Getting Ready for Your Journey: Delphi

Preparation Timeline

A structured timeline streamlines your travel preparations.

Planning Phases

Steps to follow for a well-organized trip to Delphi.

Months Ahead 3-6

Passport Validity

Confirm passport has 6+ months validity beyond departure from Schengen Area.

Visa Research

Check Schengen visa requirements; apply early if needed (ETIAS for 2025).

Book Flights

Reserve international flights to Athens well in advance for better pricing.

Weeks Before 1-2

Accommodations

Secure hotel or guesthouse bookings in Delphi, considering location.

Internal Transport

Book KTEL bus tickets or finalize rental car reservations.

Organized Tours

Reserve any day trips or private guides for the archaeological site.

Days Prior 2-4 Weeks & 1 Week

Health Supplies

Pack prescription medications and a basic First aid kit.

Travel Adapters

Acquire a Travel adapter or Universal travel adapter for Greece (Type C/F).

Device Charging

Fully charge all electronics, including cameras and Power banks.

Booking Essentials

Certain reservations are important for a smooth journey.

Reservations

International and domestic flights
Accommodation in Delphi
Athens-Delphi bus tickets (especially peak season)
Any desired tours or guides

Deep Dive Research

Learning about Delphi deepens your travel experience.

Home Preparations

Steps to secure your home before you leave.

Mail & Pets

Arrange for mail collection or forwarding
Organize pet care if needed
Pet sitters or boarding arrangements
Confirm care schedules

Home Security

Secure your home (lock doors/windows)
Notify trusted neighbors of your absence
Consider timed lights for security
Alarm system checks

Financial Matters

Pay any bills that will come due during your trip
Set up automatic payments if possible
Review bank account balances
Ensure sufficient funds for trip expenses

Final Document Check

Print physical copies of all essential documents (passport, visa, insurance, reservations) and keep them separate from originals. Digital copies on your phone and cloud storage are also advised.

Smooth Arrival

Steps for a seamless transition from your arrival point to your Delphi accommodation.

Athens Airport Steps ATH

1
Immigration and Customs:
Have your passport and any required visa or ETIAS paperwork ready.
2
Luggage Collection:
Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage claim area.
3
Currency and SIM:
Withdraw Euros from an airport ATM or consider a local SIM card.

Delphi Orientation

Locate Your Hotel:
From the Delphi bus station, use Google Maps to find your accommodation.
Physical Map:
If available, get a physical map of the village from your hotel's reception.
Village Layout:
Take a moment to understand the village's layout relative to the archaeological site.

Accommodation Transit

From Bus Station

Most hotels in modern Delphi village are within walking distance from the bus station (5-15 minutes).

Taxi Option

If your luggage is heavy or your hotel is uphill, a short taxi ride offers a convenient choice.

Initial Purchases

Have small Euro denominations for taxis, local buses, or small mini-market purchases upon arrival. ATMs in Delphi are reliable for cash withdrawals.

Connectivity Tip

If you did not obtain an eSIM, consider purchasing a local prepaid SIM card at Athens Airport for immediate connectivity throughout your trip.

Farewell Delphi

Prepare for a smooth departure from Delphi and Greece.

Souvenirs and Packing

Pack souvenirs with care, especially fragile items
Consider if items are suitable for checked luggage
Independent shipping can be an option, but it may be expensive
Keep olive oil and other liquids in checked baggage

VAT Refund Details

If a non-EU resident, ask for a tax-free form
Look for "Tax Free" or "VAT Refund" signs at stores
Process your VAT refund at Athens Airport (ATH)
Allow extra time at the airport for this procedure

Departure Timing

Plan your airport arrival with care.

Recommended Arrival Times

For bus from Delphi:15-20 minutes before departure
For international flights (non-Schengen) at ATH:2-3 hours before departure
For flights within Schengen Area at ATH:1.5-2 hours before departure
Add extra time for VAT refund or busy periods.

Return Trip Essentials

Reconfirm your return flights 24-48 hours before departure
Have all essential documents (passport, boarding pass) easily accessible
Retain enough local currency for last-minute expenses
Cover taxi to bus station or airport, snacks, or drinks

Final Logistics

Your detailed planning frames a stress-free departure experience.

Double-check all items on your list before heading to the airport.

Getting Ready for Your Journey