Patmos Island Attractions, Travel & Hotel Guide

Located in the north of the Aegean Sea, Patmos Island is fascinating with its historical depth and natural beauties.  Also known as the “Island of Apocalypse”, Patmos has a great importance for the history of Christianity and is one of the important stops of religious pilgrimages. However, the island attracts visitors not only for its religious heritage, but also for its mesmerizing landscapes, tranquil atmosphere and cultural richness. Patmos is one of the most peaceful and serene corners of Greece. Walking through the narrow streets of the island, getting lost among the whitewashed houses, exploring the historical buildings and feeling the warm hospitality of the locals is quite enjoyable. Its historical and religious significance is blended with the beauty of nature. It is also known as the place where St. John wrote the Book of Revelation of the New Testament.  Iconic buildings such as St. John's Cave and St. John's Monastery offer visitors a deep insight into the island's spiritual and historical past. It's the perfect getaway for those looking to rejuvenate both spiritually and physically. Exploring Patmos means both a journey into the past and finding serenity in the lap of nature. The island is the pearl of the Aegean Sea with its peaceful atmosphere, historical richness and natural beauties.

Things You Didn't Know About Patmos Island?

-Although Patmos is a small island, it has a rich diversity of plants and animals. There are endemic plant species and rare bird species on the island. It is especially attractive for bird watchers.

-Every year on September 26th, there is a big religious festival commemorating the arrival of St. John on Patmos. This is an important cultural event on the island and is celebrated enthusiastically by the locals.

Some parts of Patmos are off-limits to cars. The Chora area in particular has been set aside as a car-free zone to protect the narrow streets and historical buildings.

-Honey produced in Patmos and locally made desserts are one of the unique flavors of the island. Honey baklava and desserts made with honey syrup are very popular.

-The island produces wines made from local grapes and liqueurs flavored with various herbs. Especially taste the local wines.

Events and Dates in Patmos Island Patmos Island Festivals

St. John's Festival

This religious festival celebrating the arrival of St. John to Patmos is one of the most important events of the island. An important religious and cultural event celebrated every year on September 26th on the Greek island of Patmos. The festival commemorates the arrival of St. John (St. John the Theologian) to the island and his writing of the Book of Revelation. Patmos has a great importance in the history of Christianity as the place where St. John was exiled and received revelation in the Cave of Apocalypse.

Patmos International Film Festival

A prestigious event held every year in July on the Greek island of Patmos. This festival brings together filmmakers, moviegoers and critics, focusing on various film genres such as independent cinema, documentaries and short films.

Easter Celebrations

One of the most important religious holidays celebrated with great enthusiasm on Patmos Island. Easter, one of the most sacred periods of the Greek Orthodox Church, is full of various religious and cultural events organized to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus. Since Patmos has an important place in the history of Christianity, Easter celebrations are quite spectacular here.

Public Holidays in Patmos Island

Holidays such as National Independence Day, Easter, Christmas and Good Friday are recognized as public holidays on the island.

The Best Time to Go to Enjoy Patmos Island?

-Spring is the perfect time to visit Patmos Island. During this season, the island welcomes its visitors with its lush green nature adorned with flowers and mild weather. The temperatures in April and May are quite pleasant and allow you to explore without being overwhelmed. In spring, it is very pleasant to take walks in the magnificent nature of the island and participate in cycling tours. Patmos also hosts special religious ceremonies, especially during Easter. By visiting the island during this period, you can participate in traditional Greek Easter celebrations and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the island more deeply.

-The summer months are a period of high season on Patmos Island. During these months when temperatures rise, the island is a period when tourists are more intense. During the summer months, which is the ideal time to enjoy the sea and sunbathe, the beaches of the island can be quite crowded. Summer nights are lively with local music and dance shows, open-air cinemas and various entertainment.

-Autumn is the ideal time to visit Patmos. After the summer crowds have retreated, the island takes on a calmer and more peaceful atmosphere. The air temperatures are still pleasant and the sea water temperature is suitable for swimming.

Autumn is another ideal time to visit Patmos. After the summer crowds have retreated, the island takes on a calmer and more peaceful atmosphere. The air temperatures are still pleasant and the sea water temperature is favourable for swimming.

Don't Return Without Doing These On Patmos Island!

-See the Cave of Apocalypse, this cave, which is considered to be the place where the last book of the Bible, Revelation (Apocalypse), was written, is an important pilgrimage centre for Christianity.

-Get Lost in the Narrow Streets of Chora, the capital of Patmos, this historic town is famous for its narrow streets, whitewashed houses and flowery courtyards. It offers both historical and natural beauties together with its view on the hills and cosy cafes.

- Stroll around Skala Harbour, take a walk around the harbour, enjoy fresh seafood in the restaurants and do some shopping.

-Swim at Petra Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches of Patmos. It is famous for its clean sea and interesting rock formations.

Places to visit in Patmos Island

✏️ The Monastery of St John is one of the most important and iconic buildings of Patmos. Built in 1088, this monastery is an excellent example of Byzantine architecture. The monastery is dedicated to St John, the author of the Book of Revelation, and is located on the highest point of the island. Inside the monastery, there is a rich collection of icons, manuscripts and religious artefacts. The monastery also offers a magnificent panoramic view of the island.

✏️UNESCO The Cave of St John, a World Heritage Site, is of great importance for Christians. The cave is also known as the place where St John wrote the Book of Revelation. There is an altar in the cave, which is accepted as the place where John received the revelations. The cave fascinates visitors with its mystical atmosphere and religious importance.

✏️Chora, the capital of Patmos, is a typical Aegean town with narrow streets, whitewashed houses and historical buildings. In the hills of Chora, in the shadow of the Monastery of St John, it is possible to stroll, breathe in the historical atmosphere and enjoy the local life. While walking through the narrow streets of Chora, it is quite pleasant to explore the local handicraft shops and cafes.

✏️Skala is the main harbour of Patmos and one of the most lively areas of the island. Skala, with its restaurants, cafes and shops, is ideal for both shopping and enjoying local delicacies. It is possible to explore the surroundings of the island with boat trips from Skala.

✏️Grikos is one of the most beautiful bays of Patmos and offers you peaceful moments with its calm atmosphere. Here, you can take a walk by the sea, enjoy swimming in the clear waters and enjoy the nature. Grikos Bay is a perfect getaway especially for nature lovers.

The Most Beautiful Beaches on Patmos Island

✏️Patmos Lambi Beach, located in the north of the island, is one of the most remarkable natural beauties of the island. The clear waters of the beach are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Lambi Beach offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Lambi Beach is also a great place to watch the sunset. The riot of colours in the sea as the sun sets over the horizon allows you to experience romantic and peaceful moments. Don't forget to add Lambi Beach to your list with its colourful pebbles, clear waters and calm atmosphere.

✏️Altın Psili Ammos Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Patmos, famous for its sand and clear waters. The beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It mesmerises visitors with its unique natural beauty, golden sands and clear waters, and offers a quieter and calmer environment as it is far away from other beaches.

✏️Petra Beach is one of the other popular beaches of the island. It is famous for its rocky structure and crystal clear waters. Petra Beach is a great place for snorkelling and exploring the underwater world.

🍴Patmos Island Food and Drink Recommendations

1- Benetos is a stylish restaurant located by the sea. The menu serves fresh seafood and modern interpretations of Mediterranean cuisine. You should especially try the fresh fish, octopus carpaccio and appetisers with olive oil.

2- Tzivaeri, a traditional Greek tavern, offers authentic Greek flavours. You can have a cosy dining experience in a family atmosphere. We recommend mousakka, saganaki, and homemade wine.

3-Kambos is located by the sea and you can have a great meal accompanied by a magnificent sunset view. You will be satisfied with both the view and the food. You should definitely taste stuffed squash blossoms, seafood pasta and homemade desserts.

4-Ktima Petra, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, you can try local wines with gourmet Greek cuisine flavours in an elegant environment.

5- Vaggelis is an ideal place for breakfast and light lunches in a café overlooking the sea. You should try Greek coffee, baklava and spanakopita while you are here.

6- If you want to enjoy live music in the evenings, you should definitely go to Astivi. It is a bar serving different kinds of cocktails.

7- Hera's Garden is another place that offers a variety of drinks and light snacks in a romantic garden setting. You should experience homemade liqueurs, sangria and fresh fruit platters.

Where are the entertainment venues on Patmos Island, what are the recommendations?

-Piano Bar 1900, frequented by locals and tourists alike, this bar is one of the most popular nightspots on the island. It has an intimate and stylish atmosphere, the interior design and lighting are very inviting.

-Hamos combines the traditional Greek tavern and bar concept. An ideal venue for after dinner entertainment. You can have a pleasant time with Greek music accompanied by local appetisers and drinks.

-Remezzo Cafe Bar, located by the sea, is an ideal place with its sea view and relaxing atmosphere. You can enjoy cocktails and light snacks.

-Cave of Revelation is a venue designed in accordance with the historical texture of Patmos. You can watch local and international music performances.

Where are the entertainment venues on Patmos Island, what are the recommendations?

-Piano Bar 1900, frequented by locals and tourists alike, this bar is one of the most popular nightspots on the island. It has an intimate and stylish atmosphere, the interior design and lighting are very inviting.

-Hamos combines the traditional Greek tavern and bar concept. An ideal venue for after dinner entertainment. You can have a pleasant time with Greek music accompanied by local appetisers and drinks.

-Remezzo Cafe Bar, located by the sea, is an ideal place with its sea view and relaxing atmosphere. You can enjoy cocktails and light snacks.

-Cave of Revelation is a venue designed in accordance with the historical texture of Patmos. You can watch local and international music performances.

Suggestions for Shopping in Patmos Island

There are many boutiques and shops in the souvenir bazaar of Skala in Patmos. There are many options such as Greek-themed souvenirs, magnets, ceramics and handmade soaps.

Where is Patmos Island and How to get there from Turkey?


Patmos Island is an island in Greece, located in the Aegean Sea. Access to Patmos Island from Turkey is usually provided by ferries and sea buses. Here is some general information about transport from Turkey to Patmos Island:

1. Bodrum - Patmos Ferry Services

Bodrum is one of the closest ports to Patmos Island from Turkey. You can reach Patmos Island with ferry services organised from Bodrum Port. Ferry services are usually more frequent in the summer months.

2. Kusadasi - Patmos Ferry Services

Kusadasi is another harbour city on the Aegean coast of Turkey. You can also cross to Patmos Island with ferry services from Kuşadası.

3. Didim - Patmos Ferry Services

Didim is another potential transport hub on Turkey's Aegean coast. Ferry services to Patmos Island can also be organised from Didim Port.

4. Marmaris - Patmos Ferry Services

Marmaris is a holiday resort in Muğla province. It is possible to reach Patmos Island with ferry services organised from Marmaris Port.

5. Izmir - Patmos Ferry Flights

Izmir is a big city in Turkey and has various transport options. You can reach Patmos Island by sea buses or ferries from Izmir.

Notes

Ferry services are usually concentrated during the summer months and it is recommended to book depending on your itinerary.

Transport options may change depending on the date of travel, route and season. It is therefore important to check up-to-date information before travelling.

When travelling to Greece, you should consider visa and other entry requirements.

Since transportation options to Patmos Island may change from time to time, it is important to check the route and reservation status before making your travel plan.

Visit the link for Patmos Island Accommodation and Small and Boutique Hotels Recommendations!