Patmos Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Patmos Island in this comprehensive travel guide including where to stay, what to eat, best time to go, and more.


Introduction to Patmos

Patmos, a small island in Greece, is one of the most serene and peaceful destinations for travelers seeking a break from their tedious routines. The island is famous for its religious significance, history, and stunning landscapes. Patmos is known for being the location where the apostle John wrote the book of Revelation in the New Testament. Patmos is a mooring for many yachts and luxury boats, has a laid-back atmosphere, and stunning pebbled and sandy beaches.

List of Places to Visit in Patmos

Patmos has a wide array of places to visit that cater to varying interests. Here are our top recommendations.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Cave of the Apocalypse: A sacred site that is believed to be the spot where St. John received the revelation of the end of the world. Currently, the cave is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant part of Christian history.
  • The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian: The monastery is built on a hill overlooking the Chora of Patmos is another UNESCO World Heritage site. The monastery was erected in honor of St. John, and it houses a museum with an extensive collection of ancient manuscripts, Byzantine mosaics, and frescoes. Visitors can see the imposing gate of the institution and its stunning architecture.
  • The Holy Seven Churches: There are seven notable churches scattered across the island that hold historic importance in the Christian faith and are worth a visit.

Natural Attractions of Patmos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Beaches: Patmos has stunning beaches, including Psili Ammos beach, which is considered one of the best beaches in the Aegean. Here you can enjoy the sun, clear waters, and view magnificent sunsets.
  • Scuba Diving: The island has excellent diving spots where you can explore fascinating aquatic creatures and submerged shipwrecks in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean.
  • Walking and Hiking Trails: The island offers a range of walking and hiking trails, passing through olive groves and hills, and provide stunning views of the island’s rugged landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Patmos

If you want to explore the island on foot or by bike, here are some routes to check out:

  • Hiking Route 1: Skala - Stavros - Kambos - Petra - Grikos (11.6km)
  • Hiking Route 2: Grikos - Diakofti - Meloitsas Beach - Kampos Valley - Kambos (10km)
  • Biking Route 1: Skala - KEDI - Agios Theologos - Campos - Petra - Skala (12km)
  • Biking Route 2: Skala – Grikos - Psili Ammos - Kiriakou - Meloi - Skala (16km)

Best Things to Do in Patmos: Activities and Tours

Some of the must-do activities to enjoy in Patmos include:

  • Sunsets in Agia Paraskevi: Watching the sunsets reflect over the sea in Agia Paraskevi with a romantic picnic is an unforgettable experience.
  • Visit the Local Farmers’ Market in Skala: This market opens every Thursday morning, and you can purchase souvenirs, fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices.
  • Enjoy a Greek Feast: Enjoy the local authentic cuisines in one of the many restaurants. Most of them offer dishes with freshly caught seafood, organic vegetables, and locally raised livestock.
  • Take a Boat Tour around the Island:  Go on a tour where you will be able to take in the stunning sights of the Aegean sea. Along the tour, you will stop at various sights and beaches.

Week-Long Itinerary for Patmos

If you are planning to stay for a week, here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Chora and Have a Meal at a Seaside Restaurant
Day 2 Visit the Monastery of Saint John and Museum
Day 3 Go shopping at the local Farmers’ Market
Day 4 Take a boat tour and enjoy the sea view
Day 5 A day at the Beach
Day 6 Visit The Cave of Apocalypse, and then enjoy Kristina Beach
Day 7 Participate in a scuba-diving activity, and then end the day watching the sunset in Agia Paraskevi

Food and Drink Scene of Patmos

Must-Try Dishes

  • Astakos me Makaronia: Astakos me Makaronia or Lobster pasta is a must-try dish served in most restaurants. It is a seafood pasta garnished with fresh parsley and garlic.
  • Patmian Saganaki: Patmian Saganaki is fried cheese that has a hard outer layer and a melting inside. It’s served as an appetizer and is best paired with lemon juice.
  • Ouzo: Ouzo is a licorice-flavored, hydrating alcoholic drink that is a staple of Greece’s food culture and is served with ice or water.

Local Beverages

  • Nes poulou: Nes poulou is a refreshing iced tea made from Greek mountain tea, lemon, honey, and ginger. It has several medicinal properties, and locals drink it to cool down on hot days.
  • Retsina: Retsina is a traditional Greek wine that has a piney flavor. It is unique to Greece, and the Greeks usually drink it alongside typical Greek dishes.

Where to Stay in Patmos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Patmos Aktis Suites and Spa: This luxurious hotel has sea-view suites, lavish amenities, and a world-class spa.
  • Skala Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Skala, has an excellent view of the sea, a restaurant serving Greek dishes, and a swimming pool.
  • Guesthouse Alexandra’s Rooms: A budget-friendly option located in Skala with an excellent view of the sea.

What to Buy in Patmos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local Honey: Patmos is famous for its local honey. You can purchase it from farmers’ markets or beekeeping farms around the island. The honey is rich, flavorful, and comes in different types, depending upon the plants the bees pollinated.
  • Handmade Ceramics and Pottery: Patmos has many artisans who create hand-made ceramic and pottery, which makes for beautiful souvenirs to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Patmos

Patmos is a traditional Greek island with a unique religious identity. When visiting monasteries or holy churches, you must dress modestly by wearing clothing that covers the legs and shoulders. Most of the restaurants on the island serve freshly caught seafood, locally sourced vegetables, and fruits. Tipping in Greece is not mandatory, but it is appreciated.

Best Time to Visit Patmos

The best time to visit Patmos is in the off-season, from mid-April to May and September to mid-October. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. The peak season is mid-June to September when the island attracts many tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Patmos

Do:

  • Respect Religious Monuments and Monasteries: Patmos has many historic religious monuments that hold religious value to its citizens. Show respect and wear appropriate clothing in these sacred spaces.
  • Try the Traditional Foods: Greek food is delicious and fresh, so be sure to try the local cuisine.
  • Bring Comfortable Shoes: Patmos has a lot of walking and hiking trails. Bring comfortable shoes that can manage rough terrains.
  • Learn a bit of Greek: Knowing a bit of the local language will help you communicate with locals and will make your stay more enjoyable.

Don’t:

  • Assume that Greeks speak English: Patmos is not as touristy as some other islands. People may not speak English, so learning a few phrases will be a helpful gesture.
  • Wear Revealing Clothes: It is disrespectful to wear revealing clothes when in holy monuments or churches. Dress modestly.
  • Waste Water: Greece is a country that faces water scarcity, so it is essential to conserve it wherever possible.

Safety and Health

Safety in Patmos

Patmos is usually a safe place to visit, but like any other place, visitors need to take precautions to keep themselves and their belongings safe. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and jewelry with you and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Health in Patmos

Patmos has a small hospital and medical centers. Visitors who need medical attention should go there. It is essential to have proper travel insurance for any unforeseen medical emergencies.

Getting to Patmos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Patmos

The closest airport to Patmos is on the neighboring island of Leros. After arriving in Leros, a ferry will be required to go to Patmos.

Bus Stations Near Patmos

There are regular bus services from the capital of Athens to Patmos.

Other Options

There are several ferry options from Piraeus, Rhodes, and Samos that will take you to the island.

How to Get Around in Patmos

The best way to explore Patmos is on foot or by bicycle. For longer distances, you can use the buses that run along the main roads of the island. Car and motorbike rentals are also available on the island.

Where to Go Next from Patmos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for a neighboring destination to visit after Patmos, here are some options:

  • Aegina Island: Aegina Island is just off the coast of Athens and is known for its beaches, pistachios, and historic sites.
  • Chios Island: Chios Island is known for its mastic trees, stunning beaches, and historic villages.
  • Samos Island: Samos Island is known for its natural beauty, vineyards, and cultural sites.

Conclusion

Patmos Island is a jewel in the crown of Greece. It is perfect for visitors who want to experience historical places, stunning landscapes, delicious food, and a tranquil environment. The above travel guide will help you plan your itinerary accordingly and make the most of your visit to Patmos Island.

Patmos Monastery Patmos Monastery Skala Skala