Greece drops quarantine rules for UK tourists

It is still illegal in the UK to travel abroad for non-essential purposes

Author: Sophie ParsonsPublished 19th Apr 2021
Last updated 20th Apr 2021

UK tourists travelling to Greece this summer are not required to quarantine, as long as they provide evidence of a negative test or proof of two Covid-19 vaccines.

Quarantine restrictions in Greece have been lifted for visitors from 32 countries, including most of Europe, the UK and Israel, which has seen a highly successful vaccine rollout.

However, it is still illegal in the UK to travel abroad for leisure purposes, meaning you shouldn't be booking your Greek getaway just yet.

17th May marks the earliest date restrictions on foreign travel could be lifted in the UK, although the Government could still push this date back.

Until then, overseas travel for non-essential purposes could see you receive a £5,000 fine.

Despite opening its doors to tourists, Greece remains under partial lockdown with curfews and bans on inter-regional travel still in place.

Greek Government spokesperson Aristotelia Peloni described the new travel rules as a "pilot measure'' as part of Greece's effort to reopen its economy.

Here are some of the potential holiday destinations for summer 2021:

Turkey

UK travellers heading to Turkey are unlikely to be required to provide proof of a Covid-19 vaccine or a negative test result. Instead, Turkish ministers have said they are working with the UK Government to ensure travelling to and from the country is Covid secure.

Cyprus

Cyprus will also welcome UK tourists this summer as long as they have had both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine.

P&O ferry cruises

Ferry company P&O has said that holidaymakers will have to provide proof that they have had two doses of the vaccine. If holidaymakers fail to provide evidence they will not be allowed on board the staycation cruises.

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