Greece has suspended the requirement for British passport holders to provide biometric data under the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES), offering cheap flights starting from £17. The move aims to prevent further travel chaos after reports of delays of up to four hours at European airports.
EES Suspension for Brits
The Greek Embassy announced that from 10 April 2026, British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel advice on 20 April, stating that Greek authorities will not collect fingerprints or photos from UK travellers as part of EES. Residents in Greece should show residence documentation to avoid being registered.
Affordable Greek Destinations
With the relaxation of rules, travellers can enjoy reduced waiting times and warm spring temperatures. Here are three budget-friendly options:
- Kos: One-way flights from London start at £20 in April (Ryanair) or £42 in May. Known for golden beaches, ancient ruins, and a vibrant bicycle culture, Kos is the birthplace of Hippocrates.
- Chania, Crete: Flights from Birmingham start at £22 one-way in April or £35 in May. From Leeds and Manchester, fares begin at £22 in April and £30-32 in May. London flights are as low as £17 in May. Chania boasts a 14th-century Venetian harbour, historic old town, and nearby pink-sand beaches like Elafonisi.
- Corfu: One-way flights from London start at £28 in April or £18 in May. From Nottingham, Manchester, and Edinburgh, fares begin at £30 in May. Corfu offers turquoise waters, sandy beaches, emerald hills, and a UNESCO World Heritage old town.
These destinations provide an ideal spring escape with temperatures reaching 20°C in April and up to 25°C in May.
