Patmos is globally known for its religious heritage, as it is where the Evangelist John wrote the Book of Revelation. However, it is also an ideal destination for nature lovers, and in recent years it has evolved into a cosmopolitan place, while still maintaining its mystical atmosphere, attracting travelers in search of spiritual exploration.
Its unique geomorphology, with its jagged coastline, steep peaks, and volcanic terrain, harmonizes with its mild tourism development, making Patmos an ideal destination for lovers of rural tourism as well. Equally remarkable are the labyrinthine alleyways, paved squares, traditional mansions, crystal-clear beaches, and excellent cuisine, all of which make the “Island of the Apocalypse” a top tourist destination.
The Greek state declared Patmos a ‘Holy Island’ in 1981, and in 1999 UNESCO listed the town of Chora, the Monastery of St. John the Theologian, and the Cave of the Apocalypse as World Heritage Sites. Additionally, Patmos is part of the COESIMA network as one of the seven most important pilgrimage sites in Europe.
Chora is a peaceful area, ideal for lovers of tranquility, to relax, discharge and recharge your “batteries”!
Beaches.
Heading anticlockwise beyond Hora, our first stop is Agrio Livadi (or Agriolivado as it’s known locally), an organised and sandy beach, with tavernas, beach bars, water sports and a youthful vibe.
Kambos has a mixture of sand and shingle and is popular with locals and families for its tavernas and water sports, while Vagia is a little bay with tamarisk trees for shade and Livadi Geranou’s pebbles and crystal-clear waters attract beach-goers who prefer free space to sunbeds.
To the northeast is Lambi (colourful pebbles and a taverna on the beach) and, on the opposite coast, Livadi Kalogiron is as peaceful as the monks from which it takes its name. A hidden gem in the south is Psili Ammos (Fine Sand), accessible by boat from Skala or a 30min hike from the road.
Chora
The town of Chora in Patmos, built around the Holy Monastery of St. John the Theologian, is one of the most beautiful medieval settlements in the Aegean. Its white houses and imposing mansions stand proudly under the sun. Wander through the labyrinthine alleyways, discover traditional bakeries, and taste local delicacies.
Observe the houses, built closely together with high windows, forming narrow, winding stone-paved streets, filled with churches from the 15th to 17th century.
Ask to be shown the sights of Patmos—the mansions of Chora—and be transported to another era: the mansions of Vardikos, Palaiologos, Valvis, and Fountis (Leontes) will captivate you. At the Nikolaidis mansion, which has been transformed into an exceptional museum, you can see a typical Patmian house and admire archaeological findings
The Cave of the Apocalypse
This sacred, candlelit grotto is believed to be the spot where St John the Divine received his visions from Christ and transcribed the Book of Revelation, the last chapter of the Christian Bible. Exiled on Patmos in 95 AD, he preached to and baptised the island’s inhabitants. Eventually, Patmos came to be considered sacred and the cave became the focal point of a significant religious pilgrimage.
Visit the monastery of St. John the Theologian
High on the hill above Hora, the Monastery of St John the Theologian is an important centre of worship. This monastery, with its significant religious history and imposing architecture, rises grandly over the Aegean and dominates life on Patmos. The monastic community here has existed for over 900 years and the relics, rare documents, icons and other Orthodox treasures in the monastery are invaluable.
It was established in 1088 by the Byzantine monk St Christodoulos the Blessed. Each Easter, on the night of the Resurrection, the Holy Light makes its way from Jerusalem to Patmos. Likewise, on Holy Thursday, the church service of Niptiros (which occurs only in Patmos and in Jerusalem) is an event that never fails to inspire.
Climb the massive stone in Kalikatsou
This huge rock juts out of the water and looks like a sculpture in the sea. It is a significant archaeological site. Researchers believe it was once a temple of Aphrodite and continued to be a place of worship well into the Christian era. Climb up and see the carving in the rock, water reservoirs for sacred rituals and small caves where offerings were made. The view from the top is breathtaking, as the Aegean Sea unfolds at your feet.
Hidden gems of Patmos
Kathismata
These small monastic units in caves were created by monks. Beside their hermitages, they also built small temples.
Prophiti Elias
Experience the view from the highest point of the island. All around you are caves and large rocks scattered everywhere, as if they were tossed from above. And in the distance is the reassuring presence of the big blue Aegean Sea.
Aporthianos road, a thrilling hike
A walk on Aporthiano road is worth your while. This old trail unites Hora with the port, Skala
Transportation.
For your transportation you can use the island’s buses, taxis as well as rent bicycles, motorbikes and cars. If you wish you can also rent boats to explore the island by sea.
If you will be travelling by bus find the timetables here – http://patmosbus.gr/
Accomodation.
The island in general has several accommodations. It is advisable to book well in advance so as not to be surprised. Book now!
Access to Patmos.
By Air: Patmos does not have an airport, so by air you can fly to Samos, Kos or Leros (nearby islands), then take a local ferry or private boat to Patmos. Find flight tickets here!
By ferry from Piraeus: One or more ferries usually depart daily from Piraeus (Athens) from gate E1 (where all ferries to the Dodecanese depart). Find ferry tickets here.
By Catamaran or Flying Dolphins from other islands: There are also local ferries, catamarans and flying dolphins that connect Patmos with the neighboring ports of Leipsoi, Arkioi, Leros, Kalymnos, Kos, Rhodes and Samos.
Arrival options from Kos to Patmos
Regarding transportation from Kos to Patmos, the fastest way is through the local high-speed catamaran ferries of Dodekanisos Seaways. You can find the itineraries here and also book your ticket. In addition, the highly reliable and big boats of Blue Star Ferries are also an option, however, they are not high speed and therefore the duration of the sea passage is much longer.
