Aetolia-Acarnania Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do and see, transportation options, and more in Aetolia-Acarnania, Central Greece.


Introduction to Aetolia-Acarnania

Aetolia-Acarnania is a regional unit in Central Greece that offers a combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. Located on the western mainland of Greece, it is home to many charming towns and ancient archaeological sites. Visitors can expect a warm welcome from the hospitable locals while enjoying their stay in the region.

In this guide, we will take you on a journey to discover the best places to visit, things to do, and see when in Aetolia-Acarnania.

List of Places to Visit in Aetolia-Acarnania

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Aetolia-Acarnania has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. The following are some of the culturally significant attractions in the region:

  • Ancient city of Stratos: This ancient city was one of the major cities in the Aetolia region of ancient Greece. Visitors can visit the archaeological site and see the remains of the ancient city’s walls, agora, bouleuterion, and other features.
  • Ancient Theater of Amvrakia: Located in the town of Arta, this ancient theater dates back to the 3rd century BC. It was used for theatrical performances, political assemblies, and other events.
  • Historical and Folklore Museum of Agrinio: This museum houses a collection of objects related to the history and culture of Agrinio and the surrounding regions.
  • Museum of Natural History in Mesolonghi: This museum is home to a collection of specimens related to the flora and fauna of the area, including exhibits of birds, fish, and insects.

Natural Attractions of Aetolia-Acarnania: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Aetolia-Acarnania boasts stunning landscapes that are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Mount Arakynthos: This mountain is the highest peak in Aetolia-Acarnania and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Acheloos River: This river runs through the region and is ideal for rafting and kayaking.
  • Mesolonghi lagoons: The wetlands in Mesolonghi are home to many different species of birds and are a popular destination for birdwatching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aetolia-Acarnania

For outdoor enthusiasts, Aetolia-Acarnania has a network of hiking and biking trails that allow you to explore the region’s natural beauty. Below are some of the top routes:

  • Arakynthos Trail: This 60km trail crosses Mount Arakynthos and offers views of the Gulf of Patras.
  • Acheloos Valley Trail: This 85km trail follows the Acheloos River and passes through picturesque villages and natural landscapes.
  • Evinos River Trail: This 40km trail follows the Evinos River and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Aetolia-Acarnania: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting the historical and cultural attractions, there are lots of things to do and see in Aetolia-Acarnania. Some of the best activities and tours to try include:

  • Boat tour of Mesolonghi lagoons: There are boat tours available to explore the wetlands of Mesolonghi and see the many different species of birds that live there.
  • Olive oil tasting tour: Aetolia-Acarnania is home to many olive groves, and you can take a tour to learn about the olive oil production process and sample some of the best olive oils in the region.
  • Wine tour: The region is also home to several wineries where you can try the local wines and learn about the wine-making process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aetolia-Acarnania

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for visiting Aetolia-Acarnania:

Day 1: Agrinio and Stratos archaeological site Day 2: Ancient Theater of Amvrakia and Arta town Day 3: Mesolonghi lagoons boat tour and visit the Museum of Natural History Day 4: Hiking on Mount Arakynthos and enjoying the view Day 5: Olive oil tasting tour and visit the Aetolian Folklore Museum of Kravara Day 6: Rafting or kayaking on the Acheloos River Day 7: Wine-tasting tour in Lefkada

Food and Drink Scene of Aetolia-Acarnania

Must-Try Dishes

Aetolian cuisine is full of flavor and uses local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Fasolada: A traditional bean soup made with white beans, vegetables, and olive oil.
  • Stifado: A meat stew that is slow-cooked with onion, garlic, and tomato sauce.
  • Bourdeto: A fish stew made with local fish, tomato sauce, and hot pepper.

Local Beverages

In Aetolia-Acarnania, you can try a variety of local beverages, including:

  • Tsipouro: A strong distilled spirit made from grape marc.
  • Wine: The region has many wineries that produce several types of wines, including red, white, and rose.
  • Local beer: You can also find locally brewed beers in some bars and restaurants in the region.

Where to Stay in Aetolia-Acarnania: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Aetolia-Acarnania has a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and tastes. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Marpessa (Mesarista)
  • Hotel Tsamis Seasons (Lefkada)
  • Kravara Guesthouse (Kravara)
  • Hotel Myrtia (Agrinio)
  • Papastavrou Apartments (Astakos)

What to Buy in Aetolia-Acarnania: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some souvenirs and local products to bring back home from Aetolia-Acarnania include:

  • Olive oil: Aetolia-Acarnania is renowned for its excellent olive oil, which makes it the perfect gift to take home.
  • Honey: With the many wildflowers in the region, the honey produced is of exceptional quality.
  • Local handicrafts: You can find items such as woven textiles, pottery, and woodcarvings that are unique to the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Aetolia-Acarnania

The locals in Aetolia-Acarnania are friendly and welcoming. Some customs and practices that you might come across include:

  • The tradition of “tsipouro” drinking: In some villages, the locals have a tradition of drinking tsipouro, a strong distilled spirit usually accompanied by mezedes (tasty snacks).
  • The Carnival of Mesolonghi: This carnival is one of the biggest cultural events in Aetolia-Acarnania.
  • The music: Aetolia-Acarnania has a rich musical heritage, and you might hear some traditional music played on traditional instruments like the baglama and the tzouras.

Best Time to Visit Aetolia-Acarnania

The best time to visit Aetolia-Acarnania is during the spring and autumn seasons, which are from April to June and September to November. During this period, you can enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds. If you enjoy the beach, the summer months of July and August are ideal, but be prepared for hot temperatures and more tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aetolia-Acarnania

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Learn some basic Greek phrases to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter.
  • Don’t take photos of people without their permission.
  • Don’t disrespect religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aetolia-Acarnania

Aetolia-Acarnania is a safe region for travelers, but it’s always wise to take extra precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid carrying too much cash, and be careful with your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Be cautious when driving on narrow, winding roads.
  • Take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and rafting.

Health in Aetolia-Acarnania

Aetolia-Acarnania has a good healthcare system, and most towns have a medical center or hospital. However, it’s recommended to carry a travel insurance plan that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Aetolia-Acarnania: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aetolia-Acarnania

The nearest airport to Aetolia-Acarnania is the Araxos Airport (GPA), which is about 25km away. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach your destination.

Bus Stations Near Aetolia-Acarnania

There are bus stations in Agrinio, Mesolonghi, and Vonitsa that connect to several cities in Greece.

Other Options

You can also reach Aetolia-Acarnania by car from Athens. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic.

How to Get Around Aetolia-Acarnania

The best way to get around Aetolia-Acarnania is by car. You can rent a car from the Araxos Airport or in towns like Agrinio and Mesolonghi.

Where to Go Next from Aetolia-Acarnania: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some destinations to consider for your next adventure after exploring Aetolia-Acarnania are:

  • Lefkada: A picturesque island known for its stunning beaches and watersports.
  • Ioannina: A beautiful city located in the Epirus region of Greece, famous for its castle and historical sites.
  • Meteora: These towering rock formations in the Thessaly region are home to magnificent monasteries built on top of them.

Conclusion

Aetolia-Acarnania is a wonderful destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and outdoor activities. It is a hidden gem in Greece that is waiting for you to explore. We hope this guide has inspired you to visit and discover everything the region has to offer.



    Orini Nafpaktia