There’s no denying that for the last few years traveling has been somewhat challenging – especially in comparison to pre-pandemic days – with practically every nation on the planet having an extensive list of entry requirements for visitors.
However, with much of the world having entered – or at least beginning to enter – the endemic stage of the Covid-19 pandemic, it is becoming much easier for international travelers to enter countries for tourism purposes.
Throughout this article we are going to take a look at 12 cities to visit this summer – from countries in Europe, as well as Central and South America – that have removed all of their covid-related entry requirements.
And, on top of that, some countries have even gotten rid of all of their internal restrictions as well.
Yes, you heard right. The below cities can now be visited with ZERO entry requirements or travel restrictions.
This means…
- NO Covid-19 testing – either pre-departure or on arrival
- NO need to show proof of vaccination – both when entering the country or traveling around internally
- NO quarantine requirements
- that nationals from ALL countries can now enter.
These cities are also in countries that no longer have a requirement to present vaccine passports to enter public places – such as bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
And, in most of them, there are also no longer enforced rules when it comes to wearing face masks in public.
So, basically, you can now visit – and enjoy – all that these wonderful and fascinating cities have to offer, restriction-free.
Mendoza, Argentina
Famous for its warm and sunny weather, a wide variety of fine dining options – and of course, its Malbec and selection of other red wines – the city of Mendoza is a city not-to-be-missed when visiting Argentina.
Located in Argentina’s Cuyo region, Mendoza is situated in a picturesque setting – with its tree-lined and leafy streets, as well as its mix of both modern and art deco style architecture.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Parque Provincial Aconcagua
- Mendoza River
- Bodega Tierras Altas
- Parque General San Martin
- Bodega Roberto Bonfanti
And, for all the wine lovers out there, Mendoza offers the opportunity to take a bike tour around its world-renowned wineries.
San José, Costa Rica
Not only is San José Costa Rica’s capital city – but it is also the nation’s largest, with it being located right in the center of the country.
Although most travelers would arrive in San José before heading off to other destinations inside the country, the city itself is not one to be missed – as it offers visitors some of the very best Costa Rican nightlife options.
And, for those who enjoy checking out the local architecture, San José will certainly not disappoint – with its beautifully constructed Victorian-style buildings.
Coffee lovers will also be able to taste some of the world’s most delectable coffee – with Costa Rica being the world’s 16th biggest coffee-exporting nation.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Catedral Metropolitana
- Teatro Nacional Costa Rica
- Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
- Edificio Metálico
- Parque Nacional (National Park)
Gothenburg, Sweden
If cafe-hopping is one of your favorite pastimes, then the Swedish city of Gothenburg might be the perfect option for you.
Situated on the west side of the country – off the nation’s Göta älv river – Gothenburg is home to some of Europe’s finest cafes and shops.
The city also boasts numerous historical sites – which can be explored by foot whilst taking in its beautiful Dutch-style waterways and leafy surroundings.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Southern Gothenburg Archipelago
- Botanical Garden
- Liseberg amusement park
- Volvo Museum
- Haga
Copenhagen, Denmark
Known as one of the happiest cities in the world, Denmark’s Capital – Copenhagen – offers so much for visitors to enjoy.
With many iconic sites to visit, as well as being an easy-to-explore city by bicycle, the Danish capital certainly has a charm that will not go unnoticed.
The city also boasts some of Europe’s finest eating and drinking options for travelers – with some of the best Scandinavian restaurants located there.
Copenhagen is also a great choice for those who enjoy beer-tasting – with the city playing home to breweries and bars, which offer some of the planet’s very best when it comes to pilsner and craft beer.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Tivoli Gardens
- Nyhavn
- Rosenborg Castle
- Christiansborg Palace
- Frederiksberg Slot
Riga, Latvia
Featuring a beautiful Old Town – which offers a wide variety of entertainment to suit the needs of all travelers – the Latvian capital of Riga is certainly a city worth checking out.
Situated right at the mouth of the River Daugava, Latvia is a great choice for travelers that enjoy visiting museums, concert halls, artistic architecture – as well as those who seek a good night out.
The city’s Livu Square – which can get extremely busy and lively – boasts many cafes, bars and nightclubs – with live music also taking place on a daily basis.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Vecriga (Old City Riga)
- House of the Blackheads
- Riga Central Market
- Riga Cathedral
- Riga Motormuseum
Cork, Ireland
Known as the ‘foodie capital’ of Ireland, the city of Cork is certainly going to be favored by those who enjoy sampling a variety of fresh seafood and different cheeses – as well as those who have a sweet tooth, and enjoy a bite of homemade chocolate.
All of the above can be found in the city’s famous English Market – which dates back to the 18th century.
Cork is a great city to partake in a tour – with there being so much to take in for travelers, including some beautifully-characteristic seaside towns, as well as multiple historical sites and art galleries to check out.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- The English Market
- Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Cork Butter Museum
- St. Patrick’s Street
- Shandon Bells & Tower St. Anne’s Church
St. George’s, Grenada
Being the capital city of the beautiful Caribbean island of Grenada, St. George’s is home to the historical 18th-century Fort George – where visitors can take in breathtaking views of the island and its surroundings.
And, for those who have an interest in history, the Grenada National Museum is also located in St. George’s – which was built in the late 1700s.
There are also a selection of half and full-day tours that can be enjoyed in – and around – the city of St. George’s.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Fort George
- The Diamond Chocolate Factory
- Rum Distilleries Tour
- Snorkeling Trip to Underwater Sculpture Park
- Half or Full-day Island Tour
Oaxaca, Mexico
Being the capital – and biggest city of the Mexican state of Oaxaca – Oaxaca City is a fascinating place to explore for those seeking something that is a bit more ‘off the beaten path’.
Featuring stunningly-beautiful churches – and offering museum enthusiasts the opportunity to learn so much about this truly fascinating Mexican city – Oaxaca is certainly not to be missed when heading to Mexico.
And, although Oaxaca’s nightlife may not be quite as lively as popular tourist hotspots – such as Cancun and Tijuana – there are a sufficient number of trendy bars to enjoy some late-night entertainment at.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán
- Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca
- Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
- Mercado 20 de Noviembre
- Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca
Pécs, Hungary
Situated close to the border of Croatia, Pécs is an ancient city in the southern region of Hungary.
Famous for being home to some of Hungary’s most iconic architectural landmarks – including the Pécs Cathedral and Mosque of Pasha Qasim – Pécs is, without doubt, a great choice for those who enjoy learning about a city’s history and culture.
Pécs is around three hours from the nation’s capital – Budapest – where visitors can take a relaxing and comfortable train journey directly to this calm city.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Pécs Cathedral
- Mosque of Pasha Qasim
- Early Christian Mausoleum
- Zsolnay Museum
- Gallery of Modern Hungarian Art
Bucharest, Romania
Located in the south of the country, Bucharest is the capital city – and commercial hub – of Romania.
With its rich history, Bucharest is certainly an interesting choice when it comes to European cities – with it playing home to the world’s biggest parliamentary building, the Palace of Parliament.
While a bustling – but also entertaining – city, Bucharest offers a lively nightlife scene, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and even rooftop bars to explore.
And, there’s no doubt that Bucharest is also a great choice when it comes to traveling on a budget – especially compared to other cities in Western Europe – with Romania being known as one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the region.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Muzeul Naţional al Satului “Dimitrie Gusti”
- Palace of Parliament
- Herăstrau Park
- Lipscani (Old Town)
- Ceaușescu Mansion
Kraków, Poland
Kraków – situated in the south, and bordering Czech Republic – is Poland’s second-largest city.
It also has what is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful old towns – known as Stare Miasto – that you are likely to come across.
Here you will find luscious parks, a wide variety of traditional Polish eateries, accommodation – as well as the truly fascinating Wawel Royal Castle, which hosts a museum and cathedral.
Kraków’s old town also features a main square – Rynek Główny – which holds the title of being Europe’s largest medieval marketplace.
You will also find a selection of entertainment spots to spend the evening time – with a variety of pubs, craft beer bars and venues playing live jazz music.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- Rynek Główny (Main Square)
- Wawel Royal Castle
- Stare Miasto (Old Town)
- St. Mary’s Basilica
- Kazimierz The Former Jewish District
Bath, United Kingdom
Being the county of Somerset’s biggest city, Bath is situated in the valley of the River Avon in the United Kingdom.
Taking its name from the Roman-built baths, which feature in the city, Bath is one of the most beautifully-picturesque places in England.
With it only being a 90-minute train journey from the country’s capital – London – Bath features in the Unesco World Heritage’s list of ‘Great Spa Towns of Europe’.
Visitors to the city can enjoy a soothing and relaxing walk through its canal towpath – which is also a great spot for those looking for a great cycle route.
And, if you are looking to take a walk in some beautiful grounds, you can do so at the visually-beautiful historical Royal Victoria Park – which originally opened in 1830.
Here are some of the city’s must-see attractions:
- The Roman Baths
- Thermae Bath Spa
- Bath Abbey
- Pulteney Bridge
- Royal Crescent
While the above list of 12 cities gives eager travelers some great ideas of restriction-free places to explore this summer, you can make your own ‘a la carte’ itinerary by choosing cities in the below countries that have no entry rules.
- El Salvador
- Mexico
- Norway
- Slovenia
- Iceland
- Bahrain
- Jordan
- Ireland
- Hungary
- Romania
- Saudi Arabia
- Montenegro
- Curaçao
- United Kingdom
- Maldives
- Aruba
- Mongolia
- Moldova
- Gabon
- Yemen
- Costa Rica
- Sweden
- Poland
- Denmark
- Grenada
- Latvia
- Argentina