The International Conference on Tourism & Leisure Studies is pleased to offer the following Pre-Conference Tour of Old and New Patras on 14th June 2026.
Discover the fascinating layers of Patras — from ancient Roman landmarks to lively modern squares — on this engaging afternoon walking tour that ends with a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Patras.
We begin with a guided visit to the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, the largest church in Greece, built on the sacred site where Apostle Saint Andrew was martyred. Here, we’ll explore both the Old and New Saint Andrew Churches and the Demetra’s Spring, an ancient water source associated with the area’s early Christian and pre-Christian history.
From there, we stroll along Trion Navarchon Street and Riga Fereou Street, two of Patras’ most vibrant thoroughfares filled with cafés, local shops, and neoclassical charm. We pause at Queen Olga’s Square and King George I Square, the beating heart of the city, where we admire the Apollo Theatre, a masterpiece designed by Ernst Ziller that stands as a symbol of Patras’ cultural heritage.
Our walk continues along Gerokostopoulou Street and Ifestou Street, both bustling with life and lined with historic façades. We then reach the Roman Stadium and the Roman Odeum, two well-preserved monuments that reveal the grandeur of Patras during the Roman era.
We’ll then visit the Pantokratoras Church, one of the oldest surviving Byzantine churches in the city, before wandering through the oldest streets of Patras that wind around the Castle of Patras, offering glimpses into centuries of layered history.
Our journey culminates at the St. Nicholas Stairs, one of the city’s iconic staircases connecting the lower and upper towns. From here, we’ll enjoy a stunning sunset view over the rooftops of Patras, the harbor, and the Rio–Antirrio Bridge — a perfect finale to our exploration.
Includes:
Not Included:
Date: 14 June, 2026
Time: 17:00 h (5:00 PM)
Duration: Approx. 3 hours
Meeting point: Cathedral of Saint Andrew (Map)
Cost: 25 USD$
Booking: Reservations can be made by clicking the button below. Please note, that only reservations that have been paid in full will be considered confirmed and space is limited. Simply requesting a reservation will not guarantee a place on the tour.
The International Conference on Tourism & Leisure Studies is pleased to announce the Conference Opening Reception.
The International Conference on Tourism & Leisure Studies will be hosting a Opening Reception at the University of Patras directly following the last session of the day. Join other delegates and plenary speakers to enjoy drinks and light hors d'oeuvres.
Date: 15th June 2026
Time: Directly following the last session of the day
Cost: Free to all conference delegates
Location: University of Patras
The International Conference on Tourism & Leisure Studies is pleased to announce the Conference Dinner at Patras Sailing Club on 16th June 2026.
Join your fellow delegates for a delicious dinner at Istioploikos Omilos Patra in Patras Sailing Club.
From the restaurant: "The Patras Sailing Club is undoubtedly one of the finest places in the city to enjoy fish and seafood. Located right by the waves, in the heart of Patras on Agia Beach, it promises an exceptional dining experience. It comes as no surprise that in recent years the Patras Sailing Club restaurant has become a favorite among locals, renowned both for its charming setting and the outstanding freshness of its ingredients. Be sure to try the shrimp wrapped in kataifi, the steamed or cream-style mussels, as well as the daily selection of fresh fish and seafood. One bite is enough to convince you, guaranteed! We tasted incredibly fresh red mullet, which remains unforgettable, along with the atherina and the octopus. The quality of the fish, combined with the stunning sea view at the Patras Sailing Club, will leave you completely captivated."
Date: Tuesday, 16 June 2026
Time: 19:00 (7:00 PM)
Cost: 60 US$
Location: Iroon Polytechnic Marina Terpsitheas, Patras, 26441 Greece (Map)
Reservations can be made by clicking the button below. Please note, only reservations that have been paid in full will be considered confirmed and space is limited. Simply requesting a reservation will not guarantee a place at the dinner.

Join other delegates for a pre-conference welcome reception and training session.
We are excited to announce the online conference will be delivered on the CGScholar platform – developed by the Common Ground Media Lab, the research and technology arm of Common Ground Research Networks.
This special event will walk you through the CGScholar Event Microsite so you have a rich online experience by learning how to comment and participate online. It will also teach delegates how to update their profile and Presenter Pages in order to add digital media: video, sound, and other files.
Talking Circles are a distinctive feature of our in-person conference, and this year we are also taking them online. Talking Circles offer an opportunity to meet other delegates face-to-face, and engage in extended discussion about the issues and concerns they feel are of utmost importance to that segment of the Research Network. Participation is open, encouraged, and supported.