7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Patras

Patras, a vibrant port city on the northwestern coast of the Peloponnese in Greece, is not only a hub for digital nomads seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle but also a fantastic starting point for weekend getaways. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten path, the region around Patras offers a diverse range of destinations that cater to all tastes. From ancient ruins and idyllic islands to mountain retreats and seaside towns, here are seven fun weekend getaways for those living in Patras.

Nafpaktos

Just a short drive from Patras, Nafpaktos is a picturesque seaside town known for its Venetian castle and charming harbor. The town's well-preserved medieval walls and the castle offer stunning views of the Gulf of Corinth. Stroll along the port, enjoy a coffee in one of the waterfront cafés, or relax on the nearby beaches. Nafpaktos also hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

How to Get There: Nafpaktos is about a 30-minute drive from Patras. Regular bus services are also available, making it an easy and scenic trip along the coast.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to walk across the old stone bridge that spans the small harbor – it's a perfect spot for photos, especially at sunset.

Where to Stay: Hotel Nafpaktos and Lepanto Beach Hotel are both great options with beautiful views of the sea.

Where to Eat: Try Ta Kalamia for fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes right by the water.

Kalavryta

Nestled in the mountains of the northern Peloponnese, Kalavryta is a serene getaway for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The town is a gateway to the stunning Vouraikos Gorge and the site of the historic Kalavryta Holocaust. In winter, the Kalavryta Ski Center becomes a popular destination for snow sports. The region's natural beauty is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the great outdoors.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Kalavryta is by car, which takes about 1.5 hours from Patras. Alternatively, take the scenic rack railway from Diakopto through the gorge.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Monastery of Agia Lavra, where the Greek War of Independence was first declared in 1821.

Where to Stay: The Finday Boutique Hotel offers cozy accommodations with panoramic mountain views.

Where to Eat: Spiti tou Voskou is known for its hearty local cuisine and warm, rustic atmosphere.

Zakynthos Island

A jewel in the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos Island is famous for its turquoise waters and vibrant nightlife. The island's most iconic spot is Navagio Beach, with its shipwreck and towering cliffs. Explore the Blue Caves, enjoy water sports, or simply relax on one of the many beautiful beaches. Zakynthos also offers a lively town with plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants.

How to Get There: Zakynthos is accessible by ferry from the port of Kyllini, which is about an hour's drive from Patras.

Travel Tip: Visit the island during the off-season to avoid the crowds and experience the local culture more authentically.

Where to Stay: Contessina Hotel in Tsilivi offers a modern stay with excellent facilities, while Porto Zante Villas & Spa provides luxury accommodations with private beaches.

Where to Eat: Nobelos Bio Restaurant serves organic, locally-sourced Greek cuisine with a stunning seaside view.

Kyparissia

Kyparissia is a hidden gem on the western coast of the Peloponnese, with a charming old town, a medieval castle, and long stretches of sandy beaches. The town is less touristy than other coastal destinations, offering a peaceful retreat. Visit the archaeological site of Peristeria for a glimpse into Mycenaean civilization, or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the town.

How to Get There: Kyparissia is about a 1.5-hour drive from Patras. Public buses also run regularly between the two cities.

Travel Tip: The Kyparissia Turtle Conservation Project offers opportunities to learn about and participate in protecting the local sea turtle population.

Where to Stay: Kyparissia Beach Hotel boasts a prime location with sea views and easy beach access.

Where to Eat: The Old Olive Mill offers a unique dining experience in a beautifully restored olive mill, serving traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist.

Dimitsana

Dimitsana is a mountainous village steeped in history and natural beauty. It's known for its stone houses, traditional water-powered mills, and the Open Air Water Power Museum. The village serves as a base for exploring the Lousios Gorge, where you can hike to ancient monasteries perched on the cliffs. Dimitsana also provides a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Greek highlands.

How to Get There: The drive from Patras to Dimitsana takes approximately 2 hours. There is no direct public transportation, so a car rental is recommended.

Travel Tip: Visit the Library of Dimitsana, which houses a collection of rare books and manuscripts dating back to the Greek Revolution.

Where to Stay: En Dimitsani Guesthouse offers a warm, traditional stay with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Where to Eat: To Steki Tis Fotinis serves delicious local dishes with ingredients sourced from the region's rich natural larder.

Planitero

Planitero is a lesser-known destination, perfect for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. This small village is nestled in a lush valley with crystal-clear streams and dense plane tree forests. It's an ideal spot for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors. The local trout farms offer the freshest fish, often served in the village's tavernas.

How to Get There: Planitero is about a 2-hour drive from Patras. The journey through the mountainous terrain is as breathtaking as the destination itself.

Travel Tip: Visit the nearby Cave of the Lakes, a unique geological formation with a series of cascading lakes inside a cave.

Where to Stay: There are several traditional guesthouses in the area, such as the Archontiko Zafeiropoulou, offering a cozy mountain retreat.

Where to Eat: The tavernas in Planitero are known for their fresh trout, grilled or fried, and served with local greens.

Porto Katsiki, Lefkada

While Lefkada is known for its stunning beaches, Porto Katsiki stands out as one of the most breathtaking. This beach, with its sheer cliffs and clear blue waters, is often listed among the best in Greece. Although it can get crowded during peak season, visiting Porto Katsiki in the quieter months reveals a serene and almost otherworldly landscape.

How to Get There: Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a bridge, making it easily accessible by car from Patras in about 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: For a unique perspective, take a boat tour that includes Porto Katsiki, allowing you to see the beach from the sea.

Where to Stay: San Nicolas Resort Hotel is a luxurious option with stunning views of the Ionian Sea and excellent facilities.

Where to Eat: Rachi Restaurant in Exanthia offers not only delicious local cuisine but also an incredible view of the Ionian sunset.

Whether you're a digital nomad looking to explore the area around Patras or simply in need of a weekend escape, these destinations offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that is sure to enrich your Greek experience.