European

Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-biggest city, offers plenty of surprises, as I found out during a trip to the city in May

Wandering through the streets of a lesser-known European city that days earlier I knew very little about, a piece of street art featuring three grandmas wearing reflective sunglasses caught my eye.

‘Silence, please!’ was the clear instruction accompanying the mural as, full of curiosity and intrigue, I tentatively stepped inside the entrance of a colourfully-painted courtyard of apartments to take a peek.

I saw a couple of tourists grabbing phones from their coat pockets, working their way around the vibrant little snicket and snapping photos. A small but exciting place to stumble upon, it felt like something of a hidden secret.

And one I came across in Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-biggest city. It is a place that has long lived in the shadow of its postcard-pretty capital Vilnius, located an 80-minute drive away, but one full of little surprises.

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Between the wars, while Vilnius was under Polish control, Kaunas was the country’s temporary capital. In that time, it found itself producing one of Europe’s richest collections of architecture, which was recognised by UNESCO in 2023.

As I wandered through the confines of the Yard Gallery, I soon realised Kaunas was worthy of far more than just a quick stop-off. It has a creative soul I had not encountered in many other places during my travels.

The free-to-enter open-air street display was started by artist Vytenis Jakas who, having noticed some had become alienated, wanted a way to bring neighbours together and commemorate the lives of former Jewish residents.

Walls bloom with street art, with the powerful words of John Lennon’s Imagine immortalised on one, and a giant elephant and seagull stopping you in your tracks on another. There are more understated features, like mirror mosaics, stained-glass windows, and photograph memorials to past residents. It felt distinctly lived in, with cars parked outside, refuse bins and clothes lines draped around the murals.

My stop in Kaunas being fleeting, it was time to join Lithuania Travel and visit one of the country’s oldest and largest art museums, M.K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art, devoted to the local genius.

I explored the cosmic and dreamscape-like fantasy world of the artist and composer’s sounds and images, which told the story of his more than 300 paintings and 400 musical compositions.

The Trail of Angels virtual reality experience was an unexpected pleasure. Via a headset, I found myself immersed in the paintings, swirling around on a fully-rotating chair, floating through symbolic forests. What felt gimmicky on paper beforehand proved to be unexpectedly moving and peaceful.

It is not just art, but food, which has a firm place in the city’s creative ambitions.

I took a stroll along the length of Liberty Avenue, Kaunas’ most prominent and longest pedestrian street, flanked with trees, shops and cafes, and the awe-inspiring neo-Byzantine Catholic Church of St Michael the Archangel.

In the church’s shadow is Sija, a barely five-month-old restaurant which is set to have its food featured in the Michelin Guide – despite its infancy and only having four members of staff.

Inside, I met owner and chef Rakas Vasiliauskas and partner Greta Rutkauskaite, whose vision is to celebrate exclusively Lithuanian cuisine.

So much so, even lemon, pepper and oil are omitted. I tried a trout, presented with cucumbers, kefir and purple potato. A particularly tasty dish that showcased the best of local ingredients without the typical theatrical fuss.

Elsewhere, DIA restaurant left a lasting impression with its luxurious decor, mirrored ceilings and a full-blown tree acting as a centrepiece to one table. But its food was even more memorable.

Lamb, accompanied by pea-mint puree, cuttlefish tuile, chicken jus, pea pods, baby carrots and baby potatoes, came together to create an exquisite dining experience I will not forget in a hurry.

There is a feel of history and reinvention in Kaunas, with every restored facade or repurposed courtyard offering a frequent reminder of where it has been and where it is going. It is perhaps the mural of the sunglasses-wearing grans which captures the spirit of the city most, acting as a symbol for a place which has endured, adapted and emerged with its sense of humour and style still intact.

Book it

UK flights from London Luton Airport to Kaunas with Wizz Air start at £19.99 per person.

United States President Donald Trump has announced plans to deploy an additional 5,000 troops to Poland.

Trump announced the surprise deployment on social media late on Thursday, citing his friendship with right-wing Polish President Karol Nawrocki.

The move came days after a planned deployment to Poland was apparently scrapped and will deepen uncertainty surrounding the Trump administration’s approach to NATO allies and its long-term commitment to maintaining a military presence in Europe. It leaves European partners increasingly unclear about which areas they should prioritise as they formulate defence strategies.

“Based on the successful Election of the now President ⁠of Poland, Karol Nawrocki, who I was proud to Endorse, and our relationship with him, I am pleased to announce that the United States will be sending an additional 5,000 Troops to Poland,” Trump wrote.

Nawrocki welcomed the announcement on social media.

“Good alliances are those based on cooperation, mutual respect, and a commitment to our shared ‌security,” he wrote on Thursday evening.

Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski also welcomed the news on Friday, saying it ensures that “the presence of American troops in Poland will be maintained more or less at previous levels”.

About-face

The announced deployment is a sudden about-face from US declarations of plans to reduce military support to Europe under Trump’s “America First” doctrine.

The US president has for years been lambasting European NATO partners for failing to spend enough on defence. His opprobrium has risen in recent weeks as European states have criticised the US-Israeli war on Iran and refused to join the conflict.

The Pentagon abruptly announced a week ago that it was scrapping the planned deployment of 4,000 troops to Poland.

Earlier this month, Trump announced he was withdrawing 5,000 troops from Germany following a spat with Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who said Washington had been “humiliated” by Iranian negotiators.

The US president later said that he would be “cutting a lot further than 5,000”.

Polish officials have noted that Warsaw pays significant sums towards the cost of US troop deployments. The suggestion of a pullback has caused concern over security in Poland and elsewhere in Europe, as Russia’s war on neighbouring Ukraine continues, with the Trump administration largely ceasing efforts to mediate a ceasefire.

European states report that they are getting to grips with the need to replace US defence capabilities, albeit slowly. However, sources suggest that the erratic policies emerging from the White House are creating confusion over which elements should be prioritised.

“It is confusing indeed, and not always easy to navigate,” Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard told reporters ahead of hosting a meeting of NATO foreign ministers on Friday, which will be attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

US defence officials are also confused, according to the AP news agency.

“We just spent the better part of two weeks reacting to the first announcement. We don’t know what this means either,” said one official.

‘America First’

The US president has lashed out at fellow NATO members in recent months for failing to support the US-Israeli war on Iran, suggesting Washington could withdraw from the military alliance as a result.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said Rubio would discuss the need for NATO allies to increase defence spending and shoulder greater responsibility at Friday’s meeting of NATO foreign ministers.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who has worked hard in recent months to attempt to soothe the US president’s displeasure with his alliance peers, welcomed Trump’s deployment to Poland and cautioned that Europe must become less reliant on the US.

Rubio said before meeting his NATO counterparts in Sweden: “Like any alliance, it ⁠has to be good ⁠for everyone who’s involved. There has to be a clear ⁠understanding of what the expectations are.” ⁠

He also suggested, however, that the meeting is likely to prove less than comfortable.

“The president’s views, frankly disappointment, at some of our NATO allies and their response to our operations in the Middle East – they’re well documented – that will have to be addressed,” he insisted, before adding “that won’t be solved or addressed today”.

While Rubio meets with NATO counterparts, senior Pentagon officials will brief partners at the alliance’s headquarters in Brussels about Washington’s commitment to European defence.

On Tuesday, the Pentagon announced it plans to reduce the number of combat brigades based in Europe from four to three.

Many of Washington’s allies in Europe remain frustrated with Trump’s handling of the war with Iran, which has damaged their economies and prompted some European leaders to question the reliability of the US.

European NATO countries also remain concerned about Trump’s threats to annex Greenland, which is an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, a NATO ally.

It remains unclear whether the deployment to Poland announced on Thursday includes the same soldiers as those the Pentagon said would no longer be deployed to the Central European country, or if they will include redeployments from Germany.

OUR Spotlight On column takes an in-depth look at the best things to see and do in popular holiday destinations, as well as shining a light on the lesser-known spots.

This week we’re heading to Vilnius in Lithuania, and Travel Reporter Alice Penwill recently visited.

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill recently visited and was stunned by how cheap it was.

She said: “Eating and drinking out is such a bargain, so it makes for an insanely affordable European weekend break.

“I found bars serving beer for around £2.60, and coffee for just a few quid.

“Even cocktails like Aperol Spritzes were under a fiver – and make sure to soak it up with some ‘kepta douna’ (a local garlic fried bread that’s a popular bar snack).”

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MUST SEE / DO

Yes, Vilnius has one of Europe’s oldest and best-preserved medieval Old Towns but it’s quickly gaining a reputation as a capital of cool.

With a thriving arts scene and a vibrant coffee shop culture, it’s a great value option for a weekend break with beers from £3.50 and a traditional lunch for under £9.

It’s also just 15 minutes from the airport to the city centre.

While there’s history and amazing architecture aplenty in the Old Town, cross Vilnele River to enter the self-declared ‘Republic’ of Uzupis.

This bohemian neighbourhood has its own constitution, president, currency and anthem celebrating free spirit, art and community with lots of cafes, galleries and bars.

Don’t miss Literatų Gatvė (Literature Street), a winding alleyway decorated with more than 200 small pieces of art dedicated to famous writers.

HIDDEN GEM

Lukiškės Prison 2.0 has seen a high security prison that doubled as a filming location for the Netflix smash Stranger Things transformed into a museum and arts venue.

There are more than 250 creators working in the repurposed former cells. Take a tour to find out about its grim history then stay for a gig or a drink in the courtyard in the evening.

BEST VIEW

Take in the Old Town’s unique red-tiled roofs, church spires and narrow streets from 14th Century Gediminas Tower.

Set at the top of Gediminas Hill, it houses an interactive exhibition. Also great for panoramic views is the Hill of Three Crosses.

RATED RESTAURANT

You can’t go to Vilnius and not try its legendary Pink Soup – a cold beetroot soup.

The traditional dish is so popular there’s even an Pink Soup Festival with themed food, music and festivities to kick off summer.

This year it runs from May 29 to 31.

And you can try the soup at any time of year at Lokys in the Old Town where a bowl costs £7.50 and comes with baby potatoes.

BEST BAR

For sheer quirkiness, check out Peronas Bar, literally next to the tracks at the main train station and great for live music – don’t miss the giant statue of Tony Soprano by the al-fresco tables!

For pint professionals, head to Alaus Biblioteka – an actual Beer Library where there are 60 styles of beer with 17 beer taps and almost 500 bottled beers from around the world.

HOTEL PICK

The 4* Neringa Hotel has a great combination of historic vibes and modern touches.

Freshly revamped, there’s a restaurant and rooftop bar to admire the views and you’re within walking distance of all the main sights.

Rooms are very Scandi-chic and prices are keen.

Three nights’ room-only is from £240pp including flights from Stansted in June. See onthebeach.co.uk.

Mountains and fjords in Norway

I travelled across Norway by rail on the spectacular Bergensbanen, running between Oslo and Bergen, and the unforgettable Flåmsbana branch line. The Bergensbanen crosses the high mountain plateau of Hardangervidda, passing lakes, forests and snow‑covered peaks before descending toward the fjords of western Norway. At Myrdal, I transferred on to the steep Flåmsbana, which drops dramatically to Flåm on the Aurlandsfjord, with waterfalls and sheer-sided valleys at every turn.
Daniel

Charmed by the Vienna to Zagreb train

The journey from Vienna to Zagreb saw mountainous central Europe relax into Balkan charm. Stunning Alpine scenery melted into forest, settling down into rolling hills as we passed through Graz and reached the Slovene border, stopping for an hour’s changeover at the tiny Zidani Most station, where we enjoyed afternoon beers gazing over lush Slovenian countryside. The connection to Zagreb boasted dramatic lake scenery that gave way to farm land, golden in evening light, as we passed into Croatia, soon rattling into its underrated capital. We booked this through Omio, which came in relatively cheaply at £41.
Matt

Vintage locomotives in Tuscany

We took the Treno Natura from Siena last May for a whole day out in the beautiful Tuscan countryside. It’s a real steam engine with classic coaches. Most passengers were friendly locals: we only encountered two other foreign tourists, a Swiss couple. A band came aboard to entertain us, and an optional walk through vineyards was also available. Fabulous value at only €42 each.
Nigel Gould

Historic gem in Brandenburg, Germany

I took the RB26 train from Berlin-Lichtenberg to Müncheberg (45 mins) and changed for the Buckower Kleinbahn historic narrow-gauge train that runs from April to October. Opened in 1930 as an early electric railway, it closed as a regular service in the late 1990s. It is now volunteers who run the line that takes you through the rolling hills of the Märkische Schweiz in Brandenburg to the pretty spa town of Buckow. Here, I visited the residence of Bertolt Brecht and Helene Weigel on the peaceful reedy shores of Lake Schermützel, and then relaxed on the beach after a hike through the woodlands. I returned refreshed to the Berlin bustle.
Rachael

Alpine beauty on the Montreux to Interlaken line

From Montreux station I took the MOB railway to Interlaken. Weaving up through vineyards, Lac Léman shimmers below as the panorama broadens. Suddenly, you’re in pine forests and glimpsing jagged mountain crests. Bridges straddle rushing white water. The clanging and hooting warnings for road crossings. A long tunnel. Then burst into alpine pastures peppered with chalets. Le Pays d’Enhaut. Valleys filled with crisp air, summer cowbells, flowers and crickets – perfect for long walks. Or winter-snow-muffled land, all skis and fondues. Arriving in Château-d’Œx feels like discovering a new world.
Christian Vassie

Slow travel at its best: Belgrade to Bar

The train trip from Belgrade to Bar must be one of the slowest in Europe, taking 11 hours to cover 296 miles. At €23, it was probably the best-value travel money I’ve ever spent. In fact, the train trip was about the only time in my life when I longed for a journey to go slower rather than faster. It took me through some of the most dramatic scenery I’ve ever seen. Passing through deep gorges, canyons and mountain peaks, the train crossed more than 400 bridges and seemed to stop at every village. The Mala Rijeka viaduct was a highlight. The route took in spectacular dams, ancient monasteries and stone houses where old black-clad women waved at us from open kitchen windows. At one point, the passengers got out to feed a herd of goats and once we were overtaken by a mountain cowboy on a galloping horse. For the last part, you can see swimmers and sunbathers on Adriatic beaches.
Peter

Through Italy’s Apennines to Rome from the Adriatic

The cross-country east-west train trip from Pescara on the Adriatic to Rome is magnificent. It traverses the spine of Italy, single track all the way across the Apennines, stopping at towns such as Sulmona and Avezzano. The scenery changes as the route traverses mountain passes and ridiculous gradients before descending to plains over a period of 3 to 4 hours.
Stephen

The watchmakers’ railway in France and Switzerland

When time is not important, a little-known French railway line allows you to enter Switzerland through the valley of the watchmakers. The line from Besançon in France drifts through the beautiful Jura foothills, and on to Le Locle, a town at the centre of the Swiss watchmaking industry since the 1600s, terminating at La-Chaux-de-Fonds. No one got on or off at L’Hôpital-du-Grosbois, a byway station named after a leprosy hospital. At Morteau, the French border station, the douanes (customs officials) seemingly left a long time ago. A line that Dr Beeching would have closed still delivers you into Switzerland “on time”.
Martin

Best way to see the Pyrenees? On a little yellow train

Le Train Jaune runs between Villefranche-de-Conflent and Latour-de-Carol in France. Le Canari, as it’s known locally, climbs to 1,595 metres at Bolquère-Eyne during its spectacular 40-mile (63km) route. Fresh mountain air, breathtaking views and valley-crossing suspension bridges can all be experienced either from the train’s bright yellow open-air wagons or from within the cosy comfort of its carriages. It is the best way to discover the wonders of the Pyrenees. My wife and I went for our honeymoon and fell in love with the little yellow train.
Joe Brownen

Winning tip: urban drama on the Porto metro

A controversial choice, perhaps, but I love the surprise of urban rail. Porto’s metro D line heading south probably tops the list for the fact it emerges dramatically from the darkness of the underground to suddenly skim rooftops and then rattles across the fantastic Eiffel-inspired Dom Luís I bridge (it was completed in 1886 by Théophile Seyrig, a former partner of Gustave Eiffel). Choosing to walk back across the metal deck is a completely different experience.
Amy

FOR cheap all-inclusive holidays, one destination in Europe has just been revealed as most affordable spot for summer this year.

TravelSupermarket has found that one spot along the Bulgarian coastline that’s the ideal for spot families with pretty beaches and hotels with aqua parks.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Making a change for 2026, TravelSupermarket has totted up the prices and found that Bulgaria has knocked Tunisia off its perch for cheapest destinations this summer.

A week in the Bourgas Area averages out at just £553per person.

The Bourgas Area is along the Black Sea coast in southeastern Bulgaria – and a few places might be familiar to Brits.

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The major city of the region is Burgas, but most will recognise the name Sunny Beach.

It’s Bulgaria’s largest holiday resort with almost five miles of golden sandy coast and plenty of nightlife.

On TravelSupermarket, all-inclusive holidays to Sunny Beach in the week beginning June 15 cost as little as £249pp.

In July during the summer holidays, all-inclusive breaks increase to around £529pp.

One favourite spotted by Sun Travel is to the DIT Evrika Beach Club Hotel which is perfect for families with young children.

The hotel has multiple swimming pools and even an aqua park with flumes.

It has six bars, five restaurants and plenty of entertainment throughout the day and during the evening.

A seven-night all-inclusive break for a family of four departing on June 22 costs £562per person.

Other popular spots in the area include the historic town of Sozopol and Nessebar.

Nessebar is known for its history, seaside and charming cobblestone streets.

On the approach is The Windmill of Nessebar, which was built in the 19th century and is a symbol of the town’s rich maritime history.

Here, the average price of an ice cream is £1.20, a family meal is priced around £28, and a three course dinner for two costs just £22.

In a surprise change of events, Tunisia, which was last year’s number one cheapest destination has dropped out of the top 10 entirely.

Meanwhile Rhodes, Majorca and Dalaman are all cheaper than they were last summer, with savings of up to £91 per person.

The pretty island of Menorca takes second place at an average of £588 per person, with Turkey‘s Bodrum Area close behind in third at £591.

Turkey‘s Antalya Area follows in fourth at £604, and Greek favourite Rhodes rounds out the top five at £608 per person.

Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “Bulgaria taking the crown this year is a real moment. The Bourgas Area — home to Sunny Beach and Burgas — has long been one of the most affordable spots on the Black Sea, but seeing it leapfrog Tunisia to top the all-inclusive rankings shows just how much value it’s offering British holidaymakers right now.

“It’s also striking that Tunisia, which held the top two spots last summer, doesn’t make the top 10 this year — a reminder that the cheapest destinations can shift year on year.

“The good news for anyone heading back to old favourites is that Rhodes, Majorca and Dalaman are all still in the top ten, and are noticeably cheaper than they were last summer.”

TravelSupermarket analysed all-inclusive holidays between 1–20 April 2026 for trips departing May–September 2026, across all star ratings, durations and traveller groups.

A new survey from Booking.com has revealed three in five people going on holiday to Europe are concerned about the long delays from the EU’s new border checks

Three in five UK holidaymakers heading to Europe this year expect to be caught up in delays linked to the European Union’s new entry-exit system (EES).

Figures from a recent survey show that 59% of travellers believe they’ll be held up by the new system and fear they could miss their flights due to the border checks. EES involves people from third-party countries such as the UK having their fingerprints registered and photograph taken to enter the Schengen Area, which consists of 29 European countries, mainly in the EU.

For most UK travellers, the process is done at foreign airports. A poll commissioned by Booking.com revealed the worrying figures.

The representative body Airports Council International recently reporting that EES was causing delays of up to three hours, with airports in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy among the worst affected. Last month more than 100 easyJet passengers missed a flight from Milan Linate to Manchester as the border checks were ramped up at passport desks.

The survey indicated that 56% of UK travellers plan to arrive at airports earlier than usual in an attempt to avoid disruption, with 12% intending to arrive at least four hours before departure. More than half (52%) of respondents who have travelled to the EU since the introduction of EES said they experienced delays during their journey.

Meanwhile 43% said they were not delayed. Families and holidaymakers travelling to Europe during the May half-term break were told to make sure their passports are eligible for their dates and to keep items such as portable phone chargers and medication in their hand luggage.

Ryan Pearson, regional manager for the UK and Ireland at Booking.com, said: “May half-term is a key moment in the travel calendar, and we know many people are feeling anxious about how the new entry-exit system could impact their trip. We want to help travellers feel informed and prepared before they leave, whether that’s checking travel documents in advance or packing the right essentials in hand luggage in case of longer queues.

“Changes to the way we travel can understandably feel daunting, but we’re already seeing that many journeys are running smoothly. The key is preparation.”

Advantage Travel Partnership, a network of independent travel agents, reported earlier this month that demand for holidays in Greece has surged since the country revealed on April 17 it will not impose the requirements on UK travellers this summer. The south-eastern European country’s market share of UK holiday bookings rose from 7.7% in mid-April to 9.98% by the end of the month, Advantage Travel Partnership said.

EES was first introduced in October last year, with its roll out ramped up on April 10. EU rules currently allow the checks to be temporarily halted to avoid queues at peak periods.

IF you want to do the ‘best experience in the world’ you’ll be pleased to know it costs less than a fiver and a few mere hours from the UK.

A city tour of Portugal’s historic Porto has just become the number one thing to do, according to Tripadvisor.

Called The Unvanquished Tour in Porto City Center, the experience has just topped Tripadvisor’s ‘Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Things to Do‘.

Rates start from just £2.64per person and local guides take visitors through the city on a walking tour.

A description of the tour reads: “Dive into 2,000 years of history as you visit the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

“Led by a passionate guide, this tour provides valuable local insights and recommendations.”

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The tour begins at City Hall and heads through the city including stops at Avenida Dos Aliados, which is one of the largest avenues in Porto.

Another stop is at Livraria Lello, what’s considered one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world.

Igreja do Carmo, the narrowest house in Porto, is also on the itinerary as is Porto’s university.

Other stops include at the city gardens, Jewish quarter, train station, and the Dom Luis bridge.

The tour isn’t long either, taking two hours and 30-minutes with a maximum number of 25 people.

The awards are based on quality and quantity of reviews and ratings on Tripadvisor between February 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026.

On Tripadvisor, The Unvanquished Tour in Porto City Center has over 26,000 five-star reviews and it’s recommended by 99.9 per cent of travellers.

One reviewer wrote: “We had Diogo, and he was a fantastic tour guide, genuinely one of the best tours I have done. He gave us a lot of insight about Porto’s history, current situation, recommendations, and lots of jokes!”

Another said the tour was the “best way to see Porto”.

While the price of the tour is under £3, the experience does say “the price is flexible—pay what you think reflects your enjoyment” with tips “welcome and expected”.

Porto itself is Portugal‘s second-largest city that sits by the Douro River, and there’s so much to do outside of the tour too – especially when it comes to food and drink

Firstly, make sure to pick up a gooey pastel de nata which can be bought for as little as €1 (86p).

For savoury dishes, the region is known for its traditional food which includes bacalhau (salted cod fish).

And the Francesinha toasted sandwich which is layered with hot meats, cheeses and smothered in a rich beer sauce.

Of course, Porto is known for its Port production, having been making it since Roman times – and there are plenty of places to try a glass, or two.

One Sun Writer even tried out the Wine Experience which included a tasting and learning the grape-to-bottle process.

Porto is easy to explore on foot – but it also has the Gaia cable car which has incredible views over the city.

Other recommendations include a scenic train ride tour, and a booze cruise.

Here are Tripadvisor’s ‘Top Experiences in the World’

1. The Unvanquished Tour in Porto City Center, Porto, Portugal
2. Peaceful Hiroshima & Miyajima UNESCO 1 Day Bus Tour, Hiroshima, Japan
3. Barcelona in 1 Day: Sagrada Familia, Park Guell,Old Town & Pickup, Barcelona, Spain
4. Amsterdam All-Inclusive 90-Minutes Canal Cruise by Captain Jack, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
5. Beatles Magical Mystery Tour, Liverpool, United Kingdom
6. Berlin’s Best: 2 Hour Walking Tour Third Reich and the Cold War, Berlin, Germany
7. London Small Group Tour of Historical Pubs, London, United Kingdom
8. Classic 4-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco, Cusco, Peru
9. Krakow–Zakopane: Cable Car, Chocholow Baths, Cheese & Vodka, Krakow, Poland
10. Amanda Cruise – Ha Long, Lan Ha Bay – All Inclusive 2D1N & 3D2N, Hanoi, Vietnam

WAITING times in airports have increased since the introduction of EES – but one destinations has had travellers queueing for up to six hours.

Portugal is a beautiful country for a family break, but the lengthy queues mean that some are spending longer lining up in the airport than they do on the plane.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

EES delays and travel chaos have dominated the news, and some airports in Portugal in particular have passengers waiting in very long queues.

One travel blogger posted on Instagram: “Last week a family I advised landed in Lisbon and stood in line for 6 hours and 40 minutes. Their toddler slept on a suitcase. They missed their transfer to the Algarve.

“EES (the EU’s new biometric entry system) is now live. Faro processes 7x more summer traffic than its capacity. Luggage handlers are striking April through June. And the airport you choose to land in will define your first 24 hours in Portugal.”

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The flight time between the UK and Lisbon is up to three hours, so some British travellers are standing in the airport for longer than they’re on the plane.

Queues through Lisbon Airport have been causing frustration amongst many travellers.

One Brit wrote just yesterday on X: “Warning if you are flying to Portugal any time now, actually spent longer queuing than the actual flight, was a shambles with half the machines not working, and further queues to passport control.”

Another said leaving Lisbon Airport was the “one of the worst passport control experiences” with hours of waiting.

The EU’s EES (entry/ exit) system has increased the queuing time for inward and outward passengers by four and even five times as much, according to The Resident.

It’s not just Lisbon either; Faro Airport in the south is experiencing lengthy delays too with some saying that they’ve queued from the terminal to airside.

One big reason for the delays that Lisbon and Faro airports suffer from is caused by what’s called ‘bottlenecking’.

Essentially it’s airport congestion from when lots of flights land at the same time, or delays cause lots of passengers to be in one place at the same time.

They occur mostly at security checkpoints, passport control, boarding gates, and baggage handling areas resulting in lengthy queues.

One of our own Travel Reporters experienced the situation herself in Lanzarote when multiple flights landing at the same time ended up in a three-hour queue through the airport.

The queues have been getting so bad that airlines like Ryanair have even called for EES to be suspended until September – after the peak summer travel period.

While you can’t avoid EES queues, there are ways to make them less uncomfortable.

Make sure to check out our tips from where to sit on the plane to the best time to take a flight.

Travellers to the continent may soon be able to board a new direct route to Europe on Eurostar, removing the need to change trains and cutting the journey time by around two hours overall

Eurostar could soon offer a new direct route from London St Pancras to three European cities, offering a faster and easier way to get to central Europe.

The plans were unveiled in a press release by Eurostar, confirming that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) had been signed between Eurostar, SBB (Swiss Federal Railways), and French-operator SNCF Voyageurs to potentially offer a direct connection between London and Switzerland.

The move was described as “an important milestone” in the planning of the new route, which could see services from London to Zurich offered direct with a six hour travel time, direct trains to Basel taking five hours, and a route to Geneva which would take around five-and-a-half hours.

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Currently, passengers can book London to Switzerland trains with Eurostar, although this currently necessitates a change at Paris Gare du Nord, and means travelling across the city to Paris Gare De Lyon to get a connecting TGV train. Not only is this less convenient, as it means taking your luggage on the metro, it also adds an hour or more to most journey times between London and Switzerland.

Eurostar’s press release explained: “The signed MoU is an important milestone. The next step is to analyse potential timetables and operational concepts. Based on this, the key steps and milestones for the potential introduction of such a direct connection from London to Switzerland.

“The three partners aim to offer the potential direct connection to London as soon as possible and are continuously driving the project forward.”, adding: “Implementation would be feasible at the earliest sometime in the course of the 2030s.”

Eurostar currently offers direct trains from London St. Pancras to five destinations: Paris, Brussels, Lille, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam. However, passengers can book connecting trains to more than 20 destinations, including cities in Germany, Belgium, France, and the Netherlands.

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Eurostar has previously raised the possibility of running longer direct routes from London, with Marseille in the south of France and Milan in Italy mentioned among potential expansions of its rail routes.

It’s also announced that it has ordered up to 50 Celestia double-decker trains, which will be introduced onto its routes from May 2031, allowing it to offer increased capacity along popular routes. Eurostar also unveiled ambitious expansion plans last year for St Pancras International. The plans could allow the station to handle 5,000 passengers per hour by 2028.

By 2030, it’s expected that arrivals will be moved upstairs to increase capacity. At the time, Richard Thorp, chief operating officer at London St. Pancras Highspeed, said the station was ‘delighted’ to be joining forces with Eurostar to expand its capacity. “With growing passenger demand for international train travel, it is important that St. Pancras International station is future-proofed and optimised to accommodate this.”

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RYANAIR is axing MORE flights to Europe – hitting four popular airports this year.

The budget airline has confirmed that it would be closing its base at Thessaloniki as well as reducing flights at Athens.

Not only that, but off-season flights to Chania and Heraklion in Crete have been scrapped.

This means 700,000 fewer seats on sale this winter, working out to a 45 per cent reduction, and resulting in 12 routes being scrapped in total.

Ryanair has cited airport charges as the reason behind the reduction in flights, saying the airports are “no longer competitive” in the off peak season.

Ryanair’s Chief Commercial Officer, Jason McGuinness said they “regretted” the closures and reductions, but said it was because of the “failure to pass through the ADF reduction” unlike other airports in Greece.

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He added: ” The Fraport Greece monopoly have hiked airport charges +66% since 2019.

“Unfortunately, there will now be less low-cost air fares for Thessaloniki’s citizens and visitors, and year-round tourism will be harmed as a result.

“These aircraft will be reallocated to Albania, regional Italy and Sweden, where airports have passed on their Govt’s aviation tax savings – resulting in more connectivity, tourism and jobs this Winter in those regions.”

It comes as the budget airline axes millions of seats elsewhere in Europe.

Last summer, they airline confirmed two million seats across Spain would be scrapped, with all routes to Tenerife North, Santiago de Compostela, Vigo, Jerez and Valladolid cancelled.

And back in March, Ryanair cancelled all flights to The Azores, often dubbed the Hawaii of Europe.

EUROSTAR has taken the next step to launch trains to a new European country – for the first time ever.

A new agreement has been signed between the international train operator as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and French SNCF Voyageurs.

The agreement would allow direct trains between London and Switzerland, with “significant potential” for the route.

The journey would take about five hours from London to the city of Basel, with other cities slightly longer such as Geneva (5.5 hours) and Zurich (six hours).

London is currently the ‘no.1 flight destination’ for Switzerland, with airlines such as Swiss, British Airways and easyJet operating direct flights.

If the new direct trains go ahead, they are likely to launch by the 2030s, although a confirmed date is yet to be revealed.

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The current train route from the UK requires a change in Paris, with the whole journey taking around 7hr30.

It isn’t the only new route Eurostar is planning with other cities such as Frankfurt and Cologne in Germany.

Routes could even go as far as Milan in Italy.

Currently Eurostar operates trains to France (Paris and Lille) along with the Netherlands (Amsterdam and Rotterdam) and Brussels.

Virgin also confirmed last year that they would be launching rival trains to Europe, the first to do so alongside Eurostar.

Along with routes to the same destinations, they could also launch trains from Manchester and Birmingham, as well as restore routes from Ashford and Ebbsfleet.

AFTER my sixth glass of wine, the boat began to rock – the first time in three days I felt like I was on the water.

Cruising down France’s majestic River Loire on board CroisiEurope’s Loire Princesse, I had to put it down to my slightly tipsy state, as until then, the unique long, low vessel had drifted along peacefully for the entire voyage.

The ship has side-mounted paddle wheels and is designed to sail on France’s last wild river, known for its shallowness.

There’s a relaxed atmosphere on board, and unlike its ocean-going cousins, the Loire Princesse has a vibe that’s all about enjoying the slower pace   —   eating, drinking and snoozing as you pass through stunning scenery.

I joined the four-night Croisi-Europe sailing just a day after my 30th birthday and the gentle pace of the cruise was exactly what I needed after big celebrations back in London.

If you thought river cruises were for older folks you’d largely be right — I was the youngest person on board by about 20 years.

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But that is not to say it was sedate — there was an open bar and at dinner my glass was constantly topped up.

Servers eventually just left entire bottles of red on our table.

The Loire Princesse took us from Nantes to Saint-Nazaire on the west coast and back again.

And Nantes, the sixth largest French city, was a highlight of the trip.

Just an hour’s flight from London, it is the perfect weekend getaway destination, with all the charm of a French city without the bustle of Paris or the remoteness of Provence.

With clean, cobbled streets, Nantes is home to plenty of exiles from Paris looking for a cheaper, quieter life, and the city feels like a mini version of it.

From July to September, follow the Green Line, or Le Voyage à Nantes — literally painted on to the pavement, it leads you through the city to discover hidden street art, pop-up installations and all the best viewing points, without needing a map.

Another arty must-do is Les Machines de I’île — unique steampunk-like artistic projects inspired by the fantasy worlds of 19th-century writer Jules Verne, who was born in Nantes.

The Grand Elephant is a 40ft mechanical jumbo made of wood and steel that walks across the quay at the city’s former shipyards, trumpeting and spraying water at unsuspecting onlookers.

You can even ride inside it.

And you can admire Le Carrousel des Mondes Marins — a giant, three-storey carousel filled with mechanical sea monsters which you can operate yourself.

And I am sure you’ll be inspired to create something beautiful yourself after a tipple or two in the Loire Valley.

The region is home to its own variety of vino — Muscadet — grown at the western end of the valley.

Muscadet is a dry, crisp white and is currently going through a bit of a renaissance, so an opportunity to visit one of the world-class wineries in the region is an absolute must.

On my trip, there were three day-trip excursions from the cruise, one of which was included in the price of the voyage, the others costing around £68 each.

In one day-long excursion from the cruise we travelled south of Nantes to the beautiful vineyard of Cassemichere.

Rather dramatically, our guide told us how the vintner’s brother had died just three weeks earlier, after opening a tank and being poisoned by the carbon dioxide flowing out.

Like the bizarre plot of some twisted nursery rhyme, the poor man had then fallen into the wine.

But I didn’t let that put me off the tasting, and I can confirm that the white made at Cassemichere pairs well with seafood.

We also visited nearby Clisson, a medieval village known for its unique Italian-inspired architecture, with a charming river flowing through the middle of it.

Clisson is the kind of place they stick on the front of the tourist brochure — large trees hanging over the flowing water with an old bridge to cross it.

It was full of history as well, and with typical French frankness, our guide told us how, in the 18th century, women had been boiled at the castle during the Revolution.

On another day trip from the boat we visited two gorgeous chateaus in the centre of the Loire Valley.

The beautiful homes are now museums, with manicured gardens which were lovely to walk around on a blue-sky day.

Each day trip came with a three-course lunch and again, plenty of wine.

At the Chateau de Villandry — a world heritage site — we ate a beautiful chicken lunch in a spot where weddings are hosted.

After all that wine and food I was in desperate need of a nap when we got back to the boat.

Luckily for us, the rooms were cleaned every day, had a sizeable bathroom and were quiet.

Cabins on the upper deck have balconies, while those on the main deck have picture windows to watch the scenery glide by.

When it came to the evening’s festivities, an intercom in our room would call us to the lounge, where we would enjoy several pre-dinner drinks.

Then, in a nice touch by staff, we would have our dinner menu announced to us.

As with the included breakfast and lunch, dinner was an à-la-carte affair.

Think refined French comfort food — plenty taking inspiration from the surrounding Loire region, including fresh seafood and local cheeses.

And, of course, the wine flowed freely — particularly the Muscadet, which was available every night with whatever dish.

In summer months, the ship’s sun deck with its deck chairs and sun loungers is the perfect place to enjoy another cheeky glass while soaking up the sun.

With its access to stunning cities and chateaus, fine food and wine, river cruises don’t only appeal to the older lot on board.

From now on I am a convert too — and got the boat rocking!

Players’ union challenge French state’s failure to protect professional footballers from the health and safety risks.

Football players’ union ‌FIFPRO is hailing a “landmark” legal win after a European rights ⁠body agreed to ⁠investigate whether the French state failed to uphold labour standards for professional footballers.

The unanimous decision by the European Committee of Social Rights in March marks the first time a players’ union has successfully advanced a collective complaint under the European Social Charter. It paves the way for ⁠an investigation into whether France has failed to ensure proper working conditions for professional players, including minors.

FIFPRO described the heart of the dispute as the French state’s failure to protect professional footballers from the health and safety risks posed ‌by a congested and expanding international match calendar, which it argues is driven by FIFA’s unilateral decisions on competition formats.

The inaugural edition of a rebranded and expanded FIFA Club World Cup came in for particular criticism from across the game when it was staged last year.

The French government had sought to have the case dismissed, arguing that any alleged labour violations were the responsibility of private sports bodies, such as FIFA or the French Football Federation, rather than the state.

The Committee rejected that objection, ⁠affirming that national governments remain legally responsible for ensuring ⁠fundamental workers’ rights are upheld within their jurisdictions, regardless of whether a private entity manages the industry.

FIFPRO Europe, which is supporting the French National Union of Professional Footballers (UNFP) in the ⁠case, described the decision as a “signal case” for the industry.

It added that the complaint highlights how global governing ⁠bodies “frequently bypass national labour standards regarding rest periods ⁠and collective bargaining.”

FIFPRO Europe confirmed it would provide full support to the UNFP during the upcoming proceedings and called on other European states to hold football authorities accountable for “systemic failures” that ‌it said prioritise commercial interests over player safety.

“France is not alone: many other states are in a comparable situation, with minimum standards for working time, ‌rest ‌periods, occupational health and collective bargaining structurally undermined by decisions taken at global level,” its statement said.

YOU’VE heard of PortAventura, Efteling and Europa-Park, but there’s another European theme park that has just completed a 10-year makeover.

The little-known Walibi Rhône-Alpes attraction is just outside of the city of Lyon in France and has just reopened for the season with new attractions.

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The paradise-looking Exotic Island based on the Pacific Islands like Fiji and Papua New Guinea has had a €4.5million (£3.8million) upgrade, installing a family ride, adventure trail and botanical maze.

Its new family attraction is called RépaR’ Ta Kar and is said to be the ‘first-of-its-kind in Europe‘.

The attraction will be themed around a 4×4’s and be between the high-speed Mahuka rollercoaster and the park’s Tiki Village.

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The ride is described as having “off-road vehicles that bounce, rotate, and spin in a chaotic mechanical frenzy.”

Also ready to be explored this year are new walkthrough experiences at Exotic Island.

L’Expédition Perdue (which translated is The Lost Expedition) is a multi-level adventure trail with bridges, slides and climbing challenges.

Le Passage Oublié (The Forgotten Passage) is a sensory maze with underground tunnels.

This upgrade has been part of an overhaul that has been taking place since 2016 at the cost of €50million (£43.2million) – which has been marked by the completion of Exotic Island.

The French theme park has 36 attractions, shows, rollercoasters like Mahuka, Mystic, and Timber – and is divided into three themed zones.

These include Explorer Adventure which is themed around North America with a swinging ship and lazy river ride.

The Festival City zone is New Orleans-themed where visitors enter the ‘party world’.

Here are the likes of a traditional carousel, train and a swing ride.

The park that first opened in 1979 has attractions for children from age three and up, with family-friendly rides and some for the thrill-seekers.

Some of the biggest include the Mystic rollercoaster which has a 31metre vertical climb and top speed of 52.8mph.

Another is Mahuka which is a rollercoaster themed around escaping an abandoned temple.

Then there’s Le Totem, a high-impact drop tower which can be found in Festival City.

It has 12 food and drinks spots as well as shops throughout the park.

The shows include Les Plongeurs de l’Extrême where divers perform daring stunts and jump off platforms as high as 27metres.

At another show, the park’s mascot, Walibi, makes an appearance with meet and greet opportunities for children.

Visitors often leave happy reviews on Tripadvisor, one wrote: “A great park that improves year after year!”

Another described it as “a great park for the whole family.”

Theme park tickets start from €29 (£25.06) – if booked up to five days before the visit.

With Wizz Air, Brits can fly from London Luton Airport to Lyon from £16 in June.

From there, the theme park is around a one-hour drive away.

The Scottish champions will receive £3.7m for reaching the Champions League play-off round, with another £16.1m to come should they reach the league stage.

That is before bonus payments of £1.73m per win, £605,000 per draw and £275,000 per finishing position in the table – with additional payments should they progress to the last 16 or beyond.

Reaching the Europa League proper guarantees £3.7m, with performance bonuses of £388,000 per win and £130,000 per draw.

There is £187,000 available for each position in the final Europa League table.

Performance bonus payments for the Conference League are £345,000 per win and £115,000 per draw, with £24,000 for each position in the table.

Should Celtic or Rangers finish third in the Premiership, it would be a multi-million drop in their expectations of income.

For Hearts, Champions League qualification would be game changing.

Even if they drop into the Europa League, this would bring in a guaranteed minimum of around £7.3m with ticket sales and other commercial revenues to be added.

The pro-European Union coalition of Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan has collapsed after a 281-4 vote of no confidence. The Social Democrats, Bolojan’s allies, sided with far-right parties to oust the prime minister. The leu, Romania’s currency, fell to a record low against the euro before Tuesday’s vote.

Tesla is encountering growing resistance in Europe as it seeks approval for its advanced driver assistance system known as Full Self Driving. While chief executive Elon Musk has expressed strong confidence that the technology will soon gain approval across the bloc, internal communications among regulators reveal a far more cautious and skeptical stance.

The system, currently marketed as Full Self Driving Supervised, allows vehicles to operate autonomously under certain conditions but still requires full driver attention. Approval in Europe is critical for Tesla as it attempts to recover market share lost over the past two years and expand its subscription based revenue model.

Early Approval and Wider Ambitions

The Dutch vehicle authority RDW granted initial approval for the system earlier this year. This decision has now been forwarded to the European Union for broader consideration, with discussions underway among member state representatives.

Tesla is aiming not only for approval of its current system but also for future deployment of fully autonomous robotaxis in Europe. Such ambitions depend heavily on regulatory trust in the safety and reliability of its technology.

Regulatory Concerns Across Europe

Despite the Dutch endorsement, regulators from several European countries including Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Norway have raised serious concerns. These include the system’s tendency to exceed speed limits, its performance in icy and hazardous conditions, and the possibility that drivers may bypass safeguards designed to ensure attentiveness.

Officials have also questioned whether the branding of Full Self Driving could mislead consumers into overestimating the system’s capabilities. This concern reflects a broader issue in the automated driving industry, where terminology can blur the line between assistance and autonomy.

Safety, Environment, and Real World Challenges

European regulators are particularly focused on how the system performs under conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Winter driving, for instance, presents unique challenges such as icy roads, reduced visibility, and unpredictable obstacles.

Questions have also been raised about how the system would respond to unexpected hazards, including wildlife on roads. These concerns highlight the difficulty of deploying standardized automated driving technology across diverse geographic and environmental contexts.

Pressure, Perception, and Public Influence

Adding to regulatory unease is Tesla’s approach to public engagement. Officials have expressed frustration with the company’s encouragement of Tesla owners to lobby regulators for approval. In several cases, authorities reported being inundated with emails from supporters advocating for the technology.

While some regulators acknowledged that the system performed well in complex urban environments, others warned that public pressure could complicate an already rigorous evaluation process.

High Stakes Approval Process

For the system to gain EU wide approval, it must secure support from a qualified majority of member states representing a significant portion of the bloc’s population. No immediate vote is scheduled, but further discussions are expected in the coming months.

Approval is seen as a key factor in Tesla’s strategy to boost sales and profitability in Europe, especially as competition intensifies from other global and regional automakers.

Analysis

Tesla’s push for automated driving approval in Europe reveals a fundamental tension between technological ambition and regulatory caution. While the company frames its system as a breakthrough in safety and convenience, European authorities are prioritizing risk mitigation and consumer protection.

The skepticism is not merely bureaucratic hesitation but reflects deeper structural differences in regulatory philosophy. European institutions tend to adopt a precautionary approach, particularly in areas involving public safety and emerging technologies.

For Tesla, the challenge lies in bridging this gap. Securing approval will require not only technical validation but also greater transparency and alignment with regional expectations. For regulators, the task is to balance innovation with responsibility in a rapidly evolving sector.

Ultimately, the outcome of this process will shape not only Tesla’s future in Europe but also the broader trajectory of autonomous driving adoption across the continent.

With information from Reuters.

AFTER five years of being shut-off, one small island off the coast of Montenegro is set to reopen, as is its luxury resort.

Called Sveti Stefan, the pretty spot has been closed for half a decade due to backlash from locals.

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A few miles away from Montenegro‘s town of Budva is the small and beautiful island of Sveti Stefan which is home to a luxury resort, Aman Sveti Stefan.

The hotel is accessible only to its guests who have to walk across a small strip of land which connects it to the mainland.

Historically, the island has been popular with celebrity clientele like Marilyn Monroe, Princess Margaret and Brad Pitt.

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But the hotel closed back in 2021 due to a dispute between the property operator and locals over access to its public beaches.

When the hotel first opened in 2009, it made its surrounding beaches including Miločer Beach (King’s Beach) and Queen’s Beach accessible to its guests only.

Access for locals was made difficult with the luxury resort charging high fees around €200 (£172.63) for sunbeds and umbrellas.

However, these had historically been free for all to enjoy with space for locals to lay down a towel.

Restriction of the beaches caused a lot of backlash and there were even protests back in 2021.

The dispute between locals and the hotel ended up with the temporary closure of the resort which stretched on for five years.

In 2023, Europa Nostra, the European Voice of Civil Society committed to Cultural Heritage, said: “The Montenegro State has almost half privatised this national treasure and disenfranchised its own citizens from their own public domain.

“Public access to Sveti Stefan old town and other parts of the site has been forbidden, even during winter months when the hotel is closed, making it impossible for locals and non-hotel guest tourists to enjoy this cultural landscape.”

Five years on and the hotel operator, Aman, has confirmed the island retreat in Montenegro will be reopen on July 1, 2026.

The luxury resort still looks like a small village, and is made up of hand-restored stone cottages and suites all updated with modern furnishings.

Some of the more luxurious suites even have private swimming pools, courtyards and terraces.

Stays include a daily breakfast, in-room refreshments and access to snorkelling equipment and paddle boards.

A stay in the Deluxe Cottage which is based on an original island home starts from €2,973 (£2,566.12) per night.

The resort has a mainland retreat called Villa Miločer, that and its Aman Spa will welcome guests back on May 22, 2026.

As for its surrounding beaches, these are open to the public once more with free access – but there are no shower, changing cabins or toilets.

For anyone who wants a glimpse of Sveti Stefan, the nearest airport is Tivat which is a three-hour direct flights from the UK and as little as £38 each way with easyJet.

RYANAIR is considering cancelling all flights to another airport in Europe over a dispute in airport fees.

The airline is reportedly set to close its base at Makedonia Airport later this year.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Ryanair currently operates three aircraft from its base in Thessaloniki, but is considering shutting it down from October 2026.

Reports have been linked to issues related to a 15 per cent increase in airport charges.

However, no official announcement has been made by the airline.

With the airline considering leaving the city, there are growing concerns about tourism within Thessaloniki – a place where tourists visit to see Mount Olympus and the beautiful beaches of Halkidiki.

The news has prompted Thessaloniki Mayor Stelios Angeloudis to call an emergency meeting with regional tourism officials to assess the situation.

A tourism representative told local media that the “priority for everyone is and must be the interest of the city.

“If the reason for the possible closure is the high increases, then Fraport should reconsider its pricing policy.”

Sun Travel has approached Ryanair for comment.

This isn’t the first time Ryanair has closed a base due to the rising cost of airport fees.

The budget airline confirmed last year they would be cutting 1.2million seats across Spain and closing bases in the likes of Valladolid and Santiago de Compostela.

The airline also recently announced that it would be reducing its flight schedule to and from Berlin by 50 per cent.

When it comes to flights being affected, this means Ryanair passenger numbers will fall from 4.5million to 2.2million by next year.

This will affect flights from the UK which includes routes from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh.

TWO more countries in Europe are set to ignore the new entry rules that have caused chaos at airports.

The new Entry/Exit System (EES) now requires all non-EU citizens to undergo biometric checks at the border.

Including Brits, this has resulted in queues as long as four hours and people even missing their flights.

However, Italy is expected to scrap the requirements by the May holidays in a bid to avoid the chaos, continuing to stamp passports instead.

And Portugal, while not scrapping entirely, has temporarily paused the EES rules if queues are too long.

Both Faro and Lisbon Airport have been some of the worst affected by massive waits.

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Yet passengers have said they are being waved through to ignore the biometric machines when there are huge crowds.

It comes after Greece also scrapped the rules ahead of summer.

The Greek embassy confirmed last month: “In the framework of the implementation of the Entry/Exit System, as of 10 April 2026, British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points.”

Eleni Skarveli, the director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation in the UK, added: “The Greek National Tourism Organisation remains committed to ensuring a seamless and welcoming journey for all visitors from the UK.”

Airlines such as Ryanair are calling on other countries to pause the rules too, with fears of more problems during the busy summer holidays.

Countries including Spain and France are yet to confirm if they will follow suit.

Here’s everything you need to know about the EES system.

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MAKE convenience the driving force behind your holiday.

There are superb destinations within easy reach of ferry terminals in France and Spain.

Escape to sunnier climes in the car with no pricey flights or fear of flight cancellations.

Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the five best getaways for families, all within an hour of the ferry terminal.

COMILLAS, SPAIN

DRIVE 40 minutes from the ferry terminal of Santander and you’ll find the rustic town of Comillas, crammed with striking Gaudi architecture and art nouveau buildings that overlook a pristine sandy shore.

It’s not as crowded as some of Spain’s more popular holiday resorts and it’s home to the Oyambre Natural Park which is littered with dramatic cliffs and has a plethora of bird life.

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Make sure to try a dish loved by locals, marmitako.

The traditional fisherman’s stew comes loaded with tuna, seafood and veggies and will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Comillas Hotel in the town is from £439.06pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Plymouth on July 20.

Find out more at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

BOULOGNE-SUR-MER, FRANCE

ACTIVITY-loving families will feel right at home in Boulogne-sur-mer, a 30-minute drive from the French port of Calais and with adventure on its doorstep.

Spend a day at the largest aquarium in Europe, Nausicaá, where you can gawp at over 60,000 creatures including reef sharks, manta rays, sea lions, penguins and giant tortoises — the Echappée Tropicale section is new for this year and is framed around mangroves and lagoons.

Nearby Wissant beach is ideal if you’re travelling with youngsters, thanks to its shallow water pools.

And Boulogne-sur-mer’s glorious old town with its cobbled streets, is a wonderful spot for an afternoon potter.

GO: Two nights’ self-catering at the Evancy apartments is from £60pp based on a family of four sharing.

See evancy.com.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

BILBAO, SPAIN

IF you’re less into fly-and-flop and more of a city dweller, look no further than the Spanish city of Bilbao.

The city centre is a 20-minute drive from the ferry terminal.

Once you arrive, ditch the car as everything is easily accessible on foot or by tram/metro.

Pintxos, essentially the basque version of tapas, is the theme of most menus here.

This means you can sample as many restaurants as you fancy, tucking into the best of the nibbles — they tend to be very affordable, too.

Little ones will love riding the funicular up to the peak of Mount Artxanda, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city.

Adults, on the other hand, will want to sample a glass of Txakoli, a local wine that’s dry, crisp and pairs perfectly with warm weather.

There’s also a beach if you do want to dip your toes into the sea.

GO: Six nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Euskalduna Hotel is £507.11pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Portsmouth to Bilbao on July 19.

Yiou can book at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

TOUQUET-PARIS-PLAGE, FRANCE

THE coastal resort, less than an hour from Calais, is chic French glamour meets old-world Britain.

Don’t take my word for it, though.

Back in the day, it attracted big names like Winston Churchill, Noel Coward, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Sean Connery used to stroll its shores, and President Macron has been seen there.

You’re also within a short drive of France’s oldest amusement park, Parc Bagatelle, which will soon feature a new adrenaline ride, North Storm.

It is 33 metres high and throws riders around on 360-degree rotations.

On top of thrill rides, there are also shows and a mini animal farm.

GO: Two-storey family rooms at the 4H Le Grand Hotel Le Touquet cost from around £286pp with access to an indoor heated pool, a padel tennis court, games room and bike rental service.

See legrandhotel-letouquet.com/en.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

COURSEULLES-SUR-MER, FRANCE

A SWIFT 30-minute drive from Caen ferry port in Ouistreham, the sleepy fishing town of Courseulles-sur-Mer feels typically French and sits a little off the beaten tourist track.

Be sure to have a go at sand yachting.

Often described as a mix between go-karting and windsurfing, the sport relies on blustery winds to propel you across the sands in a three-wheeled cart with a sail attached to it.

Juno beach is a great spot to try it.

For adrenaline junkies there’s Parc du Chant des Oiseaux which has slides, climbing nets and a zipline, or for something more gently paced there’s an 18-hole mini golf course.

It’s worth renting a bike and exploring the nearby cycle routes while you’re here, too.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 3H La Crémaillère is from £454.85pp, based on four people sharing a one-bedroom duplex and including car ferry from Portsmouth to Caen on July 20.

For details, see brittany-ferries.co.uk.

MAKE convenience the driving force behind your holiday.

There are superb destinations within easy reach of ferry terminals in France and Spain.

Escape to sunnier climes in the car with no pricey flights or fear of flight cancellations.

Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the five best getaways for families, all within an hour of the ferry terminal.

COMILLAS, SPAIN

DRIVE 40 minutes from the ferry terminal of Santander and you’ll find the rustic town of Comillas, crammed with striking Gaudi architecture and art nouveau buildings that overlook a pristine sandy shore.

It’s not as crowded as some of Spain’s more popular holiday resorts and it’s home to the Oyambre Natural Park which is littered with dramatic cliffs and has a plethora of bird life.

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Make sure to try a dish loved by locals, marmitako.

The traditional fisherman’s stew comes loaded with tuna, seafood and veggies and will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Comillas Hotel in the town is from £439.06pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Plymouth on July 20.

Find out more at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

BOULOGNE-SUR-MER, FRANCE

ACTIVITY-loving families will feel right at home in Boulogne-sur-mer, a 30-minute drive from the French port of Calais and with adventure on its doorstep.

Spend a day at the largest aquarium in Europe, Nausicaá, where you can gawp at over 60,000 creatures including reef sharks, manta rays, sea lions, penguins and giant tortoises — the Echappée Tropicale section is new for this year and is framed around mangroves and lagoons.

Nearby Wissant beach is ideal if you’re travelling with youngsters, thanks to its shallow water pools.

And Boulogne-sur-mer’s glorious old town with its cobbled streets, is a wonderful spot for an afternoon potter.

GO: Two nights’ self-catering at the Evancy apartments is from £60pp based on a family of four sharing.

See evancy.com.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

BILBAO, SPAIN

IF you’re less into fly-and-flop and more of a city dweller, look no further than the Spanish city of Bilbao.

The city centre is a 20-minute drive from the ferry terminal.

Once you arrive, ditch the car as everything is easily accessible on foot or by tram/metro.

Pintxos, essentially the basque version of tapas, is the theme of most menus here.

This means you can sample as many restaurants as you fancy, tucking into the best of the nibbles — they tend to be very affordable, too.

Little ones will love riding the funicular up to the peak of Mount Artxanda, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city.

Adults, on the other hand, will want to sample a glass of Txakoli, a local wine that’s dry, crisp and pairs perfectly with warm weather.

There’s also a beach if you do want to dip your toes into the sea.

GO: Six nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Euskalduna Hotel is £507.11pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Portsmouth to Bilbao on July 19.

Yiou can book at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

TOUQUET-PARIS-PLAGE, FRANCE

THE coastal resort, less than an hour from Calais, is chic French glamour meets old-world Britain.

Don’t take my word for it, though.

Back in the day, it attracted big names like Winston Churchill, Noel Coward, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Sean Connery used to stroll its shores, and President Macron has been seen there.

You’re also within a short drive of France’s oldest amusement park, Parc Bagatelle, which will soon feature a new adrenaline ride, North Storm.

It is 33 metres high and throws riders around on 360-degree rotations.

On top of thrill rides, there are also shows and a mini animal farm.

GO: Two-storey family rooms at the 4H Le Grand Hotel Le Touquet cost from around £286pp with access to an indoor heated pool, a padel tennis court, games room and bike rental service.

See legrandhotel-letouquet.com/en.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

COURSEULLES-SUR-MER, FRANCE

A SWIFT 30-minute drive from Caen ferry port in Ouistreham, the sleepy fishing town of Courseulles-sur-Mer feels typically French and sits a little off the beaten tourist track.

Be sure to have a go at sand yachting.

Often described as a mix between go-karting and windsurfing, the sport relies on blustery winds to propel you across the sands in a three-wheeled cart with a sail attached to it.

Juno beach is a great spot to try it.

For adrenaline junkies there’s Parc du Chant des Oiseaux which has slides, climbing nets and a zipline, or for something more gently paced there’s an 18-hole mini golf course.

It’s worth renting a bike and exploring the nearby cycle routes while you’re here, too.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 3H La Crémaillère is from £454.85pp, based on four people sharing a one-bedroom duplex and including car ferry from Portsmouth to Caen on July 20.

For details, see brittany-ferries.co.uk.