Some of the biggest holiday destinations in Europe have travel rules still in force three years after Covid first hit.

The good news for those looking forward to an Easter break this year is that getting onto mainland Europe is much less complicated than it was one or two years ago.

Almost all countries have dropped mandatory testing requirements and no longer ask to see travellers coronavirus vaccination passes.

One thing that may catch holidaymakers out - particularly given the upcoming Passport Office strikes and the expected backlog that will cause - are passport rules.

With all EU countries your passport must have been issued in the past 10 years at the time of entry, and it must be valid for at least three months on the date that you leave the country.

We take a look at travel rules for four of the biggest holiday hotspots in Europe.

Portugal

Travel to Portugal should be much smoother than it was a year ago (
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Getty Images)

Portugal and all its regions, including the Azores and Madeira, have dropped all Covid related entry requirements.

There is also no requirement to quarantine or isolate if you catch the disease while there, except for those travellers arriving from China, who must show negative PCR or antigen test results.

Face coverings must be worn in hospitals and other health care settings, and are recommended for everyone over 10 in crowded public spaces.

Visit Portugal is a great resource for those who want a detailed rundown of the rules, or want to know where they can find a Covid test while in the country.

France

France has dropped its Covid travel requirements (
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Getty Images)

All passengers travelling to France no longer need to present proof of a Covid vaccination, recovery or negative test certificate.

This applies to all passengers, irrespective of nationality or vaccination status.

As of 1 February 2023, it is no longer mandatory to self-isolate following a positive Covid test, but doing so remains recommended.

There are some specific laws in France tourists should bare in mind, including a legal requirement to carry a high-vis vest and warning triangle in the car when you're driving.

Strikes and protests in opposition to the raising of the national pension age by two years could well impact travel, so make sure you check local news and Foreign Office advice before heading to France.

Spain

Tourists enjoying the sunshine on Cala Compte beach (
Image:
LightRocket via Getty Images)

As with France and Portugal, Spain has ditched all of its Covid travel entry requirements.

The only exception is for arrivals from China, who must undergo visual and temperature checks on arrival, and may be subjected to a diagnostic test for active infection at the point of entry.

Face masks are required in hospitals and care homes in Spain.

It's important to research the specific area you're visiting before travelling to Spain, as local laws vary significantly.

For example last year a ban of all smoking on Barcelona's beaches was brought into force.

It's also worth being aware of potential disruption at Spain's airports, as workers at the ground services and cargo handling company Swissport are walking out between now and Easter at 17 travel hubs.

From 27 February to 13 April, they have called for a series of 24-hour walkouts every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

Greece

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Image:
Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The country does not require any visitors to show their vaccination status of take a test.

However, if you test positive while in the country, you are advised to self-isolate for five days from the date of the positive test result.

It remains necessary to wear a mask on public transport and in hospitals and care facilities for the elderly, as well as in pharmacies, taxis, and indoor spaces on boats, according to the UK Foreign Office.