Essential Preparations: Thasos

Chronological Planning

A timeline for organizing your trip to Thasos.

Your Trip Timeline

Steps to follow at different stages of your planning.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Passport valid for 6+ months; check Schengen visa rules. Start application early.

Flights & Stays

Book international flight (ATH) & domestic (KVA). Book main accommodation, especially for high season.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (medical, cancellation, lost luggage).

Month Before

Itinerary

Finalize daily activities, day trips, and attractions on Thasos.

Rentals & Tours

Book car rental, specific tours, or long-distance ferry tickets if needed.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you are a non-EU/EEA license holder.

Week Before

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flights, accommodation, car rentals, tours, and ferry tickets.

Currency & Cards

Exchange some Euros or confirm ATM card international use. Notify bank of travel dates.

Documents & Apps

Pack medications with prescriptions. Download offline maps and translation apps. Print document copies.

Advance Bookings

bookings to make well in advance for a smoother trip.

Important Reservations

Flights (international and domestic to Kavala).
Accommodation, especially during high season.
Car rental for summer, to ensure availability.
Popular boat tours during peak times.

Pre-Trip Research

Gain insights before you go to maximize your experience.

Cultural & Geographical

Familiarize yourself with basic Greek culture.
Learn a few essential Greek phrases for local interactions.
Understand the geography of Thasos for efficient routing.
Prepare your home: lock doors, pet care, mail, bill payments.

Home Preparations

Secure your home and notify contacts before leaving.

Security & Care

Secure your home (lock doors, windows).
Arrange for pet care.
Arrange for plant watering.
Hold your mail delivery.

Information Sharing

Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary.
Share emergency contact information.
Ensure all bills are paid or set for auto-payment.
Inform your bank of travel dates.

Digital Housekeeping

Download offline maps for Google Maps.
Download Greek language pack for Google Translate.
Print copies of important documents.
Pack prescription medications with notes.

Travel Insurance Recommendation

Consider purchasing travel insurance from World Nomads early to cover potential cancellation costs.

Arrival Checklist

Smooth arrival procedures start with being prepared at your entry point.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration
Present passport and any required visa documents.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve checked bags from baggage claim.
3
Proceed to Ferry
From KVA, taxi/bus to Keramoti port for ferry to Limenas. If from Athens, connect to Kavala flight.

Orientation Strategies

Local Services
Locate nearest ATM, supermarket, and pharmacy near your accommodation.
Local Maps
Obtain a local map (physical or digital) of your area.
Bus Stops
Identify nearest bus stops and understand routes from your accommodation.

On-Arrival Essentials

Currency & Purchases

Withdraw Euros from an ATM for immediate expenses.

Purchase a local SIM card if planned. Buy bottled water.

Port to Accommodation

Know your transportation plan from the Thasos ferry port to your hotel or village.

This could be a pre-arranged taxi, local bus, or rental car pick-up.

ID & Documents

Have your passport and printed reservations readily available.

Keep travel insurance details accessible.

Ferry Travel Tip

If traveling from Kavala Airport (KVA), take a taxi or bus to Keramoti port for the short ferry to Limenas on Thasos.

Departure Preparation

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

Souvenirs & Refunds

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure.
Inquire about shipping costs for large or fragile items.
If non-EU, inquire about Tax Free forms for eligible purchases.
Process VAT refund at your last EU airport (e.g., Athens).

Timing & Flight Prep

Allow ample time for journey from Thasos to mainland and KVA transfer.
Account for potential delays, especially with ferry schedules during peak season.
Confirm flight times 24-48 hours before departure.
Complete online check-in if available.

Baggage & Customs

Avoid unexpected fees and ensure smooth customs process.

Important Checks

Pack luggage according to airline baggage rules.Avoid excess fees.
Ensure all necessary documents for return journey.Passport, boarding pass.
Keep VAT refund receipts and forms organized.For processing at final EU airport.
Declare any items as required by customs regulations.Avoid issues.

Departure Logistics

Know your route from accommodation to ferry port.
Pre-book a taxi if needed for early morning departures.
Check for any local holidays or events impacting travel.
Consider overnight in Kavala if early flight and ferry uncertainties.

Final Considerations

Ensure you have all necessary medications and travel essentials packed for your return journey.

Double-check all personal items are collected from your accommodation.

Essential Preparations