Pre-Trip Checklist: Mount Athos

Essential Preparations

Start preparations well in advance, especially for securing your entry permit.

Detailed Planning Timeline

A chronological guide for your journey preparation.

+ Months Before

Apply for Diamonitirion

Contact the Mount Athos Pilgrims' Bureau in Thessaloniki for your special entry permit.

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport holds validity for at least six months beyond your Schengen Area departure.

Book Flights

Secure your international flights to Thessaloniki (SKG). Prices may rise closer to the travel date.

Month Before

Confirm Diamonitirion

Follow up with the Pilgrims' Bureau to confirm your permit approval.

Travel Insurance

Obtain comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage.

Acquire Gear

Acquire items like Sturdy hiking boots or a Suitable daypack, and modest clothing.

Week Before

Pack Clothing

Pack long trousers, sleeved shirts, and other modest attire.

First Aid Kit

Assemble a first aid kit, including blister treatment and personal medications. A Compact kit is useful.

Withdraw Cash

Withdraw sufficient Euros in cash; no ATMs on Mount Athos. Include small denominations.

Pre-Travel Confirmations

Final checks before your journey begins.

Document & Digital Prep

Print all essential documents: Diamonitirion, passport, insurance, and reservations.
Download offline maps for Athos trails (Maps.me) and Google Translate for Greek phrases.
Inform family/friends of your itinerary and potential limited communication.
Secure your home, arrange pet care, and notify your bank of travel plans.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth transition to the Holy Mountain.

First Steps on Arrival

Collect your official Diamonitirion at the Pilgrims' Bureau office.
Purchase your ferry ticket to Daphne from Ouranoupolis.
Have sufficient Euros ready for the ferry and initial transport on Athos.
Familiarize yourself with ferry schedules and internal transport options from Daphne.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure from Mount Athos with the same care as your arrival.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase monastic products or souvenirs from monastery shops or in Karyes.
No shipping services are available directly from Mount Athos.
For mainland purchases, keep receipts for VAT refunds if eligible.
Plan to carry your souvenir items with you.

Return Trip Timing

Plan to arrive at Daphne well in advance of your ferry departure to Ouranoupolis.
Confirm the ferry schedule the day before your planned departure.
Confirm your mainland transport arrangements (e.g., bus from Ouranoupolis to Thessaloniki).
Re-confirm your flight details from Thessaloniki well in advance.

Packing for Departure

Ensure your luggage complies with airline weight and size restrictions.
Pack any liquids or gels according to carry-on or checked baggage rules.
Charge all electronic devices for your onward journey.
Keep all essential travel documents easily accessible.

Pilgrim's Focus

A well-prepared pilgrim dedicates less thought to logistics during the trip and more to the profound spiritual experience of Mount Athos.

Essential Packing List

Pack smartly for the unique environment of Mount Athos.

Clothing & Footwear

Modest Attire
Pack long trousers and sleeved shirts. Shorts or sleeveless tops are not permitted.
Sturdy Footwear
Bring comfortable, sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes for uneven paths.
Comfortable Socks
Multiple pairs of comfortable socks are important for walking long distances.

Health & Comfort

First Aid Kit
Include blister treatment, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated. Water sources are sometimes limited, especially on trails.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended, especially in summer months.

Documents & Essentials

Travel Documents

Diamonitirion, passport, travel insurance, and flight/ferry reservations.

Keep both physical and digital copies accessible.

Cash

Sufficient Euros in various denominations. No ATMs exist on Mount Athos.

This covers all expenses and donations.

Electronics

Fully charged phone, power bank, charging cables.

Signal may be limited, but useful for offline maps and photos.

Comprehensive Preparedness

A well-prepared pilgrim minimizes logistics concerns during the trip.

Other Useful Items

These items can add to your comfort and experience.

Personal Comfort

Personal toiletries, as monastery supplies are basic.
Small bottle of hand sanitizer.
Small umbrella or light rain jacket, depending on season.
A face mask for dusty paths or crowded spaces, if preferred.

Practical Gear

Camera (with permission for use within monasteries).
Small notebook and pen for reflections or notes.
Flashlight or headlamp for navigating dark corridors or paths at night.
Physical map of Mount Athos for detailed navigation.

Important Considerations

Critical points for your well-being and a smooth journey.

Health & Safety

Travel Insurance:Obtain comprehensive travel insurance before departure.
Medical Conditions:Inform monasteries of any medical conditions upon arrival.
Emergency Contacts:Keep local emergency numbers and your embassy details handy.
Medications:Carry all necessary prescription medications in their original packaging.

Communication & Connectivity

Mobile phone signal is sporadic or nonexistent in many areas.
Be prepared for periods of limited or no communication with the outside world.
Wi-Fi access is generally not available for pilgrims within monasteries.
Inform family and friends of potential communication difficulties beforehand.

Pilgrim's Guide

Careful preparation is to a meaningful visit.

Embrace the spiritual journey with readiness and respect.

Pre-Trip Checklist