Pre-Trip Planning: Ostuni

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured approach ensures a smooth journey from start to finish.

Phased Preparations

Breaking down tasks by timeframe assists with managing your pre-trip activities.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and research/apply for visas.

International Travel

Book international flights, especially for peak season.

Accommodation & Car

Reserve main accommodations and rental cars. Obtain IDP if needed.

Month Before

Internal Transport

Book any internal flights or train tickets within Italy.

Special Reservations

Make reservations for popular restaurants or specific tours.

Itinerary & Luggage

Refine your itinerary and check luggage restrictions.

Week Before

Health & Banking

Obtain recommended vaccinations and inform your bank of travel plans.

Digital Readiness

Download offline maps and translation apps. Charge devices.

Adapters & Currency

Purchase an universal travel adapter. Exchange a small amount of Euros.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain bookings are highly recommended prior to your travel date.

Reservations

Flights, accommodation, and car rental are strongly recommended for advance booking, especially during peak season.
Popular tours, cooking classes, and high-end dining experiences gain from pre-booking to reserve your spot.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Engaging with the destination before arrival enriches your experience.

Knowledge Building

Read about Puglian culture, history, and cuisine.
Familiarize yourself with basic Italian phrases.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps to manage your home while you are away.

Inform Contacts

Inform a trusted person of your detailed itinerary.

Arrange Services

Arrange for mail collection.
Arrange for pet care.
Arrange for plant watering.

Secure Property

Secure your home.
Lock windows and doors.
Set up any security systems.

Travel Tip: Document Copies

Have digital copies of all important documents (passport, visa, flight tickets, insurance) stored securely in a cloud service or email, separate from your physical documents.

Arrival Checklist

These steps ensure a smooth start to your Ostuni adventure.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear Immigration
Proceed through immigration and passport control efficiently.
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your checked baggage.
Activate SIM/eSIM
If you purchased a local SIM card or eSIM, activate it upon arrival for immediate connectivity.

Orientation Strategies & Initial Purchases

Tourist Information
Locate the local tourist information office in Ostuni (often in Piazza della Libertà) for maps, brochures, and advice.
Neighborhood Walk
Take a short walk around your accommodation's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with nearby amenities and landmarks.
Currency Exchange
Use an ATM (Bancomat) for your initial cash withdrawal upon arrival, as airport exchange kiosks often present less favorable rates.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Public Transport

Utilize official airport buses if available for a cost-effective journey to your destination.

Taxi Services

Opt for official airport taxis for a straightforward and regulated ride to your accommodation.

Rental Car Collection

Proceed to the rental car desk to collect your pre-arranged vehicle as planned.

Confirmation Checklist

Confirm all flight, accommodation, car rental, and tour reservations a week before departure.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a stress-free journey home.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Acquire souvenirs in advance, keeping luggage weight limits in mind.
If purchasing large items like olive oil or wine, inquire about shipping services directly from the producer or a specialized shop to avoid carrying them on the plane.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

For non-EU residents, VAT (Value Added Tax) refund remains available on purchases over €154.94 from participating stores.
Obtain the necessary forms from the store at the time of purchase, then process them at the airport before your departure from the EU.
Arrive at the airport earlier if you plan to claim VAT refunds; this process may take time.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Plan your arrival at the airport or train station strategically.

Suggested Times

Airport for international flights (outside Schengen Area):2-3 hours before
Airport for domestic/Schengen flights:1.5-2 hours before
Train station:15-30 minutes before departure

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight or train details.
Arrange transport to the airport or station.
Finish any last-minute packing, confirming all belongings are present.

Pro Tip: Packing Efficiently

Consider Eagle Creek packing organizers to maximize space and keep your luggage tidy.

Remember to pack any liquids in compliance with airline regulations for carry-on and checked baggage.

Pre-Trip Planning