Compiled by Nikos Krinis, GTP Managing Editor
The Greek Travel Pages (GTP) is providing a timeline mapping the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on the Greek tourism sector.
The timeline informs about select moments from January 2020 and on and tracks the pandemic’s development in Greece with regard to travel and tourism until the present day.
Following a cluster of pneumonia cases of unknown aetiology in China’s Wuhan City, Hubei province, the country’s CDC on 9 January reports that a novel coronavirus (later named SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing Covid-19) has been detected as the causative agent for them.
By 20 January 2020, there are reports of confirmed cases from three countries outside China: Thailand, Japan and South Korea. These cases had all been exported from China.
Although the risk of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) spreading to Greece is considered low, the National Public Health Organization (EODY) from 21 January begins discussions on the matter.
Towards the end of January, the virus starts to spread in Europe.
- China takes extraordinary measures to try and stop the spread of the coronavirus, including bans on tour groups travelling overseas. Greece’s health minister, Vassilis Kikilias, holds emergency meeting with the Ambassador of China to Greece, Zhang Qiyue, and discusses additional measures in view of the coronavirus outbreak.
- Germany also reports coronavirus cases, related to a person visiting from China.
Travel agents and tour operators call on tourism stakeholders and authorities to jointly formulate a clear action plan in view of the coronavirus outbreak.
Early February finds the British-registered Diamond Princess, the first cruise ship to have a major outbreak on board, quarantined at Yokohama for approximately one month. At the time, the ship accounted for over half the reported cases of SARS-CoV-2 outside of mainland China. From then on, governments and ports respond by preventing many cruise ships from docking and advising people to avoid travelling on cruise ships. Similarly, many cruise lines suspend their operations to mitigate the spread of the pandemic.
Meanwhile, with the virus slowly spreading in Europe, the Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY) begins strengthening checks on passengers arriving from China at Athens International Airport (AIA) for possible cases.
On 22 February 2020 and over the following days, the Italian authorities report clusters of cases in several regions (Lombardy, Piedmont, Veneto). During the following week, several European countries report cases of Covid-19 through travel from the affected areas in Italy, as well as cases without epidemiological links to Italy, China or other countries with ongoing transmission.
The Greek government begins to lay out precaution measures.
Greece’s first confirmed Covid-19 case is announced on 26 February 2020 and the government cancels all carnival events as a precaution. The Health Ministry on the same day holds its first live televised briefing for the coronavirus pandemic headed by infectious diseases expert Sotiris Tsiodras. (Accompanied later by Greek Civil Protection Deputy Minister Nikos Hardalias, Tsiodras gave daily briefings on the developments surrounding the pandemic until May 26. The daily televised briefings resumed on August 25 headed by infectious diseases expert Gkikas Magiorkinis).
The Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY) issues guidelines to Greek travel and tourism services, including hotels and airlines, to eliminate the potential spread of the coronavirus.
Athens International Airport (AIA) moves ahead with a series of measures to halt the potential spread of the Wuhan virus including monitoring suspected incoming travelers and crews.
Air China suspends Athens-Beijing flights due to the coronavirus outbreak.
- “Patient zero” – Greece’s first confirmed Covid-19 case is announced. The first person to be diagnosed with Covid-19 in Greece is a resident of Thessaloniki.
- Greek Health Ministry launches its first live televised briefing for the coronavirus pandemic headed by Infectious diseases expert Sotiris Tsiodras. He is later joined by Civil Protection Deputy Minister Nikos Hardalias.
- To limit the spread of Covid-19, Greece cites EU Regulation 2016/399 on the movement of persons across borders and the necessity to prevent threats to public health.
- Greece’s general secretariat for civil protection issues guidelines in six languages with precautionary measures and information on the coronavirus.
- Greek health authorities cancel all carnival festivities as a precaution against the spread of the coronavirus. Two more cases of coronavirus-infected individuals – one in Athens – is confirmed.
- The Greek Tourism Ministry is closely monitoring the coronavirus situation and has a main role in a crisis management team set up by the Health Ministry and includes the National Public Health Organization (EODY) and tourism sector bodies (SETE and Hellenic Hoteliers Federation).
ITB Berlin, the world’s largest travel trade fair, cancels its 2020 show days before its opening (scheduled for 4 March).
Covid-19 begins to spread in Europe with increasing speed.
As cases slowly begin to rise in Greece, the government shuts schools (10 March) and later closes down courts, gyms, theaters and cinemas (12 March); restaurants, bars, malls, museums and archaeological sites (13 March); seasonal hotels and resorts (14 March); seals its ports to cruise ships (15 March); and gradually suspends flights to and from high risk countries, including Italy, Spain, UK and Turkey.
On 18 March Greece launches its first financial support plan for all Covid-hit businesses. Measures include Greek banks suspending performing business loan payments for Covid-19–hit businesses. Towards the end of the month, the government also begins the measure which suspends the expiration, presentation and payment deadlines for cheques of businesses having specific Activity Code Numbers (KAD) and that have either suspended operations following a state order or that are suffering as a result of the outbreak.
Greece officially goes into lockdown on March 23 and puts in place social distancing measures that include a ban on non-essential movement and remote work/telework in Greek public services and private companies. Prior to the pandemic, telework had a very small practice rate in Greece.
The World Health Organization (WHO) characterizes the coronavirus as a pandemic and says it will touch every sector.
- Greece’s first patient (a 66-year-old male) with Covid-19 dies in a hospital in Patras.
- EODY releases advise for those preparing to travel amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Greek officials advise against travel and closes cinemas, cultural venues, museums and sites. Also closed are all cafés, bars and restaurants.
Greece announces the closure of seasonal hotels and resorts.
Greece closes ports to cruise ships and sailboats and suspends ferry services between Greece and Italy.
- The Greek Foreign Ministry advises against travel to countries with high coronavirus infection rates.
- The GNTO suspends Greece’s international tourism promotional campaign due to the coronavirus crisis.
- Authorities announce that Greece will close its borders to non-EU nationals from March 18.
- The EU announces the closure of its external borders and a temporary ban on “non-essential travel”.
- Marketing Greece launches action under the hashtag #StaySafe.
- Strict checks on all incoming travelers at Greek airports, regardless of nationality, begin.
- Ferry travel restrictions are tightened.
- Greece imposes a countrywide lockdown to combat the coronavirus, barring people from moving for “unnecessary reasons”.
- Operation of year-round hotels suspended. (Press here for list of hotels that remained open.)
- SETE and member enterprises make donations to Greece’s health system.
- AEGEAN temporarily suspends all international flights.
Greece announces ban on domestic travel for Orthodox Easter.
With Greece still in lockdown and borders closed, the Greek Tourism Ministry launches the online platform Greece From Home, an initiative that invites travelers to visit the country virtually. During April, much talk is carried out worldwide about how to flatten the Covid-19 pandemic curve. Greece is found to have the best performance in Europe in terms of flattening the curve, according to a comparative pan-European report by Bridge Tank.
The Greek Tourism Ministry launches new online platform Greece From Home to promote the country’s image to people all over the world.
A regulation allowing Greek airlines, ferries and tourism enterprises (hotels and travel agencies) to reimburse customers with 18-month vouchers for bookings that were canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, instead of cash refunds, is published in the Government Gazette.
The Hellenic Chamber of Hotels donates 1 million euros to support Greece’s healthcare system in its battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Greek government, seeing the effectiveness in containing the spread of the virus and with the tourism season approaching, begins to lift lockdown restrictions in stages (from May 4) and slowly return to normalcy. The government allows retail businesses and hairdressers to resume operations first, then opens shopping malls and continues with allowing domestic travel by car.
Towards the end of the month, restaurants and cafes also open and domestic travel is fully restored (travel to the islands is allowed for all). From mid-May, the government announces a number of safety protocols for yachts, guided tours, ferry travel, air travel, rail and bus travel, hotels, travel agencies with transfer services and organized campsites.
Greece proposes an EU-wide 72-hour pre-travel Covid-19 test to be instituted across the bloc to allow travel to begin once lockdown measures are lifted.
The European Commission presents a Tourism and Transport package of guidelines and recommendations to help Member States gradually and safely restore freedom of movement; lift travel restrictions and internal border controls; and allow tourism businesses to reopen.
The Greek government presents a detailed plan to restart tourism in Greece during the post-Covid-19 era on 15 June, the day the country will gradually begin welcoming back flights from abroad.
The government allows travel to the islands by ferry.
Greece announces a Covid-19 air transport aid package of 115 million euros in funding to help the sector recover losses incurred by the health crisis.
Greece releases official list of the 29 countries it will open to on 15 June.
Greece enters its fifth stage of lifting Covid-19 restrictions and from 1 June allows professional recreational boating activities and cruises to resume operations. Also allowed to open their doors are year-round hotels, tourist campsites, catering activities, golf or mini golf courses, swimming pool services and open-air cinemas. From 6 June, restaurants, bars and cafes are allowed to serve customers in indoor areas.
In mid-June, Greece reopens for tourism with flights landing (until the end of the month) only to the airports of Athens and Thessaloniki. Towards the end of the month, the government announces that all international travelers must submit a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) before entering the country.
Meanwhile, on 17 June, the European Commission unveiled its EU vaccines strategy to accelerate the development, manufacturing and deployment of vaccines against Covid-19. The EU strategy rests on securing the production of vaccines in the EU and sufficient supplies for its Member States through Advance Purchase Agreements with vaccine producers via the Emergency Support Instrument.
Greece opens year-round hotels under health protocols and rules.
“Greek Summer is a state of mind… This year, enjoy your Greek summer wherever you are…” is the message of Greece’s new tourism campaign that will be sent out to the world in 2020, following the Covid-19 crisis.
Greece launches a carefully interconnected network of emergency health care and medical services linking the islands with the mainland.
Greece opens to international travelers only to airports of Athens and Thessaloniki. On the same day, the country’s seasonal hotels and resorts, museums, thermal springs and gyms reopen.
Greece announces that all travelers arriving to Greece by air, sea or road, are required to complete a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) before entering the country.
EU releases safe list of nations welcome for tourism. Americans and Russians are left off the list.
Greece in July officially opens for tourism with all regional airports welcoming international flights. Having health as a priority, the government releases a list of Greek destinations with quarantine hotels to be used for Covid-19 isolation purposes.
In mid-July, due to a surge in Covid-19 cases, the Greek government begins testing travelers arriving at its land borders. Tests are carried out through the innovative EVA system, Greece’s AI screening and testing program created to control the Covid-19 risk of incoming tourists through all of the country’s entry points. (A study later reported that EVA caught nearly twice as many asymptomatic infected travelers as would have been caught if Greece had relied on only travel restrictions and randomized COVID testing.)
Eventually, a negative Covid-19 test becomes a requirement for some nationalities to enter the country.
During July, the government makes face masks compulsory in all indoor spaces and bans all local village festivals (Panigyria) to limit the spread of the virus.
Greece officially opens for tourism and welcomes flights at all of its airports.
- “Destination Greece Health First” is the new tourism campaign of the government that launches to promote Greece as a safe travel destination.
- Supporting the restart of Greek tourism, Marketing Greece launches its new “Endless Greek Summer” campaign that targets both Greek and international travelers.
Greece secures at least €70 billion in funds to address the repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic from an EU recovery plan of €750 billion agreed on in Brussels.
The wearing of face masks becomes mandatory in all indoor spaces in Greece, including churches.
A sharp rise in Covid-19 cases is recorded in Greece and the government evaluates the situation. Health experts warn of a second wave but the Greek PM says that a second Covid-19 lockdown is not an option. The government begins to enforce measures on travel through land borders in northern Greece; bans standing in bars and clubs; and suspends events with a standing audience (concerts and performances).
During August, emergency restrictions are announced for a number of islands due to a rise in cases. The first island to undergo restrictions is Poros. Next destinations to see restrictions include Paros, Antiparos, Mykonos, Halkidiki, Lesvos and Zakynthos. Meanwhile, in mid-August, Finland, Norway and Estonia impose quarantine for arrivals from Greece.
Six ports in Greece – Piraeus, Rhodes, Heraklion, Volos, Corfu and Katakolo – open to cruise ships.
Health experts warn of a second coronavirus wave in Greece if citizens do not observe measures.
Greece sets curfew for bars in popular destinations (they are not allowed to operate between 12 midnight and 7am).
People arriving by air from Israel, Sweden, Czech Republic, Belgium, Spain and the Netherlands and all travelers entering Greece’s land borders are obliged to present a negative molecular test upon arrival, conducted no more than 72 hours prior.
Data released by Civil Protection Deputy Minister Nikos Hardalias shows that tourism is not responsible for the rise in Covid-19 cases recorded in Greece. According to the data at the time, 83 percent of Greece’s confirmed Covid-19 cases were domestic (due to lax observation of health measures) and 17 percent were imported from travelers.
Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis promises free Covid-19 vaccine to Greeks once available.
Greece improves position in the world ranking regarding the number of Covid-19 tests conducted daily per 1 million residents and ranks 29th worldwide, having climbed up 34 places.
Greece continues to impose emergency restrictions on some areas in the country such as Heraklion (Crete), due to Covid-19 cases increasing. Health experts become troubled over a new surge in Covid-19 incidents in Greece’s Attica region, concentrated for the most part in and around Athens. The government announces local measures for Attica and suspends concerts, outdoor theater performances and indoor cinema screenings. At the same time, the government imposes travel restrictions on arrivals from Russia and the Czech Republic.
Greece reopens to Russian tourists that arrive with a negative Covid-19 test result.
The government imposes new Covid-19 measures in Athens-Attica such as teleworking; suspends concerts; and closes cinemas with indoor screenings.
The European Commission activates the SURE instrument, which will provide up to 100 billion euros in financial support to help protect jobs and workers affected by the pandemic. Greece is to receive some 2.7 billion euros in financial support from the program.
Covid-19 cases continue to rise in Greece. The government introduces a risk-assessment map for citizens to track the spread of Covid-19 by regional unit and keep up to date on the latest safety restrictions which are indicated by a traffic light color-coded system in areas. Greek areas that see cases rise in October include Kythnos, Achaia, Ioannina and Kastoria.
Towards the end of the month the government makes wearing face masks in all public spaces compulsory and also announces a night curfew for areas designated as high risk.
Meanwhile, Lineage B.1.617, a variant of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes Covid-19) is first identified in Maharashtra, India, on 5 October.
Greece unveils online map with Covid-19 risk by regional unit.
EU ministers agree to coordinate better on Covid-19 travel measures with a 3-common criteria, a color-coded map and a framework for possible restrictions.
Masks must now be worn everywhere in Greece and a night curfew goes into effect for high-risk areas.
Covid-19 cases in Greece surge and the Greek government makes changes to its Covid-19 risk map (divides the country into two risk zones) and sets new rules for November. The government closes restaurants, bars, cinemas, and museums in high-risk areas and imposes lockdowns initially on specific areas (Thessaloniki and Serres) and then puts the whole country in its second lockdown on November 7 aiming to halt the second wave of Covid-19 cases.
- The government divides Greece into three risk zones (yellow/red/grey) and sets new measures.
- Greece puts Thessaloniki and Serres in a two-week lockdown and bans flights to/from Thessaloniki for that period.
Greece announces a night curfew from 9 pm to 5 am, aiming to further limit movement in the country to curb the rise of Covid-19 cases.
Greece gains access to over 2 billion euros worth of funds from the EU’s SURE instrument, which is aimed to help companies and employees affected by Covid-19.
Greece announces Covid-19 vaccination plan. Health Minister Vassilis Kikilias announces that free Covid-19 vaccination will be possible at 1,018 points across Greece, once the first effective drugs are made available.
Greece’s second lockdown is extended until 7 December.
Although Greece’s lockdown is scheduled to end in early December, the persistent Covid-19 curve forces Greek authorities to extend its duration until January.
Also, new measures are announced for travelers entering the country in December.
Following the lockdown extension, the Greek Finance Ministry announces a new round of 7.5 billion euros in Covid-19 relief aid for businesses and employees for 2021.
Strict Covid-19 restrictions are announced for the Christmas and New Years holidays that include a curfew, no travel between prefectures, and mandatory text messaging for all movement.
During December, a number of EU countries begin suspending air traffic from the UK due to a new mutant strain of Covid-19 (later referred to as the “Delta” variant) that has been spreading in England.
This is also the month when EU states begin vaccinations against Covid-19. The first vaccines are scheduled to arrive in EU member states to be used during the #EUVaccinationDays on 27, 28 and 29 December.
In addition, in the midst of the pandemic, December 31, 2020, marks the UK’s last day as a member of the EU (Brexit).
World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director Hans Kluge visits Greece and urges Greeks to vaccinate against Covid-19 when the time comes.
The Greek government extends Greece’s second Covid-19 lockdown.
Authorities tighten restrictions at Greece’s land border points and deny entry to travelers that test positive for Covid-19 upon arrival.
All incoming travellers arriving to Greece for the holidays as of December 18 must quarantine for 3 days. The measure is to be lifted on 7 January.
All travelers arriving to Greece from the UK must self-isolate for 7 days.
Greece receives the first batch of coronavirus vaccines.
Covid-19 vaccinations begin in Greece in accordance with the country’s vaccination operation “Eleftheria”.
- UNWTO: 2020 Goes Down in History as Worst Year for Tourism Sector
- ECTAA: 2020, the Year Travel Stopped
- IATA: 2020 Worst Year in History for Air Travel Demand
- UFI: Exhibition Sector Sees Loss of €158bn in 2020 Turnover
Greek Tourism
- BoG: Arrivals, Travel Receipts Take a Blow in 2020
- WTTC: Tourism Drop Wiped Out €23bn from Greek Economy in 2020
- HCAA: Greece Air Traffic Nosedives to 30-year Low in 2020
- IOBE: Greece’s Passenger Shipping Sector Sees Heavy Revenue Loss in 2020
- ITEP: 40% of Greece’s Hotels Closed in 2020 / Turnover Down by 78%
- Greece’s Exhibitions and Meetings Industry Sees Losses Exceeding €200m
Greece’s second lockdown continues well into the new year. Lockdown restrictions keep on getting extensions due to a constant rise in cases. In efforts to support businesses and employees out of work due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Greek government announces new aid for January.
Meanwhile, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, once the year changes to 2021, the UK is no longer part of the European Union (Brexit).
Following Brexit, Greece adds the UK to a list of non-EU countries exempt from Covid-19 entry restrictions.
Greece announces 7-day quarantine measure for passengers arriving from abroad.
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) welcomes Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ proposal for an EU-wide Covid-19 vaccination certificate.
During a UNWTO meeting in Madrid, Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis proposes 3 steps (Covid-19 vaccination, rapid testing and exchange of data) to restart tourism.
Greece announces its national digital Covid-19 vaccination certificate.
Greek health authorities announce a four-phase Covid-19 vaccination plan for people on the Greek islands.
Attica enters ‘Red’ Covid-19 status, following a 45% rise in new infections. Stricter measures are imposed.
Covid-19 restrictions continue in Greece and as the month progresses the government announces stricter measures for Athens-Attica, Evia, Achaia and later Nafplio. Rumors begin to surface that the government may keep lockdown measures through Easter (2 May). In mid-February, the government announces for the first time that when travel resumes in 2021, Greece will be open to all visitors holding either a negative molecular Covid-19 test or a vaccination certificate upon entry.
Residents in Greece who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 can now download their digital vaccination certificate from the gov.gr website.
GBR survey shows that international and Greek travelers gave Athens hotels a high rating for the Covid-19 safety measures implemented in 2020.
The Greek Tourism Ministry announces that Greece will open for tourism on 14 May. This is later confirmed by the PM himself. Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis begins official visits to countries as part of an awareness-raising effort ahead of Greece’s re-opening to tourists. The first country he visits is Romania.
In mid-March the European Commission moves forward with Greece’s proposal on a digital certificate to facilitate travel in the summer.
Greece presents tourism and travel pan-European revival plan to EU ministers during a meeting organised by Portugal as holder of the presidency of the Council of the EU.
The Hellenic Chamber of Hotels launches the #filoxeniaMoU Greek hospitality action, a month-long initiative dedicated to the importance of hospitality in the recovery of tourism.
Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis announces that Greece aims to open to tourism on 14 May.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) praises the Greek government for its efforts and steps taken to restart international travel from 14 May.
The European Commission makes a legislative proposal for the launch of a common digital COVID certificate (initially referred to as a Digital Green Certificate) to facilitate safe free movement inside the EU during the pandemic, an idea first tabled in January by Greece’s PM himself.
Greece begins to ease some Covid-19 lockdown restrictions and reopens hair and beauty salons, open-air archaeological sites, public parks and allows fishing again.
Greece lifts Covid-19 quarantine rule for vaccinated Israeli tourists.
Greece announces Covid-19 self-testing strategy to identify asymptomatic cases and better control the spread of the coronavirus.
Greece welcomes an extra €2.5 billion under the European Commission’s SURE tool that helps jobs and incomes affected by Covid-19.
The month of April kicks off with Greece giving details on how it will open safely for tourism in 2021. Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis continues his trips to countries ahead of Greece’s re-opening to tourists. In April he visits Russia and the United States.
The Greek government continues to gradually ease some lockdown restrictions and reopens retail stores under Covid-19 guidelines.
At the end of the month, the Greek Health Ministry announces an action plan for the summer that includes emergency transport from remote islands and a high number of medical professionals stationed at health facilities at popular tourist destinations.
Also in April, the Bank of Greece releases final data on Greece’s arrivals and revenue during 2020. Greece saw travel receipts plummet by 76.2% or down by 13,860 million euros to 4.3 billion euros with the number of arrivals down by 78.2% bringing the total number of tourists to Greece in 2020 to only 7.4 million compared to 34 million in 2019.
The UNWTO approves Greece’s proposals to restart tourism and adopts them as recommendations for its member-countries.
The Greek island of Rhodes welcomes its first tourists as part of a pilot holiday program organized by a Dutch tour operator.
- Greece lifts 7-day quarantine rule for travelers from the EU and five other countries (US, UK, UAE, Serbia and Israel) who have been fully vaccinated or test negative for Covid-19. Authorities also allow road travelers (who are vaccinated or have a negative test) through the Promachonas and Nymphaea road borders.
- Greece announces that its tourism workers are in its Covid-19 vaccine priority line.
Greece bans Easter holiday travel and keeps the rule that prohibits travel between regions (until 14 May).
Greece releases updated health protocols for hotels.
The World Travel & Tourism Council awards Greece for its efforts in addressing the Covid-19 pandemic and safely re-opening to tourists.
Greece submits its national recovery plan (aimed at dealing with the repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic) to the European Commission.
May finds Greece in discussions with various non-EU countries on mutual recognition of vaccine certificates. Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis continues his visits to Greece’s target tourism markets and travels to Germany, Poland, the UK, Spain and France. This is also the month when Greece reopens its organized beaches, restaurants, cafes, museums. The country also allows live cultural events and shows to resume in outdoor areas.
Greece officially opens to tourism on 14 May with entry allowed for EU & Schengen Area countries and a number of non-EU countries such as the US, the UK, Russia, China and UAE. Visitors to Greece do not have to quarantine if they have been fully vaccinated, have recovered from the virus or have tested negative before traveling.
In late May Greece unveils its version of the EU Digital COVID Certificate (formally referred to as the Digital Green Certificate) that aims to facilitate travel in the EU.
In addition, Greece this month moves up six spots to 33rd place (out of 53 countries) on Bloomberg’s Covid Resilience Ranking which reports on the best places to be during Covid-19 and the effectiveness of local authorities’ health crisis management.
Meanwhile, on the vaccination front, Greek Health Minister Vassilis Kikilias on 21 May announces that Greece’s vaccination program is progressing at a very fast pace and that the country is carrying out more than 100,000 vaccinations a day.
Greece moves ahead with its newly announced “Blue Freedom” plan that prioritizes Covid-19 vaccination of its islands, aiming to ensure the safety of both residents and tourists.
Greece officially launches its 2021 tourism campaign named “All you want is Greece” which goes beyond promoting “sun and sea”.
Greece opens for the 2021 tourism season under a plan that includes strict health safety protocols and procedures.
Employees in Greece’s tourism sector are among those that must undergo mandatory self-testing for Covid-19 once a week.
The UK government resumes international travel but does not include Greece on its ‘green’ list, meaning that restrictions will apply to people returning from the country.
The European Parliament and Council announce that the EU Digital COVID Certificate will be ready by the end of June.
The Greek government’s Covid-19 self-testing strategy, which aims to detect asymptomatic cases, has expanded to all employees in Greece.
In early June, a new OECD report says Greece’s GDP is expected to grow by 3.8 percent against its previous prediction of 3.4 percent. At the same time, in 2022 the economy is expected to grow by 5 percent, the report said, forecasting return to pre-Covid-19 levels mid-year.
Also, Greece made “reopening progress”, according to Bloomberg, moving up the resilience ranking from 33rd spot in May to 19th in June making it into the Top 20 best places to be in during Covid-19.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that the Delta variant (first detected in India in late 2020 and named on 31 May 2021) is becoming the dominant strain globally.
Greek authorities discuss action plan to address the possible spread of the new Covid-19 Delta variant, including ordering lockdowns in areas with low vaccination rates. According to EODY, Delta infections are found in Athens, Corinth and on Crete.
In late June, Eurostat releases data showing that overnight stays in Greece were among the hardest hit in the EU between April 2020 and March 2021 due to the impact of Covid-19.
Also during June, Greek Finance Minister Christos Staikouras says the Covid-19 health crisis in the 2020-2021 period has cost the Greek government 40 billion euros, which has gone into supporting impacted businesses, employees and households.
In addition, continuing his tour to countries whose citizens have a high interest for travel to Greece, Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis visits The Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden.
It should also be mentioned that Greece continues in June to be absent from the United Kingdom’s ‘green list’ of quarantine-free destinations and remains on the ‘amber’ list, meaning that restrictions apply to people returning to England after visiting the country.
The UK constitutes the second biggest market for Greece after Germany.
Athens hosts the 66th Meeting of the UNWTO Commission for Europe as an in-person event.
- Greece begins accepting travelers from abroad that hold a Digital COVID Certificate.
- According to reports, Greek authorities are thinking about granting “privileges” to vaccinated residents.
Greece lifts its ban on music at restaurants, bars and cafes.
The EU Digital COVID Certificate is signed into law by EU institutions. It has been agreed to launch on July 1.
The European Commission approves Greece’s resilience plan, paving the way for the release of 30.5 billion euros.
Greek authorities allow spas/thermal springs to reopen.
Greece permits entry for travelers who present negative Covid-19 rapid antigen tests.
Europe on high alert due to ‘Delta’ (variant of SARS-CoV-2) spread. The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) begins to urge EU nationals to get vaccinated due to the Delta variant of COVID-19 (called a “variant of concern” by WHO because of its high transmissibility).
- Greek authorities discuss action plan to address the possible spread of the new Covid-19 Delta variant, including ordering lockdowns in areas with low vaccination rates. According to EODY, Delta infections were found in Athens, Corinth and on Crete.
- Greece scraps mandatory wearing of masks outdoors.
- Greece lifts its late night curfew.
- Greek authorities prepare to announce special rights for the fully vaccinated including greater freedom of movement, access to indoor and crowded spaces as well as other liberties.
- The Greek government announces the “Freedom Pass” (available end of July): a pre-paid card worth 150 euros to cover costs for travel and entertainment, awarded to those aged 18-25 who get vaccinated.
In its drive to extend vaccination reach, Greece announced that as of July 15, entertainment and F&B venues would be divided into Covid-19 vaccinated-only and mixed spaces.
Greece imposes stricter measures for those arriving to Greece from Russia due to the spread of the Delta coronavirus variant in the country.
In early July, the European Commission releases its Summer 2021 Economic Forecast and says the Greek economy is expected to expand by 4.3 percent in 2021 and 6 percent in 2022.
A few days later the Commission officially approves the recovery plans of 12 member states including the “Greece 2.0” plan, paving the way for the release of the first tranche of funding to go toward addressing the impact of Covid-19. Later in July, the Greek government and the Commission sign the first funding agreement which covers financial support of 17.8 billion euros to Greece.
Meanwhile, Covid-19 cases in Greece are rising. In the middle of the month, Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis says the increase of Covid-19 cases is not related to tourism. According to data presented by the minister, during the first 10 days of July, 105,609 arrivals were tested at Greece’s border points and only 74 positive cases recorded. In statements made to the media, the minister says that vaccination is the key to keeping the country open for tourists.
At the same time, Greektourism professionals revise downwards their projections for 2021 in view of an imminent fourth wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. Industry insiders are telling the press that recovering 50 percent or approximately 9.1 billion euros of 2019 tourism activity – the government’s target – is “near to impossible”.
On July 21, the chief economic advisor of the Greek Prime Minister, Alex Patelis, tweets that Greek tourist arrivals in 2021 are already at 60 percent of 2019 levels.
- The EU Digital COVID Certificate, which will facilitate safe free movement within the European Union during the Covid-19 pandemic, officially launches.
- Greece reopens indoor cinemas and theaters only for the vaccinated.
Greece eases Covid-19 travel restrictions for non-EU citizens arriving from Azerbaijan, Armenia, Jordan, Moldova, Brunei and Kosovo.
- Negative self-test results for Covid-19 are no longer accepted as a document for passengers to board a domestic flight or ferry to travel to the Greek islands from the mainland.
- Greek health experts warn of an imminent fourth wave of the Covid virus, which they say will strike at the end of July or early August.
- Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis announces that mobile units would be set up at tourist destinations countrywide to accelerate vaccinations against Covid-19.
Greece’s “seated-only” rule goes into effect at restaurants, bars, cafes, and entertainment venues.
Nursing home caregivers in Greece are announced to be the first required by law to get vaccinated.
- Development & Investments Minister Adonis Georgiadis announces that in-person events and exhibitions would be allowed as of September 1 only for Covid-19 vaccinated participants.
- Greece’s Covid Pass app (an application for restaurant and F&B business owners to check the validity of health/vaccination status information of customers) goes into effect.
- Greece reopens indoor or outdoor sports venues only for vaccinated spectators.
- All indoor areas of nightclubs, bars, cinemas and theaters in Greece begin to operate exclusively for vaccinated people.
- Greece launches Covid Free badges at entertainment (including restaurants and bars) and recreational venues. The three new badges indicate: if the establishment is a mixed space; if a venue is Covid free; and if staff members are fully vaccinated.
- New Covid-19 measures (including a curfew and music ban) are imposed on the island of Mykonos due to a sharp rise in cases.
- Unvaccinated workers in tourism, coastal shipping (ferries) and the food & beverage sector in areas where Covid-19 have increased (Heraklion and Rethymno on Crete and on the islands of Mykonos, Ios, Paros and Santorini) – due to the fast spread of the Delta variant – will have to test for Covid-19 twice a week.
The UK dubs July 19 “Freedom Day” as Boris Johnson lifted the vast majority of the remaining Covid-19 restrictions in England. With regard to travel, fully vaccinated Brits are no longer required to quarantine for 10 days after returning to England from amber list destinations – including Greece.
Greece’s “Freedom Pass” program, offering 18- to 25-year-olds who get vaccinated against Covid-19 a pre-paid card worth 150 euros (which covers costs for travel and entertainment), goes into effect.
Greek parliament passes amendment that foresees obligatory vaccination for all private and public sector employees in health and senior care facilities and hospitals as well as for ambulance and nursing staff by September 1.
- The additional Covid-19 restrictive measures on Mykonos are lifted.
- All unvaccinated workers in the tourism and food & beverage sectors in Greece have to test for Covid-19 twice a week, according to a government decision.
- The European Commission approves a 110-million-euro aid to compensate Athens International Airport S.A. for the damages suffered due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Greek authorities warn that Mykonos and Ios are “one step away from strict measures” and that more Greek islands (such as Zakynthos, Tinos, Lefkada, Santorini, Paros and Rhodes) are reaching ‘red’ Covid-19 status due to a rise in cases.
- All travelers to Greece can now submit the mandatory Passenger Locator Form (PLF) any time before the departure of their flight – and not strictly 24 hours before, as was the case previously.
In early August, the Greek authorities say that some 55 percent of the population is vaccinated against Covid-19 and once again make calls for the unvaccinated to get the jab.
In mid-August, infectious disease expert Charalambos Gogos says the rise in Covid-19 cases in Greece cannot be attributed to inbound travelers, citing data that (at the time) showed the percentage of “imported cases” was “very small” at 0.59 percent.
Meanwhile, tourism flows to Greece gain momentum despite the rise in Covid-19 cases and August’s devastating fires, driven by a strong demand from European travelers, according to tourism stakeholders and data released by Eurocontrol, global travel data provider OAG, the National Bank of Greece, Fraport Group, and local hoteliers’ associations.
As cases continue to rise, on 24 August the Greek government, aiming to stop the spread of Covid-19 and to protect the public health system, announces new measures for admission to indoor spaces including restaurants and bars and testing requirements that will go into effect on 13 September.
Greek authorities, expecting a surge in cases when Greeks return from their summer holidays and temperatures drop, examine the possibility of making vaccination against Covid-19 mandatory for certain professional groups.
Towards the end of August, Alternate Development & Investments Minister Yannis Tsakiris announces that the first funds to tourism enterprises seeking support will be released in the first days of September. (More than 30,000 applications for support have been submitted from businesses – 11,000 in tourism – seeking to tap into some 250 million euros in resources.)
Meanwhile, on 31 August, Vassilis Kikilias, takes over as new minister of tourism. He had previously served as Greece’s health minister. Outgoing tourism minister was Harry Theoharis.
The Greek government announces that it will deploy mobile vaccination units in order to facilitate hotel workers that wish to get vaccinated against Covid-19.
The UK decides that all travelers from Europe and the US who have been fully vaccinated no longer have to quarantine when entering England from amber list countries.
Americans – vaccinated or not – are advised against traveling to Greece due to a “very high” risk of Covid-19 following revised guidance by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the State Department.
Greece adds Turkey to the “safe list” of countries and territories whose residents are eligible to enter provided they have the required documentation.
New Covid-19 measures (including a curfew and music ban) are imposed on the island of Zakynthos and in Chania (Crete) due to a sharp rise in cases.
- Greece recognizes more vaccine types for entry of travelers making it among the few countries in the world recognizing the largest number of Covid-19 vaccines.
- Greece is included on Israel’s “severe travel warning” or “orange list” issued to curb the spread of the Covid-19 Delta variant. Travelers, vaccinated or not, returning to Israel from Greece, the US, France, Italy, Germany and several other countries are required to quarantine for at least seven days.
Users of IATA’s digital Travel Pass can now upload EU and UK Covid-19 vaccination data to the mobile app.
Unvaccinated travelers entering Greece from 13 countries (Egypt, Albania, Argentina, Brazil, Georgia, Cuba, the United Arab Emirates, India, China, Libya, Morocco, Russia and Turkey) – regardless of nationality – are required to take a Covid-19 test on arrival.
Unvaccinated travelers – regardless of nationality – entering Greece from Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Pakistan are now required to take a rapid Covid-19 test on arrival.
- People wanting to attend conferences, exhibitions and trade fairs in Greece will now need to have a Covid-19 vaccination certificate or a recovery certificate with them.
- The Greek Health Ministry provides two self-tests for free to certain groups (unvaccinated public and private sector workers, unvaccinated persons aged 5-30 years old) from pharmacies through to September 6, “strongly advising” returning holidaymakers to get tested before going home.
- The UK keeps Greece, along with Spain, France, and Portugal, on its “amber list” (Covid-19 traffic-light travel system), which means that returning non-vaccinated travelers or those planning to visit Britain will be required to quarantine for 10 days.
- The European Council advises Covid-19 travel restrictions on visitors from the United States and Israel.
The European Commission approves a Greek scheme with an estimated budget of up to 500 million euros to support the uncovered fixed costs of companies affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
On September 2, Alpha Bank releases a report concluding that Greek tourism recovered significantly in the summer of 2021. However, the report warns that risks still remain, such as the worsening of the Covid-19 epidemiological data and the future negative effects of the recent wildfires.
Throughout the month, official data reveals the positive performance of Greek tourism in 2021.
For example, Eurocontrol data says that Greece during the last week of August had 2,042 flights on a daily basis, only 3 percent less compared to the corresponding week two years ago (2019), before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Also positive for Greece is the European Travel Commission (ETC) survey (“Monitoring Sentiment for Domestic and Intra-European Travel – Wave 8”) which says the country is among the 10 destinations on European traveler bucket lists for both summer and autumn 2022.
At the end of September, European Commissioner for Economy Paolo Gentiloni says that Greece is moving faster towards growth approaching pre-Covid-19 crisis levels.
Also in September Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announces that Greece’s economic growth forecast for 2021 has been revised upwards, from 3.6 percent to 5.9 percent.
Meanwhile, on the Covid-19 front, cases continue to rise in Greece. The government announces restrictions for unvaccinated individuals, which will be in force until March 31, 2022. The new restrictions see the unvaccinated having to undergo rapid Covid-19 antigen tests in order to enter most indoor areas, considering that they have tested negative. On the other hand, some establishments with indoor areas will not allow unvaccinated individuals to enter in general.
Greek health authorities rule out the possibility of a country-wide lockdown but note that local Covid-19 restrictions will be ordered should the need arise.
The Covid-19 health committee of experts also considers admission into all public services to be allowed only to holders of a Covid-19 certificate or recovery document, or with negative rapid test results.
- In-person events, trade fairs and exhibitions in Greece can open their doors as of September 1 with Covid-19 protocols. Entrance is allowed only to those holding certificates indicating full vaccination status or Covid-19 recovery. Unvaccinated participants will be subject to testing.
- Healthcare workers are now required by law to get vaccinated.
The EU reaches a crucial milestone with 70 percent of the adult population now fully vaccinated against Covid-19. In total, by August 31, over 256 million adults in the EU had received a full vaccine course.
- Greece is among the European countries that do not follow an EU recommendation to curb nonessential travel for visitors from the United States and keeps its borders open for American tourists.
- Greek authorities impose emergency restrictions (curfew/music ban) on the regional units of Achaia and Ilia in the Peloponnese, as well for the Ikaria Municipality, in efforts to limit the spread of Covid-19.
Greek authorities impose emergency restrictions (curfew/music ban) on more areas (Argolida and Evritania) and extend measures on the regional units of Heraklion, Achaia, Ilia, Messinia and the municipality of Ikaria.
The 85th Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) opens as an in-person event under Covid-19 rules. According to the organizer, TIF is the first major European Covid-free event taking place in the region.
- Unvaccinated individuals in Greece are subject to restrictions regarding their entry to their places of work, restaurants and other indoor areas. The new restrictions, which will be in force until March 31, 2022, see unvaccinated individuals having to undergo rapid Covid-19 antigen tests in order to enter most indoor areas.
- All unvaccinated people in Greece can board all means of transport for domestic travel between regions (airplanes, ferries, intercity trains and KTEL buses) only if they have a negative Covid-19 rapid antigen test result.
In its 11th enhanced surveillance report, the European Commission praises Greece for advancing reforms and meeting commitments agreed to as part of its post-bailout program despite the challenging circumstances caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and notes that the economy is demonstrating an “earlier-than-expected recovery”.
- Greece gives approval for the arrival of cruise ships embarking from or passing through the Turkish ports of Kusadasi and Galata.
- Sixteen major airlines, including Greece’s AEGEAN, commit to better informing passengers and to quickly issue refunds in case of flight cancellations, according to the European Commission.
Most of Northern Greece is on high alert after a surge in Covid-19 cases with the regions of Halkidiki, Larissa, Kilkis and Thessaloniki listed red on Greece’s Covid-19 risk-assessment map as a result of low vaccination rates there.
Meanwhile, Greece’s “success” in winning over travelers this summer and fall features in the German press (such as Suddeutsche Zeitung, Berliner Morgenpost), which describe the country as a tourism “winner”.
Bank of Greece data shows that Greece in January-August welcomed over 8.6 million inbound travelers, a 79.2 percent rise over the first eight months of 2020, and saw revenue reach 6.6 billion euros (almost half of 2019 earnings).
In the middle of the month, Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias confirms that the summer dynamic is still strong in Greece and announces two campaigns aimed at promoting Greece as a winter destination (in November, December and January) and spring destination (in February and March).
In addition, he says the official start of the 2022 summer tourist season in Greece will be April 1.
The European Travel Commission (ETC) survey (“Monitoring Sentiment for Domestic and Intra-European Travel – Wave 9”) in October shows that Greece is among the Top 5 destinations of choice for Europeans hoping to take a holiday by March 2022.
Meanwhile, data released by credit agency Moody’s says that Greece’s resilience to the Covid-19 shock is a result of a strong tourism industry.
Greek Finance Minister Christos Staikouras says Greece is aiming to exit its enhanced surveillance status in 2022, having effectively met the demands of unprecedented challenges such as the Covid-19 crisis.
- Emergency Covid-19 restrictions announced for the ‘red’ areas of Thessaloniki, Halkidiki, Kilkis and Larissa.
- Greece’s national exhibition body TIF-Helexpo in Thessaloniki said that its upcoming exhibitions (1st Beyond 4.0 Innovation and Technology Exhibition and Philoxenia 2021) will take place as planned.
The UK scraps its traffic light system for arrivals to England and establishes a single red list of countries. Fully vaccinated travelers will no longer need a pre-departure test to visit England unless they come from a country on the red list.
Greece’s official start of the summer tourist season will be April 1, 2022, says Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias.
Greece lifts restrictions including mini-lockdowns with curfews and music bans, for regions with high Covid-19 rates. The government promises complete freedom for the vaccinated.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) praises Greece for successfully opening up to tourists during the Covid-19 health crisis and for achieving safety through the implementation of strict protocols.
The European Commission announces that more than 591 million EU Digital Covid-19 Certificates have been issued since its launch in July, setting a global standard, with 43 countries across four continents already using the system.
Greek Tourism Minister Vasilis Kikilias announces that Greece will put into action a dynamic plan – extending the tourism season and increasing the number of arrivals from traditional and new source markets – that will bring more tourists to the country in 2022.
- The Greek government puts in force new “emergency rules” for hotels (to stay in effect at least until November 8) following a spike in coronavirus cases in Greece.
- Greek authorities add Argentina, India, Uruguay, Omman and Chile to the “safe list” of countries and territories whose residents are eligible to enter Greece without the requirement for quarantine.
The European Commission revises its outlook for growth in Greece to 7.1 percent from its previous estimate of 4.1 percent as the country marks the third fastest rate in the eurozone driven in large part by an unanticipated tourist season.
On the Covid front, the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) in November advises adults and mainly those over 40 to consider getting a third dose (booster) of a Covid-19 vaccine.
At the same time, the European Commission proposes a revision to non-essential travel rules, giving priority to vaccinated travelers and advising them to get booster shots against Covid-19 if they wish to extend the validity of their EU Digital Covid Certificate.
The end of November is the time when a newly identified Covid-19 variant, called Omicron (originally referred to as “B.1.1.529” or “Botswana variant”) makes its appearance.
Meanwhile, a nationwide survey by Focus Bari | YouGov, conducted in October among 635 Greeks aged 18-74, reveals that 81% of Greeks have been vaccinated against Covid-19 or will get the jab. The survey also reveals that one in ten (11%) are undecided about the vaccine, while 8% said they are “refusers” (anti-vaxxers).
With regard for tourism, Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias says that Greece achieved its goal for 2021 recovering 50 percent of pre-pandemic tourism revenues.
He also states that holiday bookings for summer 2022 for travel to Greece are already on the rise and reported a 30 percent increase in early bookings made in October for the summer of 2022, compared to those made the same month in 2018 for the summer of 2019.
Also, after attending the World Travel Market expo in London that month, the Greek tourism minister announces the plans of easyJet, Jet2 and British Airways for more flights to Greece in 2022.
The World Travel Market officially opens as in-person event at ExCel, London, under strict Covid-19 protocols.
Greece launches the Covid Free Gr Wallet, a new app allowing citizens to easily save Greek and European Covid-19 certificates on their mobile phones and tablet devices.
- Unvaccinated Greeks are no longer allowed into banks or public services unless they present a negative PCR or rapid test result. [The same rule applies to the unvaccinated for entrance to restaurants, cafes and bars (both indoors and outside), and hair salons].
- Greece’s unvaccinated workers are now obliged to take two tests a week (instead of one), which they will pay for and access their workplace after testing negative twice a week.
The US reopens its borders to international travelers (fully vaccinated or with negative PCR test) arriving by air from the 26 Schengen countries in Europe, the UK, Ireland, China, India, South Africa, Iran and Brazil.
Greek and foreign travelers aged 4 to 17 can now present a negative self-test result for Covid-19 to board domestic flights in Greece. (Negative self-test results were previously accepted only from domestic travelers aged 4 to 11.)
The Greek PM said he would suggest to the EU to include booster shots in the EU Digital Covid Certificates in order to make travelling throughout the block safer.
- Adults in Greece not vaccinated against the Covid-19 are banned from entering more indoor spaces, including cinemas, theaters, museums and gyms.
- The Greek PM announces that national vaccination certificates for citizens over 60 will expire seven months after a full vaccination with 2 doses if the holder does not get administered the booster shot.
The European Commission proposes new conditions for the validity of EU Digital COVID Certificates. According to the recommendation, vaccination certificates of citizens will no longer be recognized beyond the nine months after a full vaccination with 2 doses and without a booster jab.
Greece announces a strict protocol for the entry of travelers from 9 southern African countries where cases of the newly identified Covid-19 variant, called Omicron, have been identified.
Greece says there will be no national lockdowns and no new measures for those vaccinated against Covid-19 despite the emergence of the new Omicron variant and a surge in positive cases.
The Greek PM announces that all citizens over the age of 60 who have not been vaccinated must by January 16 book an appointment for their first dose or else face a 100-euro fine every month.
On December 2, Greek Health Minister Thanos Plevris confirms Greece’s first case of the Omicron variant of Covid-19.
Despite reiterating that there will be no lockdown, the Greek government expresses concern about the new Omicron variant and its fast spread, particularly after the holidays in January.
Following a surge in Covid-19 cases and deaths over the past weeks, the Greek government eventually introduces new Covid-19 measures for the holiday season as part of its efforts to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic and the emergence of the Omicron variant in the country.
Meanwhile, in response to the new Covid variant Omicron several EU Member States reintroduce travel restrictions also for fully vaccinated travelers, causing the reaction of travel and tourism stakeholders, representing travel agents, tour operators, hoteliers and F&B establishments (ECTAA, ETOA, HOTREC and WTTC).
Greece is also one of the countries that announces new emergency rules for the entry of international travelers. As of December 19, all inbound travelers, regardless of vaccination status, must present a negative PCR or rapid antigen test result taken before entering Greece.
Also in December, Greek Finance Minister Christos Staikouras announces that the Eurogroup approved the release of 767 million euros in aid as part of Greece’s enhanced surveillance and debt support program.
As the Omicron variant of Covid-19 begins to spread, the World Health Organization (WHO) urges unvaccinated individuals aged 60 or over to avoid travel to “to areas with community transmission”.
Rules for the operation of Christmas theme parks in Greece are announced after the country’s first case of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 is confirmed.
Greece shortens the validity period of the Covid-19 recovery certificate from the initial six months to three months (90 days).
- Covid-19 rules announced for the operation of ski resorts and theme parks in Greece efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19 over the holiday season.
- Greece updates Covid-19 recovery certificate rules: Unvaccinated individuals who have recovered from Covid-19 are allowed entry to all spaces as applies to vaccinated citizens after displaying a recovery certificate issued in the last 90 days. If the three-month period has expired, then individuals will be subject to the rules for the unvaccinated.
ITB Berlin 2022 (to be held during March 9-13, 2022) is cancelled as in-person event due to developments and accompanying directives as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Greece’s Covid-19 ‘Freedom Pass’ program (that offers 18- to 25-year-olds who get vaccinated against Covid-19 a pre-paid card worth 150 euros) is extended until June 30, 2022.
Greece requires negative Covid-19 tests (PCR or rapid) from all inbound travelers, regardless of their vaccination status, taken before entering the country.
- Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis urges citizens in Greece to be responsible and take self-tests ahead of holiday gatherings and outings. The government provides both vaccinated and non-vaccinated citizens two free self-tests to be used during Christmas and New Year’s.
- The European Commission decides that the Covid-19 certificate used for travel in the EU would be valid for a period of nine months after the first vaccination cycle. EU member states will be required to implement the new rules as of February 1, 2022.
- Greece extends voucher period for canceled trips due to Covid-19 to March 31, 2022, in view of ongoing restrictions. The decision, included in new tourism legislation published in the Government Gazette, concerns vouchers issued for cancelled trips in 2020 which were not used in 2021.
- The Greek Tourism Ministry and the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) launch a new winter marketing campaign named “Greece does have a winter” that promotes Greece’s mainland destinations.
Greece introduces new Covid-19 measures for holiday season (to run until January 2). Measures include the cancelation of all holiday events announced by municipal authorities in open spaces.
- Greece bans music in all restaurants, bars and entertainment venues (until January 16) and sets a mandatory closing time (midnight) for such establishments.
- Greece updates Covid-19 quarantine guidelines and now advises a shortened five-day quarantine period for people infected with Covid.
- The Greek labor and finance ministries announce new measures to support businesses and households affected by a new round of Covid-19 restrictions.
- Greece updates rule for domestic travel with a Covid-19 recovery certificate.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against cruise travel following an increase in Covid-19 outbreaks on ships.
Greece’s health experts say the fast-spreading Omicron variant of Covid-19 is likely to peak in the first month of 2022 or – in a second less possible scenario – last through February.
The Covid-19 measures taken in Greece during the holiday season are eventually extended for the whole month of January.
With regard for tourism, the Tourism Ministry is optimistic for the 2022 season.
In statements in a series of interviews in January, Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias says that safety is the top priority for Greek authorities who are aiming to kick off the tourism season earlier in 2022 imposing rigorous Covid-19 health protocols and taking the country’s good reputation a step further.
In January it is concluded that Greek tourism faired better than expected in 2021.
Bank of Greece data shows that Greece in 2021 managed to extend its tourism season way into the winter months (until November). The number of inbound travelers almost doubled (up 96.8 percent to over 14.3 million) during the first 11 months of 2021 compared to 2020. Travel receipts increased by 144.6 percent year-on-year to 10.4 billion euros, exceeding 2020 figures and coming very close to pre-Covid-19 levels.
According to tentative data released by the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA), Greece’s airports saw activity gather momentum in 2021 with 12-month passenger traffic up by 80.9 percent compared to the same period in 2020.
Eurostat also provides data stating that Greece is the EU country that showed the most signs of recovery in terms of number of commercial flights in 2021 compared to 2019.
With regard to hotels, the Institute for Tourism Research and Forecasts (ITEP) releases a survey showing that almost all Greek hotels – 96 percent – opened their doors in 2021. The percentage was much lower – 60 percent – in 2020.
Overall, the turnover of Greece’s hotels decreased by 35 percent to 5.48 billion euros in 2021 compared to 2019 (8.41 billion euros). In 2020, Greek hotel turnover had reached only 1.83 billion euros.
The Hellenic Federation of Hoteliers (POX) appeals to the government to take measures and extend financial support to hotel enterprises as the Omicron variant of Covid-19 has put a brake on bookings.
Greece extends (to June 30, 2022) a special subsidy that covers operating costs granted to businesses impacted by Covid-19 restrictions.
The Greek government imposes a cap (47 euros) on the cost of PCR molecular tests for Covid-19 at private diagnostic laboratories and clinics.
UK changes Covid-19 testing rule for vaccinated travelers: Fully vaccinated travelers and under 18 entering the UK no longer need to take a pre-departure Covid-19 test or self-isolate on arrival, but must continue to take their post-arrival tests.
- Greece launches a portal (in Greek and English) where individuals who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 abroad can declare vaccination status in Greece and request the issue of an EU Digital Covid Certificate. New portal: https://anagnorisi.emvolio.gov.gr/#/
- UNWTO says Greece’s effective communication in 2020 won over tourists during Covid-19 pandemic.
- Schools in Greece reopen as planned after the holiday break but with increased Covid-19 self-testing rules.
Greek authorities announce new Covid-19 measures applying to travel by ferry to and from the islands and mainland.
- Greece extends Covid-19 measures (taken during the holiday season) until January 23 (including music ban/curfew).
- Greek travel agencies call on the government to extend relief measures to June 2022 citing lack of professional activity and losses due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Greek tourism enterprises (hotels, travel agencies, conference and trade fair organizers) among businesses covered by the government’s extra Covid-19 support (from January 14 to January 31).
- Seniors over 60 in Greece who have not booked an appointment to get at least the first dose of a vaccination against Covid-19 will have to pay a fine. For January only the fine is set at 50 euros and after that it rises to 100 euros.
- The European Council removes Argentina, Australia and Canada from the list of safe third countries for non-essential travel into the EU.
- Greece keeps Covid-19 restrictions (taken for the holiday season) in place for another week, until January 31.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) says travel restrictions that were introduced to curb the spread of the omicron variant of the coronavirus have proved ineffective and called for them to be lifted or eased.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) sees a surge of more than 250% in European bookings for Easter compared to 2021 and calls to remove all restrictions for fully jabbed travellers and allow free movement.
- The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and other global transport and tourism associations (Airlines for Europe, ACI EUROPE, CLIA, ECTAA, ETRC, eu travel tech and ETOA) issue statements calling for travel restrictions to be lifted and for a more coordinated approach to travel.
- The European Council issues a recommendation (to take effect on February 1) for member states to implement a “person-based approach” which allows holders of valid EU digital Covid certificates to travel restriction-free.
- The UK government announced that as of February 11 travelers wishing to visit England and Scotland will no longer have to take Covid-19 tests prior to travel if they have completed a full cycle of vaccination.
Greece lifts midnight curfew rule and music ban imposed on restaurants, cafes, bars and other entertainment venues. Standing customers at such venues are still not allowed.
The Greek government updates the Covid-19 rules that citizens must follow to enter public services, banks, churches, restaurants and bars in Greece.
February 2022 marks changes to travel rules in the EU for holders of a valid European Union Digital Covid Certificate (EUDCC).
The EUDCC is now considered valid for nine months following the administration of the last dose of the primary Covid-19 vaccination and without a booster shot.
According to the Commission, a person who has a valid EU Digital COVID Certificate should in principle not be subject to additional restrictions, such as tests or quarantine, regardless of their place of departure in the EU.
Following the Commission’s announcement, Greece is among the countries that change their entry rules and lifts the requirement (which was in force since December 19) that saw all arrivals from abroad (including fully vaccinated) to have a negative PCR or rapid test with them.
Also in February, the Bank of Greece (BoG) releases data on Greece’s tourism performance in 2021. According to the report, Greece managed in 2021 to recover more than half of 2019 tourism revenues and double the number of arrivals by extending the tourism season past the traditional summer months.
In addition, a survey released by the Athens – Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association in February reveals that Greece’s Covid-19 health and safety measures were among the reasons why leisure travelers chose to visit Athens in 2021.
- The European Commission announced that the digital COVID certificate for travel in the EU will be valid only for nine months following the administration of the last dose of the primary Covid-19 vaccination and without a booster shot.
- Greece pushes deadline to February 7 for (national) vaccination certificate expiration (after seven months if the holder – of any age and after having gotten 2 doses – does not get administered the booster shot.
- Citing research that EU travel measures had little impact on Omicron spread, ACI Europe and IATA urge European Governments to lift all travel restrictions for fully vaccinated/recovered individuals holding a valid Covid Certificate.
The European Commission proposed to extend the use of the EU Digital Covid Certificate by a year. Having launched on July 1, 2021, the initial expiration date was set for June 30 this year.
- Greece lifts rule (which was in force since December 19) that obliged all travelers (including fully vaccinated) arriving to Greece to have a negative PCR or rapid test with them. According to the new rules: inbound travelers to Greece from EU/Schengen countries and 33 non-EU countries that hold a valid EU Digital COVID Certificate will no longer be subject to additional restrictions (such as testing before travel for the fully vaccinated).
- Greece’s vaccination certificates – when used in a domestic context and not for travel – now expire after seven months if the holder (of any age and after having gotten 2 doses) does not get administered the booster shot.
Greek health experts ruled against carnival activities, citing the persistently high number of Covid-19 incidents.
Greece is among European tourism destinations expected to recover losses incurred by the Covid-19 pandemic thanks in large part to its high vaccination rates, found a report released by data analysis and tourism intelligence provider Mabrian Technologies.
Travelers from the United States, Canada and Australia with a valid vaccination certificate no longer need to present a negative Covid-19 test when they arrive in Greece.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) moved cruise travel from Level 4 “very high” risk to Level 3 “high”, revising its previous travel warning issued late last year which advised against travel by cruise regardless of vaccination status.
- The government announced that from February 19 all events and conferences can have 100 percent capacity at exhibition spaces for vaccinated-only participants.
- GNTO launches Greece’s new city break tourism promotion campaign.
The Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE) sends a letter to Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias and calls for the government to revise Covid-19 health protocols and facilitate travel ahead of the tourism season.
Greece now allows standing customers at bars, clubs and cafes and a 50 percent capacity at sports events.
Greek Health Minister Thanos Plevris announces that the government is planning to lift Covid-19 measures by the end of March but only for those who are vaccinated.
- The European Council advises EU countries to allow non-essential travel for citizens of third countries who have been vaccinated against Covid-19, as well as for recovered persons, as of March 1.
- Member states of the European Union are now able to issue Covid-19 recovery certificates also based on positive rapid antigen test results.
The month of March begins with Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias stating in interviews that the government is planning to simplify the Covid-19 rules and health protocols that travelers need to follow to enter and stay in Greece.
Soon it is announced that tourist bus capacity will increase to 100% and that travelers visiting Greece will no longer be required to fill in a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) form as of March 15.
Greece’s Covid committee of health experts recommend for the mandatory requirement of mask-wearing outdoors in the country to be lifted from March 5.
Travelers visiting Greece will no longer be required to fill in a PLF form as of March 15, according to an updated aviation directive announced by the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA).
Greek authorities have announced that capacity measures on ferries to the Greek islands, taken due to the Covid-19 pandemic, will be lifted.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and ACI Europe, the trade association of Europe’s airports, sent an official letter to Greek ministers urging for the government to take further steps and lift all health-related travel restrictions in Greece ahead of the summer season.
The Council of the European Union has agreed to extend the validity of the EU Digital COVID Certificate beyond 30 June 2022.
Greece’s tourism industry is slowly but steadily recouping losses incurred by the Covid-19 pandemic, according to data recorded in a special 2021 report released by INSETE, the Greek Tourism Confederation’s (SETE) research body.
From March 15 travelers from abroad to Greece will no longer be required to fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) before their trip.
The Greek government has announced a new set of Covid-19 health protocols to be followed by hotels in Greece this year.
An IATA survey on Covid-19 travel restrictions for the world’s top 50 markets (comprising 88 percent of international demand in 2019) reveals the growing access for travel available to the vaccinated.
The European Commission adopted a mechanism to revoke fraudulent or erroneous EU Digital COVID Certificates. Under the measure, once a certificate is revoked in one Member State, it will also show as invalid in other Member States.
Greece will stop fining seniors who have not been vaccinated starting April 15, said Health Minister Thanos Plevris, adding that the measure may be reinstated in September when a new wave of Covid-19 is expected.
European Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders called for Member States of the European Union to lift the last remaining travel restrictions within the bloc.
The Greek government announced that the “Syn-ergasia” employment support tool will once again be extended until May 31. The measure has been in force since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic to protect jobs and keep affected companies above water.
Greek authorities have extended the voucher period for canceled trips due to Covid-19 to June 30, 2022 in Law 4917/2022 (published in the Government Gazette – ΦΕΚ Α 67/31.03.2022).
After two years of disruption for the travel and tourism sector with constantly changing restrictions, Covid-19 seems to be easing.
Until recently the outlook was good for travel and the word “recovery” was being mentioned more and more.
Then the Russia-Ukraine conflict happened.
The sector is now monitoring developments.
Greek health authorities announced that Covid-19 measures would remain as is through to the end of the month and that the possibility of a fourth booster shot for the whole population was under consideration.
The Greek government has harmonized Greece’s domestic validity period of Covid-19 vaccination and recovery certificates with the validity period set at EU level.
According to a joint ministerial decision (Δ1α/ΓΠ.οικ.18959/02.04.2022 – ΦΕΚ Β 1547), the two-dose vaccination certificates are now valid in Greece for 9 months (270 days) and there is no time limit for those who have received a booster shot. Recovery certificates are now valid for 6 months (180 days) in Greece.
The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) issued an update to the Covid-19 aviation directive (NOTAM) that concerns the requirement for passengers traveling with vaccination and recovery certificates to board domestic flights.
Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias tweeted that he tested positive for Covid-19 and will work remotely.
Greek Health Minister Thanos Plevris announced that Covid-19 vaccination and recovery certificates would no longer be required as of May 1 as part of government efforts to ease pandemic-related restrictions after Greek Easter and ahead of summer. He was quick to point out, however, that the measure is temporary.
Greece’s full plan to deal with Covid-19 from May into the summer has been announced and includes the suspension of Covid-19 vaccination and recovery certificates for entrance into restaurants and cafes; all venues operating at full capacity (100 percent); and the scrapping of the mandatory mask-wearing measure as of June 1.
Greeks will celebrate Easter with Covid-19 measures, weeks before vaccination certificates and masks are dropped for the summer tourism period.
Greece’s tourism sector managed to cover lost ground and regain momentum in 2021 achieving a 143.2% rise in travel receipts for the year over 2020, driven by a 105.9% increase in the number of international arrivals, the Bank of Greece reports.
The rules that must be followed by travelers arriving in Greece on international flights have been extended until May 1.
The Greek government stops the measure of remote work/telework for staff in both public and private sectors. All public services and private companies now operate with 100% of their staff. The measure of staggered shifts (employees start work at different times) has also been scrapped. Both measures were introduced during the Covid-19 lockdown period and were extended a number of times as the pandemic continued.
Greece is entering a new phase of the Covid-19 pandemic as the number of coronavirus cases and hospitalizations drop, Greek Health Minister Thanos Plevris told a press briefing.
As of May 1, travelers coming to Greece will no longer be required to show a Covid-19 vaccination certificate, recovery certificate or test to enter the country. Masks still must be worn at all times at the arrival and departure areas inside airports, as well as during all domestic and international flights.
Although Greece has lifted all Covid-19 restrictions for domestic and international flights, the mask mandate for indoor areas of airports and while on flights is still in force.
EASA and ECDC have updated the health measures for air travel, dropping the recommendation for mandatory mask-wearing in airports and on flights. However, rules for masks will vary by airline beyond May 16. It is noted that Greece has not made an announcement regarding masks in airports or on board flights.
The Greek government announced that face masks will no longer be required for indoor spaces between June 1 – September 15.
Under the revised guidelines, as of June 1, masks will no longer be mandatory in means of transport with numbered seats including airplanes, intercity trains and KTEL buses.
Masks will also not be necessary in indoor areas including supermarkets, restaurants, shops, malls, hair salons etc.
Although Greeks will no longer be required to wear face masks, Health Minister Thanos Plevris reiterated that the decision was temporary and that come fall, Covid-19 measures may be re-introduced should the pandemic developments require.
People in Greece will still have to wear facemasks inside ferries and taxis, according to a decision by the country’s Covid-19 committee of experts.
The Biden administration announced that it will lift its requirement that international travelers must test negative for Covid-19 within a day before boarding a flight to the United States.
The European Council announced that the regulation establishing the EU Digital COVID Certificate will be prolonged by one year, until 30 June 2023.
Greek Heath Minister Thanos Plevris ruled out the possibility of new measures to deal with the increasing number of Covid-19 cases in Greece. “All models we are using do not indicate dynamics that will put pressure on the health system so that we will need to take measures,” said Plevris, adding that data will be re-examined in September and a new action plan announced then, which “may or may not require many or no measures”.
Greece and Europe ushered in summer this week with a surge in Covid-19 cases and a warning by the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) that Omicron subvariants may lead to an increase in hospitalizations and deaths.
Greece may re-introduce restrictions and measures to address Covid-19 in the fall “if necessary”, said the Health Ministry, in view of a surge in positive cases and repeat infections.
The European Council approved rules that allow the extension to June 2023 of the EU Digital Covid Certificate, which serves as proof that a person has been vaccinated against Covid-19, received a negative test result or recovered from the coronavirus in the past six months.
Greece appears to have entered a new wave of Covid dominated by the fast-spreading ΒΑ4 and ΒΑ5 strains. Health experts are considering to bring the mask rule back into effect as the number of Covid-19 cases are spiking and the viral load is increasing.
Tourists to Greece who find themselves infected with Covid-19 will not be required to quarantine, according to a government decision concerning health protocols.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) issued a recommendation for people between the ages of 60 and 79 years and medically vulnerable populations to get the second booster dose of Covid-19 vaccines this summer and in the upcoming autumn and winter seasons.
Sixteen major European airlines confirmed that they reimbursed over 500,000 flight vouchers that they had imposed on consumers for cancelled flights during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Greek Health Ministry announced that an action plan to address a recurrence of Covid-19 was ready and would be implemented in the fall should the need arise.
There will be no need for Covid-19 measures in the fall, said Greek Health Minister Thanos Plevris, after assessment of epidemiological data. “We have treatment protocols, a vaccinated population, variants and antiviral drugs. This comprehensive combination allows us to be optimistic that we will not return to mandatory measures and restrictions,” he said.
Greek health experts re-examine the possibility of bringing back mandatory face masks in view of an imminent wave of Covid-19 and potential new strains.
Covid-19 vaccination certificates will most likely not be needed again, Greek Deputy Health Minister Mina Gaga said. “I think that from now on the coronavirus is turning into some kind of flu and this is seen internationally,” she said.
The European Commission proposed measures in order for Member States to avoid a surge of Covid-19 cases in the upcoming autumn and winter season. As highlighted by the Commission, the Covid-19 summer wave, driven by Omicron BA.4 and BA.5, showed that “the pandemic is not yet over” as the virus continues to circulate in Europe and beyond.
The recovery in air travel continued its strong performance in July, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said with its director general, Willie Walsh, commenting that some markets even approached pre-COVID levels.
Vaccinations with the latest booster shot against Covid-19 began on September 14 in Greece for priority groups with the country’s expert committee also approving the 5th dose for people aged 30-59.
Greece’s Health Ministry is concerned about a new wave of Covid-19 expected in the coming months but remains optimistic that it won’t put pressure on the public health system. “We’re not finished with the pandemic. It’s still here,” said Greek Health Minister Thanos Plevris.
City destinations worldwide are winning over travelers once again after a slowdown due to Covid-19, found the latest WTTC report released during the 22nd World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit in Riyadh.
The European Council adopted updated recommendations on travel to the European Union and on facilitating free movement in the EU during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) signed a new agreement to support the use of evidence-informed and risk-based approaches to international travel, both in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic and other potential public health emergencies.