Port of Patras

About Patras, Guide and Tourist Attractions
(Patras, Achaea, Greece)

Patras is the main gateway to Greece from western Europe and its positioning near the Ionian Islands also accentuates its usefulness.

Patras is unfortunately not particularly popular as a tourist destination, yet there are some quality museums and historical sights here and the nearby coastline is outstanding.

What to do in Patras

The Carnival of Patras is a major event, a 40-day fiesta which starts in February and ends with a bang during the last weekend, where 50,000 revellers take to the streets in a colourful procession.

Taking a stroll around the bustling waterfront and watching the ships come in is another pastime in Patras. The town was selected as European Capital of Culture 2006 and this has revitalised many areas of the city.

Tourist Attractions

Major tourist attractions in Patras include the Archaeological Museum, which houses many ancient relics from the Mycenean, Hellenic, and Roman eras, while other historical sights include the Aghios Andreas at Patras, the Ancient Odeion of Patras, and the Monastery of Aghia Lavra. Saint Andreas Pilgrimage Church at the harbour is also a notable landmark.

Patras' best attractions, however, are its profusion of shopping centres, cafés, restaurants, bars, pubs and discos. The city's colleges and universities add a touch of vibrancy. Patras is also heavily into the arts, with several top-class galleries and two renowned theatres.