Pre-Trip Checklist: Mykonos

Essential Preparations

Follow this timeline to organize your trip effectively.

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured approach ensures nothing is overlooked.

-6 Months Before Trip

Flights & Accommodation

Book flights and accommodation early for better prices and availability, especially for high season.

Passport & Visa

Ensure passport validity (3 months beyond departure from Schengen Area). Start visa application if needed.

Travel Insurance & IDP

Research and purchase travel insurance. Apply for International Driving Permit if renting a vehicle.

-2 Months Before Trip

Ferries & Tours

Book ferry tickets for island hopping and specific tours like Delos.

Itinerary & Health

Outline daily activities. Consult doctor for recommended vaccinations.

Dining & Beach Clubs

Reserve popular restaurants or sunbeds at exclusive beach clubs.

-2 Weeks Before Trip

Confirmations & Bank

Double-check all bookings. Inform bank of travel plans to prevent card issues.

Packing & Apps

Pack smart (refer to Section 3 of this guide). Download offline maps and apps.

Currency & Prints

Convert small amount of currency. Print/save digital copies of essential documents.

Bookings & Reservations

These bookings are useful for a smooth Mykonos trip, specifically during peak season.

Essential Items

Flights: important, especially if traveling during high season.
Accommodation: Book well in advance to secure your preferred place and price.
Popular Ferries: Book high-speed ferries and routes to popular islands in advance.
High-End Restaurants: Reservations are often necessary for dinner, especially in July and August.

Home Preparation & Research

Prior Home & Trip Research

Arrange pet care: Secure pet sitting or boarding.
Hold mail: Arrange for mail to be held or picked up.
Notify trusted contact: Share your itinerary and emergency contacts with a family member or friend.
Secure home: Lock all windows and doors, set alarms.

Pre-Trip Research

Gaining insights before you go makes your visit more informed.

Local Customs

Research local customs and etiquette (tipping, dress codes).
Understand local transportation options and costs.
Read recent reviews of your chosen accommodations and activities.
Familiarize yourself with the layout of Mykonos Town.

Cultural Immersion

Learn basic Greek phrases for local interaction.
Discover traditional Greek cuisine specialties.
Understand the island's unique history and influences.
Research local festivals or events during your stay.

Connectivity

Check international roaming options with your mobile provider.
Consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival for data.
Familiarize yourself with Wi-Fi availability at accommodation and public places.
Explore options for a portable Wi-Fi device or eSIM.

Important Documentation Note

If you are not an EU citizen and plan to rent a car, scooter, or ATV in Greece, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary alongside your national driving license.

Arrival Checklist

These steps assist in settling into Mykonos smoothly upon arrival.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs:
Navigate immigration and customs procedures at the airport or port.
2
Collect Luggage:
Retrieve your baggage from the designated carousel.
3
Locate Transport:
Find your pre-arranged transfer or the public transport (bus, SeaBus) station.

Orientation & Initial Needs

Get a Local Map:
Acquire a physical or digital local map if you do not have one already.
Locate Nearest ATM:
Find the closest ATM to your accommodation for any immediate cash needs.
Familiarize with Area:
Acquaint yourself with the immediate area around your accommodation, noting nearby restaurants, shops, and bus stops.

Useful Links & Tips

Official Tourism

For general Greece information and destinations, visit visitgreece.gr.

Search 'mykonos.gr' for specific island info, events, and official contacts.

Flight Bookings

Always book flights early, especially for high season, for better prices and preferred routes.

Confirm your return flight or ferry details closer to departure.

Local Transport

The KTEL public bus system offers economical travel between Mykonos Town, port, and beaches.

SeaBus between Old and New Port quickly bypasses road traffic for ferry connections.

Initial Purchases

Exchange a small amount of cash at the airport if needed immediately, but ATMs generally offer better rates.

Purchase bottled water upon arrival, especially if you prefer it over tap water.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure for a stress-free end to your trip.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs in advance, not on the day of departure, to avoid rushing.
If you bought large items that warrant shipping, confirm arrangements and costs with the vendor well before your departure.
Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for imported goods.
Consider duty-free shopping at the airport if available.

VAT Refund Procedures

For non-EU citizens, VAT refunds might be available on purchases over a minimum amount from participating stores.
Look for "Tax Free Shopping" signs.
Keep all receipts and completed VAT refund forms.
Present these and purchased goods at customs before your final departure from the EU.

Departure Timing

Allocate sufficient time for airport/port procedures.

Considerations

Airport ArrivalArrive ample time before departure.
Mykonos AirportCan get busy, plan accordingly.
Ferry DepartureAllow time to collect tickets from the office if needed.
Peak SeasonExtra time during high season is advised.

Return Trip Checklist

Confirm your return flight or ferry details.
Check in online if your airline or ferry company offers this option.
Pack efficiently, complying with luggage weight limits for your flight.
Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible for your departure.

Traveler Feedback

Consider leaving reviews for accommodations, restaurants, and tours.

Your experiences contribute to future travelers' planning.

Pre-Trip Checklist