If you are looking for a destination for a short but experience-filled getaway, Patras is an excellent choice that may pleasantly surprise you. Built amphitheatrically at the foot of Mount Panachaikos and bathed by the blue waters of the Patraikos Gulf. Patras uniquely combines mountain and sea – a rare privilege that few cities in Greece can offer.
Its geographical location makes it easily accessible from many parts of the country, while its proximity to Italy through its port makes it an important hub and gateway for Greece to the West. At the same time, it also has an air connection through the Araxos State Airport, which is approximately 40 minutes from the city and serves both domestic and international flights, mainly during the summer season. The existence of the airport further strengthens Patras’ role as a tourist destination.
On the one hand, one can find themselves in a few minutes on organized beaches overlooking the Ionian Sea, and on the other hand, enjoy hiking and nature trails in the mountains. The city offers this harmonious combination that satisfies every visitor, whether they are looking for relaxation or activities.
In recent years, Patras has made significant strides in progress and renewal. The urban fabric has been upgraded, the infrastructure has improved, and the city’s cultural life is flourishing. From the archaeological monuments and neoclassical buildings to the International Patras Festival and the activities of the famous Patras Carnival, the city is bursting with energy and creativity.
The nightlife, the gastronomic options – with an emphasis on local cuisine and wine – and the hospitable disposition of the residents, complete the image of a city that has nothing to envy from larger urban centers. Moreover, with a walk in the Upper Town, you will discover corners full of history and breathtaking views.
Patras is not just a transit city or a port. It is a living organism that is constantly evolving and offers its visitors authentic experiences. A City Break destination that combines nature, culture, history and modern urban identity.
Whether you want to escape for a weekend or experience a city that is constantly renewing itself, Patras awaits you – and has a lot to show you.
Historical Sights of Patras:
Church of Saint Andrew
The church is dedicated to the first-called apostle of Christ, Saint Andrew. It is considered the largest Orthodox church in Greece and one of the largest in the Balkans. Finally, relics of the Apostle Andrew are found in the church.
Achaia Clauss
Achaia Clauss is the oldest winery in Greece. It was founded in 1861 by the Bavarian Gustavus Clauss in Patras. Clauss originally came to Greece as a representative of a German raisin company, but was impressed by the region and decided to establish the winery. Achaia Clauss became known for the quality of its wines and for the traditional winemaking method, which is maintained to this day.
Mycenaean Park of Vounteni
The Mycenaean cemetery of Vounteni together with the Mycenaean settlement form the Mycenaean Park of Patras, located near the settlement of Vounteni Achaia in the Municipality of Patras. Excavations have revealed rich offerings, such as vases, weapons, tools, jewelry and seal stones, which are exhibited at the Archaeological Museum of Patras. The archaeological site has been transformed into a visitable park, offering visitors a unique experience in the prehistoric history of Achaia.
Roman Odeon
The Roman Odeon of Patras was built in the first half of the 2nd century BC, earlier than the Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens in 161 AD. It is said to have had the most beautiful decoration after that. It ceased to be used at the end of the 3rd century AD, after a devastating fire probably associated with the Heruli raid. The Odeon is located on an elevated position in the Upper Town, west of the ancient acropolis and the medieval castle.
Patras Castle
The Castle of Patras is located at the foot of Mount Panachaiko. Its foundation is placed in the 6th AD century during the reign of Justinian. Its construction was carried out with building material from the ancient Acropolis that was located in the same spot and had already collapsed. The history of the Castle is centuries-old and closely linked to the history of the city and played an important role in the Greek Revolution of 1821, as it was a point of reference for the sieges and conflicts between the Greeks and the Ottomans.
Apollo Municipal Theater
The Apollo Theater is located in the city center and was built in 1872 by the great German architect of the time, Ernesto Ziller. It is a miniature of La Scala in Milan and is the oldest surviving indoor theater of modern times and the most impressive architectural gem of the city of Patras.
Stairs of Agios Nikolaos
The Stairs of Agios Nikolaos Street are located in Patras in one of the most characteristic locations of the city. They are an important attraction and historical monument, with the original purpose of their construction unchanged to this day. They are a characteristic example of the architectural heritage of Patras.
They were built in 1934 during the interwar period during the mayoralty of Vasilios Roufos, replacing the pre-existing serpentine dirt hill that was located at the site. They are one of the main artificial staircases (stairs) from a series of such located in Patras, as well as a characteristic example of the urban and natural geography of the historical center of the city, which is divided into the so-called Upper and Lower Towns. They number 206 steps.
Archaeological Museum of Patras
With a total area of 5,955 sq m, the Archaeological Museum of Patras features impressive exhibition spaces with three large halls hosting the permanent exhibition. It presents finds from the city of Patras and the surrounding areas of southern and western Achaia. Here you will discover objects dating from the 4th millennium BC to the 4th century AD, presenting the evolution of local history and culture.
Rio Antirrio Bridge – Charilaos Trikoupis
It is a cable-stayed bridge that was completed and put into operation in 2004, through which both the connection between Rio and Antirrio was achieved and the connection of the Peloponnese with Western mainland Greece and upwards and more broadly with the rest of Europe.
