Here’s everything you need to know before planning a holiday in Greece this summer

The Irish Government is advising against all non-essential travel for now.
If you’re determined to hit the beach in Greece later this summer, however, the Greek government is planning to allow Irish holidaymakers into the country after June 15th.
First, there are some important things to remember. Travel restrictions here aren’t likely to be lifted for another month so getting beyond 20km of your home could be an issue. Getting there will be tricky too; Ryanair’s Dublin to Athens flights doesn’t restart until July.
The new normal: Holiday Edition
While most measures have by now been lifted as part of a plan to kickstart the tourism season in Greece, some still remain in place.
If you arrive hoping for wild pool parties and heaving nightclubs, you’ll be disappointed; gatherings of more than 10 people in public are not allowed and wearing face masks is mandatory on public transport, in taxis, in all medical facilities and in lifts and strongly recommended in all other indoor areas. Break these rules and you could be fined up to €150.
Restaurants are allowed to have outdoor dining tables, provided they are two metres apart and sun loungers are also allowed, provided they are 1.5m apart on the sand. The beach bars are quiet; government rules state they cannot serve alcohol or play music.
Then there are some Covid-19 testing and quarantine measures. Here’s what you need to know:
- If you are travelling before June 15th
If you land in Greece before June 15th, you will be required to undergo a test for Covid-19 on arrival. After the test, you will be required to spend 24 hours in a secure location while waiting for the results. If you test negative, you will still be required to self-isolate for seven days after your arrival.
- If you are travelling after June 15th
If you are flying from Ireland (or any country NOT listed here) you can travel to Greece and will not be tested or have to undergo quarantine. International flights will be allowed into all airports in Greece but visitors will be subject to random tests upon arrival.
- Some important advice
The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that all holidaymakers obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), available by contacting the Health Service Executive, as well as comprehensive travel insurance “which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs.”
“Be alert to common signs of infection: respiratory problems, fever, coughing, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. Seek medical advice if you experience these symptoms. The emergency line for suspected cases in Greece is 1135 (also works for foreign mobiles).”