The Overlooked University Town In Greece Full Of Historic Charm And Unique Entertainment

When one thinks of Greece, it's hard not to think of Athens, home to the Acropolis, the immortal Parthenon, and various other monuments from civilizations past. However, located just over two hours from Athens, in western Greece is Patras, the country's third-most populated city and perhaps its best-kept secret. It is in an idyllic location between the coast and mountains, and is home to three universities, with students roaming around year-round, sitting in cafes or studying at the Municipal Library. 

Patras is not only home to historical wonders that rival those of Athens, but the city is also a bustling transit hub teeming with nightlife activities for every kind of visitor, and a great place to visit in Greece for those on a budget. Whether you've never been to Southern Europe or have been to more Greek islands than you can count on both hands, any upcoming Mediterranean adventure has to include a stop in Patras.

Visitors from all over Europe descend onto Patras for the yearly Patras Carnival, a series of festivities that last from mid-January until the first Monday of Lent. The Carnival includes parades with incredible floats, parties, culture-based treasure hunts, and numerous child-friendly events. With an almost 200-year-old history, the carnival is one of Greece's most vibrant annual celebrations. The opening ceremony is usually announced by a float containing music, as all of Patras' citizens convene in George Square. Later that night, the mayor officially announces the commencement of the carnival, amidst the company of pantomimes, musicians and fireworks. For all the parents out there, one of the Carnival's most adorable events is the Children's Carnival, when thousands of children, accompanied by their parents, teachers, and musicians, put on their brightest costumes and parade through central Patras.

The closing ceremony of the Patras Carnival is a sight to behold. Centered around the burning of the float of the Carnival King, this final party is a spectacular farewell to the past and an exciting welcoming of the future. In recent years, the ceremony has become so popular that it is broadcast on television (though it is recommended that one is present to truly appreciate this one-of-a-kind experience).

Patras was once a flourishing Roman colony, and you can still see evidence of the achievements around Patras at sites like the Roman Odeon theatre. Likewise, the archaeological museum is must-see for history buffs. Patras is also home to a beautiful Medieval castle that offers sweeping views of the city and coastline. The Patras Marina is also a scenic area to visit, where you can grab a cocktail at one of its beachside bars and watch the sun go down.

Beyond the scenic beauty of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains, Patras contains a bevy of nightlife options so that you and your friends can keep the fun going well into the night. Start your night on Riga Feraiou, a pedestrian street teeming with restaurants, bars, and locals that can tell you where the party is on any particular evening. Make sure you stop in at Notos Jazz Bar, a live music venue with a great ambiance that is popular among students, and the perfect place to meet fellow music lovers. The bar is extremely popular and can get quite busy on the weekends, so remember to arrive early to get seats. If there's no room at Notos, head over to Beerbarq, another Patras staple and drinking hall-style pub that serves a variety of beers. There is outdoor seating and the bar is dog-friendly, so everyone is welcome. Make sure to pack party clothes along with that essential sunblock for your trip to Greece, as you'll definitely be needing them in Patras.