Greece opens up to holidaymakers

The beach is calling (photo courtesy Unsplash).

Greece is lifting its compulsory seven-day quarantine for holidaymakers from the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States tomorrow (May 15).

From this date, visitors will be free to travel around the Greek islands or the mainland. Beaches, restaurants, archaeological sites and museums are now open, with open-air cinemas and other entertainment venues to follow later this month.

However, Covid rules do apply. Beach umbrellas must be spaced at least four metres apart on the sand, with a maximum of two sun beds per umbrella. No masks will be required on the beach, but beach bars, cafés and restaurants are forbidden from playing music to avoid people having to raise their voices and thereby increasing particles that are spread into the air. Staff must wear masks and undergo regular testing.

To enter Greece, visitors need to show either proof of full vaccination, a negative PCR test or Rapid Test taken within the last 72 hours, proof of having recovered from Covid between two and nine months ago or a negative self-test declaration.

The entry regulations apply to everyone over the age of five years and relevant certification is accepted in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian or Russian. Vaccination certificates must include the name of the recipient, the type of vaccination and the number of doses.

Regions able to enter Greece quarantine-free include the EU, US, UK, United Arab Emirates, Israel, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia, Singapore and Thailand.

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