Patras is Greece's third largest city and the main port of the Peloponnese. A vibrant city with a thousand-year history, a Venetian castle, a world-famous Carnival and one of the liveliest nightlife scenes in the country. Here is our guide to making the most of your stay.
From a medieval castle to the longest cable-stayed bridge in Europe, Patras surprises with history, architecture and unique panoramas.
A Byzantine and Venetian fortress towering above the city, built on the ruins of the ancient acropolis. It offers a breathtaking view over the Gulf of Corinth and the mountains of the Peloponnese. Free admission.
One of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the world (2,880 m), connecting the Peloponnese to mainland Greece. Spectacular at night when lit up. Worth crossing by car for the experience.
The largest church in Greece and one of the biggest in Orthodox Europe. Dedicated to the Apostle Andrew, patron of Patras. The interior with its golden domes is extraordinary. Free entry.
A historic neoclassical theatre from the 19th century in the city centre, venue for the famous Carnival celebrations. Elegant architecture inspired by Milan's La Scala. Visitable with a guided tour.
A perfectly preserved 2nd-century Roman theatre still used for concerts and summer performances. Located at the foot of the castle. The evening view with the illuminated ruins is particularly atmospheric.
One of the most important regional museums in Greece, with finds from the Bronze Age to the Roman period. The modern building houses collections of mosaics, sculptures and everyday objects from antiquity.
Patras is not known for its beaches, but there are good options in the surrounding area easily reachable by car.
A pebble beach about 15 km east of Patras, with fish tavernas along the shore and a relaxed fishing-village atmosphere. Convenient and easy to reach.
A large sandy beach (5 km) about 35 km from Patras on the Gulf of Patras. Calm waters, a pine forest behind the shore, sunbeds and beach bars. The best beach in the area.
A small pebble beach in a village 20 km from Patras, with clear water and a couple of fish tavernas. Less touristy, frequented by locals for its peace and quiet.
Patras has a lively food scene, with traditional tavernas, fresh gulf seafood and a strong aperitivo culture.
A traditional ouzeri in the old port of Patras, specialising in seafood and meze dishes paired with artisan ouzo. Generous portions and honest prices. Arrive early in the evening.
A historic taverna tucked in an alley of the old town. Traditional Greek home cooking with a daily-changing menu — moussaka, stifado, gemisti. Always full of locals; booking recommended.
The most iconic café in Patras, on the city's main square. A favourite with students and for evening aperitivo. Great cocktails with a view over the square and the port. Lively until late.
Emergency numbers, transport options and everything you need to get around Patras and the surrounding area.
European emergency number: 112
Local police: +30 2610 695100
Coast guard: +30 2610 341002
Fire brigade: 199
University Hospital of Patras (Rio)
+30 2613 603000
View on Maps →
International port of Patras — ferries to Italy (Ancona, Bari, Venice) and Corfu.
Port →
OSE railway station connected to Athens.
KTEL intercity bus terminal for all of the Peloponnese and Athens.
KTEL Patras →
Radio Taxi Patras:
+30 2610 450000
Available 24h across the city.
AB Vassilopoulos — large supermarket in the city
View on Maps →
Other supermarkets nearby
Search on Maps →
Pharmacies operate on a rotating 24h schedule. Look for the green cross sign — lit means open. Several are located in the city centre along Korinthou Street and Maizonos Street.
Several car rental agencies are available in the city centre and at the port. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the nearby beaches and explore the Peloponnese. Drive on the right.
Wi-Fi available in almost all cafés and restaurants. For an affordable Greek SIM with data, Cosmote and Vodafone stores are located in the city centre on Korinthou Street.
ATMs from Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank and National Bank in the city centre around Georgiou Square. Most restaurants and shops accept card payments.
