Europe by Eurail 2018 by LaVerne Ferguson-Kosinski

Author:LaVerne Ferguson-Kosinski
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781493031634
Publisher: Globe Pequot Press

DEPART ARRIVE

Athens Larissa Patras

0544 0958

0827 1208

DEPART ARRIVE

Patras Athens Larissa

1630 2022

1830 2151

Distance: 138 miles (222 km)

Note: Due to construction work as the line from Athens to Patras is converted from narrow-gauge to standard gauge, you must switch to bus service in Kiato. Bus service is also available direct from Athens, travel time about 3 hours.

Patras has two noteworthy celebrations: the stately procession of Saint Andrew on November 30 and a spectacular carnival during the last 10 days before Lent. The city also conducts a classic-theater season during the summer. We suggest a walking tour of Patras starting at the Trion Symmahon Square, across from the station and on the right. The long arcaded avenue leading off the park in the direction of the city’s heights is studded with stores, restaurants, and specialty shops.

Continue walking on this avenue (Ayiou Nikolaou) to the foot of a broad flight of steps, which will bring you to the site of the ancient Patras Acropolis. Enjoy a wonderful view of the city, its harbor, and the surrounding hills and mountains from here. Return to the base of the steps, and proceed to the left on Yeoryiou Street, which will lead you to the Odeum, a characteristic Roman theater. It was discovered in 1889, but enterprising building contractors subsequently removed much of its marble, requiring the theater to be restored extensively in 1960.

Visitors seeking Saint Andrews Church should begin their quest at the Trion Symmahon Square and walk southwest along Andreou Avenue to the church, which stands by the sea at the avenue’s end. A park dedicated to Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, is across from the church.

To reach the city’s museum, turn left at the Trion Fountain in Trion Symmahon Square and walk for 2 blocks, then turn right and walk for 2 more. The museum has an extensive collection of classic Greek and Roman statues plus a collection of prehistoric pottery. There is an admission charge.

The area surrounding Patras is steeped in history. Use Patras as a “base city” when visiting Olympia, original site of the Olympic Games. In Olympia you can visit the site of the Olympic flame, which is carried by runners to any point in the world where the games are to be held. Also of interest is the arch commemorating Nero’s “victory” in a chariot race staged in A.D. 67. The emperor’s chariot was pulled by 10 horses, while all other competitors had to make do with four—needless to say, Nero won.

Another interesting side trip can be made to the Achaia Clauss Winery, 5 miles outside Patras, to view the wine-making process and sample a bit of the product. If interested in either excursion, obtain information at one of the tourist offices.

Culinary delights abound in Patras. A sea-bass dish, tsipoures, is a specialty of the area. This and other Greek dishes are available in the tavernas scattered throughout the upper part of town. An American-style restaurant lies just before the Hellenic Lines office on the quay. Customers may stow their suitcases and backpacks there free of charge while waiting for the ferry.

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