Patras Yacht Charter
Patras is a city full of colour with a vibrant atmosphere and an excellent addition to any superyacht charter itinerary. It’s also one of the largest urban metropolises in Greece and offers visitors fabulous restaurants, lively markets and trendy cafes as well as a beautiful harbour. There’s also the interesting annual Patras Carnival, the Old City and many ancient monuments to visit.
The Peloponnese city of Patras took its name from King Patras who ruled Achaia in 1100 BC and had quite an eventful 3,000-year-old history. It’s known as the Gateway to the West and is often overlooked by yacht charterers as a destination. With Mount Panachaikon in the background and fantastic views over the Gulf, it is really worth a stop over when on a Greek luxury yacht charter vacation.
Approaching Patras by sea you’ll notice the Rio-Andirio suspension bridge connecting Patras and the Western Continent. The bridge leads into the exciting city where traditional squares have lots of shops, restaurants and friendly bistros. There’s also the spectacular Apollo Theatre, a landmark which is linked to the past and an important feature in Greece. The university here means Patras is buzzing with an exciting nightlife as well as a strong arts and culture scene.
Take a walk up the 192 steps to the Old City where there are romantic winding, cobbled streets in front of beautiful neo-classical mansions. Check out the ancient monuments, churches and the Achaia Claus winery. Stop for a tasting session of local wines then head to the town centre where you will see amazing stone buildings and how the people of Patras live their day-to-day lives.
The Patras Carnival is held during the late winter months and is the largest of its kind in Greece. Some of the best weather is between April-October so plan your yacht charter itinerary around these months. Alternatively, during mid-January and Clean Monday, there are fabulous parades, food festivals, balls as well as music to enjoy. It’s a time when Greek traditions and communities come together to celebrate their life and a fantastic opportunity for yacht charterers to get a taste for the real Greece.