Gatwick and Heathrow travel rules for travelling to Spain during …
Greece is a top holiday destination for Brits, and for those living in Surrey it could be the perfect summer getaway. Flights leave from both Gatwick and Heathrow[1] to multiple Greek destinations each day, offering so much choice for those looking to visit.
From long stretches of gorgeous sand and turquoise sea, to beautiful hidden away coves on quiet islands, there are a range of relaxing beach holidays to choose from in Greece. The country is of course steeped in ancient history and mythological tales, those looking for adventure could take an excursion[2] to Crete, to where the minotaur monster was once rumoured to have been imprisoned.
Or take a trip[3] to the ancient citadel, the Acropolis of Athens on the mainland, which still stands today and is thought to have been built in the 5th century BC. Those looking to live out their Mamma Mia! fantasies by visiting the island of Skiathos, where the hit movies were filmed.
And of course, not to forget Greece’s infamous buzzing nightlife on Mykonos and Kos, popular with tourists looking for a good time. With so many reasons to visit Greece, it is important to be aware of the travel rules and regulations visitors might need to follow to ensure their trip runs as smoothly as possible, post pandemic and Brexit.
Achladies beach at Skiathos island in Greece (Image: iStockphoto)
Travel and passport rules:
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Passports must be as up to date as possible, if there is six months or less validity left on a passport, a new one will need to be ordered.
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UK nationals travelling to Greece can enter the country without a visa for up to 90 days throughout a 180 day period for tourism and business.
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European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) have been replaced by the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC). Travel insurance will also be required, to cover any hospital or treatment fees, should travellers become ill or befall injury. Insurance for travelling can be found on Compare the Market, or via the Post Office website.
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After Brexit, mobile roaming abroad rules changed. Check with mobile carriers, additional passes may need to be purchased to access roaming abroad. Some carriers may have hidden charges and costs.
Covid and health rules:
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Covid tests are no longer required when entering Greece, and proof of vaccination is no longer necessary to enter the country.
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There are no other vaccine certification requirements to enter Greece for Brits. However, travellers should be up to date with vaccines according to UK law.
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Most travellers may want to have a booster tetanus shot.
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Dial 112 or 166 and ask for an ambulance in a medical emergency where one is required.
Safety and other useful information:
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Certain parts of Greece were in a ‘state of emergency’ due to wildfires. This has been lifted, however it is good to know that travellers can get emergency alerts sent straight to their phones which can be enabled in the notification settings on a smartphone.
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Fires can ignite quickly, and are unpredictable. Do not light barbeques, smoke or litter in wooded areas.
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Terrorism threat in Greece is regarded as “likely” and attacks are “indiscriminate”.
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Political demonstrations often occur in Athens and rarely turn violent, it is advised that visitors avoid involvement.
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Tourists should be wary of theft and sexual assault. Don’t leave valuables out where they can be easily taken. It is recommended to set up Whatsapp groups, not to let anyone walk home to their hotel alone, and to keep an eye on drinks for spiking.
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It is a legal requirement to carry photographic identification.
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It is illegal to take photos of military installations, vehicles and buildings. Those caught doing so could be arrested.