Just as we thought the summer of 2020 would be cancelled, countries around the world have reopened their borders. Whilst not all countries have ended these restrictions for UK travelers, countries such as Spain, Italy and France are now starting to open their borders to travellers this month as the three-month lockdown restrictions begin to ease. The prospect of a summer holiday without having to self-isolate when you arrive or when you return back to your home country is now a reality, especially for those in the UK, as the government eases quarantine rules on non-essential travel. Allow us to tell you a bit more about the countries that have an agreed travel corridor with the UK!

Please not: quarantine-free countries may be subject to change. Therefore, please keep updated with the travel news!

SPAIN

Widely regarded as one of the most popular destinations for Britons to spend their holidays, Spain is filled with alluring beauty, incredible cuisine, welcoming hospitality and gorgeous natural settings. Although it had one of the strictest lockdowns in Europe, Spain has now entered a ‘new normal’ stage as it begins to work through its de-escalation strategy, opening its borders to visitors and UK travellers will not be required to self-isolate.

What to expect upon arrival:

Although quarantine on arrival will not be required, you will need to undergo a temperature check when you arrive in Spain. As this ‘new normal’ phase comes into place, visitors will be able to travel as normal, but must follow the social-distancing rules of staying a minimum of 1.5metres apart from other members of the public, wearing a face mask on all modes of public transport and when visiting shops and public places where the 1.5metres distancing rule may not be possible.

Depending on which province you visit in Spain, you should be aware that these areas could potentially revert back to previous stages of lockdown and may introduce different measures which may impact how you can move around and/or depart the country. Both Segrià in Catalonia and Spain's north-western region of Galicia have both reverted back to a state of lockdown. Currently, people are unable to enter or leave these two regions unless it’s for work.

Ensure you keep up to date with the regional news of where you’re travelling to keep on top of any changes in movements and restrictions around the country.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

Beaches, outdoor parks, zoos, museums, water and theme parks are now allowing tourists, so there are still many activities for tourists to enjoy in Spain this summer. From most bars, cafes and restaurants, to exhibitions, theatres and cinemas, these are just a few of the places travellers are now allowed to visit and experience during their stay — abiding by the strict social distancing rules of course. One of Spain’s most visited sites, Alhambra Palace in Granada, has now reopened its doors!

Socially distanced outdoor concerts of up to 400 people will also be taking place this summer at venues including the Marenostrum Castle Park in Malaga, where Lenny Kravitz and Julio Iglesias are scheduled to perform, the majestic gardens of the Jardins del Palau de Pedralbes in Barcelona, hosting Diana Ross this July and Andrea Bocelli will also be gracing the outdoor Roman Theatre of Mérida in late September, to name a few.

Unlike in the UK, nightclubs have also been given the heads up to open with a limited capacity. Logically, dance floors have been replaced with seated areas and people will have to provide the venues with their contact details and wear face masks throughout the night to avoid the spread of the virus. For an insight into what a night out is like in Spain, please click here.

FRANCE

France began their national lockdown in March, a few weeks earlier than the UK, with arguably one of the strictest lockdowns in Europe — closing their borders and only allowing residents to leave their homes to buy necessary supplies, or for health reasons. As the country started to ease its strict lockdown from the 11th May, it has almost entirely lifted its lockdown restrictions and UK travellers are now able to visit this eccentric and brilliant country without having to abide by any quarantining measures, although there is still guidance in place to wear face coverings and keep a social distance.

Known as the second most popular country in the world for UK visitors, the glorious beaches, rustic villages, unspoiled landscapes, dazzling cities and mouth watering cuisine now await your arrival.

What to expect upon arrival:

Whether you’re travelling via air, boat, or car, UK travellers will not have to quarantine when they arrive or return from France, from the 11th July, however will still have a voluntary 14-day quarantine measure if they feel it’s necessary until all restrictions are lifted throughout the UK. If you’re travelling to France via the Eurostar, you will have to fill out a form and carry around the documents that you do not show any COVID-19 symptoms.

You must follow the social distancing rules of 1metre apart in all public places, and you must wear a mask if these measures are not possible; they are asked to be worn whilst walking into all restaurants, bars and cafes and may be removed once sat down, and are also obligatory on all public transport.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

Following strict hygiene rules, travellers are now allowed to visit both inside and outside areas of all hospitality establishments including bars, restaurants and cafes (nightclubs still remain closed) — whilst a distance of 1metre has been made between each table, a maximum of 10 people gathered and only table service is allowed, to reduce the risk of transmission.

From the usual picnicking and sunbathing on beaches and parks, to river cruises and historical museums, you can now enjoy most of the gorgeous attractions from the 11th July whilst following the social distancing guidance and face mask measures that are in place. Attractions including the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland Paris have also begun phased reopenings — not to mention large venues have now upped their limit capacity to 5,000 people.

ITALY

As most of us will be aware, Italy was unfortunate to be the first country in Europe to be severely impacted by the pandemic, imposing one of the earliest lockdowns from the 7th March. With over 3 months of strict lockdown rules, this beautiful country has finally reopened its doors to travellers from the UK and other European countries, following an extensive list of guidelines.

What to expect upon arrival:

Unless you have travelled outside the UK 14 days prior to your arrival, visitors from the UK are now exempt from quarantining when they arrive. Just like many other countries, you must stay 1metre apart in public places, inclusive of shopping centres, hotels, restaurants and outside spaces, as well as wearing a mask in spaces where the 1metre rule may not be possible — i.e. public transport. If you are travelling to Lombardy, you must wear a mask at all times. Temperature scanners may also be in process around train stations and airports.

If you are travelling to either Sardinia, Sicily, Calabria or Puglia this summer, you must register in advance. For more information, please click here.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

Just under two months ago from May 18th, hospitality sectors such as bars, restaurants, cafes and gelaterias slowly reopened, all at a reduced capacity whilst following the hygiene and social distancing rules including, distanced tables and the use of plastic shields in between tables to help separate parties. Whilst you must wear a mask when you go inside these spaces, many businesses may ask its customers to provide them with their name and contact details just like in the UK.

Most tourist attractions such as museums and galleries including the Colosseum in Rome and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence are now open to tourists at a reduced capacity. You must pre-book online to help regulate the service. Parks and beaches are available to visit, as well as swimming pools, although it is obligatory to wear a swimming cap in any public pools. Other attractions such as zoos, fun fairs and water parks are also in the process of reopening throughout July. Make sure you book a space at the Roman amphitheatre in northern Italy’s enchanting Verona, where they will be holding their first event on 25th July, since the coronavirus outbreak.

GREECE

Steeped in history, culture and awe-inspiring nature, this vibrant country took early action against the coronavirus and put in place a lockdown in late February 2020 and was the first country to ease its restrictions in late April due to the low volume of confirmed cases and deaths.

In mid June, Greece reopened its borders to a selection of tourists from other European countries, and will now from the 15th July, be allowing travellers to fly in from the UK with no quarantine.

What to expect upon arrival:

If you’re looking to travel to Greece this summer, you will be required to fill in an online Passenger Locator Form (PLF) at least 48 hours before your flight, which will then provide you with a QR code that you can show to the authorities upon your arrival. Depending on whether you’ve travelled via plane, ferry, car or boat, the Greek authorities may ask you to undergo a health screening (including a test for COVID-19), to reduce the risk of the virus entering the country. If your result comes back as positive, you will have to quarantine at the address you have provided on your PLF for 14 days. If it comes back negative you will be exempt from any self-isolation.

An aim of a 1.5metre distance in public places is advised, and masks are mandatory to wear on public transport as well as other enclosed spaces. If you’re travelling in a taxi, there will be a limit of two adult passengers maximum (not including the driver), and any children will not count towards the limited restrictions.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

Similar to other European countries already mentioned, most shops, cafes, restaurants and bars have now reopened to the public with a limited capacity allowed — with social distancing measures put in place, no more than six people at a table (excluding children). Unlike other places, nightclubs are now also open, but with a much smaller number of people allowed in at one time. Most tourist attractions are up and running again, as well as beaches, parks and public swimming pools but you must still take any safety precautions necessary.

SWITZERLAND

If you haven’t already noticed, Switzerland is beginning to look a lot more ‘normal’ (whatever that may mean anymore) than other countries around the world affected by the coronavirus pandemic. As they border Germany and Austria, in mid-May they started to allow residents to travel within those countries with no issue due to the low amount of cases they had. And now as lockdown eases even more, they have opened their borders for travellers from the EU, EU Free Trade Association countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway), as well as the UK without having to quarantine upon arrival or when returning home.

What to expect upon arrival:

Whether you’re a British national, hold an EU or EFTA passport, or even have a family member of a UK/EU/EFTA country (regardless of your nationality), you will be permitted to enter Switzerland without having to quarantine. Whilst the Swiss government are still advising locals and visitors about taking precautions with hygiene and keeping a 1.5metre distance from others (as well as wearing a mask where the 1.5metre distance may not be possible such as on public transport), it is important to keep up to date with the latest safety regulations before and whilst you’re visiting this country.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

On the 6th of June, restaurants, bars, cafes, nightclubs, cinemas, swimming pools and campsites were given the heads up to reopen to the public whilst following the COVID-19 safety measures. Switzerland’s mountain railways and cable cars are allowed to run again, including the picture-perfect world-class ski destination and mountain village, Grindlewald’s Jungfrau, also known as ‘the top of Europe’.

Some events can now go ahead with up to a 300 person capacity and close-contact competitive sports such as wrestling, boxing and American football have started up again. If that doesn’t take your fancy, explore the breathtaking hiking trails and a delicious mix of tasty local dishes… Switzerland is awaiting your arrival!

BELGIUM

Missed exploring the creative areas of Brussels? Or discovering the striking architecture of the medieval cities of Bruges, Antwerp and Ghent? We’re happy to announce that as of the 10th of July, Belgium has reopened its borders for all travellers entering from the United Kingdom, European Union countries and the non-EU Schengen countries such as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein!

What to expect upon arrival:

Due to the local lockdown in Leicester, the Belgian Foreign Affairs department have advised all residents not to travel to Leicester during this time, as they would need to quarantine for 14 days under strict regulations once they return. Anyone else travelling from high risk regions will also be required to self-isolate for 2 weeks. If you are unsure which regions and areas are listed as a red zone, please check the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before your arrival.

Just like many other countries, a 1.5metre distance from others in public places is advised, as well as wearing protective face masks on any public transport.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

From museums and socially-distanced guided tours, to flea markets and casinos, Belgium has started to slowly reopen most of its tourist attractions since the 1st of July, whilst following the 1.5metre distance rule. Concert halls, cinemas and theatres have now reopened in the city of Brussels with a capacity limit of 200 people indoors and 400 people outdoors, with the recommendation of wearing a mask at all times. All restaurants and bars have now reopened to the public, with a maximum of 10 people per table, following strict safety measures. All late night hospitality establishments including bars and clubs, as well as any events, will have to close by 1am.

NETHERLANDS

From the beginning of July 2020, the Dutch government decided to lift its ban for travel to a number of countries in the EU and UK, and have now announced that UK travellers will no longer have to quarantine for 14-days upon arrival from July 10th. However, along with other countries, its borders still remain closed to all people from outside the UK and Europe except in the case of any essential travel.

What to expect upon arrival:

If you’re looking to travel to the Netherlands this year, you are required to complete a health screening form before travelling and have it ready to show the authorities on request throughout your journey – this could be anywhere from your departure gate, on the plane or once you arrive in the country. Please be aware that any travellers coming from high risk areas will be strongly advised to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival. Therefore we advise you to keep up to date with the high risk areas before booking your holiday! Face masks are also mandatory on all public transport for anyone over the age of 13.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

From 1st July, restaurants, bars and cafes have opened their doors again (following the 1.5m distant rule), however you must book a reservation in advance. Festivals, concerts, museums, theatres, monuments and other attractions have also reopened to tourists again, as long as everyone sticks by the social-distancing rule. Nightclubs still remain closed until September.

Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Haarlem and more, there’s so much to explore in the beautifully distinct country of the Netherlands. Therefore, if you’re still a little weary on travelling to the capital and being surrounded by heaps of people during the ease of this pandemic, there are a cluster of awe-inspiring places to visit during your travels: Visit the UNESCO-protected 18th-century windmills in the lovely village of Kinderdijk, wander along the one-of-a-kind Dutch coast of Waddenzee to discover the millions of migratory birds and seals colonies, or escape to the storybook village of Giethoorn where idyllic waterways, thatched-roof farm houses covered in greenery, tiny wooden foot bridges and no car streets are places – a truly tranquil dream.

CZECH REPUBLIC

Thousands of people in Prague sat down together on a 500-metre long table on the famous Charles Bridge on the 30th of June as a symbolic farewell to coronavirus restrictions in Czech Republic. Although the country had a very small number of reported cases, the Czechs wanted to give a sense of optimism to others as lockdown began to ease.

Luckily for anyone travelling from the UK, there are no restrictions on entering the Czech Republic at the moment. However, if you are travelling from a high risk country, the Czech government will only allow you to enter for limited, specific purposes.

What to expect upon arrival:

Since Czech Republic has relaxed most restrictions in this picturesque and hospitable country, face masks are no longer mandatory in public places anymore. However, it is advisable to wear a face covering when travelling on the Prague Metro (which is currently operating a restricted service), or if you’re in any health or social care facilities. It is also advisable to adhere by the 2metre social distancing rule when in busy public places, if possible.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

Aside from the large number of tourists, life in cities such as Prague is pretty much back to normal — whatever that may be. All shops, markets, hotels, restaurants, bars, museums, spas, and zoos have now reopened to the public with most of the famous sights including Prague Castle and the Old Town Hall Tower also operational with a reduced capacity. River cruises and sightseeing tours are now running again. Seated music, sporting and cultural events for up to 1000 people are now allowed to open again, as well as trade fairs and exhibitions for up to 5000 people.

GERMANY

A country filled with diversity, ancient architecture, tasty foods, awe-inspiring landscapes and great historical significance, Germany has now lifted its quarantine restrictions of entry for visitors travelling from anywhere in the EU or UK, as well as countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Thailand, Uruguay and Montenegro. (Please be aware the list is reviewed every two weeks and may change)

So, from its fascinating culture and cosmopolitan cities filled with creativity, to its incredible countryside and delicious beer, Germany awaits your arrival this summer. Prost!

What to expect upon arrival:

Unless you are entering Germany from an area with a high rated risk of infection, there are no restrictions upon entry related to COVID-19 as of the beginning of July 2020. Depending on the state, face masks are required to be worn in public places, as well as keeping a 1.5m distance where possible.

Please be aware that the small city of Gütersloh in the North Rhine-Westphalia area in Germany went back into a local lockdown in late June. Therefore, if you’re looking to travel there within the next few months, we advise you to please keep an eye out for any news or updates regarding the lockdown.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

Places such as castles, museums, amusement parks etc, most of Germany’s tourist attractions have now been reopened to the public – whilst adhering restrictions such as; 1.5m social distancing between people, face masks and a limited capacity within each attraction. High hygiene requirements still remain throughout the country.

New restrictions for guided tours in places such as the popular Neuschwanstein Castle in southwest Bavaria, now has a limited number of visitors allowed in at a time (10% of its original capacity). In other attractions such as the National Museums in Berlin, you must pre-book your time slot before arriving so they can monitor the amount of visitors at a time. Face masks are also compulsory in all these areas. Unfortunately, concert halls, nightclubs, and most cinemas and theatres remain closed until further notice, as well as the famed Munich event of Oktoberfest.

Although the 1.5m social distancing rule still applies in the outdoors, if you’re looking to explore the true beauty of Germany, there’s a plethora of places to visit to avoid the crowds. From the beaches in the gorgeous beaches in the north such as Sylt – known as the Königin der Nordsee (Queen of the North Sea), and the hidden sand dunes of Hiddensee, to romantic hikes in the southern Alps and the wanderlust winding river valleys such as the Rheinsteig, you’re spoilt for choice.

DENMARK

Widely known as the happiest country in the world, the open-mindedness and cultural diversity of Denmark is now open to explore once again.

Throughout this pandemic, Denmark was one of the very few countries to be hit as hard from the virus. Although their lockdown was nowhere near as restrictive as the ones in France or Italy, Denmark has now opened its borders to most other European countries based on the low infection rates and health measures. And are now allowing visitors from the UK travel in and out of the country without having to quarantine.

What to expect upon arrival:

Denmark has set up their entry requirements by what sort of country you are; open, restricted or have a worthy purpose upon entry. The UK is an ‘open’ country, therefore you can enter Denmark without having to adhere by a two-week quarantine once you arrive. However, if you are a tourist, you must be able to show that you have a documented holiday stay for a minimum of six nights (rules do not apply for Norwegians).

Country’s statuses can change weekly due to its infection rate of COVID-19, therefore please make sure you keep up to date on the Danish government’s website if you are planning on travelling to Denmark this summer. Please be aware that visitors showing any clear symptoms such as a cough, fever or anything similar may be refused to cross the border.

Whilst face masks are no longer mandatory in Denmark, people are still asked to keep at least a 1m distance from one another in public places.

Click here to find out more about entry requirements and what to expect on arrival.

What tourist attractions are open:

Restaurants, bars, cafes and hotels are now open to the public in Denmark, however they are having to follow five mandatory points such as; 1m distancing minimum, thorough cleaning and disinfection daily, information on the behaviour of the virus, safety for high level of hygiene and control of the work processes.

Shops, museums and many other tourist attractions are now open to the public, all at a reduced capacity. Please be aware that if you do not abide by the social distancing rules, you may be fined!

Other countries including Austria, New Zealand, Iceland, Cyprus, South Korea and more have also allowed UK travellers to enter from mid July, although each will have their own set of restrictions in place.

Here at HIP Hotels we want to make sure that all of our guests travel safely, therefore we will be updating this information accordingly. In the meantime, for more information, please keep up to date with the local authorities of the country you wish to travel to, and please stick to following any government regulations necessary.