Patmos is unlike any other Greek island. It carries a spiritual weight — a sense of history and sanctity — that you feel from the moment you arrive. This is where St John the Apostle was exiled by the Romans in 95 AD, and where, in a cave on the hillside, he is said to have received the visions that became the Book of Revelation. The island has been a place of pilgrimage ever since.

The Island

Patmos is small — just 34 square kilometres — and sits at the northern end of the Dodecanese, close to the Turkish coast. It divides naturally into three areas: Skala, the port town and commercial centre; Chora, the medieval hilltop capital crowned by the great monastery; and the scattered bays and beaches that make up the rest of the island.

Despite its religious significance, Patmos is not solemn. It is beautiful, relaxed and increasingly sought after by discerning travellers who want history, culture and excellent beaches in equal measure.

Sights and Attractions

The Monastery of St John the Theologian dominates Chora from its hilltop position — a fortress-like complex of extraordinary beauty, with frescoes, manuscripts and treasures accumulated over a thousand years. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Below it, the Cave of the Apocalypse marks the spot where St John received his visions. Chora itself is one of the finest medieval villages in Greece — a labyrinth of whitewashed lanes, arched passageways and aristocratic mansions.

Beaches

Patmos has excellent beaches for an island of its size. Psili Ammos in the south is the most beautiful — a fine sand cove accessible only by boat or a 20-minute walk. Agriolivado, Lambi (famous for its coloured pebbles) and Kambos are all worth visiting. Grikos Bay is the most developed, with sunbeds and tavernas.

Eating, Drinking and Shopping

Skala has a good range of tavernas and cafés along the waterfront. Benetos restaurant, set in a garden above Sapsila Bay, is one of the finest in the Dodecanese. Chora has smaller, more intimate options. The island is known for its local honey, thyme-scented and exceptional.

Weather

Hot and dry in summer, with the meltemi wind providing relief in July and August. Peak temperatures reach 32°C. Spring and autumn are ideal for walking and sightseeing. The sea is swimmable from May through October.

How to Get There

Patmos is served by ferry from Piraeus (Athens) — around 8 hours on the overnight service. There are also connections from Rhodes, Kos and other Dodecanese islands. The nearest airport is on Kos (1.5 hours by ferry).

Best For

Patmos suits history and culture lovers, couples seeking something more meaningful than a beach holiday, pilgrims and spiritual travellers, and anyone who wants to combine genuine antiquity with excellent swimming and food. It is one of the few Greek islands that rewards a longer stay — three or four nights minimum to do it justice.

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Thinking about Patmos? Talk to us — we can build a Dodecanese itinerary combining Patmos with Leipsoi, Leros and Symi.