Banks in Greece have now reopened.

However, we continue to advise holidaymakers and travellers heading out to Greece to take enough Euros in cash to cover all of their needs.

Please note, at this time there are no limits on cash withdrawals for tourists using cards at ATMs. However, there are mixed reports on availability of cash from ATMs. There is no guarantee that you’ll be able to exchange sterling for euros in Greece. There are no restrictions on taking unspent euros out of Greece at the end of your stay.

Other payment methods such as credit and debit cards are accepted as normal in shops and restaurants.

We also advise holidaymakers and travellers, as we would with any destination, to take out travel insurance as soon as they book their holiday. Holidaymakers should check how much cash their travel insurance policy covers them for and should take appropriate security precautions against theft such as using their hotel safe or splitting cash up between their party.

Continuous reports from our Members and holidaymakers on the ground suggest that it remains business as usual in the Greek resorts with bars, shops and restaurants adequately supplied and open as usual.

While pharmacies across the country appear to be operating normally, the Foreign Office advises that as a precautionary measure you should make sure you have sufficient medical supplies (including prescription medicines) for the duration of your stay and any unforeseen delays.

Following reports in the press (16 July 2015), you will be aware of the announcement of VAT increases which the Greek parliament has agreed to, as part of the package to obtain a financial bailout. The intention is that many of these increases will come into effect from 1 October 2015 so they would not affect the majority of holidays for this summer.

We do not anticipate that tour operators will need to rebook their customers to a different destination. However, we are monitoring the situation closely and will work with our Members on any developments.