I will be staying two nights in Dimitsana duing my Greece vacation in a couple of weeks. Travelling from Athens airport and returning to Athens hotel. It had been recommended to travel by bus but that seems difficult to map out. I think I need to travel to Terminal A, bus station and take bus to Tripolis and then find a taxi to Dimitsana. Is this correct and/or is there a better way? I was discouraged from driving as I heard it can be "adventurous" but it almost seems easier at this point. Any advice is much appreciated.

I've driven all over Arkadia in general, and Dimitsena area in specific.

I don't think the roads are anything to be "afraid" of, although I wouldn't like driving at night -- mediocre signage, few lights & reflective markers, and you miss the lovely scenery.

Advantage of a car is that it's easier to tour the Dimitsena region on YOUR schedule and terms, eg various monasteries in Lousios Gorge, ancient Gortyna (sp?), etc, even though a fair amount of walking is still a nicer way to tour.

I'd suggest returning car to Athens airport, NOT hotel, as driving in central Athens is VERY annoying & mildly stressful. Many options for transportation from airport to central Athens.

I'd heartily recommend the car option.

Addendum:
The best map for touring Pelopenessus is published by the Greek company 'Road Editions'.

Their maps are available at most news kiosks & bookstores.

http://www.road.gr/road_en/index

Whoops, I'm too clumsy with the "post reply" button!

The specific map is described here:

http://www.road.gr/road%5Fen/maps/maps.asp?id=25

Like others, I would recommend the car. I found driving to be vastly improved over prior trips, and found the road signs adequate to good, obviously the Greek signs come first, and then, generally, something to help in English.

I drove in Athens as well, and it is a bit of a challenge, but if you take your time, voila, you can do it.