Greece

BRITS will have to follow the new EES rules in Greece this summer – despite previously saying they WON’T have to.

Called the Entry/Exit System, the new biometric scans required from Brits has already caused problems across Europe.

This has seen queues as long as six hours at some airports due to the time each takes, with some families even missing their flights.

Last month, Greece said that Brits would be able to skip these queues in an attempt to ease fears.

The Greek Embassy said “As of April 10, 2026, British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points.”

This was backed by the director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation in the UK, who said Brits will “no longer need to undergo additional EES biometric procedures, ensuring a smoother and more efficient arrival experience in Greece”.

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However, in a u-turn, officials have now said that Brits will not be exempt and will have to follow the new EES rules.

The Greek Foreign Ministry said they have not received any information that “specific nationalities are temporarily exempt from the relevant procedure,” according to local media.

Instead, the rules will only be temporarily paused if there are high volumes of passengers at once, caused by a number of planes landing at the same time.

This won’t just affect Brits, but any non-EU nationals that have to go via the biometric scanners.

And queues have already started to cause problems – one passenger told local media it took “nearly two and a half hours to get through [passport control] in Athens” while island airports like Zante were facing similar wait times.

One source warned it was “just the beginning,” with summer seeing as many as 15,000 passenger a day travel through Athens, the busiest airport in Greece.

If you want to try and avoid the chaos, make sure your plane doesn’t land between 12pm and 2pm, they warned, as that’s when a huge number enter Athens at one point.

Portugal is also another country struggling with huge queues, with one expert saying a family waiting more than six hours because of the EES waits.

It was hoped that both Portugal and Italy would suspend the EES rules until after summer, but they have also echoed Greece in saying this would only be during busy passenger periods.

Ryanair has called on airlines to pause the roll out of the new rules – which started last week – until after summer.

Here are all of the countries where the EES rules are in place.

And here is how one person managed to avoid the long queues in Europe – with two clever hacks.

WITH the UK heating up this month, it can be tempting to splash the cash and make the most of the sunshine.

During the May Bank Holiday, the UK could hit highs of 25C according to the BBC – compared to just 23C in Santorini that day.

BUT there are still lots of fun things you can do to make the most of the weather without having to spend a penny.

This includes everything from outdoor swimming pools and playgrounds to markets and hikes – so here are eight of the best ideas for how to make the most of the weather.

1. Hit up a lido

Lots of outdoor swimming pools are free across the UK – if you know where to find them.

In Swansea there is Blackpill Lido, while many seapools like Shoalstone Seawater Pool in Devon has no entry charges either, along with Bude Sea Pool.

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2. Go to a huge adventure playground

While most small playgrounds are free, there are some bigger adventure ones that don’t cost either – there’s the Lower Leas Coastal Park in Folkestone, which is the biggest in the southeast.

Or in London there is the Tumbling Bay Playground in the Queen Elizaeth Olympic Park.

3. Head to a seaside theme park

Did you know that a lot of theme parks on the coast are free to visit?

One’s like Dreamland in Margate or Adventure Island in Southend-on-Sea have free entry – instead you pay to go on the rides (so non riders can get all of the vibes without the cost).

4. Go to a museum

The UK is one of the best in the world for having free museums, so you’re spoilt for choice.

In London there is everything from the Natural History Museum and Science Museum to the Tate Modern and V&A Museum; in York there is the National Railways Museum while the Museum of Liverpool and the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford are all free too.

5. Explore some castle gardens

History buffs can explore some beautiful castle grounds without having to reach into their wallet.

Try Liverpool Castle (weirdly not in Liverpool but in Lancashire) or Cardiff Castle in Wales (although you will need a ticket go into the castle itself).

6. Try a garden centre

With everything from animals to playgrounds, why not take the kids to a garden centre?

There’s the celeb-popular Burford Garden Centre in the Cotswolds or Bridgemere Garden Centre in Cheshire, which is the biggest in the UK.

7. Plan a hike

If you love a good walk, the UK has lots of them.

There is the recently opened King Charles III Coastal Path, running along the Kent coast; a short option of Hadrian’s Wall that takes just a few hours; or part of the Thames Path from Windsor to Eton which is around four miles.

8. Explore some markets

If you can avoid wanting to spend, then a beautiful market is often the place for stunning architecture and even sometimes some live shows.

Grainger Market in Newcastle is known for its food, while Leadenhall Market in London is beautiful just to look at.

There’s a tiny island in the Ionian Sea, just south of Paxos and off the coast of Corfu, that boasts some of Greece’s bluest waters – here’s how to get there and make the most of your visit

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear, azure waters but aren’t keen on venturing beyond Europe, then this “little-known” Greek island could be just the ticket for your travels this year or next. You may not be able to base yourself on this island for your entire holiday, but a visit to soak up its breathtaking scenery is well worth it.

The Greece List revealed that this island boasts some of the “bluest water in Greece,” making it an absolute paradise for swimming enthusiasts and snorkelling fans alike. However, they caution that “getting there and doing it right makes all the difference,” which is why they’ve put together a handy guide to help visitors make the most of their time on the island.

The island in question is Antipaxos, a “tiny island just south of Paxos,” situated “off the coast of Corfu in the Ionian sea”. So, if you can’t actually stay there, how do you go about getting there and back? Fortunately, they’ve got that covered too.

They suggest joining a boat tour departing from either Paxos or Corfu, which is the most popular way to reach this stunning island.

When booking a boat tour, however, if you’re hoping to take a dip, ensure the excursion includes a dedicated swimming and exploration stop.

Alternatively, you could take the ferry to Paxos first, before hiring a small taxi boat in Gaios town.

Alternatively, for those with the budget, the “best option” is to hire a private boat or self-drive boat from Paxos, as it offers “full flexibility” and allows you to spend the day entirely on your own terms.

Once there, the must-see spots are the main beaches — Voutoumi Beach, and Vrika and Mesovrika Beach. Voutoumi is the “famous one” boasting “almost neon turquoise water”, while the other is “sandy, shallow, and easier for relaxing and swimming,” so it largely comes down to your preferences and how you wish to spend your time.

Visitors note that the “water is insanely clear,” though they caution that it becomes extremely crowded around midday when tour boats arrive in force, so it’s worth reserving sunbeds if you’re after a settled base for the day.

The ideal time to visit is either early morning or late afternoon, once the large tour boats have moved on.

There are a few other things worth bearing in mind — there are “beach clubs and taverns, but in the summer they fill up,” and while technically you can stay overnight on the island, accommodation options are limited and the island “lacks infrastructure”. So if a beach club is high on your agenda, arrive early or book well ahead.

Bear in mind that tour boats only stop for a short while, so if you’re eager to properly explore at your own pace, hiring your own boat is the way to go, and it means you can discover the “hidden coves” too.

In the comments section, others praised it as “amazing,” saying they “loved” it and declaring that “Greek islands are the best”.

One person enquired: “Which is the most WOW? Paxos or Antipaxos for beaches and for children? Which is less touristy?” The response came back: “Paxos is the one to stay at and then take trips to Antipaxos”.

Israel has provoked international condemnation for its interception of Gaza-bound aid boats in international waters and detention of hundreds onboard, including Al Jazeera journalists. World leaders, rights groups and media advocates are demanding Israel release the Global Sumud Flotilla detainees.

On March 11, the Thai cargo ship Mayuree Naree was struck by two projectiles while crossing the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important waterways located between Iran and Oman. A fire broke out in the engine room, and while 20 sailors were rescued, three remained trapped inside the stricken vessel. Their remains were found weeks later when a specialised rescue team boarded the vessel, which had run aground on the shores of Iran’s Qeshm island.

At about the same time, a “shadow fleet” of tankers continued to navigate the very same waters safely. Operating with fake flags, disabled signals and unspecified destinations, this covert armada survived because it operates outside the traditional rules of maritime trade.

Iran threatened to block “enemy” ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz – a crucial chokepoint for a fifth of the world’s oil – in the wake of the United States-Israeli war launched on February 28. Soon, navigation through the strait was disrupted amid fears of attacks.

Following a temporary ceasefire on April 8, the United States imposed a full naval blockade on Iranian ports on April 13. Theoretically, traffic through the strait should have come to a complete halt.

However, tracking data reveals a remarkably different reality.

An exclusive Al Jazeera open-source investigation tracked 202 voyages made by 185 vessels through the strait between March 1 and April 15, navigating both under fire and across blockade lines.

The numbers behind the shadows

To understand how the strait operated under extreme pressure, Al Jazeera’s Digital Investigative Unit monitored the waterway daily, cross-referencing vessel International Maritime Organization (IMO) numbers with international sanction lists from the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United Nations. An IMO number is a unique seven-digit figure assigned to commercial ships.

Of the tracked voyages, 77 (38.5 percent) were directly or indirectly linked to Iran. Notably, 61 of the ships transiting the strait were explicitly listed on international sanctions lists.

The investigation divided the conflict into three distinct phases to map the fleet’s behaviour:

• Phase 1: Open War (March 1 – April 6): 126 ships crossed the strait, peaking at 30 vessels on March 1. Among these, 46 were linked to Iran.
• Phase 2: The Truce (April 7 – 13): 49 ships crossed during this fragile pause. More than 40 percent of these vessels were tied to Iran, including the US-sanctioned, Iranian-flagged Roshak, which successfully exited the Gulf.
• Phase 3: The US Blockade (April 13 – 15): Despite the explicit naval blockade, 25 ships crossed the strait.

Breaking the blockade

When the US blockade took effect, the shadow fleet adapted immediately.

The Iranian cargo ship “13448” successfully broke the blockade. Because it is a smaller vessel operating in coastal waters, it lacks an official IMO number, allowing it to evade traditional sanction-monitoring tools. The vessel departed Iran’s Al Hamriya port and reached Karachi, Pakistan.

Similarly, the Panama-flagged Manali broke the blockade, crossing on April 14 and penetrating the cordon again on April 17 en route to Mumbai, India.

The investigation uncovered widespread manipulation of Automatic Identification System (AIS) trackers. Vessels such as the US-sanctioned Flora, Genoa and Skywave deliberately disabled or jammed their signals to hide their identities and destinations.

Fake flags and shell companies

To obscure ultimate ownership, the shadow fleet heavily relies on a complex web of “false flags” and shell companies. The investigation identified 16 ships operating under fake flags, including registries from landlocked nations like Botswana and San Marino, as well as others from Madagascar, Guinea, Haiti and Comoros.

The operational network managing these ships spans the globe. Operating firms were primarily based in Iran (15.7 percent), China (13 percent), Greece (more than 11 percent) and the United Arab Emirates (9.7 percent). Notably, the operators of nearly 19 percent of the observed vessels remain unknown.

The toll of a parallel system

Despite the intense military pressure, energy carriers dominated the traffic, with 68 ships (36.2 percent) transporting crude oil, petroleum products and gas. Ten of these tankers were directly linked to Iran. Non-oil trade also persisted, with 57 bulk and general cargo ships crossing during the open war phase, 41 of which were tied to Tehran.

Before the war, at least 100 ships crossed the Strait of Hormuz daily. Today, a staggering 20,000 sailors are trapped on 2,000 ships across the Gulf – a crisis the International Maritime Organization described as unprecedented since World War II.

A shadow Iranian fleet, meanwhile, has been navigating seamlessly as part of a parallel maritime system born from 47 years of US sanctions on Tehran. Washington slapped sanctions on Tehran following the 1979 Islamic revolution that toppled the pro-Washington ruler Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The two countries have had no diplomatic ties since 1980.

This beach stuns visitors with its white sand, crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.

The best bit of summer is unwinding on a spectacular beach with waves gently rolling onto the shore, seagulls crying above and sunshine beaming down. If this represents your ideal day, it’s essential that you discover the perfect beach to experience it on.

Fortunately, recent research has just ranked some of Europe’s finest beaches to identify the ultimate summer getaway destination. The study, carried out by airport transfer firm hoppa, has examined dozens of sought-after holiday destinations.

Each location was assessed based on its average three-star hotel price, journey time from airport to beach, and Google reviews to determine the very best options.

Taking the top spot as the finest beach for summer 2026 is Praia da Falésia in Portugal. Situated in the renowned Algarve area, this beach offers an utterly stunning day out, reports the Express.

The pale sand extends over 8km, protected by striking orange and white cliffs.

Those who visit the beach describe it as among the finest in the area, with one individual commenting on Tripadvisor: “The blend of the colours of the golden sand, the crystal blue sea and the imposing cliffs make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.”

Another said: “A wide expanse of golden and red sand, nice rock formations in the background and the waves here are gentle, perfect for swimming. It’s a popular beach, but due to its size, it’s a big, long beach; it never seems crowded even in high season.

“It’s a beach to most definitely check out if you’re planning a holiday to Albufeira.”

With lifeguards on duty and sunloungers available to hire, it caters to every need. Suitable for both families and couples, the beach’s generous size means it rarely feels overcrowded.

Europe’s best-rated beaches

• Praia da Falésia — Algarve, Portugal

• Platja de Muro — Majorca, Spain

• Myrtos Beach — Kefalonia, Greece

• Promenade des Anglais Beach — Nice, France

• Playa de Poniente — Benidorm, Spain

Dubbed a ‘Mediterranean masterpiece’ that’s like ‘stepping into a screensaver’, this unspoilt beach has been among the world’s best – and it’s just three hours from the UK with £28 flights

The world’s best beaches have been named, and there’s one pristine shore just three hours from the UK with turquoise waters and sugar-white sand.

Fteri Beach on Greece’s Kefalonia island is officially Europe’s most beautiful beach after it was named on the prestigious World’s 50 Best Beaches list. The stunning coastline of Fteri was ranked second-best in the world in the annual awards and was the only European coastline to secure a place in the top 10, while Entalula Beach in the Philippines took the top spot.

The votes were decided by a team of more than 1,000 travel experts, who noted that Fteri Beach was an “isolated and majestic Greek perfection”. They highlighted that its position tucked away in a secluded cove contributes to its “pristine and serene atmosphere,” which sets it apart from other tourist hotspots.

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The shore could easily be compared to those found in the Caribbean, thanks to its stunning white pebbles mixed with sand and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. Its breathtaking scenes are only enhanced by the dramatic white cliffs that tower around the beach, adding to its secluded oasis beneath the Mediterranean sun.

The unspoiled beach is a haven for those looking for a quieter day at the beach and to admire some of the most picture-perfect vistas. Despite its more remote location, the beach is accessible by boat or by hiking down a steep trail, and the journey is well worth it to experience this little slice of paradise.

What’s more, the island of Kefalonia is just over three hours from the UK, and direct one-way flights start from just £28 with Ryanair, departing from London Stansted, according to Skyscanner. You can also fly directly to Kefalonia from various UK airports, including Birmingham, Manchester and Cardiff, so it couldn’t be easier to jet abroad to one of the world’s best beaches.

Those who have visited Fteri Beach have been blown away by its azure waters and views that have been compared to a computer screensaver. One fan shared on TripAdvisor: “Such beautiful waters are hard to see! Of course, it requires an effort because they are only accessible by a mountain path, but it is absolutely worth it!

A second commented: “Fteri Beach is the real deal – glistening turquoise water, towering white cliffs, and the kind of peaceful silence you want to bottle and take home. Swimming here feels like stepping into a screensaver, and the lack of crowds keeps the magic intact. It’s not just one of Kefalonia’s best – it’s a full-on Mediterranean masterpiece.”

However, due to its untouched location, travellers noted that there aren’t any facilities, including toilets, bars, or sunbeds, so advised visitors to take their own umbrellas and drinks. Many also mentioned that they reached the beach by booking a water taxi within about 5 minutes and were able to swim in the crystal-clear waters during a serene day out.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

This hidden gem provides the perfect no-crowds experience for summer 2026.

Summer is just around the corner and many of us are already dreaming about our next sunny escape. With so many destinations to pick from, settling on the perfect spot can feel like quite the challenge.

Many of the world’s most coveted holiday hotspots are now bursting at the seams, which can turn a much-needed break into something of a headache. If you’re after a getaway unspoilt by hordes of tourists, it pays to explore the roads less travelled.

Travel specialists at Solmar Villas have scrutinised more than 160 destinations worldwide to reveal the most tranquil spots for a laid-back summer holiday in 2026 – and Greece has taken the top spot.

Greece boasts more than 6,000 islands to explore and while some are overrun with visitors, others remain blissfully peaceful.

Each location in the top 10 was rated across eight key factors: crowd density, climate, nature and scenery, pace of life, affordability, safety and ease of access.

Remarkably, eight of the top 10 destinations were found in Greece.

Topping the list is Alonissos – a tiny, serene island nestled in the northern Sporades – an archipelago in the Aegean Sea.

To reach it, travellers can fly from the UK to the neighbouring island of Skianthos before hopping on a high-speed ferry across to Alonissos.

The island feels worlds apart from everyday life.

Verdant hills blanketed in pine trees cascade down towards crystalline waters, ideal for a summer dip. Life moves at a leisurely pace, with traditional villages dotted across the hillsides.

The island also houses the National Marine Park of Alonnisos and Northern Sporades, one of the largest protected marine areas in Europe, reports the Express.

This transforms it into a haven for divers and snorkellers.

A boat trip around the island reveals caves, reefs and colourful marine life thriving beneath the sea’s surface.

It’s also home to the rare Mediterranean monk seal – fewer than 700 of them survive in three or four isolated subpopulations in the Mediterranean.

On her blog Asinglewomantraveling, travel blogger Melissa said that Alonissos is “absolutely stunning and peaceful”. She added that the island is “quiet, a little wild, totally underrated”.

The top 10 most peaceful holiday destinations

1. Alonissos, Greece
2. Kefalonia, Greece
3. Peloponnese, Greece
4. Skopelos, Greece
5. Lefkada, Greece
6. Mani Peninsula, Greece
7. El Hierro, Spain
8. Naxos, Greece
9. Koh Yao Noi, Thailand
10. Paxos, Greece

A LUXURY UK holiday company offering trips to Europe and Asia has closed down.

Salamander Voyages – which is based in Belfast – has gone into administration.

The company used to sell private boat holidays in Turkey, Greece, Italy and Croatia.

According to The Gazette, administrators were appointed on April 22.

On its website, Salamader Voyages states: “After 23 years of wonderful sailing in the Aegean Sea, we are very sad to announce Salamander Voyages has taken the difficult decision to close its doors.

“Please note that on 22 April 2026 Scott Murray and Ian Davison of Keenan Corporate Finance Ltd were appointed as Joint Administrators of the Company.

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“For any creditor queries, please contact the Joint Administrators’ office by telephone (028 9023 3023) or email (info@keenancf.com).”

The luxury holidays didn’t come cheap though, with sailings costing from £3,000 per person.

Upcoming trips included a sailing of the Turkish Gulf between June 15 and 22, heading to “small villages, pristine secluded bays and less-known historical sites”.

And between October 5 and 17 there was another Turkish sailing in the western half of the Gulf.

Claudia Winkleman has even previously been a guest onboard, commenting: “The holiday was absolutely amazing. The boat is beautiful and the crew were outstanding.

“The most relaxing week of our lives. We love you Salamander.”

GREECE has slapped a sunbed ban on 251 of its beaches meaning tourists will have to ditch the loungers for a simple towel.

The rule aims to limit overtourism on the beaches as well as tourist developments, such as hotels and sunbeds for hire, to keep the beaches in their natural state.

So for tourists heading to the 251 beaches on the list, they’ll need to stick to either a towel or just sitting on the sand.

And some spots have even stricter rules – on beaches that are part of the Natura 2000 programme, you won’t see hotels cordoning off areas as a ‘private beach’ section, instead they will be open to everyone.

There will also be no changes to how the beach looks, so no concrete piers, sea walls or paved paths.

Essentially, anything that messes with the natural state of the beach, is not allowed.

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So, if you want a beach bar and to rent an umbrella, you’ll need to head elsewhere.

A release from the Greek Environment Ministry stated that the ban “seeks to effectively protect beaches that have particular aesthetic, geomorphological or ecological value, as well as to preserve the types of habitats and the species of flora and fauna found on these beaches”.

The Ministry added: “In particular, the number of shorelines and beaches within areas included in the National List of Areas of the European Ecological Network Natura 2000 is increasing and in which the granting of simple use, as well as any other action that may endanger their morphology and their integrity in terms of their ecological functions, is now prohibited.”

The ban follows Greek authorities dealing with a number of incidents in recent months on the protected beaches.

According to local reports, riot police recently took down a number of shacks on the island of Gavdos, just south of Crete.

One of the beaches included on the list is Elafonissi Beach found on the southwest coast of Greece as it is a protected Natura 2000 nature reserve.

Its not the easiest to get to – visitors must head across a shallow lagoon.

It was named the second best beach in the world by TripAdvisor‘s Travellers‘ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026 and also 15th best in Europe in the World’s Best Beaches 2025 awards.

The beach is known for its pink sand, which gets its colour from crushed seashells – though removing any of the shells or sand is forbidden.

One recent visitor said: “One of the most beautiful natural paradises in the world.”

Other beaches include Kalamaki Beach near Athens, Tobruk Beach near Heraklion and several beaches on the island of Samos.

If you are heading to Greece and are not sure what beaches the ban applies to, download the Gov.gr MyCoast app, where you can see a map of all the 251 beaches.

If you are thinking of going on holiday to Greece, there’s one city that’s better in spring with funiculars, sunset rooftops and wine tastings.

Plus, there’s a stunning Greek island that will pay you to move there and give you a house.

DO YOU WISH you could live out the Mamma Mia dream on a remote island, away from cars, pollution and social media?

Well, in Greece you can, as one island is offering to pay people to move there.

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

Antikythera is a small, eight-square-mile island found between Crete and the Peloponnese and is home to only 24 permanent residents.

One recent visitor even described it as “a small, peaceful planet that moves at its own unique pace”.

And the local church is inviting people to move to the island.

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Not only will those who move there be paid €500 (£433.49) a month for three years, they will also be given a newly built house to live in.

Of course, there are a couple of catches including that you must be a family with four children and you must have a skill or work in trade, such as fishing.

This is because the scheme is aiming to grow the island’s population as well as its economy.

To apply, you will need to contact the local council.

As for life on the island, it couldn’t be further from other tourist hotspots in Greece.

The entire island remains untouched and boasts natural, rugged beaches and to get to it, you’ll have to hop on a two-hour ferry from Kythera.

Once you reach the island’s port, you’ll see white houses and chapels, as well as a statue dedicated to a diver who discovered a bronze man, underwater, just off of the island.

The statue is believed to date back to between the first and second centuries and one of the divers mistook it for a heap of rotten corpses.

Today, you can see the statue in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, Greece.

While there isn’t much to do on the island, as you’d expect with Greece it does boast beautiful beaches.

One beach found near the port is Paralia Potamos Beach, which according to local reports, is about 80metres long, with pebbles and clear water.

A recent visitor commented: “Peaceful beach on a peaceful, charming little island.”

Another beach you can head to on the island is Xiropotamos, which is about a 20-minute walk from the port and is bigger than Paralia Potamos.

Across the rest of the island you’ll find ancient ruins, with the Greek Ministry of Culture often carrying out excavations on the island.

There’s also a number of small chapels and ruined windmills and just off its coast there’s a shipwreck that dates to around 82BC where parts of a mechanism thought to be the world’s first computer were found.

If you get hungry, there’s only one place to eat on the island – Strato’s Corner – which is run by one of the locals and sells typical Greek dishes as well as local goat and fish caught off of the island.

When it comes to shopping, the island has only one food store which doubles as a coffee shop, where you’ll often find the locals hanging out.

If you don’t fancy living on the island but do want to visit, there is a small hostel as well with 15 rooms.

And if you do travel to the island, make sure to head there on August 17 when the island celebrates its patron saint – Saint Myron.

The celebrations bring about 1,000 people to the island, where they enjoy a festival.

In addition to the ferry from Kythera, there is also a small airport in Kythera with flights to Athens, which take about an hour each way.

Or you can also catch a boat trip from the island to Crete or Athens, though these services are less regular.

For more inspiration on Greek holidays, here are our top five Greek islands with white-washed houses and pretty beaches as Emily in Paris heads to Greece.

Plus, forget Mykonos and Santorini – TUI says these four less-popular Greek islands are set to be huge in 2026.

Tourists visiting this holiday hotspot may find it harder to book a hotel room in the future as local authorities are seeking to freeze new hotel licences in a bid to tackle tourist numbers

A European tourist hotspot that’s popular with Brits is eyeing plans to tackle overtourism, including potentially putting a freeze on the opening of new hotels.

The mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas, is desperate for his city not to become too overcrowded and overwhelmed by tourists. Haris previously oversaw a ban on new permits for short-term rentals such as Airbnbs in three neighbourhoods in central Athens.

Now, he has told Euronews that he wants to avoid the city becoming like other crowded spots. He said: “We really need to see if and how many more hotels we need and where. We need to see and think about how much extra tourist load we can lift and where.

“We must not become Barcelona. We have to understand that there are saturated areas that cannot afford new beds: whether short-term rentals or not. Talking at events around the globe, we see that capping is not only being put on short-term rentals but also on hotels; in specific, ‘saturated’ areas.”

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Across the Attica region, where Athens is located, there are 68,934 rental apartments, nearly half of which are found in the city center. Across Greece, tourist demand has seen a huge increase in the amount of accommodation available, with 450 new four- and five-star hotels opening between 2019 and 2024.

Should Athens enact the ban, it would join cities including Barcelona and Amsterdam, which already have similar initiatives to tackle the issue of overtourism.

Evgenios Vassilikos, President of the Athens – Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association – spoke at the same event. He argued that there needed to be a careful planning process when it comes to expanding the number of hotel beds and short-term rentals.

He said: “There are practices abroad which have been implemented. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. The example I gave is that in Barcelona they have completely banned short-term rentals from 2028 and from 2017 onwards no new hotel licences are being issued. So there are, therefore, these restrictions abroad. We will possibly have to see in Athens what we want in terms of where we want to be in 10 to 15 years. “

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He added: “We will definitely need hotel beds there. How many will these be? How many will be five-star, how many four-star, etc. There has to be a specific plan. And of course that drags in all kinds of beds, meaning non-primary tourist accommodation and short-term rentals.”

Athens has become the most popular tourist destination in Greece with about 12 million international arrivals in 2025. This included around 4.5 million British tourists, up from 3.5 million in 2019. The Acropolis alone receives millions of visitors a year, and at peak times can see over 17,000 visitors a day.

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Following a major change made by Greece, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated the country’s travel advice for British holidaymakers

The Foreign Office has issued an update on travel to Greece for Brits, and it’s good news.

Since the European Union’s (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully rolled out earlier this month, there have been major travel disruptions. Holidaymakers have reported substantial queues and delays at airports across Europe, with some lasting up to four hours, while hundreds have missed flights as they try to pass through the new digital border system.

In a bid to ease travel chaos, Greece has chosen to waive the EU requirement for Brits to submit fingerprints and facial scans at airport border controls. In a statement from the Greek Embassy, they announced: “Update for British passport holders travelling to Greece.

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“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.” There was no suggestion of how long the exemption would remain in place, but soon after, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) revised its travel guidance for Greece.

In an update on Monday, 20 April, the FCDO stated: “Greek authorities have indicated that they will not collect biometric data (fingerprints and photos) for UK travellers as part of EES. Follow the advice of authorities on the ground. If you are a resident in Greece, make sure to show your residence documentation at passport control to ensure you are not registered in EES.”

Greece opted to ditch the new biometric security measures amid concerns about the significant travel chaos they were causing at airports, severely impacting holidaymakers. The relaxed EU rules from Greece are now hoped to improve travel for Brits into the country, allowing for a smoother journey without gruelling wait times and unnecessary delays.

Noting the impact of the EES, Luke Petherbridge, director of public affairs at ABTA, said: “While for many the travel experience remains smooth, we’re disappointed and frustrated to see some passengers being caught up in delays due to EES.

“Abta has been warning destinations and the (European) Commission for some time about the need for proactive steps to be taken to avoid delays, including the full use of contingency measures to stand down biometric checks at busier times, and adequate staffing, especially at peak times.”

The EES was fully implemented across European airports on April 10, 2026, and requires all Brits travelling to the Schengen area to “create a digital record” and register their biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photograph. It’s needed for their first arrival at the airport border in the Schengen area, and after the initial registration, the EES remains valid for three years.

Countries in the Schengen area include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

However, as it stands, Greece is the only country to relax the EU requirements for Brits. The EES system is not required for travel into the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus, as they are not within the Schengen area.

For more information on the new EES system, visit the government website.

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The country has chosen to abandon the new biometric security measures over concerns about queue chaos and flights taking off without passengers

Greece has suspended EU fingerprint and facial scans for British holidaymakers. The country has chosen to abandon the new biometric security measures over concerns about queue chaos sweeping across the continent. Queues have been hitting the country with four hours reported in many destinations, including Greece.

All travellers from the UK and other non-EU countries are supposed to be photographed and fingerprinted at EU airports and border crossings under the new entry and exit system (EES) introduced by Brussels.

Holidaymakers have been cautioned that the new security measure, which is now fully operational, could trigger airport delays of up to four hours. Eleni Skarveli, director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation in the UK, stressed that the decision would “ensure a smoother and more efficient arrival experience in Greece” and would “significantly reduce waiting times” while alleviating congestion at airports.

The EES is intended to replace manual passport stamping and better monitor the 90-day visa-free limit, but its introduction has caused havoc at some of Europe’s busiest airports.

A statement on the website of the Greek Embassy and posts on official social media channels said: “Update for British passport holders travelling to Greece. “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.”

There was no further detail of how long the exemption would last, and FCDO travel advice for Greece has not been updated.

Luke Petherbridge, director of public affairs at travel trade organisation Abta, said: “While for many the travel experience remains smooth, we’re disappointed and frustrated to see some passengers being caught up in delays due to EES.

“Abta has been warning destinations and the (European) Commission for some time about the need for proactive steps to be taken to avoid delays, including the full use of contingency measures to stand down biometric checks at busier times, and adequate staffing especially at peak times.”

A total of 122 passengers were reportedly unable to board the flight from Milan Linate to Manchester on Sunday because of delays at passport desks caused by the ramp up of the EU’s Entry Exist System (EES).The 11am departure was held for 59 minutes before departing with the majority of seats empty.

One of the affected easyJet passengers, Kiera, 17, from Oldham, Greater Manchester, said she and her boyfriend arrived at Milan Linate airport at 7.30am on Sunday. She told the BBC: “We got to Border Control and it was a massive queue of people. I wasn’t feeling great anyway because I think I’d got food poisoning.

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“At about 10.50am they brought some water over for people, and when we got to the front of the queue someone asked us if we were going to Manchester, and told us our flight had just gone.”

Vicky Chapman, 26, from Wirral, Merseyside, was booked on the flight with her family, including her five-year-old son.

She told the Liverpool Echo they arrived at the airport “with more than enough time” but were “refused entry through passport control”.

She continued: “We were then told that we are a ‘no show’ on our flight because we did not get to the gate on time, even though passport control had issues and they would not let us through.

“We were passed from pillar to post for three hours and no-one helped us. “It was so hot in the airport, people were vomiting, people were almost passing out.

“We’re being told that Tuesday is the earliest we can get back, and that we have to fly to Gatwick. We’ve had to pay out of pocket for an Airbnb.”

An easyJet spokesman said: “Due to delays in EES processing by border authorities, some passengers departing from Milan Linate on Sunday experienced very long waiting times at passport control.

“We held flight EJU5420 from Milan to Manchester for nearly an hour to give passengers extra time but it had to then depart due to crew reaching their safety regulated operating hours.

“Customers who missed the flight have been offered a free flight transfer.

“We continue to urge border authorities to ensure they make full and effective use of the permitted flexibilities, for as long as needed while EES is implemented, to avoid these unacceptable border delays for our customers.

“While this is outside of our control, we are sorry for any inconvenience caused.”

Of the 156 passengers reportedly booked on the return flight to Manchester, just 34 made it on board – leaving a staggering 122 stranded in Italy. EasyJet subsequently issued an apology over the incident.

At three of the UK’s “juxtaposed” border controls in Dover, Folkestone and London St Pancras, the pricey EES kiosks remain unconnected to the French police aux frontières IT system. These issues are not expected to be resolved until September, according to the Independent.

Greece is heavily dependent on British tourism, particularly at its bustling island hotspots such as Corfu, Crete and Rhodes, which can welcome upwards of 2,000 UK passengers daily during peak season.

The decision by Athens is widely regarded as a move to offer reassurance to British holidaymakers, and could encourage other Mediterranean nations to follow its lead. Greece is yet to confirm an end date. for its EES exemption for British travellers.

Holidaymakers are already considering switching their summer holiday plans this year, according to travel industry experts.

“Because of the war in the Middle East, Europe is seeing a big increase in interest as a holiday destination this year,” an ABTA spokesman said.

ABTA added that Greece was anticipated to be the fifth most-visited destination by Britons this summer, trailing behind Spain, France, Italy and the USA.

The spokesman said: “I think it’s too early to say what this change might mean for the number of people visiting, particularly as decisions on where to go are based on a number of factors.”

It’s thought travellers now weighing up a continental break may pivot towards Greece to sidestep potential headaches caused by the new scheme. “Greece for me this summer then, was thinking of Tenerife, but no way I’m putting up with those queues and chaos,” one man posted on X.

Another person added: “I work in the travel industry, already had customers worried about this new system believe me, Greece will benefit from this stand!” While a third chimed in: “Perfect – off to the Greek islands this summer – common sense prevails!”

Destinations loved by Brits are actually paying people to move there. If you fancy a life in the sun, you could make some extra cash while topping up your tan in Spain or Italy

Many people may dream of moving abroad, but you might not realise that some countries will actually pay you to do so. If you fancy living in the glorious sunshine, and making some money in the process, you could actually embark on the travel adventure of a lifetime by packing your bags for good.

Countries like Spain, Italy and Greece will actually pay Brits “thousands” to relocate and start a new life abroad. If you’re fed up of the weather, fancy starting a fresh chapter or simply want to move to somewhere totally different, it may be something worth considering to liven things up.

Schemes people can use were recently highlighted on TikTok by History On A Map to tell people what they need to know. It’s incredible to think you can be paid to relocate to these beautiful countries.

Italy

Italy is one country that pays people to relocate. If you fancy tucking into pasta, enjoying gorgeous wine and immersing yourself in history a little more, you can actually be paid to move here. It explained: “Regions like Calabria, Molise and Sardinia are suffering from massive depopulation.

“To revive these ghost towns, the local governments are offering between €10,000 (£8,705.50) to €30,000 (£26,116.50) to people under 40 who are willing to settle there.”

It turns out Italian regions such as Calabria, Molise and Sardinia offer financial incentives to boost declining populations in rural areas. There are reported to be schemes that offer up to €30,000 to people willing to move to towns with fewer than 2,000 to 3,000 residents.

Usually, to benefit from the scheme, applicants need to be under 40, start a business or renovate a home. There are some guidelines people need to follow to be able to benefit.

Spain

Again, towns in rural areas are looking for people to move there, such as Ponga in Asturias. The video detailed: “As part of the empty Spain initiative, the town of Ponga is offering €3,100 per person just to move there.”

According to reports, this figure is actually claimed to be between €2,971 and €3,000 per person (often reported as roughly £2,600) to new residents. However, there are additional incentives for couples and families to boost its dwindling population.

If you fancy taking the leap, the scheme requires a five-year commitment to live in the area. In other words, you need to be sure before you apply to move.

Greece

You can also move to the tiny island of Antikythera in Greece. It’s said people can be paid up to €500 per month for the first three years.

The relocation package aims to repopulate the area, providing new residents with a house, a plot of land and the monthly payments. The initiative primarily targets families and skilled professionals such as bakers, builders and farmers to support the local community.

Other options

The video also highlights that people can be paid to move to Japan. The amounts people can be paid differ, as every scheme has its own set of guidelines, and may not be as much as detailed in the video.

While people can’t be paid for simply moving to Ireland, grants are available for people who move to renovate properties on its remote offshore islands. There are all sorts of schemes people can benefit from, but it’s not as easy as packing your bags.

There are rules people need to follow to benefit, and they vary depending on where you want to apply to move. Do your research to find out more.

easyJet issued an ‘important update’ earlier this month

easyJet has issued an alert to passengers travelling to more than 100 destinations with the airline after a major rule change that has come in post-Brexit.

In an “important update” issued earlier this month, easyJet warned queue times may be affected and said: “Airports across Europe may experience longer queues at passport control whilst the new European Entry/Exit System (EES) border checks are being completed. This will mean you may need to have your biometrics taken including your face and fingerprints scanned.”

Passengers are advised to plan travel to and through the airport, factoring in that they may have to queue for longer than previously. Anyone who needs to use Bag Drop should do so as soon as it opens, and travellers should make sure they have all necessary documents to hand.

easyJet is also urging people to go through security as early as possible and to head to the gate or boarding area as soon as it is announced. The travel operator further said there may be additional checks at passport control before your gate and added: “You may experience longer queues in your arrival airport”.

Full list of easyJet destinations under the new EES

• Ajaccio, Corsica (AJA) – France
• Akureyri (AEY) – Iceland
• Alicante (ALC) – Spain
• Almeria (LEI) – Spain
• Amsterdam (AMS) – Netherlands
• Athens (ATH) – Greece
• Barcelona (BCN) – Spain
• Bari (BRI) – Italy
• Basel (BSL) – Switzerland
• Bastia, Corsica (BIA) – France
• Berlin Brandenburg (BER) – Germany
• Biarritz (BIQ) – France
• Bilbao (BIO) – Spain
• Bordeaux (BOD) – France
• Brest Brittany (BES) – France
• Brindisi (BDS) – Italy
• Brussels Intl (BRU) – Belgium
• Budapest (BUD) – Hungary
• Burgas (BOJ) – Bulgaria
• Calvi, Corsica (CLY) – France
• Copenhagen (CPH) – Denmark
• Corfu (CFU) – Greece
• Costiera Amalfitana Salerno, Naples (QSR) – Italy
• Crete Chania (CHQ) – Greece
• Crete Heraklion (HER) – Greece
• Dubrovnik (DBV) – Croatia
• Dusseldorf (DUS) – Germany
• Evenes-Lofoten (EVE) – Norway
• Faro (FAO) – Portugal
• Figari, Corsica (FSC) – France
• Frankfurt International (FRA) – Germany
• Friedrichshafen (FDH) – Germany
• Fuerteventura (FUE) – Spain
• Geneva (GVA) – Switzerland
• Gibraltar (GIB) – Gibraltar
• Gran Canaria (LPA) – Spain
• Grenoble (GNB) – France
• Hamburg (HAM) – Germany
• Ibiza (IBZ) – Spain
• Innsbruck (INN) – Austria
• Kalamata (KLX) – Greece
• Kefalonia (EFL) – Greece
• Kittila (KTT) – Finland
• Kos (KGS) – Greece
• Krakow (KRK) – Poland
• La Coruña (LCG) – Spain
• La Rochelle (LRH) – France
• Lamezia (SUF) – Italy
• Lanzarote (ACE) – Spain
• Lille (LIL) – France
• Lisbon (LIS) – Portugal
• Ljubljana (LJU) – Slovenia
• Luxembourg (LUX) – Luxembourg
• Lyon (LYS) – France
• Madeira Funchal (FNC) – Portugal
• Madrid (MAD) – Spain
• Majorca Palma (PMI) – Spain
• Malaga (AGP) – Spain
• Malta (MLA) – Malta
• Marseille Provence (MRS) – France
• Menorca Mahon (MAH) – Spain
• Milan Linate (LIN) – Italy
• Milan Malpensa (MXP) – Italy
• Montpellier (MPL) – France
• Munich (MUC) – Germany
• Murcia Intl (RMU) – Spain
• Mykonos (JMK) – Greece
• Nantes (NTE) – France
• Naples (NAP) – Italy
• Nice (NCE) – France
• Oslo (OSL) – Norway
• Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – France
• Paris Orly (ORY) – France
• Pisa (Tuscany) (PSA) – Italy
• Porto (OPO) – Portugal
• Porto Santo (PXO) – Portugal
• Prague (PRG) – Czech Republic
• Preveza (PVK) – Greece
• Pula (PUY) – Croatia
• Rennes (RNS) – France
• Reus (REU) – Spain
• Reykjavik Keflavik (KEF) – Iceland
• Rhodes (RHO) – Greece
• Rimini (RMI) – Italy
• Rome Fiumicino (FCO) – Italy
• Rovaniemi (RVN) – Finland
• Salzburg (SZG) – Austria
• Santa Cruz de la Palma (SPC) – Spain
• Santiago de Compostela (SCQ) – Spain
• Santorini (JTR) – Greece
• Sardinia Cagliari (CAG) – Italy
• Sardinia Olbia (OLB) – Italy
• Scandinavian Mountains (SCR) – Sweden
• Seville (SVQ) – Spain
• Sicily Catania (CTA) – Italy
• Sicily Lampedusa (LMP) – Italy
• Sicily Palermo (PMO) – Italy
• Skiathos (JSI) – Greece
• Sofia (SOF) – Bulgaria
• Split (SPU) – Croatia
• Strasbourg (SXB) – France
• Tenerife South (TFS) – Spain
• Thessaloniki (SKG) – Greece
• Toulouse (TLS) – France
• Tromsø (TOS) – Norway
• Turin (TRN) – Italy
• Valencia (VLC) – Spain
• Venice Marco Polo (VCE) – Italy
• Verona (VRN) – Italy
• Vienna (VIE) – Austria
• Zadar (ZAD) – Croatia
• Zante Zakynthos (ZTH) – Greece
• Zurich (ZRH) – Switzerland

The EES applies to 29 countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. The above list of airports are the Schengen area destinations you can fly to with easyJet from the UK, as of the airline’s website at the time of publication.

EMILY has been to Paris (obviously), the Alps, St Tropez, Venice, Rome – and now, it looks as if she’s off to Greece.

According to show creator Darren Star, filming is expected to take place across Greece and Monaco with production starting as soon as next month.

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

With the cast members like Lily Collins set to jet off to Greece, we’ve put together our favourite islands with top resorts and world’s prettiest villages…

Crete

As an anti-fly-and-flopper, you know a hotel is good when even I’m tempted to just stay there the whole time.

Over on the west side of Crete, I spent a blissful few days at the family-friendly Royal Senses Resort & Spa.

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The sprawling resort had me sold instantly with the massively long heated swimming pool, as well as the adult-only spa section with day beds and hot tubs.

I had way too much fun travelling on the private hotel funicular every day up to my two-storey suite (that made me feel like I’d stepped into a Selling Sunset property).

Maldives floating breakfasts, live music at dinner, it was serious luxury without having to spend too much – rooms start from around £146 a night.

If you really do want to explore, this side of the island has some beautiful little spots, such as Margarites – a small village known for its ceramics – or Rethimno, a coastal city perfect for market shopping and cocktails.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

A feeling of zen still wafts over me when I look back on my visit to Crete, around eight years ago.

Mum and I were staying in the sleepy town of Agios Nikolaos, on the east coast of the island, in a rugged and airy resort whose white-washed walls were contrasted by large pots of fuschia-coloured roses and climbing vines.

The hotel was a short wander to the main port, where terracotta-roofed houses overlook sparkling waters lined by authentic restaurants serving properly delicious tzatziki and Greek salads.

Gioma Meze is nestled into the cliff-face and whips up all the classic mezze dishes in a fuss-free setting.

From this port you can hitch a boat over to the teeny island of Spinalonga, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It once operated as a leper colony in the early 1900s and has a fascinating story to tell – much of its stony fortress remains intact.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Feeling inspired? Here are some other Greece holidays…

*If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue.

Blue Bay Beach Resort, Rhodes

The four-star Blue Bay Beach Resort sits a stone’s throw away from this beach, and has its own pools, splash park and water slides. Here you’re only a 15-minute drive away from Rhodes Old Town, where UNESCO-listed medieval streets wind through castle-like architecture. Make sure to check out the Street of the Knights, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe.

BOOK HERE

Gouves Bay Hotel, Crete

Gouves Bay Hotel keeps things simple on a sunny Greek island location right by the sea. This hotel has a relaxed, family-friendly feel with two pools, a kids’ club and easy all-inclusive dining. And if you fancy a change of atmosphere, Gouves’ bars and tavernas are just a short walk away for your choice of evening drinks with a view.

BOOK HERE

Aegean View Aqua Resort, Kos

The picturesque hotel is perched up high and surrounded by lush greenery in the historic harbour town of Kos. Here you’ll find a huge swimming pool and a waterpark, as well as activities like darts, tennis, football and more. There’s evening entertainment six days a week, and an on-site spa with a hot tub and sauna to unwind.

BOOK HERE

TUI Blue Lagoon Queen, Halkidiki

This mega resort with six pools and its own waterpark is rated five stars by TUI. In the main restaurant, you’ll see show cooking displays as you take your pick from an extensive international buffet. Plus, Kalives beach is on the doorstep of this hotel, with its strikingly blue water and soft golden sands.

BOOK HERE

Mykonos

Being one of the most expensive islands in the Cyclades, Mykonos oozes glamour and luxury from its exclusive resorts to sleek beach clubs.

But it still has the charm of Greece with its classic white architecture, lime-coated trees and stone pathways all perfectly framed by bright pink bougainvillea.

Chora Town is beautiful and has lots of boutique shops selling elegant dresses, designer handbags and it is fun to window shop – or splash out if you wish.

There are 16 windmills on Mykonos and seven are on the hill in Chora which at sunset makes for an incredible photo.

If you’re lucky, you might spot several of the island’s pelicans walking about too.

They’re a mascot of the island, starting with the original, Petros who roamed the island for 30 years.

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Kefalonia

My very first Greek island holiday is still my favourite – when I took my son, then three years old, to the stunning Kefalonia.

The island in the Ionian Sea — a Hollywood star in its own right thanks to the 2001 film version of Louis de Bernières’ wartime novel — ticked all the boxes and boasts what is often claimed as Greece’s best beach.

We spent a week on the island in mid-May and enjoyed everything it had
to offer — without spending too much money.

Our timing (outside of school holidays) meant we were one of the few
tourist groups on the island.

The weather was still perfect though. The average is highs of 21C in
May and the same in October. There were no crowds, either.

So we were eating al fresco at top seafront restaurants without
needing to make a booking.

On my favourite day, we picnicked at Myrtos Beach with huge Greek
tomatoes, spanakopita, feta and hunks of bread with olive oil.

In a post lunch dip at what is regularly named one of Greece’s top
five beaches, we were the only people in the sea.

– Caroline McGuire, Head of Sun Travel (Digital)

Corfu

I’m convinced I’ve found the most underrated spot in Corfu.

Sidari sits on the northern tip of the island, and is often overlooked by those heading to popular resorts like Kavos or Corfu Town.

Sidari has some of the most stunning beaches I’ve seen. The Canal d’Amour is a dramatic sandstone cliff split in two to reveal a tiny beach, with pretty turquoise waters and caves to explore.

A short walk away you’ll find a main strip lined with affordable restaurants that feel super high-end.

Savannah Seaside offers amazing fruity cocktails and delicious flame-grilled skewers in a tropical beach club setting, plus there’s plenty of spots serving gyros and fries for €3.

Plus hotels in this region are mind-bogglingly affordable. I stayed in the Eleni Apartments with TUI, who offer week-long breaks there including return flights from £297.

So if you want a Greek island holiday with plenty of sea views, fruity cocktails and delicious gyros – but without the Mykonos prices – give Sidari a try.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Santorini

Santorini is just as beautiful in real-life as it is in all those posts on Instagram.

The clifftop village of Oia on the northern tip of the island is the most famous where you’ll see the three blue dome churches across the skyline.

It’s even been called one of the most beautiful villages in the world.

Yes, it’s busy. So if you want to avoid the crowds then I’d suggest going in shoulder season like I did in May.

In saying that, you do still have to dodge tourists for a good photo and walking down lively Nikos Monikos Street was particularly cramped.

But it’s all worth it for when you get a small gap in the streets between villas and get a glimpse of the sparkling Aegean Sea.

If you want peace and quiet, and stunning views, head up to the Venetsanos Winery.

Not only does it offer wine tastings, there are unbeatable views across the Santorini caldera.

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

For more on Greece, here’s where you can find the world’s best island with chalky houses and beach clubs.

And this ‘last paradise’ island is unknown to tourists and where locals actually go on holiday.

Many passengers are facing waits of up to three hours at Spanish airports due to the new controls

Travellers in Spain are experiencing significant delays at airports. And experts are warning that one particular group is bearing the brunt of new border controls, according to a Spanish travel organisation.

There have been widespread reports of waiting times of up to three hours. New regulations have been introduced, with some passengers in particular facing very long waits.

Spanish media reports indicate waiting times of up to three hours at Palma airport alone, with similar delays reported in France, Greece, Italy and beyond. Travel group Aviba is now calling for urgent measures to prevent chaos this coming summer.

Pedro Fiol, president of the travel association, is demanding immediate action to avert disruption this summer, and has revealed he has been pushing for such measures for months, according to Ultimata Hora. The new system has only just been introduced, having fully launched on April 10, following a trial period that began late last year.

The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) initially began operations on 12 October 2025, with a phased rollout across 29 European countries. Now it is fully in place.

The system replaces passport stamping with digitally recorded entries, exits or refusals of entry of non-EU nationals arriving for short stays. Travellers’ facial images, fingerprints and personal data from the travel document will also be recorded.

Mr Fiol said: “The implementation of the new European Border and Security System (EES) is already beginning to be felt at the Balearic airports, especially at Son Sant Joan, the main gateway to Mallorca, where we are still operating with a hybrid model. At certain times, it is causing some slowdowns in the controls, particularly for non-EU passengers.”

He warned that “we are facing a structural change in how borders are managed across Europe: biometric registration is replacing manual passport stamping, and this means more time for the passenger’s first contact with their destination.” In his view, so far “the experience has been inconsistent: some days the operation runs relatively smoothly, while others, according to agencies and tour operators, can take more than two hours from the moment the plane lands until the traveller collects their luggage, and even nearly three hours in some specific cases.”

Ultima Hora reports that the National Police have acknowledged the delays, though they say they have seen no evidence of prolonged hold-ups. Sources close to the security forces have told Spanish media that additional staff have been deployed during peak hours in a bid to ease any difficulties that may occur during periods of heavy passenger congestion at checkpoints.

Travellers passing through airports in countries including France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Spain and Greece are facing waits of several hours at border controls, according to the Airports Council International (ACI). Olivier Jankovec, the director of the ACI European division, told the Financial Times: “This situation, in the coming weeks and certainly over the peak summer months, is going to be simply unmanageable.

“We are seeing those queueing times now, at peak times, when traffic is just starting to build up.” A spokesperson for the European Commission told the Guardian: “What we can see from the first days of full operation is that the system is working very well. In the overwhelming majority of member states there are no issues.”

The commission said that the average registration of a passenger was 70 seconds, although the ACI has claimed that it can take up to five minutes. The spokesperson said there were a “few member states where technical issues have been detected” but that they “are being addressed”.

They said: “It is up to member states to ensure the proper implementation of the EES on the ground.” Luke Fitzpatrick, from independent travel agency Perfect Getaways, told the BBC this week that travellers should plan ahead to make border checks as smooth as possible.

“It’s about being as prepared as you can be,” Fitzpatrick told BBC Radio Merseyside. “There is a lot of uncertainty at the moment as people are getting used to the new system.”

While he said the advice was to arrive at the airport “at least three hours early”, he said it could be more difficult for people booked on a package holiday. “If you’re on a shared transfer back, everyone’s coming together at the same time,” he said.

EES changes and the impact on transfer and pick-ups

Pedro Fiol told Ultima Hora that “this situation is forcing a restructuring of transfer and pick-up operations at destinations to better co-ordinate exact times, avoid additional downtime, and guarantee the smoothest possible service.” Given this situation, he says that “travel agencies are concerned that if resources are not properly allocated at airports with such high tourist pressure as those in the Balearic Islands, significant queues and a negative first experience for visitors are possible.”

What do Brit tourists need to do with EES rules?

The govuk website states that “if you are travelling to a country in the Schengen area for a short stay using a UK passport, you may be required to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, when you arrive. You do not need to take any action before you arrive at the border, and there is no cost for EES registration.

“EES registration is replacing the current system of manually stamping passports when visitors arrive in the EU. EES may take each passenger extra time to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border.”

The countries in the Schengen area are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.