Patras know-how: live the most famous Greek carnival

One of the largest and most lively cities of Greece, Patras is home to the country’s most famous carnival, with 180 years of history, a lot of fun, dancing, singing and very impressive floats. So, you too shout the famous slogan “Patras Carnival forever” and let yourselves get carried away in the special carnival events, such as the Treasure Hunt, the Bourboulia and, of course, the Children’s Carnival, which traditionally pave the way for the culmination with the Grand Parade on the last Sunday of the Carnival (22/2).Go around the city on foot or by bike (it has a good network of bicycle paths). Take note of the central, trendy Riga Feraiou street and discover the magnificent Aghios Georgios square with the iconic Apollon Theatre, the imposing church of Aghios Andreas, the New Archaeological Museum, an example of modern aesthetics, and also the important monuments of the Ano Poli, such as the Roman Odeon and the Fortress of Patras. If,again, you wish to explore the surrounding area, the picturesque town of Kalavryta that features a remarkable ski resort is within easy reach. The hotels “Byzantino” (www.byzantino-hotel.gr) and “Maison Grecque” (www.mghotels.gr) offer generous doses of luxury while the relatively new “Cityloft” (www.cityloft.gr) has a boutique philosophy. The latest hot openings include the bar-restaurant “Otto” (2614001192) with its creative cuisine, and the tiny “Terra Bistro” (2610313000). “Labyrinth” (2610226436) is a cook house that dates back to 1953, which nearby you may find the chic and atmospheric restaurant “Kornelia” (2610272987).