medical mishaps during your trip to Europe with the help of travel insurance.

Discover the best travel insurance from Singapore to Europe, which offers comprehensive benefits and doesn’t cost you a bomb.

Table of contents:

• Do you need travel insurance for Europe?
• Is it worth getting travel insurance for Europe?
• How much does travel insurance to Europe cost?
• Comparing the best travel insurance for tourists in Europe
• Here are the best travel insurance plans for Europe
• Comparing Europe travel insurance coverage
• Important Travel Insurance Coverage for Europe
• How to choose the best travel insurance for a Europe trip 
• Travel and safety tips for Europe
• Frequently asked questions by travellers heading to Europe

Protect yourself on your Europe trip with travel insurance.

Do you need travel insurance for Europe?

It is not mandatory to have travel insurance to go to Europe. You can visit without buying any insurance. 

Earlier, the European Union announced that from 2024, Singaporeans going to Europe would need an additional document known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, or Etias. But that’s delayed until 2025. 

So, Singaporeans can now enter Europe’s Schengen Zone without a visa or prior authorisation. However, starting in 2025, Singaporeans travelling to any EU/Schengen member countries must register with ETIAS before entering.

Crime rates in some parts of the region

When travelling to Europe, it's important to be aware of certain risks, such as petty theft, which is relatively common in popular European destinations among Singaporeans. Cities like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona are known for pickpocketing incidents. For instance, Paris sees about 283 reports of pickpocketing per million visitors, primarily around iconic landmarks.

Incidents caused by political instability

While Europe is generally stable, there can be occasional incidents caused by political instability. However, these are relatively rare and typically do not affect tourists significantly.

Despite these concerns, the overall experience of travelling to Europe remains overwhelmingly positive. Many travellers report enjoyable and safe trips, with the good far outweighing the bad. Many visitors still find Paris and other European destinations to be relatively safe, especially compared to other major cities worldwide. Moreover, the cultural richness, historical landmarks, and the sheer beauty of these places continue to attract millions of tourists annually.

For those concerned about safety, it's advisable to take precautions such as using secure bags, staying vigilant in crowded areas, and keeping valuables out of sight. Travel insurance can also provide peace of mind, covering potential losses or incidents during your Europe trip from Singapore.

Is it worth getting travel insurance for Europe?

Getting travel insurance for Europe is a good idea even though it's not required. The protection you get is worth more than what you pay.

Unlike short getaway trips to Southeast Asia, trips to Europe can be pricey, easily going over S$2,500 just for flights and accommodation. If something unexpected occurs and you must cancel the trip, much of the pre-paid money will be gone. 

Plus, delays can happen with all the connecting flights and moving around. If you miss a flight, you may incur extra travel expenses for a place to stay.

Personal safety is another thing to consider. Lots of theft happens in Europe, with 5.7 million cases reported yearly. And if you're renting a car in Europe, you could be more prone to getting into accidents since you aren't used to driving there. 

Travel insurance offers financial protection when unexpected events happen, giving your Europe trip greater peace of mind.

How much does travel insurance to Europe cost?

Travel insurance costs more for destinations like Europe and the United States than for Asia. 

For a 12-day trip to Europe, the insurance cost can range from S$46 to S$120, depending on the insurance plan and level of coverage you select. 

Comparing the best travel insurance for tourists in Europe

Here are the best travel insurance plans for Europe

Tiq Travel Insurance - Entry

Tiq Travel Insurance is a fantastic choice because it is versatile and low-priced. When buying travel insurance for Europe, most people feel the pinch due to the high cost, but with Tiq Travel Insurance - Entry, you'll be surprised by how little it costs. 

• Total medical coverage: Includes overseas medical expenses up to S$200,000 and up to S$1,000,000 for emergency medical evacuation.
• Recreational sports: Covers skiing, scuba diving (up to 30 metres), and hiking/trekking (up to 3,000 metres above sea level).
• Travel agent bankruptcy: Coverage if your travel agent goes bankrupt.
• Trip cancellation: Provides up to S$5,000 for trip cancellation and S$3,000 for travel curtailment.
• Travel delay: Payout if the flight is delayed by 3 hours or more.
• Loss or damage of baggage delay: For personal luggage, it covers up to S$2,000 (with a S$1,000 sub-limit for the laptop and an S$250 sub-limit for all other items). Travel documents cover is S$150.
• Terrorism: Coverage for death or disability due to acts of terrorism.
• Personal liability: Coverage for personal liability overseas.
• Pre-existing medical condition coverage: Coverage for medical expenses overseas resulting from pre-existing medical conditions. Although there is a higher premium for this extra coverage, it is valuable for defraying high medical costs in Europe.
• Optional add-ons: Optional add-ons include COVID-19 Cover, which provides protection against trip cancellation, travel inconveniences, and medical expenses related to COVID-19. The Rental Car Excess Cover helps cover the excess or deductible costs if you damage a rental vehicle. For pet owners, the Pet Hotel Cover ensures coverage for the late collection of your pet due to travel delays. The Sports Equipment Protector is ideal for those travelling with sports gear, offering coverage for damage or loss of the equipment. Lastly, the Child Education Cover provides an insurance payout for children if the insured passes away due to an injury during the trip.

FWD Travel Insurance - Premium

FWD Travel Insurance is another great option when travelling to Europe. It is similar to Tiq Travel Insurance regarding affordability and how you could customise the plan according to your travel needs.

• Total medical coverage: Includes overseas medical expenses coverage of up to S$200,000 and unlimited coverage for emergency medical evacuation.
• Recreational sports: Covers skiing, scuba diving (no depth limit), and hiking/trekking (up to 3,000 metres above sea level).
• Travel agent bankruptcy: Coverage if your travel agent goes bankrupt.
• Trip cancellation: Up to S$7,500 for prepaid expenses if a family member is very sick.
• Loss or damage of baggage: Cover up to S$3,000 for personal luggage with an S$1,000 sub-limit for laptops/tablets and an S$300 sub-limit for mobile phones. Includes theft of money.
• Terrorism: Coverage for losses due to terrorism.
• Personal liability: Coverage for personal liability overseas.
• Optional add-ons: The “Cancel for Any Reason” option allows you to get back 50% of prepaid expenses if you cancel your trip for any reason, up to your plan’s benefit limit. The COVID-19 Coverage provides protection against trip cancellation, travel inconveniences, and medical expenses related to COVID-19. The Sports Equipment Protector covers damage or loss of sports gear you bring with you. The Pet Care add-on pays a fixed cash amount if your return to Singapore is delayed and you can't pick up your pet from the pet hotel on time. The Home Contents Cover insures your home contents from fire or theft while you're away. Lastly, the Car Rental Excess (applicable for the ‘Premium’ plan only) covers the excess or deductible if you damage a rental car.

Singlife Travel Insurance - Travel Prestige

Singlife Travel Insurance is an excellent choice for older travellers visiting Europe. Most travel insurance plans reduce the overseas medical coverage for people over 70 years old. However, Singlife keeps the same level of coverage for all ages. 

• Total medical coverage: Unlimited overseas medical coverage of up to S$400,000.
• Overseas hospitalisation coverage: Provides up to S$50,000 coverage.
• Flight delay coverage: Offers S$100 for every 6-hour delay, up to S$2,000.
• Trip cancellation: Get up to S$20,000 coverage and up to S$3,000 for any trip postponements. Additionally, receive up to S$7,500 for trip cancellation for any reason! 
• Loss or damage of baggage: Offers up to S$8,000 cover for luggage with a S$700 sub-limit for any article, up to S$3,000 for loss of money and up to S$5,000 for loss of travel documents.
• COVID-19 coverage: Get S$200,000 for medical expenses incurred due to COVID-19.
• Optional add-ons: The Winter Sports add-on provides coverage for injury, loss, or damage of winter sports equipment and loss of deposit due to ski track/piste closure. The Adventure Water Sports add-on offers protection against injury during water sports activities like wakeboarding and deep-sea diving (up to 40 metres). For golfing enthusiasts, the Golf Holiday add-on covers accidental loss or damage of golfing equipment, hire of golfing equipment, damage of buggy, unused green fees, and hole-in-one achievements. Lastly, the Overseas Wedding & Photoshoot add-on covers wedding accessories, ceremonial attire, and loss of wedding photo albums, ensuring that your special moments are well-protected.

Allianz Travel Insurance — Platinum

Allianz Travel Insurance Platinum is another great option for your Europe trip. This plan offers a lot of benefits, including medical expenses, hospitalisation coverage and much more.

• Total medical coverage: Offers up to S$1,000,000 coverage for overseas emergency medical coverage.
• Flight delay coverage: Get coverage of up to S$1,600, with a daily cap of S$400.
• Trip cancellation: Offers up to S$10,000 coverage for trip cancellation.
• Loss or damage of baggage: Get up to S$5,000 cover for luggage and a maximum benefit of S$1,500 for all high-value items combined.
• COVID-19 coverage: Get up to S$250,000 for medical expenses incurred due to COVID-19.

Comparing Europe travel insurance coverage

The insurance coverage for each travel insurance provider listed above is an overview of their plans for travel to Europe. You can also buy an insurance plan online after personalising it to your specific preferences and needs. 

Plan ahead for your Europe trip with travel insurance.

Important travel insurance coverage for Europe

When planning a trip to Europe, it’s essential to ensure that you have comprehensive coverage, whether you are buying travel insurance for Denmark or travel insurance for Spain to protect against various unforeseen circumstances. Key areas of coverage include medical expenses, loss of belongings, COVID-19 medical expenses, flight delays or cancellations, global emergency assistance, flexibility in changing travel plans, and protection against natural disasters.

Medical expenses

Travelling in Europe exposes you to different health risks, including illnesses such as respiratory infections, gastrointestinal diseases, and Lyme disease from tick bites. Comprehensive medical coverage is crucial to cover treatment costs, hospital stays, and emergency medical evacuations. Ensuring your travel insurance includes extensive medical expense coverage will provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of illness or injury.

Loss of belongings

Travel insurance coverage for the loss of belongings is essential, especially when visiting busy tourist destinations in Europe, where pickpocketing and theft are common. This coverage reimburses you for the loss or theft of personal items such as luggage, electronics, and travel documents, allowing you to replace essential belongings quickly and continue your trip without major disruptions.

COVID-19 medical expenses

In the current global environment, having coverage for COVID-19 medical expenses is vital. This coverage includes medical treatment, hospital stays, and quarantine costs related to COVID-19. Ensuring your travel insurance covers COVID-19-related expenses can help mitigate the financial impact of unexpected medical emergencies during your Europe trip.

Flight delay or cancellation

Flight delays or cancellations can significantly disrupt travel plans, especially on long-haul flights to Europe. Travel insurance that covers flight delays or cancellations reimburses you for additional expenses such as accommodation, meals, and transportation costs incurred due to these disruptions. This coverage ensures that you are not financially burdened by unexpected changes in your travel itinerary.

All-time global emergency assistance

Having access to global emergency assistance 24/7 is a crucial aspect of travel insurance. This service provides immediate help in case of medical emergencies, lost passports, or other urgent situations, no matter where you are in Europe. Knowing you have reliable support available at any time adds a layer of security and comfort to your travel experience.

Flexibility in changing travel plans

Travel insurance that offers flexibility in changing travel plans without incurring significant costs is invaluable. This coverage allows you to adjust your Europe itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances such as family emergencies or changes in travel restrictions. Having this flexibility ensures that you can adapt your plans as needed without facing substantial financial penalties.

Natural disasters in Europe 

Europe is not immune to natural disasters. Earthquakes, particularly in the southern regions like Italy and Greece, pose a significant risk, causing structural damage and sometimes tsunamis. Flooding, often caused by heavy rainfall or melting snow, is another prevalent hazard, especially in low-lying coastal areas and river basins. Given these risks, travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, interruptions, and medical emergencies related to natural disasters becomes crucial for travellers in Europe. Such insurance can offer financial protection and peace of mind, allowing travellers to focus on their safety and well-being during unexpected events.

How to choose the best travel insurance for a Europe trip?

1. Determine the coverage

When selecting travel insurance for Europe online, it's essential to ensure comprehensive coverage against a wide range of unforeseen circumstances, whether you are planning to buy travel insurance for Italy or looking for cheap travel insurance to Portugal. This includes medical expenses, trip cancellations, flight delays, and baggage theft or damage. Comparing the benefits and reimbursement limits for claims is crucial to finding the best deal. Adequate coverage will protect you from financial losses due to unexpected events, allowing you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

2. Check coverage for pre-existing medical conditions

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, finding a travel insurance policy that covers related claims is vital. Look for policies that offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, including chronic illnesses, pregnancy, and injuries sustained during the trip. Comprehensive plans should cover in-patient hospitalisation expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation. This ensures you are protected against high medical costs if you encounter a medical emergency in Europe.

3. Compare policy premiums

Travel insurance costs vary depending on your destination and the duration of your stay. Insurers typically offer multiple tiers of plans with different levels of coverage and reimbursement limits. Compare these plans carefully to find the one that offers the best value for your Europe trip. Consider how insurers differentiate premiums based on regional risks and the comprehensiveness of coverage.

4. Ensure specialised activity coverage

If your Europe itinerary includes adventurous activities such as skiing in the Alps or scuba diving in the Mediterranean, ensure your policy covers these specific activities. Specialised activity coverage will protect you against injuries or accidents that may occur during these pursuits. Tailoring your travel insurance to include coverage for such activities ensures that your adventurous plans are safeguarded.

5. Get coverage for trip interruptions

Europe can present various risks, such as strikes, natural disasters, or unexpected political events that may interrupt your travel plans. Choose a travel insurance policy that covers trip cancellations, postponements, flight delays, and damage or loss of belongings due to such events. Comprehensive coverage for personal belongings will protect you against potential losses due to theft or other crimes, which are common risks in popular tourist destinations.

Travel and safety tips for Europe

Don’t venture into dangerous neighbourhoods

When travelling in Europe, it's essential to avoid venturing into known dangerous neighbourhoods. Research your destination beforehand and consult local guides or hotel staff to identify areas that are best avoided, especially at night. Sticking to well-populated, tourist-friendly areas can help ensure your safety and enhance your travel experience.

Don’t carry luxury or other expensive items openly

To minimise the risk of theft, refrain from openly displaying luxury or expensive items, such as jewellery, cameras, or large sums of cash. Pickpockets often target tourists who appear to be carrying valuable items. Instead, keep your belongings secure and out of sight, using anti-theft bags and money belts to protect your valuables while exploring popular attractions.

Avoid walking to your accommodation at night

Avoid walking back to your accommodations alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Utilise public transportation, taxis, or ride-sharing services to ensure a safe return to your hotel or rental. If you must walk, stay on well-lit, busy streets, and travel in groups whenever possible to reduce the risk of encountering unsafe situations.

Keep copies of important documents

Always keep copies of important documents such as your passport, travel insurance, and emergency contact numbers. Store these copies separately from the originals to ensure you have access to essential information in case of loss or theft in Europe.

Be aware of common scams

Educate yourself about common scams in your destination. Scammers often target tourists with schemes involving fake petitions, distracting tactics, or unsolicited help. Staying informed and alert can help you avoid falling victim to these tricks and keep your trip stress-free.

Frequently asked questions by travellers heading to Europe

Is Europe safe?

Europe is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates in many countries. However, it's essential to stay vigilant in crowded tourist areas and avoid dangerous neighbourhoods. Countries like Iceland, Switzerland, Finland, and Andorra are known for their high safety standards. Additionally, places like Slovenia, Slovakia, Luxembourg, Ireland, Liechtenstein, and Sweden also maintain excellent safety records, ensuring a secure travel experience.

Which are the must-visit countries in Europe?

Must-visit countries in Europe include France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Greece, and the Netherlands for their rich history and culture. Smaller gems like Croatia, Portugal, and Austria offer unique experiences. Don't miss the scenic beauty of Switzerland, the vibrant cities of Belgium and the Czech Republic, and charming destinations like Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Bulgaria, and Lithuania for diverse cultural experiences. Monaco and San Marino also offer unique attractions worth exploring.

What is the safest European country to visit?

Iceland is often considered the safest European country, with extremely low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. Other safe destinations include Finland, Switzerland, Norway, and countries like Slovenia, Slovakia, and Luxembourg, known for their excellent public safety records and high quality of life.

How long should I spend in Europe?

The ideal duration for a Europe trip depends on your itinerary. For a comprehensive experience, plan at least 2 to 3 weeks to visit multiple countries such as Hungary, Romania, and Poland. A shorter trip of 1 to 2 weeks can focus on specific regions like Western Europe or the Mediterranean, including visits to Austria, Greece, Cyprus, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. Exploring the diverse landscapes and cultures of Moldova and Ukraine can also add a unique dimension to your trip.

Do Singaporeans need a visa for all countries in Europe?

Singaporeans can enter Europe’s Schengen Zone, including countries like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, without a visa for short stays up to 90 days. Starting in 2025, they must register with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) before travelling. Visas are required for non-Schengen countries such as Russia and Belarus. Additionally, countries like Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia have their own entry requirements. Always verify entry requirements for specific destinations. However, you can still buy travel insurance for Schengen countries.

Does ‘worldwide’ travel insurance cover Europe?

Yes. A ‘worldwide’ travel insurance plan covers Europe. 

‘Worldwide’ usually means the plan covers travel destinations within Asia, Europe, and the United States. Because it covers many countries, a ‘worldwide’ plan costs more than one, covering only ‘Asia.’ If you are unsure whether Europe is covered in a ‘worldwide’ plan, check with the insurance company before purchasing. 

Note: Travel insurance won't cover countries under the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union sanctions.

Can I buy travel insurance after leaving Singapore?

You can't buy travel insurance for Europe once you leave Singapore. Getting your travel insurance early, right after you book your flights and accommodation, is advisable. It helps in case you forget later, plus the travel insurance can also cover you for trip cancellations that might happen.