The pretty village an hour from the UK that’s revolutionised European travel
JUST over an hour from the UK you could visit a pretty village famous for revolutionising European travel.
Schengen is a quiet village in the southeast of Luxembourg, bordering Germany and France and just an hour from Luxembourg city.
The village was the precise spot where the 1985 Schengen Agreement was signed, creating Europe’s passport-free travel zone.
The small village – home to just 500 people – was chosen due to its location on the borders of the three countries.
In Schengen, you can head to the Schengen Museum, which costs just €3 per person to enter and showcases the history of the Schengen Agreement.
The museum even has items that have been seized at borders.
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Visitors can even step into the signing room where the agreement was signed, onboard the Prinzessin Marie-Astrid Europa vessel.
When having a wander around the village look out for the Schengen Memorial which is formed of steel columns displaying national stars, located along the waterfront.
Nearby, outdoor enthusiasts can also head to Stromberg Nature Reserve, with picturesque hikes through vineyard trails.
Once you reach the top of Stromberg hill, you will see panoramic views of all three neighboring countries.
If you want to stay in the town and enjoy its peacefulness, you can head to the Schengen Castle.
The grand chateau dates back to the 13th century when it was a moated fortress although reopened in 2024 as a hotel.
Rooms cost as little as €100 (£85.64) for a double room, but you could splurge and get the Royal Suite for €180 (£154.16) a night.
You can fly from London Stansted with Ryanair in an hour and 15 minutes for as little as £14.99 a way.
Then once in Luxembourg, bus transport is entirely free.