Patras is located on the northwest coast of the Peloponnese Peninsula, the third largest city in Greece with a metropolitan population ranking third in Greece. It is also the capital of the Western Greece Region and Achaia prefecture, with a history of over 4000 years. It is an important urban center in western Greece, as well as a crucial port city connecting western Greece to Italy and the Ionian Islands.

Patras boasts numerous relics from its ancient Greek city-state period, as well as from the Roman and Byzantine eras. Among them, the Roman mosaic artwork is particularly renowned and not to be missed. The Roman Theater stands out as one of the most outstanding examples of Roman architecture, constructed in 160 AD, and currently used primarily as an outdoor theater during the summer. The medieval Patras Castle overlooks the city with its rich historical atmosphere, and its interior is now open as a public park. The collection at the Patras Archaeological Museum is distinctive in Greece, focusing on artifacts from ancient Greek city-states and the Byzantine era. The museum’s most prized possession is a Roman mosaic artwork gilded with gold, displaying exquisite and vivid brushstrokes.

Every February, Patras hosts Europe’s largest and most colorful carnival, the Patras Carnival, which attracts worldwide attention. Thousands of people gather to enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean scenery and pleasant climate in the festive atmosphere.

Reasons to visit: The third largest city in Greece
Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Greece
Province/Region: West Greece Region
City: Patras