Athens, Greece
Effective planning makes your travel experience smooth.
Follow these steps for a well-prepared trip.
Confirm your passport is valid for three months beyond your Schengen Area departure and issued within 10 years.
Determine if your nationality needs a Schengen visa; start the application at the Greek Embassy if so.
Begin researching flights and accommodation for your travel dates, comparing prices.
Book international flights, accommodation, and major ferry tickets, especially for high season.
Acquire comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage. World Nomads Travel Insurance.
Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to drive in Greece (for non-EU citizens).
Double-check all flight times, accommodation, ferry tickets, and pre-booked tours.
Obtain some Euros or plan ATM withdrawals upon arrival. Organize digital and physical document copies.
Install navigation, translation, and public transport apps. Download offline maps and language packs.
Flights, accommodation, and popular ferry routes should be booked well in advance.
Familiarize yourself with basic Greek phrases, local customs and etiquette, and attractions in Piraeus and Athens.
Book popular ferry routes well in advance, specifically for high season.
Arrange comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. World Nomads Travel Insurance offers such coverage.
Smooth transitions for your entry and exit.
Have your passport and any required visa documents prepared.
Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage claim area.
If you need cash, find an ATM in the arrivals hall. While card acceptance is high, cash holds value for small purchases.
If desired, purchase a local SIM card at the airport for immediate connectivity.
Follow signs to the Metro, Suburban Rail, X96 Express Bus, or taxi stand for your transfer to Piraeus.
Once settled, take a short walk around your neighborhood. This aids personal orientation.
Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure to avoid last-minute rushing.
If buying large or fragile items, inquire about shipping options from local vendors. Understand the costs and estimated delivery times.
Non-EU residents may qualify for VAT refunds on purchases over a certain amount from participating stores.
Ask for necessary forms at the point of purchase. Present these forms, your passport, and items at airport customs upon departure for processing.
For international flights from Athens International Airport (ATH), arrive 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
For domestic ferry departures from Piraeus, arrive 30-60 minutes before scheduled time. For international ferries, arrive 1-2 hours before departure.
Reconfirm your flight details or ferry schedule. Confirm you have all necessary travel documents (passport, boarding passes, onward tickets) for your onward journey.
Ensure a secure and well-managed home during your absence.
Ensure your finances are in order for seamless travel.
Before leaving, confirm all travel documents are easily accessible. This includes passports, visas, boarding passes, and reservation confirmations.
Store digital copies on your phone and a cloud service for backup.
