Pentecost: Holidays are possible in these European countries

Pentecost
Holidays are possible in these European countries

Pentecost is just around the corner and many federal states have holidays from mid-May to early June. Although the first politicians in this country are already calling for the travel restrictions within Germany and the ban on accommodation for Whitsun to be lifted, it is still unclear whether this will actually be implemented. In view of the increasing number of vaccinations and falling numbers of infections, however, some European countries are slowly starting to relax the corona. These countries already receive tourists over Pentecost.

France

The first major corona easing has been initiated in France. The restrictions on movement have been lifted, which also enables travel within the country. The night curfew from 7 p.m. will remain in place until mid-May. However, the outdoor areas of restaurants, shops and cultural institutions are to reopen from May 19. The curfew is to be postponed to 9 p.m. from this date.

When entering from the EU, a negative PCR test must be available, which must not be older than 72 hours. In addition, a declaration must be made that one is symptom-free. However, France is still considered a high incidence area and the Federal Foreign Office has so far adhered to the travel warning. This means that a negative corona test must be presented on return. Regardless of the result, there is a registration and quarantine obligation when entering from risk areas, which is based on the regulations of the respective federal state.

Italy

In Italy it is currently being gradually eased. Where the Corona numbers allow, the catering industry can also serve outside at the table in the evening. Museums and cinemas are also open in some regions. There is a curfew after 10 p.m. Italy is aiming for June 1st as the start of the summer season. Tourists are allowed to enter, but many hotels are still closed and air traffic is greatly reduced.

So far, multiple tests have been compulsory for tourists. Either with a PCR test or a rapid antigen test, which must not be older than 48 hours. A five-day quarantine usually has to be observed before and after entry. From a German perspective, Italy is a risk area. Test, registration and quarantine requirements apply on the return journey.

Spain

In Spain, the Corona emergency ends on May 9 and should not be extended any further due to the stable situation. This eliminates travel restrictions, night curfews, upper limits for gatherings and closings of restaurants. So far it is not clear which regulations will apply after this date. On Mallorca and other Balearic Islands, however, there is already far-reaching easing.

Upon entry, all people aged six and over who come from a risk area by air or sea must present a negative PCR test, which must not be older than 72 hours. Travelers must also register online in advance. Spain is only partially considered a risk area. Therefore, the quarantine obligation on the return journey is related to the travel destination.

Austria

From 19 May onwards, restaurants, hotels, sports and culture can once again open their doors all over Austria. The openings are accompanied by a protection concept with access tests. From then on, the quarantine obligation only applies to travelers from high-risk areas according to the EU health authority ECDC. Tourists from Germany need a test or proof of vaccination or recovery. However, from a German perspective, Austria is still a risk area. The usual test, registration and quarantine regulations apply.

Switzerland

In Switzerland, for example, shops and museums have reopened since the beginning of March, despite the increasing number of cases. Since April 19, restaurant terraces, cinemas and theaters have been added. Even open-air concerts and football games are allowed to receive spectators again. However, in compliance with hygiene rules such as a limitation of the number of spectators or a mask requirement. Travelers who enter Switzerland by air must generally show a negative test. Germans can enter the country by land without any problems – unless they come from Saxony and Thuringia. Test, registration and quarantine requirements apply to the return journey as a risk area.

Denmark

From May 1st, Denmark welcomes vaccinated tourists from EU and Schengen countries with acceptable numbers of infections without testing and quarantine. From May 14, vacationers from the border areas are also to be released from the quarantine obligation. This means that only certain people can take Whitsun leave in Denmark. Since the country is still considered a risk area from a German point of view, online registration and a corona test are mandatory before returning. Likewise a quarantine.

Greece

Those who want to go on vacation in Greece no longer have to be in quarantine since April 19. A negative PCR test or proof of complete vaccination are sufficient. When entering the country, some of the people will continue to be randomly tested. On the return trip, vacationers must continue to be prepared for a quarantine, as Greece is still considered a risk area. Registration and a test are also mandatory.

Poland

From May 8th, hotels in Poland will be able to receive guests again. However, only half of the beds can be occupied. A week later, from May 15, the outdoor catering will also be reopened. If you are fully vaccinated or can show a PCR test that is not older than 48 hours, the ten-day quarantine, which is actually mandatory for travelers from the EU, does not apply. But: The number of infections in Poland is still high and the country is considered a high incidence area. The usual test, registration and quarantine regulations apply.

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