WHILE holidays abroad are officially back on, some countries may still have restrictions in place that are different to the UK.
Holidaymakers hoping to travel this summer should look out for Covid rules in their destinations before their trip, including face masks.
Face coverings continue to be mandatory in countries including Greece, Cyprus and Malta – and you could risk a £250 fine.
We explain the latest face mask rules for popular holiday hotspots you should know ahead of your travel this summer.
Greece
In Greece, it is mandatory to wear a mask in all indoor public spaces.
In certain areas, such as in supermarkets and pharmacies, and on public transport, you will be required to wear either double masks with at least one being a surgical one, or an N95/FFP2 mask.
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However these rules are set to be scrapped ahead of the summer.
The country's Minister of Health, Thanos Plevris, confirmed this month that Greece is set to lift local Covid rules from May which will include the end of compulsory face masks indoors from June 1.
Turkey
Face masks are no longer required outdoors or indoors in Turkey – as long as air circulation and social distancing are adequate.
Portugal
Holidaymakers in Portugal no longer have to wear face masks indoors including shops and hotels.
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The country announced this week that more Covid rules would be scrapped including the requirement to wear face masks in most indoor spaces.
However, face coverings still have to be worn in hospitals and on public transport in Portugal.
Spain
Similar to Portugal, Spain dropped its rule requiring face masks indoors earlier this week.
It is no longer necessary to wear face masks in covered spaces like shops, supermarkets, restaurants and bars, as well as gyms, theatres, cinemas or concerts,
However, it will still be needed on all public transport, on planes, in health services of all kinds, and pharmacies.
Malta
It is still mandatory to wear a face mask in all indoor public spaces in Malta.
Children under three are exempt and no masks are required in outdoor public spaces.
France
Face masks are no longer compulsory in both indoor and outdoor settings in France.
The only exception is when using French public transport where face masks are still required.
You could be hit with a €135 (£114) fine if you don't comply with this rule.
Croatia
Face mask mandates have recently been relaxed in Croatia, meaning you are no longer required to wear a mask in indoor settings.
But it is also mandatory to wear a face mask in health and social care settings and in large gatherings, face coverings are recommended.
Meanwhile, you should follow the guidance of your airline or transport provider as some may still require you to wear a mask.
Italy
Italy currently requires masks to be worn in all indoor public places – including in shops and on public transport – and in crowded outdoor areas.
The use of masks is no longer mandatory in outdoor spaces, except in places of large gatherings such as sporting events.
Until 30 April, FFP2 masks or higher grade must be worn to travel on flights in Italy.
Cyprus
In Cyprus, face masks are compulsory in all indoor public spaces for everyone aged 6 and above.
Failure to comply with restrictions may result in a €300 (£253) fine.
Germany
Germany currently requires face masks to be worn in enclosed spaces.
In retail outlets and on public transport, wearing a medical-grade mask remains a legal requirement.
Often an FFP-2 mask is required and you should make sure you have an FFP-2 mask with you.
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