Traveling to Greece requires preparation. Knowing what to expect improves your journey. Here’s what to plan for before, during, and after your flight.
Preparation: Documents, Health Guidelines, Baggage
Before you book, review key travel requirements:
- Passport: Check expiration. Greece requires it to be valid for three months beyond your stay.
- Visa: EU citizens do not need one; non-EU citizens may.
- Health Guidelines: COVID-19 regulations change. Confirm your airline’s latest requirements.
- Travel Insurance: Choose coverage for medical needs and trip cancellations.
For baggage:
- Airlines to Greece: Ryanair, EasyJet, Aegean Airlines, Lufthansa, and British Airways each have baggage rules. Check limits on cabin baggage for budget airlines to avoid fees.
- Seasonal Packing: If traveling in summer, bring lightweight clothing. For winter, pack layers.
- Essentials: Include copies of your passport and travel insurance details.
Airline Policies for Greek Routes: Baggage, Seating
Greece routes vary in length and service. Here’s what to consider:
- Budget Airlines: Ryanair and EasyJet charge for checked baggage and large carry-ons.
- Full-Service Airlines: Aegean Airlines, Lufthansa, Delta often include meals, drinks, and baggage allowances.
- Seat Selection: Book early during peak season. For long flights, select seats with extra legroom.
Prepare for shorter, inter-island flights on Sky Express or Olympic Air. They have smaller baggage allowances, so traveling light is wise.
Navigating Greek Airports: Athens, Thessaloniki
Greek airports are straightforward but prepare for busy summer crowds.
- Athens International Airport (ATH): Greece’s main airport. Efficient but crowded in peak season.
- Arrival: Immigration is typically quick.
- Transport: Reach Athens via metro, bus, or taxi. The metro connects directly to the city center.
- Facilities: Currency exchange, dining, duty-free shops, and lounges available.
- Thessaloniki Airport (SKG): Smaller, less crowded than Athens.
- Arrival: Faster processing times.
- Transport: Buses and taxis to the city center.
Arriving in smaller airports for island flights (Santorini, Mykonos) will require minimal navigation but limited amenities. For Santorini and Mykonos, pre-book transfers or check hotel pickups.
Connecting Flights, Layovers, and Timing
Layovers offer flexibility if direct flights aren’t available. Optimize your layover:
- Athens Layover Options: Many flights connect through Athens. Plan at least 90 minutes between flights.
- Layover Experiences: Athens Airport offers lounges, cafes, and shops. For long layovers, take the metro to visit the Acropolis (40 minutes from the airport).
- Thessaloniki Connections: Shorter options for flights within Greece. Quick processing for domestic transfers.
If booking a domestic connection after an international flight, leave enough time to clear immigration, customs, and security.
Arrival Tips for First-Time Visitors to Greece
Entering Greece is straightforward with some preparation. Here’s how to make it easier:
- Cash: Euros are essential for taxis, small shops, and some restaurants. ATMs are available but check your bank’s fees for international withdrawals.
- Transport: Athens and Thessaloniki have public transit options. For taxis, use cash or confirm card acceptance in advance.
- Language: Greeks in tourist areas speak English. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.
- Local Customs: Greeks appreciate politeness. A simple “hello” or “thank you” in Greek (kalimera, efharisto) goes a long way.
Final Travel Tip
Understanding these details helps your trip start smoothly. Arrive prepared, navigate airports easily, and make the most of your time in Greece.