Aigio Car Hire

Guide of Aigio

Geography

Aigio is located on the Gulf of Corinth, at the foothills of the fir-covered Panachaiko Mountain. The Selinountas river flows into the Gulf 5 km east of the town centre.

Climate in Aigio

Aigio has a temperate Mediterranean climate. Summer is the hottest time of year to visit and lasts from June until late September. August is the hottest month of the year, with an average maximum temperature of 31°C. January is the coldest month in Aigio, with average maximum temperatures of 15°C. November is the rainest month of the year, with an average of 116mm of rainfall.

Culture

Aigio is one of the oldest cities in Greece. It boasts a rich history, first mentioned by Homer who referenced it as the point where the Achaean fleet gathered for its journey to Troy. Nearby Helike was completely destroyed in 373 BC by an earthquake and it is now an important archaeological site too. After the Roman and Byzantine rule, the town was renamed Vostitsa and was only renamed when the town overthrew the Ottomans in 1821. It was one of the first cities to be liberated in Greece from Ottoman rule. During the 19th century, Aigio became famous for its Votizza currents, which remain popular on the island today.

Things To Do in Aigio

Visit the Plane Tree of Pausanias

This protected monument and ancient plane tree is located on the city’s beach. It either takes its name from the Roman wanderer who supposedly planted it or from his reference to the tree in his book about Arcadia. The pioneering German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann estimated that the tree is over 1,450 years old, though modern scientists believe it is more likely to be closer to 600 years old. Nearby, you can visit the 12 Founts, one of the most popular spots in the city.

Take in the view from the Psila Alonia Square

The Psila Alonia Square is one of the most beautiful balconies in the Mediterranean. The square is lined with palm trees, a playground and a fountain and offers sweeping views of the mountains and out to sea. Just next to the square, you’ll find an enchanting park with a small pond.

Brush up on your local history

The Archaeological Museum of Aigio houses archaeological findings dating back to the Neolithic period and up to the late Roman era. Close by, the Folklore Museum offers fascinating insights into local traditions and customs, including the impacts of the Turkish occupation. The museum is housed in the elegant mansion of Anastasios Lontos. The Ecclesiastical Museum of Aigio is well worth a visit too.

Go to church

Aigio is a city of many churches – and you don’t want to miss out on any of them. The Church of Panagia the Trypiti is the city’s most emblematic, built high into a forbidding rock on the harbour. According to local legend, the site was chosen to become a place of worship by a castaway sailor who found the image of the Virgin Mary on the exact spot. The Church of Agios Antreas is a tiny cross-shaped church that was temporarily transformed into a mosque during the Turkish occupation and the Church of Fanermeni is one of the most imposing and impressive buildings in the city.

Hit the beach

Alyki Beach is just 2km east of the city, an easy journey along the coastal road from the port. The 800-metre pebble beach sits in front of the Alyki Lagoon protected wetlands, which are home to more than 235 bird species. You can hire sun loungers and umbrellas, and there are shower facilities and a lifeguard. Gigeliotika Beach and Balimitika Beach are a little further along the coastal road and both offer clear, calm waters and a soft pebbled beach.

Eating Out in Aigio

The Peloponnese is one of Greece’s most geographically diverse and rich regions, so the food you’ll find in the south of the area will differ wildly from that found in and around Aigio. However, like most Greek cities, you’ll find plenty of extra-virgin olive oil and seasonal produce (think artichokes, aubergines, tomatoes and watermelons), as well as goats and sheep roaming the countryside.

You’ll find the best souvlaki (small pieces of skewered meat and vegetables eaten straight off the grill) in Agia Lavra Square. You’ll also find dozens of tiny kafeneia dotted across the town, where you can enjoy homemade ice creams and snacks, freshly roasted coffee and homemade rose jelly. For a traditional Greek taverna, try Sti Ladokolla, where they serve up some of the best paidakia (lamb cutlets) in town. There’s usually live music on a Sunday here too. Or, for a sea view, try Aigion Pelagos. The restaurant is right on the waterfront and serves up a mouthwatering array of fresh seafood.

Transport

Airport

Roughly 82 km away, Patra Airport is the closest airport to Aigio. However, this is a relatively small airport, mostly served in the summer by charter flights. The easiest way to get to Aigio is by flying to Athens International Airport, which is served by dozens of major international airline carriers and offers hundreds of flights per day. It’s a two-hour drive from the airport to Aigio or a bumpy bus journey.

Getting Around Aigio

Aigio is a highly walkable town and you should be able to visit most of the town’s sights on foot. The town operates a good bus network and a new double standard-gauge railway line now connects the town with Kiao and Athens, making it even more accessible. However, if you’re looking to explore the surrounding countryside, neighbouring towns and coastal villages, we recommend hiring a car.