Patmos: A Hidden Gem in the Aegean

Patmos, also known as the Jerusalem of the Aegean, offers a unique type of tourism. It is a special island full of "living" monuments that, above all, broaden the spiritual horizons of its visitors. At the same time, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers, and in recent years it has become a cosmopolitan spot, while maintaining its mystical atmosphere.

Ferry connections to Patmos

Patmos is connected by ferry to Piraeus and other ports of the Aegean. Conventional ferries cover the "Piraeus-Patmos" route in about 8 hours.

Discovering Patmos

In 1981, the Greek state declared Patmos a "Holy Island," and in 1999, UNESCO designated 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. The island’s Chora looks like it came straight out of a period movie. It is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval settlements in the Aegean. Old mansions and small houses reflecting the Aegean sun invite you to explore their cobbled streets, discover hidden restaurants, cafés, shops, and, above all, traditional bakeries. Visit the house of Emmanouil Xanthos, a founding member of the Filiki Eteria, and the Nikolaidis Mansion (17th-18th century), which hosts an exhibition of archaeological findings combined with photographic records of the island's history. The most famous landmark of Patmos is the Cave of the Apocalypse, which draws faithful visitors. In front of the cave entrance is the Church of St. Anne, renovated in the 17th century. Climb to the imposing fortress-monastery of St. John the Theologian, founded in 1088 by monk Christodoulos with a donation from Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos. A significant attraction is the monastery’s museum-treasury, the largest museum in the Aegean, which includes a workshop for the conservation and restoration of paintings.

Skala, the port and capital of Patmos, is the island’s largest settlement. The port is located in a narrow natural bay that divides the island almost in two, resembling a neck. You should also visit the small island of Petrokavos, rich in legends and traditions, which looks like a tilted ship followed by two small boats. Hike up to Kastelli, on top of the low hill directly above Skala. The view is stunning, and you can see the remains of the island’s ancient capital.

Beaches in Patmos

There are many beaches in Patmos, and many of them are sandy. The best beaches include Grikos, a calm cove with tamarisk trees along the sandy shore, which resembles a lake, with Tragonisi in front and two small peninsulas on either side. It is located 4.5 km southeast of Chora. Other beautiful beaches ideal for relaxation include Agrio Livadi, Lefkes, and Psili Ammos, while a swim at Lampi Beach, with its colorful pebbles, will enchant you.

Grandeur and tranquility. This is what you feel as you walk through the narrow streets of Chora and the Holy Monasteries. The island’s distinctive geomorphological relief, with its jagged coastline, steep peaks, and volcanic terrain, harmoniously combines with gentle tourism development, making Patmos an ideal destination for lovers of outdoor tourism!

Don't forget to book your ferry tickets to Patmos at booktickets