Redpoint Destinations

Europe

Travel Insurance for Europe

Top Coverage Options For Your Trip

Enjoy the Best of Europe, Protected by Redpoint

From the Mediterranean to the Nordics, the Scottish highlands to the Alps — a trip to Europe has plenty to offer. Whether you're traveling to multiple countries or just focusing on one location or region, there is no shortage of culture, food, arts, nature, and cities to explore.

But one thing you'll want to think about before you go is travel insurance. Europe is generally a very safe destination, but that's not to say things can't go wrong along the way.

Whether you need unexpected emergency medical care or you encounter a trip cancellation or delay, travel insurance will ensure that you're prepared for any eventuality — so you can focus on enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Health & Safety in Europe

Europe is a large, diverse continent, but it’s generally considered very safe. Crime (especially violent crime) is comparatively low to the United States — though on such a large continent, there are areas where petty crime and theft may be more likely, such as in transport hubs and around train stations.

Fortunately, there is no widespread disease on the continent that travelers need to worry about, nor are any vaccinations required to visit.

For travel tips and the most up-to-date information on health and safety in Europe, you should always consult the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory for the country or countries you’re visiting, as well as the relevant CDC health recommendations for your trip abroad, just in case.

Natural disasters can occur in Europe, as they can anywhere, including flooding, wildfires, and extreme heat waves in the summer. Be aware of these risks if you’re traveling during extreme weather episodes, and always follow local guidance.

Finally, the rules of the road can differ across Europe, and etiquette and safety expectations can feel very foreign to American drivers. Before you get behind the wheel, familiarize yourself with any major changes, such as roundabouts, local signage, speed limits, and motorway etiquette, and make sure you have rental car coverage to insure you if anything goes wrong on the road.

Insurance Benefits & Coverage for a Trip to Europe

Here are the coverage types you should make sure are included in your European travel insurance policy.

Trip cancellation and interruption insurance: This reimburses you if your trip is canceled or cut short due to covered reasons like illness, severe weather, or family emergencies. For extra peace of mind, cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance is usually available as additional coverage.
Travel medical insurance: Travel health insurance covers medical expenses for injuries or illnesses incurred during your trip. If you have pre-existing medical conditions, you’ll most likely want to apply for a waiver when you purchase travel insurance. Also, keep in mind that healthcare systems vary across European countries. While some may offer low-cost care, receiving medical care as a foreigner can be very expensive in others — and your medical coverage from home is unlikely to be valid on the continent.
Emergency medical evacuation coverage: Emergency evacuation coverage reimburses you for transportation to the nearest French medical facility or back to the U.S. in extreme or emergency situations.
Baggage and personal belongings insurance: This covers loss, theft, or damage to your belongings, including lost luggage and sports equipment.
Trip delay insurance: Travel delay benefits compensate you for additional expenses incurred if your trip is delayed before it starts, or during any connections or transfers.

No ordinary travel insurance company, Redpoint has a selection of policies that are tailor-made for every type of trip.

If your European adventure is going to involve lots of higher-risk activities, like climbing the French Alps or sailing the Mediterranean, you may want to consider more robust insurance coverage.

Designed for adventure travelers, Ripcord is an extensive travel plan with high coverage limits and enhanced coverage. If your trip is going to be less active adventures and more relaxing and sightseeing in Europe’s capitals, you’ll be better served with one of Redpoint’s other policies, Cavalry and Harbor.

Cavalry is particularly suited for urban travel and luxury experiences, while Harbor offers robust coverage for the budget-minded leisure traveler. You can buy travel insurance for a single European vacation, or purchase an annual policy for multiple visits. Check out our purchase page to get a quote today.

FAQs for Europe Travel Insurance

Do I need travel insurance to go to Europe?

Travel insurance is not required to visit Europe if you are an American tourist staying for less than 90 days. However, it is a risk to travel anywhere without appropriate travel insurance, even if it's not required. If you are applying for a Schengen visa for longer stays, then you will need to provide proof of travel insurance.

What is a Schengen visa, and do I need one?

A Schengen visa grants a traveler free movement through the 27 European countries that make up the Schengen Zone. U.S. passport holders do not need to apply for a Schengen visa if they are visiting Europe for less than 90 days.

What is Schengen visa insurance, and do I need it to go to Europe?

Schengen visa insurance is a travel insurance policy that meets the requirements set out by the Schengen visa application. This includes proof of medical insurance covering at least €30,000 for emergency medical care.

How much is travel insurance for Europe?

In general, Redpoint's travel insurance plans for Europe range from 6% to 15% of the total trip costs.

What should your travel insurance cover for a trip to Europe?

A comprehensive travel insurance policy for Europe should include adequate medical benefits (minimum coverage, $100,000), emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage, and baggage loss protection. You should also look for a policy with 24/7 assistance services, which all of Redpoint's policies offer.

Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for travelers to Europe?

Most countries in Europe have now dropped their COVID-19 restrictions for travelers. However, it's worth checking if any individual countries you are visiting still have requirements, such as proof of vaccination..

What happens if a tourist gets sick in Europe?

Visitors to Europe should be able to find appropriate medical care in whatever country they're visiting. However, your health insurance from home will not be valid, so you'll likely need to pay out of pocket if you don't have adequate travel medical insurance.

In case of emergency, you can dial 112 to reach emergency services in countries within the European Union. You can also reach Redpoint's 24/7 assistance helpline at +1-415-481-0610.

Are the hospitals good in Europe?

On the whole, Europe has a high standard of medical care, including hospitals. Accessibility may vary from country to country, and rural areas in some countries may have fewer options. You can contact Redpoint's 24/7 assistance line if you are having trouble locating or accessing a hospital while you're in Europe.

What documentation is needed to visit Europe?

U.S. citizens visiting Europe only need a valid passport. The U.S. State Department recommends travelers ensure their passports have six months' validity.

A visa is not required for Americans entering Europe's Schengen countries for tourism or business purposes, as long as they're staying less than 90 days. However, starting in 2025, travelers may need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) to enter the Schengen Zone.

Is Europe safe to visit?

Yes, compared to the U.S., European countries tend to have lower crime rates and are generally considered very safe for travelers. Some countries may have higher rates of petty crime or theft, depending on local economies.

Is Europe safe for female travelers?

Yes, many women travel around Europe alone, and it is widely considered safe for female travelers, though the usual precautions apply. It's always wise to share your travel itinerary with people, as well as keep them updated on any changes.

How do I contact the U.S. Embassy in Europe?

Travelers can contact the U.S. Embassy in all European countries, although country-specific hours and protocols will vary. Here are the contact details for embassies in some popular European destinations.

France

2 Avenue Gabriel, 75008 Paris

Tel:+33-1-43-12-22-22

Spain

75 Calle de Serrano, 28006 Madrid

Tel:+34-91-587-2200

Italy

121 Via Vittorio Veneto, 00187 Roma

Tel:+39-06-46741

Greece

91 Vasilisis Sophias Avenue, 10160 Athens

Tel:+30-210-721-2951

Germany

170 Clayallee, 14191 Berlin

Tel:+49-30-8305-0

Ireland

42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

Tel:+353-1-668-8777

Protect Your Trip With Redpoint Travel Insurance

Redpoint is known for its comprehensive and easy-to-understand policies, suitable for any type of trip to Europe. Explore our Ripcord, Cavalry, and Harbor policy options, and get a quote that meets your travel needs today.