Where to Travel in Europe this Summer and Fall

Where to travel in Europe this summer will be a game of balancing where you can go and how long you have to quarantine. The EU recently announced they are looking to open their borders to vaccinated Americans by the end of June. While the EU as a whole may not be open to American citizens until later in the summer, there are some countries in Europe that travelers can now visit. This article will give you a quick update on what countries vaccinated Americans and other travelers can visit in Europe this summer and additional COVID tips you’ll have to be aware of when booking.

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European Countries You Can Visit Now

1. Greece 

One of the first European countries to open to vaccinated Americans and other tourists, Greece is still one of the top destinations to visit in the summer in Europe. The white-walled buildings and blue-domed roofs continue to draw tourists from all over the world. With thousands of years of history that have affected every corner of the world, Greece has something for every foodie, outdoorsy person, or history buff in your house. Popular Greek sites to see include the Acropolis or mountain-monastery region of Meteora.

Earlier this year Greece opened many of its open-air archaeological sites to European travelers. On April 19, 2021, Greece additionally opened its borders to include travelers from the US, Schengen states, the EU, and certain other countries. 

Travelers aged 5 and over must provide a negative PCR test to enter the country. If a traveler is fully vaccinated 14 days before arrival, you are not required to show a negative test. Travel in Greece between states was previously restricted but is expected to be lifted in mid-May. 

Information from the Greek Embassy >>

2. Albania 

Not often thought of by many travelers, but well worth the visit, Albania is a stunningly beautiful Southeastern European country that has a long history dating back thousands of years. Known for its postcard-worthy coastline, the Albanian Riviera, Albania offers everything other Mediterranean countries do but is a little more budget-friendly. 

Those looking for outdoor travel in Europe will simply love the huge green mountains that make up much of this country and the teal, clear waters that can be found around every corner. Albania also offers a combination of Soviet architecture in the major cities and Venetian old towns that dot the countryside. 

US citizens and other travelers are allowed to enter as of late April. A negative COVID-test is not required, but there are still health screenings still going on at airports. Travelers should be aware that there is still a curfew in place between 10 PM - 6 AM. 

Information from the Albanian Embassy >>

3. Croatia 

“The Land of Thousand Islands” is now open to travelers looking to explore its many unique islands and impressive coastal towns. Inspiring the likes of many Game of Thrones fans with its combination of Croatian, Italian, and European culture, Croatia has become one of the best places to visit in the summer. 

While its coastal towns of Dubrovnik and Split are world-renowned, try considering its colorful capital of Zagreb or its lush national forests, Krka National Park, or Plitvice National Park. Both of these parks highlight Croatia’s breathtaking waterfalls, rivers, and natural wetlands. 

For travelers coming from the US, you must have one of the following to enter: 

• Negative COVID test no more than 48 hours before leaving; 
• Certification of vaccine 14 days before leaving; 
• Medical documentation of having recovered from COVID no more than 180 days after the positive test; or 
• Rapid testing upon arrival and having a negative test (you must isolate until you have a negative test)

Tourists must also present evidence of having paid for your accommodation before you even leave you are able to board the plane. 

Information from the Croatian Embassy >>

4. Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a hidden gem in Eastern Europe. It is slowly making its way to being one of the top destinations in Eastern Europe as you can find everything from towering mountains to teal waters to Ottoman old towns in this small, but rugged country. 

Bosnia (as it’s often shortened to) is an option for those looking for something a little different when heading to Europe. It’s a little off-the-beaten-path for some but offers unique sites that you won’t find in other places, such as an abandoned Olympic bobsled course that you can walk down to take in the forests surrounding the capital city of Sarajevo. 

Travelers must have a negative test 48 hours before arrival. A curfew is still in effect from 9 AM - 5 PM. A thing to note is that the CDC still recommends travel to Bosnia be reconsidered because of the high positivity and hospital capacity, so it may be best to visit later in the summer. 

Information from the Bosnian and Herzegovinan Embassy >>

5. Iceland

Yes, Iceland is part of the EU by incorporation of being part of the European Economic Area. Iceland is now open and is a bucket list item for many travelers. The natural landscape of Iceland is unlike any other in the world and is an alternative for North American travelers if they don’t wish to travel all the way to Europe due to travel restrictions. Whether it is the famous Blue Lagoon or the many tourist shops full of elf souvenirs, Iceland will leave a lasting impression.

Iceland was one of the early EU/EEA countries to open its borders to all vaccinated travelers back in March. You must have a negative test 72 hours before leaving or be fully vaccinated. If you are not fully vaccinated, you must still quarantine 5-6 days after arrival and must have a negative test for the quarantine to be lifted. So if you are planning to visit and are still not vaccinated, plan at least a 10-day stay to incorporate your required quarantine.

Information from the Icelandic Embassy >>

6. Montenegro

An interesting combination of traditional Mediterranean architecture and the fjords of Norway, Montenegro is a small country in Southeastern Europe that you shouldn’t pass up. The old towns of Budva and Kotor are built against the country’s towering mountains and are a testament to Montenegro’s long marine history. Budva is a nice getaway and is a slower-paced beach area where you can relax under the sun. Kotor, on the other hand, is a picture-worthy destination with a Venetian old town built at the base of mountains whose views rival that of other European countries 5x its size. 

Montenegro opened its borders to all vaccinated travelers. Vaccinated travelers to Montenegro must show proof of full vaccination at least 7 days before leaving or a negative PCR test 72 hours before leaving. 

Information from the Montenegran Embassy >>

7. Italy 

Italy is currently closed to US citizens and non-essential travel. However, this may change with the EU's announcement of opening its borders sometime this summer. Like the above countries, Italy has plenty of open-air sites to see and outdoor activities to do. For example, Italy is known for its bicycle tours. Booking a hiking or bicycle tour this summer allows you to still see the country while still maintaining social distancing. 

Travelers who are visiting Italy from the EU currently must still quarantine 5-10 days when they arrive. 

Information from the Italian Embassy >>

8. Spain

Similar to Italy, US citizens and travelers from outside of the EU are still not allowed to visit. For travelers thinking ahead to later in the summer, Spain is one the best places to visit during the warm months. From the bustling, colorful markets in Barcelona to the Moorish-inspired city of Granada, every part of Spain is a dream for a summer vacation. It is also a good place for visiting the countryside. Many popular hiking tours are found in Spain, such as the Camino de Santiago.

Spain still does require quarantine when you arrive and a negative test for EU travelers visiting. 

Information from the Spanish Embassy >>

Travel Restrictions in Europe

The EU is opening up to vaccinated travelers, but there are still restrictions and quarantine requirements you may need to consider when traveling. 

In May 2021, the EU recommended that its member states ease their restrictions on non-essential travelers, including tourists. They recommended that a negative test is still required to enter and those who have received their final shot of the vaccine 14 days before leaving must show proof of vaccination. Many of the counties in the EU that are now allowing vaccinated travelers or will be in the summer of 2021 are requiring you to show proof of full vaccination. This may be through your vaccination card or a country-specific online system. It’s best to check each individual country before leaving to learn what exact steps you need to take before you book your flight and arrive at the airport. 

Remember, this is all subject to change on short notice. With variants still around, the EU has made it clear that there may be an “emergency brake” on the lessening of these restrictions due to these variants or growth in positive cases.