Messolonghi Car Hire

Guide of Messolonghi

Geography

Messolonghi is a charming town and municipality in western Greece. It is the capital of Etoloakarnania, the largest region in the country. Squeezed between the Achelous and Evinos rivers, it is flanked by the Arakynthos mountains in the northeast and the Gulf of Patras in the south.

The town was built around the sprawling, shallow Missolonghi Lagoon, the largest in Greece and one of the largest in the Mediterranean. The park is renowned for its biological, ecological and geological value, encompassing an extensive complex of riverside areas, lagoons, swamps, mud flats and forest.

Climate in Messolonghi

Messolonghi enjoys a warm and temperate climate. Summers here begin at the end of June and end in September, when temperatures can soar to 35°C. Rainfall is mostly concentrated around the lagoons, with an average of 106 rainy days per year. January is the coldest month in Messolonghi, with average temperatures of 7°C.

If you’re planning on hitting the sights and exploring the lagoon, late spring and early autumn are the best time to travel to the town when the temperatures are a little cooler.

Culture

Messolonghi supposedly takes its name from the Italian words ‘mezzo’ and ‘langhi’, which means ‘town between two lakes’. Little is known about the area in ancient times and the first written reference to the town as a small fishing settlement dates back to the 16th century. By the 18th century, it had become an important naval power and the town played a significant role in the Greek Revolution. In fact, it was the first place in the country to join the uprising.

Prominent authors Kostis Palamas, Miltiadis Malakasis and Antonis Travlantonis, as well as Prime Ministers Charilaos Trikoupis, Dimitrios and Zepameinondas Deligiorgis were all born here and Lord Byron died here. Today, the town is a major fishing hub.

Things To Do in Messolonghi

Explore one of Europe’s richest wetlands

The town’s twin lagoons extend all the way from the foothills of Mount Varasova to the Ionian Sea. Together they form one of the Mediterranean’s largest habitats for birds and fish, home to more than 200 species of birds. Take a stroll or hire a kayak and paddle alongside the flamingos.

Stroll around the Garden of Heroes

Located at the town’s entrance, The Garden of heroes is dedicated to local political and military figures who helped shaped the country. There is a monument to Markos Borsaris, as well as an impressive marble statue of Lord Byron, who died here.

Get up close to masterpieces at the Contemporary Art Gallery

Set in an attractive 19th-century neoclassical building, The Contemporary Art Gallery houses an extensive collection of works from distinguished and upcoming Greek artists. There are permanent and temporary exhibitions dedicated to paintings, sculptures and engravings. The library boasts a collection of more than 3,000 book titles. Keep an eye out for cultural events and seminars which take place here throughout the year.

Brush up on local history

The Museum of History and Art is located in the former city hall, right in the heart of town. You’ll find works by both Greek and foreign artists, with a particularly interesting collection related to the Greek War of Independence. Highlights include ‘Greece on the ruins of Missolonghi’ and Emile de Lasank’s ‘The Sacrifice of the Mother. Finish off with a trip to the Folklore Museum, which tells the story of the town through more than 700 items of costumes, furniture and musical instruments.

Chill out at the beach

Take a day off from sightseeing to swim, sunbathe and birdwatch at one of the city’s beautiful beaches. Troulida Beach is a family favourite, lined with charming tavernas, cafes and facilities. Sunbed and umbrella rental is affordable too.

Eating Out in Messolonghi

Messolonghi is a major fishing centre, so sea bream, sea bass and fresh shrimps are in no short supply. Messolongi bottarga, dried mullet roe, is prized all over the world and no trip would be complete without a taste of this unique product.

There are dozens of cafes, tavernas, bars and restaurants to take your pick from in Messolonghi. For authentic local fare, try Ola Xyma. This traditional taverna serves up mammoth mezes, tasty salads and meat dishes, washed down with carafes of local wine. For heavenly views, hop on a boat and head to Illovasilema, a terrace restaurant with sweeping sunset views.

Transport

Airport

There is no airport in Mesolonghi. The closest airport is Patra-Araxos Airport (GPA), though international and charter flights only fly here during the summer months. From here, you can hop on a 45-minute bus or make the 30-minute drive to Messolonghi.

Alternatively, you could fly to Athens International Airport (ATH). Most domestic and international airlines serve the airport, including British Airways, EasyJet and Aegean Air. It’s a four-hour direct bus journey from the airport to Messolonghi or you could pick up your rental car and make the journey independently.

Getting Around Messolonghi

Messolonghi has a good public transport network with cheap and regular local buses connecting the most popular destinations. KTEL buses offer transfers and services to towns and attractions outside of the town.

However, a car is the most convenient way to explore Messolonghi. Roads are well-maintained and driving will give you more flexibility and the opportunity to explore sights beyond the main tourist hotspots. You can pick up your car rental in Athens or Patra.

Top Tips when hiring a car in Messolonghi

• Car Rental Locations: Familiarize yourself with the car rental locations in Messolonghi to choose the most convenient pick-up and drop-off point for your trip.

• Car Rental Deals: Keep an eye out for attractive cheap car rental deals. Many car rental companies offer special promotions and discounts to make your trip more affordable.

• Car Rental Companies: Research various car rental companies operating in Messolonghi to find the one that best suits your needs in terms of rental cars, rates, and service quality.

• Unlimited Mileage: Inquire about rental options that come with unlimited mileage. This can be particularly useful if you plan to explore the beautiful Messolonghi and its surroundings.

• Free Cancellation: Check the car rental company's policies regarding cancellations. Opt for a service that offers free cancellation in case your plans change.

• Car Type: Choose a car type that fits your requirements and preferences. Whether you need a compact car for city exploration or a spacious vehicle for a family trip, select the right car type.

• Messolonghi Marina Port: If you arrive at Messolonghi Marina Port, consider renting a car there to kickstart your adventure in the town and its scenic surroundings.

• Greet Station: Ensure you understand the procedures for greeting and returning the rental car. This will make your car hire experience smoother.

• Messolonghi Car Rental Rates: Compare cheap car rentals from different providers to find the most cost-effective option for your journey.

• Rent a Car: Renting a car in Messolonghi is a convenient way to explore this charming Greek town at your own pace. It provides the freedom to discover its historical and natural attractions.

• Messolonghi Car Rentals: Some car hire companies specifically cater to Messolonghi car rentals, offering specialized services that are well-suited to the area's unique needs.