Patras travel guide

Photo of Patras city, Greece, view from above scenery.
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Introduction to Patras

Patras, known for its incredible Holy Church of Saint Andrew, Patras' South Park - Notio Parko Patras, and King George Ι Square (Patras), is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This city in Greece, has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 167.4 thousand people, Patras is truly one of the main highlights of Greece.

Easily accessible from the Araxos airport, Patras is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Greece. Travelers looking to experience the best of Greece often choose to stay in Patras.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Patras below!

History of Patras

Patras, one of the largest cities in Greece, boasts a rich history going back to the prehistoric era. Known as Patrae in antiquity, the city's origins can be traced to the Mycenaean period around 1600-1100 BC.

Throughout the Roman period, Patras gained significance due to its strategic location. Saint Andrew, the patron saint of the city, was martyred here in 66 AD, adding a religious significance to its history.

The city experienced a period of decline during the Byzantine era but regained its strategic importance in the Middle Ages. The Venetians and the Ottoman Turks had a notable influence on the city's cultural and architectural landscape.

In modern times, Patras played a crucial role in the Greek War of Independence in the 19th century. Today, it is renowned for its vibrant cultural life, including the famous Patras Carnival, the major university, and the European Capital of Culture in 2006.

The city's rich past is reflected in its varied architectural styles, ancient ruins, and the impressive Patras Castle, providing a fascinating historical backdrop for visitors.

Local culture and customs in Patras

Patras, known as Greece's 'Gateway to the West', is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Its dynamic local culture is characterized by its lively music scene, traditional Greek gastronomy, and fascinating ancient history. Patras is home to the famous Patras Carnival, the largest event of its kind in Greece and one of the biggest in Europe. Tourists are encouraged to join in the celebrations, which feature colorful parades, masked balls, treasure hunts, and theatrical performances.

Local etiquette in Patras is typically Greek. Greeks are known for their warm hospitality and it's common to be offered food and drink when visiting someone’s home. Refusing can be considered impolite, so try a little of everything. When exploring the city, remember that Greeks value modesty, so dress appropriately when visiting religious sites. Also, tipping is customary in restaurants and cafés, with 5-10% being standard. Lastly, learning a few Greek phrases can go a long way in making connections with locals, as they appreciate any effort to speak their language.

Currency information for travelers in Patras

The official currency of Greece, including Patras, is the Euro (€). Cash is widely accepted and it's common to find ATMs in the city center, shopping areas, and near tourist sites. Most shops, restaurants, and hotels accept major credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard. However, small businesses or remote areas may only accept cash.

It's recommended that travelers have a mix of cash and card for convenience. Average daily expenses, excluding accommodation, can range from 50-80€ depending on your lifestyle. Note that tipping is customary in Greece, usually around 5-10% of the bill. Always keep an eye on your spending and be aware of potential card charges when traveling abroad.

Language tips for travelers in Patras

In Patras, Greek is the official language, but you'll find that English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, learning a few basic Greek phrases can enhance your travel experience. Try phrases like 'Yassas' (Hello), 'Efharisto' (Thank you), and 'Parakalo' (Please). To ask for directions, 'Pou ine?' followed by your destination can be useful.

Keep in mind that Greeks appreciate any effort to speak their language, so don't hesitate to practice. Additionally, body language is quite expressive in Greece, so pay attention to non-verbal cues. Lastly, remember that Greeks are generally very hospitable and willing to help, so don't be afraid to ask for assistance if you're struggling with the language.

Best time to visit Patras

The best time to explore Patras, Greece is between April and October, when the city experiences its most pleasant and warm weather, with temperatures averaging between 20°C to 27°C. This period offers an excellent opportunity for tourists to indulge in outdoor activities such as exploring the ancient ruins, strolling through the city’s vibrant squares, or relaxing on the nearby beaches. However, the peak summer months of July and August can get quite crowded with tourists. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to June or September to October. Alternatively, if you’re interested in experiencing Patras’ rich cultural scene, plan your visit in February to coincide with the Patras Carnival, one of the largest carnival events in Europe, featuring a grand parade, lavish balls, and theatrical performances. Regardless of when you visit, the best time to explore Patras is when you can balance your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and local events.

Weather in Patras

Patras, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The average annual temperature is around 18°C. The hot season usually starts in June and lasts until September, with an average daily high temperature above 28°C. The cool season, on the other hand, runs from December to March, with an average daily high temperature below 16°C.

Rainfall in Patras is not evenly distributed throughout the year. It often rains from October to March, with December being the wettest month. The summer months from June to September are usually dry with almost no rainfall. The city is also known for the 'meltemi', a seasonal dry wind blowing from the north during summer, which can cause sudden temperature drops. As such, travelers are advised to prepare for a variety of weather conditions despite the generally warm climate.

Local tip for visiting Patras

One insider tip to truly enjoy the city, as the locals do, is to time your visit during the Patras Carnival, known as 'Patrino Karnavali,' the largest event of its kind in Greece and one of the biggest in Europe. The carnival takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent, usually around February. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Greek culture and tradition, with colorful parades, hidden treasure hunts, masquerade balls, and theatrical performances filling the city's streets. The highlight of the festival is the grand parade featuring elaborate floats and thousands of participants. It's not only a festive event but a social one, where you can interact with locals and experience Greek hospitality at its finest. Remember, it's not as widely publicized as other European carnivals, so it's a real insider tip to experience a unique and vibrant aspect of Patras.

Top services in Patras

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Patras, Greece. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 182 airlines that fly to Greece. Browse the 7 top-rated tours available to you in Patras. Compare the rates and services of the 3 types of places to stay in Patras and the 8 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Patras.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Patras, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Patras on your vacation in Greece.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Patras from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Patras!

Learn more about Greece

There are many reasons to visit the city of Patras, but a trip to Greece needs no explanation.

Exploring Greece, which spans 131,957 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Greece offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Holy Church of Saint Andrew, Patras' South Park - Notio Parko Patras, and the King George Ι Square (Patras), you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Greece.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Greece.

What to see in Patras

Photo of sunset view on the bridge near Patras.

Patras has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Patras.

Top attractions in Patras

Home to plenty of top attractions, Patras is more than just a wonderful city in Greece. Patras is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Greece.

One fascinating sight in Patras is the unforgettable Holy Church of Saint Andrew. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Patras.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Greece, check out our list of top attractions in Patras below. Discover the best places to visit in Patras, including the fascinating Holy Church of Saint Andrew, Patras' South Park - Notio Parko Patras, King George Ι Square (Patras), St. Nicholas Stairway, and Dasillio.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Patras.

Things to do in Patras

Photo of aerial view from a drone on a beautiful large bridge for a highway across the sea in Patras, Greece.

Enrich your travel experience in Patras by joining tours and activities. Patras offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Patras below.

Most popular experiences in Patras

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Patras.

Patras offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Ports of Call Tours, Bus Tours, and Guided Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Greece.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Patras by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Patras

Travelers in Patras can choose from 8 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Patras one of the best travel destinations in Greece.

Patras also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Piraeus Cruise Port to Athens - Round-Trip Private Transfer is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Transportation Service. This experience costs around 32 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Patras.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Patras and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Patras below.

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Discover the best things to do in Patras. Choose from 7 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Patras. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Patras

The vibrant city of Patras is a culinary paradise, offering a blend of traditional Greek cuisine and contemporary gastronomic experiences. Meandering through the city’s bustling central market, you'll find an array of street food stalls serving local delicacies such as souvlaki, gyros, and the Patras-style bougatsa, a delectable pastry filled with cream or cheese. The waterfront area, particularly around the marina, is one of the best places to eat in Patras. Here, upscale restaurants serve regional dishes like the traditional Acheloos salmon and the unique Patras-style baklava, a sweet, nut-filled pastry. For an authentic local dining experience, head to the Trion Symmahon Square, known for its tavernas that serve classic Greek food with a Patras twist. Don't miss the chance to try the local wines, particularly the robust Mavrodaphne and the crisp white Roditis. To enhance your dining experience, consider visiting during the Patras Carnival, when the city's food scene truly comes to life with special menus and food-themed events.

Best shopping in Patras

Patras, the third-largest city in Greece, is a vibrant hub of fashion and local craftsmanship, making it the best place to go shopping in Patras. Begin your shopping journey at Ermou Street, the city's main commercial hub, filled with boutiques offering the latest in Greek and international fashion. Here, you'll find a blend of high-end brands and local designers. Don't miss the Achaia Clauss Wine Company, where you can pick up exquisite local wines, a perfect souvenir to take back home.

For a more modern shopping experience, head to the Agiou Nikolaou Shopping Center. This sprawling mall houses a variety of stores, from clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics. If you're after unique, handmade items, explore the local markets in the city center, where you'll discover traditional Greek crafts, ceramics, and textiles. Shopping in Patras offers a unique blend of the traditional and the contemporary, catering to all tastes and budgets. Remember to shop during the day as most shops in Patras close in the afternoon for siesta and reopen in the evening.

Best Free Things to Do in Patras

Embrace the vibrant spirit of Greece by exploring the best free things to do in Patras, a city rich in culture and history. Begin your adventure at the iconic Patras Castle. Perched atop a hill, the castle offers breathtaking views of the city, the Gulf of Patras, and the rolling hills beyond. Step back in time as you wander around its ancient walls and learn about its Byzantine past. Next, take a leisurely stroll along the bustling Patras Marina. Filled with colorful fishing boats and yachts, it's the perfect spot to watch the sunset and immerse yourself in local life. Don't forget to visit the Church of Saint Andrew, the largest church in Greece and a significant pilgrimage site. Its grand architecture and intricate mosaics are sure to leave you in awe. Lastly, experience the city's vibrant arts scene by catching a free street performance in the main square. With cost not being a concern, Patras offers a rich and fulfilling experience for every traveler.

Vacation packages in Patras

Photo of Patras Rion castle wall and famous Rio Antirrio bridge, Greece.

The best and easiest way to visit Patras is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Greece.

Booking a vacation package to Patras means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Patras to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Patras is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 22 unique vacation packages to Patras, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Patras.

Popular types of vacations in Patras

The most popular way to experience Patras is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Greece. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Patras on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Greece, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Greece, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Patras, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Patras below.

Top vacation packages in Patras

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Greece. In fact, you can choose from as many as 22 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Patras, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Greece.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Patras.

For an epic vacation, discover Patras and other top destinations in Greece on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Greece Beach Holiday in Patras. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Patras, but also in other top places to visit in Greece. If King George Ι Square (Patras), Σκαλιά Γεροκωστοπούλου, Patras' South Park - Notio Parko Patras, Roman Odeon, and St. Nicholas Stairway are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

Get more Patras vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Greece that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Patras

Discover and compare 22 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Patras.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Patras get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Greece. Your customized holiday package to Patras is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Patras

To get to the city of Patras the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Greece can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Patras by booking flights with any of the 4 airlines that offer direct flights to Araxos airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Araxos airport are Air China, Azul, Ethiopian Airlines, Pegasus, and LATAM Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Patras.

To reach the city of Patras, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Araxos airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Patras, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Araxos airport and Patras below.

Find cheap flights to Patras

Photo of lighthouse in Patras, Greece.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Patras, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Greece. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Patras, Greece, in October.

The cheapest one-way flight to Patras costs around 75 EUR and is offered by the airline TUI fly Deutschland. The flight leaves on October 27 at 3 and departs from Hannover airport in Hanover, Germany.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Patras cost approximately 896 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on June 29 and the return flight is scheduled on June 10. The flight time is around 30 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Athens International.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Greece and the city of Patras from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Patras

Travelers visiting Patras in Greece can fly to Araxos airport directly from 607 destinations worldwide.

The airline that operates most flights to Greece is Lanmei Airlines. Lanmei Airlines offers 1 scheduled flight routes to Greece.

Discover the most popular flights to Patras below. Click to view flights to Patras, Greece from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Patras

Photo of lighthouse Patras ,Greece.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Patras is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Patras usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Patras offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Patras and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Patras planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Patras, you'll find 3 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Greece can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Patras. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Patras.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Patras in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Patras

A trip to the fascinating Patras, Greece, means opportunities to relax at any of the 3 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 90 vacation rental apartments, 78 hotels and 24 cottages. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Patras provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Mediterranee is one of the top picks of travelers in Patras.

The hotel is located at Agiou Nikolaou 18 and boasts many great utilities, including Air conditioning, Free Wi-Fi, and Bar.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Patras. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Patras, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Delfini Hotel. For approximately 36 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Double Room at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 3 different types of places to stay in Patras. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Patras

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Patras for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 192 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Patras provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Patras are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Patras.

The Bold Type Hotel offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Patras. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Astir Patras Hotel, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Patras, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Mediterranee, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Patras. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Patras on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Patras that match the information provided.

Transportation in Patras

Patras, the third-largest city in Greece, offers a variety of transportation options for travelers. The city's public transport is primarily served by bus lines, run by the Patras Urban Bus Organization. Buses are frequent, reliable, and cover extensive routes, making them a convenient mode of travel.

Taxis are also readily available throughout the city and can be flagged down on the street or booked in advance. They offer a more private and faster mode of transportation compared to buses. For those who prefer to navigate at their own pace, there are several car rental services available in the city, including both local and international chains.

For a unique local transportation experience, tourists can try the Patras Suburban Railway. It offers scenic views of the city and the sea while connecting Patras with other cities in the region. Lastly, the city's port provides ferry services to the Ionian Islands and Italy, offering a pleasant alternative for those looking to venture further afield.

Car rental in Patras

Photo of old historic castle of Patras in Achaea on Peloponnese in Greece.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Patras. Patras has 8 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Patras start from 18.91 EUR per day or 132.4 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Nissan Micra Auto 5 Doors.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Patras, starting from 4.68 EUR per day or 32.73 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Nissan Micra.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Patras, Greece, below.

Popular types of car rental in Patras

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Patras to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Patras can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Greece at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Patras is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Patras is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Patras.

Check out all options available in Patras and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Greece below.

Search for car rental in Patras

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Patras. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Patras, Greece, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Patras

Photo of Roman Odeon, Patras, Greece.

The city of Patras is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Greece. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Greece has it all.

Greece is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Greece that are as magical as the city of Patras. The most popular travel destinations in Greece are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Greece

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Greece. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Patras

Photo of fountain at King George I Square in Patras.

A taste of Greece through a visit to Patras can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Patras to another remarkable destination in Greece.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Patras to other spectacular locations in Greece, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Search domestic flights from Patras

Traveling to another city or region in Greece? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Patras to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Greece on the selected dates.

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