ICPLA 2025 Conference in Patras

 

 

Travel Information for Conference Participants
Coming to Patras

Patras is easily accessible via Athens International Airport, Araxos Airport, or by ferry from Italy. Below are the main travel options to help you plan your journey.

Flying into Athens International Airport (ATH)

 

Step 1.1: Arrival in Athens

Most international travelers arrive at Athens International Airport, Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), Greece’s primary airport.

Step 1.2: Traveling from Athens to Patras

Once in Athens, you can reach Patras by train, bus, or rental car.

 

Option 1.2.1: By Train

• Route: Take the Proastiakos suburban train from Athens Airport to Kiato station, then transfer to a regional train to Patras.
• Tickets: Approximately €20 one way.
• Travel Time: Around 3 hours 53 minutes.
• Frequency: 64 connections per day, with the first departure at 04:33 a.m. and the last at 07:35 p.m.
• Where to Buy: Tickets are available
  at train stations or online via TrainOSE.https://www.hellenictrain.gr/en/ticket-purchase

 

Option 1.2.2: By Bus (Recommended manner)

• Service: KTEL Express Buses from Athens to Patras.
• Departure Point: Kifissos Bus Terminal (KTEL Kifissos) in Athens.
• Getting There: Take the X93 express bus (€5.50 one way,
  approx. 45 minutes) from Athens Airport
  to the Kifissos Bus Terminal.
• Tickets: €20 one way or €36 round trip.
• Frequency: Every 30 minutes, approximately.
  Last bus from Athens to Patras at 10:00 in the evening (10:30 on Sundays).
• Travel Time: About 2.5 hours.
• Where to Buy: Online at the KTEL Achaias
  website https://www.ktelachaias.gr/en/homepage-en/  or at the terminal.
  

 

Option 1.2.3: By Car Rental

• Availability: Car rentals are available at Athens Airport.
• Cost: €50-€80 per day.
• Route: Drive via Olympia Odos (A8) highway (210 km).
• Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours 15 minutes.
• Tolls: Around €13.
• Parking: Check with your hotel as street parking is limited.

 

 

Flying into Araxos Airport (GPA)

 

Step 2.1: Arrival at Araxos Airport

Araxos Airport (GPA) is approximately 45 km from Patras and offers limited seasonal flights from European cities. Check with your airline for availability.

Step 2.2: Traveling from Araxos to Patras

• • Taxi: Direct taxi service costs around €50-€60 and takes approximately 45 minutes.
  • Shuttle Service: Some airlines and hotels offer shuttle services—confirm availability in advance.
  • Bus: Limited bus service is available but may be infrequent, especially in the off-season.

 

 

Traveling to Patras by Ferry from Italy

For travelers coming from Italy, ferries provide a scenic and comfortable alternative.

 

Step 3.1: Departure Ports in Italy

Ferries to Patras operate from the following Italian ports:

• • Ancona (Daily service, 21-24 hours travel time)
  • Bari (Daily or alternate days, 15-17 hours travel time)
  • Brindisi (2-3 times per week, 16-18 hours travel time)
  • Venice (Seasonal, breathtaking, summer service, 32-36 hours travel time)

Step 3.2: Ferry Companies and Booking

Major ferry operators include Minoan Lines, Anek Lines, and Superfast Ferries.

• • Booking: Available online via ferry company websites or through travel agencies.
  • Pricing (approximately):
  • Deck Seat: €50-€100 one way.
  • Cabin: €100-€200 one way.
  • Vehicle Transport: Additional €50-€100.

Step 3.3: Arrival at Patras Port

• • Port to City Center: The port is centrally located, with taxis and buses readily available.
  • To the University of Patras: A taxi costs approximately €10-€15, or public buses are available from the port area.

Additional Information

• • Ferry Amenities: Ferries provide restaurants, cafes, lounges, cabins, and onboard entertainment.
  • Seasonal Variability: Ferry schedules increase in frequency during the summer months.
  • Booking Recommendations: For the latest schedules and ticket availability, visit the ferry company websites or consult a travel agency.

 

We look forward to welcoming you to Patras!