Achaia map

Capital: Patra

Overview:

The capital of Achaia is Patra, which is also the capital of Peloponnese. Patra is the third most important town in Greece and its main western port. It thrives as commercial and industrial centre, as it links many destinations in the Peloponnese, Italy, Crete, Cyprus and the Ionian Islands. Don't miss visit Patra in its famous Carnival, full of life and distinctive of Patras entertainment.

Best Achaia Sights:

• Patra is close to the most famous archaeological sights in Peloponnese, such as Olympia, Delphi, Epidavrus and Kalavrita.

• The imposing Roman Castle with views over Sterea Greece stands on the mountain Panahaekon, on the ancient acropolis

• The Ancient Odeon, near Saint George Square, with a capacity of 2,500 p

• The Municipal Theatre, a replica of Scala of Milan

• The Church of Pantokratora (Good Almighty) was used by the Turks as a mosque and later converted into Saint Markos Catholic Church.

• Saint Andreas Cathedral, the patron Saint of Patra, was built on the same spot Apostle Andrew was crucified.

• The Monastery of Girokomeo, the oldest in the Peloponnese, and other monasteries

• The Mycenaean Cemetery, of 80 acres, dates back to 1500-1100 BC

• Rio's Castle was built by Sultan Vayazit 2^nd in 1499 with the name "Kastelli of Moreas" (little castle of Peloponnese)

• Rio Channel joins Rio with Antirio and Etoloacarnania offering great views to the traveler

Places to visit:

• The famous 193 staircase, at the top of Agiou Nikolaou Str. leads to the castle

• The famous Hamam (Turkish steam baths), at Boukaouri Str., is the only operating in Greece and the second in Europe.

• Achaia Clauss is the famous wine factory operating for a century and a half.

• The Cave of the Lakes, with 13 successive lakes

• Pafsanias vine, a natural monument estimated to be more than 3,000 years

• Papa Lagoon, an important fish farm

• Strofilia Forest, a 20,000 acres habitat of unique ecological value

• Tsivlos Lake, at an altitude of 800 m, surrounded by forests and fragrant herbs

• Vouraikos Canyon - Ride on the Cog Railway

Special Events:

Achaia has a rich cultural activity attracting thousands of visitors. The International Festival of Patra, in mid-January, is the most famous of carnival festivities in Greece with the participation of thousands of masquerades and interesting performers from all over the world. The Patras Carnival, a modern version of the Dionysian mysteries is the best time to visit the town.

In summer various cultural events take place in Ancient Odeon. "Bourboulia", the local ball dancing sessions during the Carnival period, are held in the Municipal Theatre.

Best Achaia Beaches:

Vartholomio, Metochi, Nikoleika (Aigio), Monodendri, Tsoukalaika, Arachovitika, Kalogria, Gianiskari, Trapezou Egiou, Lambiri, Akrata, Platanos, Egira