Patras

No longer a peninsula, the Peloponnese has been a fully fledged island since the completion of the Corinth Canal, 82 feet wide and 3.7 miles in length, in 1893. Crossed by the Ionian Sea, the northern coast is characterised by beautiful sandy beaches and pine forests (Achaļa region) and pretty little villages that run along the coast to the Gulf of Corinth. It is a perfect destination for quiet holidays on the seaside.

Not far away: fabulous theatre of Epidaurus, Mystra, Olympia, Delphi and Nafplion.

The Corinth Canal has made Peloponnese a large island. The coasts here are still wild, especially in the west. The North of Peloponnese is a good starting point for excursions to the rest of the mainland.

Know routes you are taking well before you leave, exits from the motorways can take you by surprise; they can be easily missed.

Taxis are expensive given the distances that must be travelled in this part of the continent. Think about renting a car.

Try the Greek specialties such as moussaka, fried food, salads and fish. Wine is produced in the Peloponnese, the climate gives good conditions for good grape varieties.

In the towns, many small shops allow you to shop for some souvenirs to bring home.