As more countries in the European Union open to US travelers, the question is: is it time to go? While you have to determine readiness for yourself, if wondering whether or not you can get a good deal is what’s holding you back, then we’ve got news for you. As countries continue to roll out re-opening plans throughout the summer, we’re finding that current flight prices to the EU are 8% lower this July than they were in 2019.* However, according to our data, these prices likely won’t last long, with prices for August travel up 7% compared to August 2019.* So flex those search fingers and start planning your trip.
If you’re not sure you’re ready to go to Europe – or you just need an idea of where to start – we dug into our data to begin answering some of your most pressing questions.
First, what to know about the Delta variant.
Travelers eager to visit Europe may have growing concerns over the emergence of the Delta variant throughout the continent. According to the CDC, the good news is that vaccinated US travelers are “safe.” However, as with any health concerns before travel, chat with your doctor to determine your risk.
How will I know where to go?
Our Travel Restrictions map gives you a glance at what countries are open, open with restrictions or closed to US travelers. We’ve also added filters so you can see only those countries accepting vaccinated visitors, or where quarantines are not required.
I’m not into a Eurotrip now, but I will be in a few months.
Still, try to book now. If it’s any indication of what the fall and winter hold, our data shows that prices are up 32% compared to 2019** for travel to Europe over the Thanksgiving holiday. Still want to wait? Track flight prices by setting a Price Alert – we’ll let you know when we think you’ll see a good price for your specific route.
I’m ready to go. What are the deals?
Here’s where you can find great flight** and hotel*** savings in July – in countries that are open to US travelers.
Lisbon, Portugal
Now is the perfect time to book a flight. Prices are down 44% compared to July 2019. US travelers will need a negative COVID test to enter the country.
Search flights
Athens, Greece
Flight prices are down 23% compared to July 2019 – and hotel rates are too (down 15%). Vaccinated US travelers are free to enter, unvaccinated travelers need to show a negative COVID test.
Search flights
Rome, Italy
Flight prices are down 18% and hotel prices are down 16% compared to July 2019. Vaccinated US travelers are free to enter, unvaccinated travelers need to show a negative COVID test.
Search flights
Madrid, Spain
Flight prices are down 6% and hotel prices are down 10% compared to July 2019. Only vaccinated US travelers will be allowed to enter Spain.
Search flights
What’s on the horizon for travel to Europe?
We want to make sure you have the best summer ever, whether that’s stuffing your face with baguettes in Paris or chilling on the Adriatic. And while the numbers tell one story – travelers can tell another. We asked one of our team members what she’s most excited about: “Personally, I’m excited to get back to Europe. Airlines are taking the necessary precautions, my family is vaccinated, and I was able to get an amazing deal (with extra legroom!). Italy has been a bucket list trip and now I’ll finally be able to do it.“ – Andrea, KAYAK Brand Marketing
As news continues to come stateside about which countries are allowing US travelers back in, we’ll make sure you’re up to date. You can even get this information direct to your inbox by creating an account and/or updating your email preferences.
Methodology
*General EU travel: KAYAK US searches were considered for roundtrip, economy flights to Europe for search dates 6/15/21-6/22/21 for travel 7/1/21-8/31/21.
** Flight methodology: KAYAK US searches were considered for roundtrip, economy flights to Europe for search dates 6/15/21-6/22/21 for travel 7/1/21-7/30/21. For Thanksgiving, US searches were considered for roundtrip, economy flights to Europe for search dates 6/15/21-6/22/21 for travel 11/25/21-11/28/21.
***Hotels: KAYAK US searches were considered for hotels in Europe for search dates 6/15/21-6/22/21 for travel 7/1/21-7/30/21.
