The Foreign Office's worldwide travel warning issued by Foreign Minister Heiko Maas (53) due to the corona pandemic on March 17 was valid for almost exactly three months. Previously, this measure had only been taken in the event of acute dangerous situations, for example in war zones. The warning for 27 European countries was lifted again on Monday (June 15), only warnings against trips to Spain, Finland, Norway and Sweden within the EU area.
But what restrictions and corona rules must tourists from the Federal Republic expect on vacation? These measures apply in the popular holiday destinations of France, Austria and Italy.
Checks at the French border
Germany's neighboring country France will carry out checks at the European internal borders until the end of October – however, according to the Federal Foreign Office website, for "non-pandemic reasons". When entering the country, holidaymakers must provide a declaration of the reason for entry, but transit to other European destinations is possible without restrictions. Vacationers arriving by train and plane can also do so without restriction. Only Paris Orly Airport is expected to remain closed until June 25th.
When using public transport, passengers in France must adhere to hygiene and distance rules; a face mask is required for people aged 11 and over. Reservations can also be requested if necessary, so that distances can be guaranteed. In Paris, there is also a ban on using buses and trains at peak times, unless there is an important reason for travel.
As in Germany, certain distance regulations apply in French gastronomy, museums and other public institutions. In museums, reservations can also be made for a certain admission time. Other entertainment venues such as discos and cinemas are closed until at least June 22. With regard to further hygiene measures, the Federal Foreign Office would like to point out to France tourists that "a locally ordered face mask requirement may apply in some cities or in highly frequented places".
Austrian passenger traffic is restricted
Citizens from Germany and several other neighboring countries in Austria have been able to enter the Alpine country since June 4 without border controls – even without a corona test and a 14-day quarantine requirement. The only exception: a person must not have been in Italy in the 14 days before entry. Unrestricted transit is possible as long as departure is guaranteed. However, here too there is a restriction for people who come from Italy. You are not allowed to make a stopover in transit.
Local and long-distance public transport in Austria continues to be affected by restrictions. The Federal Foreign Office therefore advises holidaymakers to get detailed information from the Austrian Federal Railways and at airports before starting their trip. In bus and train as well as in many public places, including stops and shops, there is also a duty to protect your mouth and nose and you must keep a distance of one meter. You are also required to wear a face mask when entering many closed rooms, for example restaurants.
Entry to Italy only by car, long-distance bus and plane
Italy was particularly hard hit by the Corona pandemic. However, entry from the EU / Schengen area and Great Britain as well as transit has been possible without restrictions since June 3. Exceptions only apply to people entering from a third country via the corresponding countries. However, tourists generally have to prepare for health checks, including temperature measurements, which are carried out at many airports, train stations, etc.
Italian traffic continues to be severely restricted. Flight connections are gradually being resumed, but entry from Germany by train via Austria or Switzerland is practically impossible. The long-distance bus operator Flixbus provides a ray of hope. He wants to offer connections between Germany and Italy again on June 18. Tourists can move freely within the Mediterranean country, but cruises of any kind are still impossible and considerable restrictions can also be expected in the ferry service.
In Italy, whether tourist attractions are open depends on the region you are in. However, under strict infection control and hygiene requirements, hotels, shops, bars and restaurants can welcome customers and guests all over the country. However, the number of participants in cultural events is sometimes limited and certain security measures may be necessary.
Tracing app "Immuni" is to curb new infections
The corona rules regarding the wearing of mouth and nose protection also differ from region to region. For example, in Lombardy – the region most affected by the pandemic – it is mandatory in all public spaces. In addition, wearing disposable gloves can be mandatory in many places in Italy. In addition to maintaining a minimum distance of one to two meters, holidaymakers must also be aware that temperature measurements and disinfectants must also be carried out in museums, shops and other public places.
There are other special rules for the Italian islands in the Mediterranean: If you are planning a trip to Sardinia, for example, you have to fill out a special registration form. Since June 13th, this has also been possible via the "SardegnaSicura" app. The Italian government, like the federal government, also relies on the use of a tracing app nationwide to curb new corona infections. According to the Federal Foreign Office, "Immuni" has been available for download in all popular app stores since June 8th.