European Tourism Updates for Summer 2021

For over a year, European borders have been closed for all nonessential travel. For many Americans, this led to cancelling or postponing international travel as countries around the globe struggled to control the Covid-19 virus. With tourism to Europe being a major contributor to local economies across the European Union, opening its borders to international travelers has been top of mind with encouraging vaccination news and peak tourism season right around the corner. On Sunday, April 26, 2021, the New York Times interviewed Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission who confirmed talks are ongoing about opening up tourism to vaccinated American tourists. Find more information from the interview below.

Why European Borders may be Open for American Tourists this Summer

The global pandemic has had a lasting impact on the world that will be felt for years and potentially decades to come. Although the Coronavirus continues to spread across the globe, there has been some progress seen, that has many European countries anxious to welcome tourists in fear another year of closed borders could be detrimental for their local economies. The latest news that has European leaders debating re-opening their borders, has been centered around the progress seen with vaccinations in the US and a belief that the United States can reach herd immunity if 70% of the population is vaccinated by mid-June this year.

Quotes from Ursula von der Leyen in the New York Times Article by Matina Stevis-Gridneff include:

“The Americans, as far as I can see, use European Medicines Agency-approved vaccines,” Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, said Sunday in an interview with The Times in Brussels. “This will enable free movement and the travel to the European Union...Because one thing is clear: All 27 member states will accept, unconditionally, all those who are vaccinated with vaccines that are approved by E.M.A." The article continued, "She noted that the United States was “on track” and making “huge progress” with its campaign to reach so-called herd immunity, or the vaccination of 70 percent of adults, by mid-June." The article continued to say that it is likely tourists would need to have proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test prior to entering the country.

Find the full NY times article.

Greece is currently welcoming US tourists who have been vaccinated or can provide a negative coronavirus test within three days of their flight.

Other Countries in Europe Welcoming American Tourists

Book your Rental Car with Auto Europe

Even with European borders opening many will be hesitant to travel. If you are planning to travel be sure to book your rental car early. With travel plummeting last year, many car rental companies were forced to reduce the size of their fleet. Book your rental car in Europe early to be sure you get the ideal vehicle and pick-up location for your trip.