The port of Patras is Greece's western gateway to Italy: from the New Port (south of the centre) ferries leave for Ancona, Bari, Brindisi and Venice. Patras connects to Athens in ~2โ2.5 hours via the Olympia Odos motorway. To explore Achaia and the western Peloponnese, a rental car is the most comfortable option.
The port of Patras is Greece's western gateway to Europe: ferries leave here daily for Italy, and the city links onward toward the Ionian. Whether you're travelling by ferry or just passing through Patras, here's what you need to know about the port and how to get around from it.
Port of Patras: essentials
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| New Port | South of the centre, international lines |
| Ferries | Ancona, Bari, Brindisi, Venice |
| From Athens | ~2โ2.5 hours (Olympia Odos) |
| Exploring | Achaia & western Peloponnese by vehicle |
Where the port is
The New Port lies south of the centre and serves the international lines and the large sailings. The old port, closer to the heart of the city, is now used mainly for events and smaller boats. The two areas are a few minutes apart.
Ferries: where you can go from Patras
From Patras there are regular sailings to Italian ports such as Ancona, Bari, Brindisi and Venice, with the major ferry companies. It's the classic route for anyone travelling with their car to and from Central Europe. It's wise to book tickets early in summer, when demand is high.
How to reach the port of Patras
Patras connects to Athens via the Olympia Odos motorway (about 2โ2.5 hours) and by intercity KTEL buses. There is no longer a passenger rail link into the city centre from Athens. If you're coming from Athens airport, the most comfortable option for flexibility in the region is to have your own vehicle.
Beyond the port: explore the region
Patras is an ideal base for Achaia and the western Peloponnese. With a rental car you can easily reach the Rio-Antirrio bridge, Kalavryta, Ancient Olympia and the coastal spots โ see the day trips from Patras. For quick hops around the city, a scooter saves time and parking.
What to see while you're here
If you have hours before or after your ferry, the city is worth a stroll: the Roman Odeon, the Castle and St Andrew's are close by. See all the things to do in Patras.
Frequently asked questions
From the New Port, south of the centre. It serves the international lines to Ancona, Bari, Brindisi and Venice.
About 2โ2.5 hours by car via the Olympia Odos motorway. There are also intercity KTEL bus connections.
Not necessarily for the city, but to explore Achaia (Rio-Antirrio, Kalavryta, Olympia) a rental vehicle makes a huge difference.
In summer yes, especially if travelling with a vehicle โ demand for Italy is high and spaces fill up.