As the summer months drew European countries open to American visitors, offering them the chance to fulfill pandemic dreams of gelato in Italy or exploring Parisian art museums, the season’s end has ushered in new restrictions, causing many borders to tighten.

This shift has led to various European nations updating their travel policies for Americans, with some even barring U.S. travelers entirely. The result has been significant confusion, especially for those planning trips to Europe in the near future.

Here’s an overview of the latest restrictions and their implications for American tourists:

Can Americans Still Travel to Europe?

Yes, Americans can still travel to Europe. However, a few countries, including Bulgaria, Norway, and Sweden, have imposed restrictions on all nonessential U.S. arrivals. While Greece has stated it will not impose new travel restrictions soon, it is likely that unvaccinated Americans will face increasing restrictions in the coming weeks.

What Are the New EU Guidelines?

The EU has issued non-binding recommendations, meaning there is no continent-wide rule. Each country can choose to adopt or ignore these guidelines according to their preferences. Given the importance of U.S. tourists to Europe’s tourism industry, many countries may be reluctant to impose severe restrictions.

What Do the New EU Guidelines Mean for American Travelers?

Navigating travel to Europe is becoming more complex, with increased paperwork, uncertainty, and the need for diligent research. Travelers should check their eligibility before departure. Airlines may conduct checks before boarding, but they are not obligated to verify travel requirements before selling tickets. It’s crucial to stay updated with the latest information from sources like CNN Travel’s Unlocking the World guides or the U.S. embassy in the destination country, as rules can change on short notice.

Which Countries Are Open to Americans?

Currently, fully vaccinated Americans can visit countries such as Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, and many others. However, entry requirements vary:

• France: No travel restrictions for fully vaccinated Americans.
• Italy: Requires a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours before arrival.
• Netherlands: Imposes a mandatory 10-day quarantine for fully vaccinated travelers.
• Germany: Requires a negative Covid test result before entry.

The United Kingdom, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland are also open to fully vaccinated Americans, though specific entry requirements may apply.

Is Traveling to Europe Safe?

No travel is completely risk-free during the pandemic, even for vaccinated individuals. Adhering to safety measures like mask-wearing and social distancing can reduce risk. Statistically, many Western European countries have lower Covid rates than the U.S., but vigilance is still necessary, particularly in Covid hotspots.

Are More Countries Likely to Close Their Borders?

It remains uncertain. The recent changes are in response to high Covid case numbers in the U.S., particularly due to the Delta variant. With colder months approaching, which may increase transmission, more restrictions could be likely.

What Should I Do If I’ve Already Booked a Trip to Europe?

If you’ve booked a trip to a country currently open to Americans, you should be able to travel as long as you adhere to the entry requirements. If restrictions change, many hotels and airlines may offer refunds or adjustments, especially if booked directly. However, there is still a risk of incurring costs.

Luis Araujo, President of the European Travel Commission, emphasizes that U.S. travelers remain a priority for Europe despite evolving restrictions. He advises travelers to continue planning their trips while keeping an eye on the latest travel rules and cancellation policies.

Should I Plan Future Travel to Europe?

Given the current uncertainty, booking future travel involves risks, including potential changes or cancellations. If you seek a stress-free travel experience, it might be best to hold off. However, Araujo encourages travelers to keep planning their European trips while staying updated on travel guidelines. Checking resources like the Reopen EU website and national tourism offices will provide the latest information on entry requirements and health measures.

Which European Countries Have Banned Unvaccinated U.S. Travelers?

Countries such as Denmark, Finland, France, Latvia, Malta, Netherlands, and Spain have banned nonessential travel for unvaccinated U.S. visitors. Bulgaria, Norway, and Sweden have barred all nonessential American travelers regardless of vaccination status.

Which Vaccinations Are Accepted in Europe?

To be considered fully vaccinated, travelers must have received a complete dose of vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA)—Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, or Janssen—at least two weeks before travel.

Can Unvaccinated Children Travel to Europe?

Unvaccinated children under 12 can travel with vaccinated adults to countries allowing U.S. visitors. However, some countries may require a negative Covid test for children under 12, while those aged 12 to 18 must follow the same rules as adults. It’s important to verify specific requirements for each destination.

In conclusion, as the situation continues to evolve, travelers should remain vigilant and flexible with their plans. The ongoing pandemic means that travel regulations can shift rapidly, so staying informed and adaptable will help ensure a smoother travel experience. By keeping up with the latest guidelines and preparing accordingly, American tourists can still enjoy European destinations while navigating the complexities of current travel restrictions.