One in four UK travellers has not ventured into Europe in the last five years, according to research by coach operator Leger Holidays.
The survey of more than 2,000 people showed that the average UK resident has only experienced 17% of Europe, and that one in five holidaymakers has been to one other European country in their lifetime, if any.
According to the survey, which was conducted in April, the common barriers that prevent travellers from exploring Europe are cost, worries about journey complications and lack of foreign language knowledge.
The lack of travel within Europe has had a detrimental effect on the nation’s general knowledge of Europe with 40% of people asked claiming that they didn’t think Russia was a European country.
A further 31% of people surveyed believed that Iceland was not part of Europe.
As a result of the uncertainty of other European countries, many holidaymakers are opting for familiar destinations.
France came out as the most visited European country with Spain at a close second. The country missing out on tourism from the UK the most is Greenland, followed by Albania.
Huw Williams, marketing director at Leger Holidays, said: “Europe holds some of the most exciting and vibrant destinations in the world and it’s disheartening to see that people aren’t making the most of these locations, especially since they’re right here on our doorstep.
“We were equally shocked to hear the reasons that people gave for limiting themselves to certain destinations and giving up on their ideal holidays. If the thought of visiting somewhere unfamiliar causes any concerns, there are numerous escorted tours and services available which offer additional support and expertise.”