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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Greece

Essential Preparations

Detailed steps for a smooth journey.

Chronological Planning

Follow these steps for a well-prepared trip.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Your passport valid for at least three months beyond your departure date from the Schengen Area. Renew if needed, as this process takes time.

Visa Requirements

Determine if your nationality a Schengen visa. If so, begin the application process immediately.

International Flights

Secure your flights to Athens International Airport (ATH). Booking in advance often better prices.

2

Month Before

Travel Insurance

Obtain comprehensive travel insurance. This should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Explore World Nomads.

Doctor Consultation

Visit a healthcare professional for recommended vaccinations and any needed prescription refills.

Accommodation

Finalize your hotel, apartment, or villa bookings on Aegina, especially for high season.

3

Week Before

Ferry Tickets

Purchase your ferry tickets from Piraeus to Aegina. This is very important for peak times or specific departure preferences.

Driving Permit

If you rent a car or scooter and your license is not from an EU/EEA country, obtain your IDP before you leave.

Rough Itinerary

Outline your desired activities, attractions, and any day trips. This organizes your time on the island.

Required Advance Bookings

Book these items ahead of time to secure your trip.

Reservations

  • Flights: Your international flights to Athens.
  • Ferries: For reaching Aegina from Piraeus, especially during high season or for specific times.
  • Accommodation: Your chosen hotel, apartment, or villa on Aegina.
  • Specific Tours or Rentals: If you want particular tours, car, or scooter rentals, book them to avoid disappointment.

Pre-Trip Research

Deepen your knowledge before you go.

Topics to Explore

  • Greek Culture: Read up on Greek culture, history, and basic customs to make your interactions better.
  • Basic Phrases: Learn a few basic Greek phrases (hello, thank you, please, yes, no).
  • Aegina Specifics: Research Aegina's specific attractions, local specialties (pistachios!), and unique experiences to tailor your visit.
  • Home Preparation: Provide trusted contacts with your itinerary. Arrange mail collection and plant care. Secure your home.

Home Preparations

Make sure your home is ready for your absence.

Inform Contacts

  • Give trusted family or friends your itinerary.
  • Include flight numbers and accommodation details.
  • Share emergency contacts.
  • Give them a house if needed.

Mail & Plants

  • Arrange for someone to collect your mail.
  • Arrange for plant watering.
  • Arrange for pet care if applicable.
  • Stop newspaper/mail delivery if needed.

Home Security

  • Secure your home by locking all windows and doors.
  • Set alarms if you have them.
  • Use timers for lights to give an occupied appearance.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.

Important Reminders

Confirm all bookings (flight, ferry, accommodation, tours). Pack for climate and activities. Download essential apps (with offline maps), translation apps (with Greek language pack), and ferry booking apps. Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans. Make both digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance policy, and reservation confirmations. Fully charge all your electronic devices (phone, camera, power bank) before departure.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in a new destination can be disorienting. This checklist guides your initial steps upon arrival.

First Steps at Athens Airport

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs:

    Proceed through immigration at Athens International Airport (ATH). If coming from a non-Schengen country, your passport and visa will be checked here.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked baggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Obtain Euros:

    Withdraw cash from an ATM or exchange currency at a bureau de change at the airport.

Transfer to Aegina

  • Locate Transfer to Piraeus Port:

    Follow signs for the Metro (Line 3), Express Bus X96, or taxi stand for your transfer to Piraeus Port, where ferries to Aegina depart.

  • Ferry to Aegina:

    Board your pre-booked ferry from Piraeus to Aegina, a scenic journey.

  • Aegina Port Arrival:

    Upon arrival at Aegina Port, orient yourself. Locate your accommodation, the main bus station, and the main taxi stand.

Getting to Your Accommodation

Walk from Port

From Aegina Port, many hotels and guesthouses in Aegina Town are within easy walking distance.

Enjoy the stroll through the charming town.

Taxi Services

For accommodations in other villages or further away, take a taxi from the stand outside the port.

Confirm your destination and fare before starting.

Local Bus

Alternatively, catch a local bus from the main bus station near the port.

Confirm your bus route and schedule before boarding for convenience.

First Day Focus

Prioritize settling into your accommodation and taking a relaxed walk around the immediate area. This helps you get comfortable before diving into sightseeing.

Departure Preparation

Make sure for a smooth departure from Aegina and Greece.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase Aegina pistachios and other souvenirs throughout your trip.
  • Be mindful of your luggage weight limits, especially if you have many items.
  • Shipping large items directly from Aegina is generally not feasible for tourists.
  • If you purchase significant items, inquire about shipping services from Athens before you leave.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds are for non-EU residents on purchases over a certain amount.
  • Look for "Tax Free" signs at participating stores.
  • The VAT refund process happens at your final departure point from the EU (Athens International Airport), not on Aegina.
  • Keep all receipts and completed VAT refund forms. Allow extra time at the airport for processing.

Pre-Departure Timing

Plan your final movements carefully.

Recommended Times

  • Ferry from Aegina:Arrive at Port 30 mins prior
  • Journey to Piraeus:40 mins - 1.5 hours
  • Piraeus to Athens Airport:1 - 1.5 hours
  • Athens Airport for Flight:2 - 3 hours before international flight

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your return flight and ferry details.
  • Check for any last-minute schedule changes.
  • Pack strategically, making sure fragile souvenirs are protected.
  • Secure all valuables, passports, and important documents; keep them accessible for airport checks.

Final Check

Double-check all your departure documents and know you have plenty of time for transfers, especially if connecting a ferry to an international flight.

Relax and look forward to your next adventure!