BON VOYAGE!
Travel Tips
Preparing for Europe
You may be wondering what to bring, how to prepare, and what you can expect when you get there. No worries! We are here to help, every step of the way. Below you will find our Precoa Escapes packing guide as well as some travel tips.
Check out our FAQs page for answers to commonly asked questions or email us at escape@precoa.com.
Download Your Packing Guide
Know Before You Go
Travel tips to help you prepare for your adventure.
Weather
Packing
- The Mediterranean ports we’re visiting have a mild climate in November with cooler evenings and mild temperatures during the day.
- We highly recommend packing lightweight, breathable fabrics. Dressing in layers and comfortable shoes provides maximum comfort while walking through each port.
- The dress in European cities is often less casual than typical American cities. Casual linen dresses, skirts or nice pants and blouses is common for women. Casual linen pants, button downs and loafers is common for men.
- Sunscreen and bug spray are essentials!
- Consider packing a reusable water bottle.
- Check your excursions for any clothing or shoe requirements.
Preparing for the Flight
- Entertainment: To pass the time while flying, consider downloading your favorite books, podcasts, music, movies, and shows to your device.
- Snacks and Drinks: Pack a few of your favorite snacks and drinks for the flight, but be sure to check TSA guidelines before bringing any liquids through security.
- Charge Up: Ensure all your devices are fully charged and charging cables are accessible in your carry-on.
- Airline Confirmations: You will receive your flight information in an email as well as in your pre-trip box. Use your confirmation code to view your reservation on the airline’s website or app. There you may make itinerary changes and confirm your seats. You will be responsible for checking in to your flight online 24 hours prior to departure.
Travel Day
- Airport Arrival Time: Most airports recommend arriving three hours prior to your scheduled departure time for international flights. When you arrive at the airport, proceed to your airline counter to provide proof of passport and travel documents, as well as check your bags.
- Transportation:
- You will be responsible for transportation to and from your home airport.
- We will take care of your transportation from the Athens International Airport to Port of Piraues (or the hotel so long as you are staying with us at the Precoa provided pre-night hotel and booked through our registration site). You will be met by a representative holding a sign with the Precoa logo and they will direct you to pre-arranged vehicles.
- Boosters and car seats are not offered on our shuttles, and you may wish to pack one if you are traveling with small children.
- If you booked separate accommodations outside of the Precoa registration site, you will be responsible for your own transportation.
- Once you disembark in Barcelona, we will take care of your transportation from the port to the airport. If you have booked an extension night through the Precoa registration site at the Precoa provided hotel, we will also provide you with transportation there. Additional departure information will be provided on the ship.
- Port Arrival: After a 45 minute drive from the airport, you will arrive at the Port of Piraeus.
Arriving in Europe
- Immigration: Upon deplaning, follow the signs for Passport Control (Immigration). There you will present your passport and any required travel documents (such as a visa if applicable). Your photo will be taken, and your passport may be stamped. Immigration officers generally speak English, and the process is straightforward.
- Baggage Claim and Customs: After Passport Control, continue to the baggage reclaim area on Level 0. If you have nothing to declare, proceed through the “Nothing to Declare” green lane. If you are carrying goods that need to be declared, use the “Goods to Declare” red lane and be prepared for a brief inspection.
- Exiting the Airport: After passing through Customs, you’ll enter the main Arrivals Hall of Athens International Airport. This is a single-level area where you’ll find passenger pick-up zones, car rental booths and cafes. Ignore individuals offering unofficial taxi rides or transport services — only engage with your pre-arranged transportation. Exit the terminal building through the main sliding glass doors (just past the Welcome Area). Outside, look for a representative holding a Precoa sign.