Sublime Things to Do in Patmos, Greece, for a Relaxing Vacation!

Fantastic Things to Do in Patmos, Greece

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The Dodecanese is a magical place where nothing ever seems to go wrong. When I considered visiting Patmos, I was tempted by an off-the-beaten-path experience. Patmos is a sublime destination with a quiet atmosphere, able to offer experiences made of culture, adventure, and beauty. I’ve adored Patmos, and you will, too. Here are the best things to do in Patmos, Greece, in a thorough travel guide.


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What to Do in Patmos, Greece

Fantastic Things to Do in Patmos, Greece

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General Information about Patmos Island, Greece

Patmos, Chora.
Patmos, Chora.

The Greek island of Patmos (Πάτμος) is small in the north of the Dodecanese. It covers an area of about 34 square kilometers and is surrounded by several islands and uninhabited islets.

The island’s main settlements are Chora (the religious center and principal capital) and Skala (the commercial harbor).

The island is 158 nautical miles from the port of Piraeus in Athens, and it will take you a good seven-hour sail to arrive from Greece’s capital.

Blue sea, green hills, small white church - Patmos island
Isle of Agios Giorgos, Patmos Island.

As mentioned in the Apocalypse or Book of Revelation, Patmos is a sacred place of Christian pilgrimage.

The Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian are popular among tourists. UNESCO declared both of them and the Chora a World Heritage Site.

Where to Stay on Patmos Island

These are some of the best places you can stay on the island, in no particular order…

Anamar Patmos

things to do in patmos

This hotel has an ever-returning audience of travelers and great reviews.

It’s in a central location, just 5 minutes from Skala, offering excellent access to every place on the island.

You can enjoy the scenic views of the nearby Ikaria and incredible sunsets from the rooms. Kids will love the pool and the assorted library with stories in all languages.
>>Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Porto Scoutari Romantic Hotel

things to do in patmos

Described as the most romantic venue on Patmos, Porto Scoutari Romantic Hotel & Suites is surrounded by beautiful gardens and stunning sea views.

Known as a celebrated premier hotel, it offers a small, intimate Spa with a free Jacuzzi and a gym.

Porto Scoutari overlooks the bay of Meloi, and it’s just a km from Skala. This hotel has the perfect atmosphere for a romantic holiday in Patmos.
>>Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Patmos Aktis

things to do in patmos

This stunning hotel is a luxurious spot with excellent views of Grikos Bay.

Expect comfortable, spacious rooms filled with dazzling natural light and paired with white curtains, cushions, and bed linen.

A fantastic shared swimming pool, private pools in the most exclusive suites, and phenomenal views. About 5 km from Skala, the hotel is on an idyllic pebble beach.
>>Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

The Most Beautiful Things to Do in Patmos

In no particular order, these are the things I suggest you do when visiting Patmos Island… take a look!

Visit the Villages

things to do in patmos
Chora, Patmos

There are several tiny, beautiful settlements where you can spend the day wandering the alleys and admiring the remarkable views of the island hidden behind every corner. Patmos has traditional little villages worth exploring.

Some are bigger and popular among tourists in Summer, while others are off the beaten track and virtually empty. So, when in Patmos, don’t miss checking these.

Skala

Skala, Patmos island.
Skala, Patmos island.

Upon arrival, the first village you will see is Skala, the port and most vibrant settlement on the island.

A white double-domed church and some Venetian buildings make an elegant first impression.

A few steps further, Skala comes alive with a pleasant square encircled by souvenir shops, restaurants, and bars. Skala is not the island’s capital but the largest town.

Everything takes place in Skala, on the longish promenade facing the marina that extends to the city beach and a small port for fishing boats and luxury yachts.

All excursion boats to nearby islands and secluded beaches leave from Skala.

Check Out Patmos’ Chora

things to do in patmos
The houses in the Chora of Patmos.

Chora, the capital of Patmos, stands in an elevated position overlooking the harbor. A white settlement that falls over the slopes of the hill, crowned by the severe Monastery of Saint John.

White, elegant mansions, fortified buildings, and Medieval architecture make it the focal point of interest for visitors to Patmos.

Chora, about 4 kilometers from Skala, can be reached by taxis or buses departing from the port.

Apart from the refined shops and venues, there is a fantastic world of tiny alleys, covered passages, and impressive houses.

Kampos

Patmos sunset
Sunset in Kampos.

Kampos is a village third in importance and population. Upper Kampos is mainly residential, with a few restaurants and a nice square.

Tourists choose Kampos mostly to take advantage of Kampos Beach, the biggest on Patmos, which is also ideal for kids and watersports lovers.

Due to its position, this side of the island is a privileged place for beautiful sunsets. A famous spot to enjoy the views is Merika, immediately after the road leading to Kampos. Benches on top of the hill allow you to take in all the magic of the golden hour.

Grikos

Grikos, Patmos island.
Grikos, Patmos island.

Grikos is a laid-back village with both luxury and convenient accommodations. The bay overlooks the impressive Petra Kalikatsou, a peculiar rock formation that seems to emerge from the sea, apparently a place chosen by hermits, who left carved traces on it.

This area hosts an important biotope on Patmos, home to several bird species and natural beauty.

Discover the Traditional Mansions

Simandiri mansion, Patmos island.
Simandiri mansion, Patmos island.

The island’s capital, Chora, has impressive homes and mansions you can visit. One of them is Simandiri Mansion, where, past the modest entrance door, astonishment follows.

The building dates from 1625 and was constructed by craftsmen from Asia Minor. It features many art objects, antique furniture, silverware from Russia, and icons from the 15th to 17th centuries.

An example of traditional architecture with vaulted ceilings and refined arches.

Check the Spectacular Windmills of Patmos

Windmills, Patmos island.
Windmills, Patmos Island.

Still, up close to Chora, three windmills give a distinct shape to the landscape of Patmos. Two of the mills date back to 1588, and they all underwent restoration in 2010 thanks to the generous contribution of private sponsors and benefactors.

The windmills, property of the Monastery, are in the nearby area, in a quarter named Mili (after the mills, naturally). The entrance is free.

things to do in patmos
Patmos, the windmills.

Inside, you can see the unique woodwork of the mill’s mechanism. All three mills are restored externally, using original materials, and visiting the interior of the only operational mill is possible.

Visit the Churches and Monasteries

Roof of Saint John Monastery, Patmos island.
The roof of Saint John’s monastery.

Religious Tourism in Patmos

Patmos is a distinctive center for religious tourism. It is a destination targeted by thousands of Christians who visit the island to visit many of its churches and hermitages, but above all, to see the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian.

Another crucial religious place to visit is the Holy Cave of the Apocalypse, located quite close to the monastery and considered one of the most sacred places in the Christian world.

Once inside the narrow cave, check the magnificent rock with a triple crack on the solid rock, thought to be made by God when he spoke to Saint John Apostle.

Are you planning to visit Patmos and want to learn more about its churches and monasteries?
>>Check this guide about Patmos religious tourism<<

Spend Some Great Moments at the Beach

things to do in patmos
Psili Ammos, Patmos.

Many visitors agree that Patmos has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Indeed, seaside landscapes are marvelous: crystal water, a clean environment, and colorful pebbles.

Those who hate sand getting in the middle of everywhere will be happy to read the news that many of Patmos’ beaches have small, smooth pebbles.

If you’re looking for sandy beaches, head to Psili Ammos instead. You must hike for a while or choose to get there by boat.

No matter which type of beach is your kind, these are some of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

Lambi Beach

Lambi beach, Patmos island.
Lambi beach, Patmos island.

This rather long beach, famous for its rare pebbles, can be a good option if you have your car as it is located nearly 15 km from Chora.

Its name, shining, apparently refers to the reflections the sun produces against the stones covering the beach.

Agriolivadi

Patmos island.
Agriolivadi beach, Patmos.

Not far from Skala, the beach is sand mixed with pebbles. There is a bar and a tavern. The waters are shallow enough for kids, and a long row of trees offers shade if you prefer to avoid umbrellas.

It can get quite crowded during the season.

Meloi

Meloi beach, Patmos island.
Meloi beach, Patmos island.

Probably the most comfortable beach in terms of location, Meloi is one of the few sandy shores we visited.

With a restaurant and a supermarket nearby, spending the day is okay. It’s close to Skala, and shallow waters make it great for families.

Livadi Geranou

Livadi Geranou, Patmos.
Livadi Geranou, Patmos.

The views of this distant beach are worth the visit. The small islet in front of it, Agios Giorgos, offers a beautiful panorama with its tiny, white chapel.

They say orchids blossom during spring, probably adding an extravagant touch of beauty.

Vagia

things to do in patmos
Vagia beach.

We liked the relaxed atmosphere of Vagia, with clear wats and lush vegetation surrounding the area. They say the cafeteria nearby serves the best chocolate cakes in Patmos (our kids agree!).

I settled for their delicious apricot cake.

Grikos Bay

Grikos. Patmos island
Grikos.

Defined by enthusiasts as one of the most beautiful bays in the world, the pebble beach of Grikos offers a relaxed atmosphere to swim in or enjoy the views of little boats docking on the shore.

Ducks, fish, and other exciting fauna will make the joys for adults and kids.

Psili Ammos

Psili Ammos beach, Patmos island
Psili Ammos beach, Patmos island.

In our description of the beaches of Patmos, we left the most beautiful place. Rightfully considered one of the most pretty beaches of the Aegean, its name is a promise: “fine sand.”

A unique character and complete isolation (not in August, to be honest), but often exposed to northwest winds, making it difficult to reach by boat under certain conditions.

For those who don’t mind walking to reach this idyllic spot, two paths take you there.

A bit longish and more demanding one, starting from Diakofti and ending in the southern extreme of Psili Ammos, the other begins at Stavros Bay and takes you to the northern part of the beach. You will need plenty of water and closed (or very comfy) walking shoes in both cases.

Explore Patmos’ Walking Trails

Paths of Patmos island.
Paths of Patmos island.

Eco-tourism has taken a new twist in Patmos with the so-called Paths of Culture.

This marked network of ancient footpaths will guide visitors around many of the cultural sites of the island, passing through beautiful landscapes.

Some of the trails connect Skala to Chora and Skala to Kastelli. If you are interested in walking the island, visit this site for a list of trails and detailed information.

Taste the Local Gastronomy

The traditional cheese pie of Patmos can be made using at least three types of cheese and eggs.
The traditional cheese pie of Patmos can be made using at least three types of cheese and eggs.

Patmos’ local gastronomy, primarily inspired by Greek traditions, also receives the influence of years of Ottoman domination.

If you love pastries, sweets, and savory pitas, you must try the pies of Patmos. And there is no better place than Christodoulos, in the heart of Skala.

Christodoulos produces a variety of typical sweets: cakes, pastries, and ice creams, but he is famous for local sweets and his special cheese pies, also loved by visitors.

With fluffy cheese pies and sweets filled with almonds and honey, Christodoulos is the flag-bearer of the delicious local gastronomy.

Map: wine roads of Patmos island
Wine roads of Patmos island.

Traditional Dishes you Should Try on Patmos island

Some of the delicacies on Patmos include shinopsomo, a traditional kind of bread made with a local seed, sugar, and cinnamon. Xerotigana is a deep-fried pastry with an abundant use of honey and cinnamon.

Local cheese varieties include kalathoro, made of goat milk, and touloumotiri, matured in goatskin, similar to the famous Greek feta cheese.

Regarding wines, Patmos has its wine roads with the neighboring islands of Leros and Lipsi.

Muscat of Alexandria is a traditional white variety growing on Patmos, reviving its traditional wine culture through a new plan designed to restore vineyards in the region of Petra. If you are after local labels, try a glass from Domaine Patoinos.

Where to Eat in Patmos

Chocolate cake, Vagia beach.
Chocolate cake, Vagia beach.

You can taste delicious local dishes on the island in these places.

Plefsis

things to do in patmos
Lunch by the sea.

Plefsis is a traditional Greek taverna by the sea in the magnificent setting of Grikos Beach.

However, expect much more than the traditional dishes of the country.

things to do in patmos
Grilled cheese with marmalade.

The restaurant offers a menu based on the staple ingredients of Greece but cooked and served with more than just a twist. Try their fava, their salads, and their grilled cheese.

Ostria

Fresh fish dishes right in front of the port. This traditional Greek restaurant plays it more on substance than form and emerges as a winner. Prices are very affordable, and the staff is kind and attentive.

Ktima Petra

A pleasant atmosphere, delicious dishes, and all the choices available for those tiny, picky palates.

For adults,  creative dishes made of fresh vegetables (do try their aubergines and their dolmades), abundant salads, and excellent meat, too.

As a dessert, creamy Greek yogurt is topped with homemade spoon sweets.

Tarsanas

This restaurant makes quite an impression close to Stavros Bay due to the location. But once you go past the appearance, it’s time for food.

And it’s excellent local food with quite regular prices. It’s a restaurant many of our Italian friends know and prefer. Convenient as far as prices are concerned too.

Nautilus

Patmos Travel Experience: Patmos Ultimate Travel Guide

One could think the Nautilus takes all the merit due to the impressive landscape of the location.

One could also say that the classy ambiance, the candles, and the colors make this venue unforgettable.

From start to end, not a single dish disappointed me. Suggestion: Try their meat. For kids? Also hamburgers!

Great Things to Do in Patmos with Children

things to do in patmos

We arrived on the island after a long trip from Chania to Piraeus, an even longer day in Athens, and a final sailing night to Patmos.

Greeted at the port by heat and humidity at three in the morning was not the best of welcomes. We needed a cold shower, a regular bed, and rest.

The next day was a promise of activities, tastes, and experiences.

As a mom, my piece of advice would be to take it easy. There is a lot to do in Patmos, and trying to see it all in a couple of days can be overwhelming.

Cultural activities, religious sites, great beaches, and superb food to taste.

Lots, indeed. So, if you are short of time, work on your priorities. Eventually, plan a second visit; I am sure you will find all the reasons to return.

Restaurants that Kids Love in Patmos

If you wish for a unique experience made of culture, adventure and beauty, I know you will adore Patmos. Here's everything you must know to start the Patmos Travel Experience: Patmos Ultimate Travel Guide.

For a relaxed night where kids can enjoy beloved gyros, souvlaki, and less complex food, try Pita Konne in the main square of Skala. Their terrace is comfortable with a touch of ethnic fashion. Prices are affordable, and the meat is excellent.
Try their fresh salads!

A traditional place everybody suggested we visit is Pantelis. Also, in the heart of Skala, this taverna serves what I define as comfort Greek food: abundant dishes, no-frills, and pure taste. Also here the prices are very convenient.

How to Get to Patmos

Patmos island

There’s no airport in Patmos, so if you fly from Athens, count on landing on the neighboring islands of Leros, Kos, or Rhodes.

Boats depart from Piraeus (leaving Gate E1), and Rhodes is bound to Patmos daily. In summer, there is also a frequent service connecting Patmos to Kos. We traveled with Blue Star Ferries.

To move around the island, rely on taxis, buses, or the comforts of car rental services. Many people choose motorbikes and quads, too.

Thanks to the Municipality of Patmos, the  Patmos Tourism Committee, and local venues and residents for the help and hospitality offered during our trip.  

Read more about Patmos

🛌 Suggested Accommodation in Patmos

Pin This Great Guide to All There’s to Know About Patmos Island for Your Next Trip!

Fantastic Things to Do in Patmos, Greece

About me:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.

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26 thoughts on “Sublime Things to Do in Patmos, Greece, for a Relaxing Vacation!

  1. Christopher James Mitchell says:

    Funny enough, I was thinking about visiting Patmos sooner rather than later. I couldn’t actually decide what was correct about the place or overblown, but this is some great info for me to roll with! Cheers!

    • Gabi A. says:

      I had the same doubts you had about my visit, initially, but I discovered a magnetic place, it became one of my favorite islands in Greece, even to my own surprise!

  2. My Travelogue by Bhushavali says:

    I’m yet to enter the phase of life of traveling with kids! This is a good blog to get some good ideas! Thanks!!!
    Greece on the whole is much in my wishlist, esp Athens! I haven’t heard much of Patmos, but it looks beautiful too.
    Not a big fan of Skala, but Chora is just gorgeous! I’ll definitely have a look at the religious centres!

    • Gabi A. says:

      Enjoy solo travel as long as you can My blog is not just for families, but families can adapt to our travel ideas… the same with solo travelers 😉 Chora is beautiful, indeed. And for me, the same thing applies. In fact, Patmos made me curious because it is not really one of the most popular islands, but to be honest, we discovered a gem!

  3. Tamz says:

    This is such a lovely place. Haven’t heard of Patmos before but it was such an interesting read just because this island feels one of its kind. Seems very different from the usual beach paradise, isn’t it?

    • Gabi A. says:

      Exactly, it is a different kind of Paradise, and that makes it a very special place. It was a pleasant surprise for us too.

  4. Colby says:

    Greece has been one of the places I’ve been dying to go to. Of course Mykonos and Santorini gets all the praise, but I love seeing off the beaten path places. I’ve never heard of Patmos, but will absolutely keep it in mind when I find my way to Greece. It looks like an incredible gem.

    • Gabi A. says:

      Mykonos and Santorini get all the praises, along with Athens and Crete, but trust me, there are some amazing hidden gems that nobody gets to see and that might be even worthier! Patmos is one of them…

  5. AllGudThings says:

    Greece has so many hidden gems. I have already fallen for Patmos seeing its pictures. Apart from religious importance, its beautiful and I feel it is a perfect place for a vacation. Adding it to my bucket list.

    • Gabi A. says:

      Trust me, the beauty of the island goes further beyond its religious importance. I’m not a religious person, at all! But enjoyed it so much all the same.

  6. Elena says:

    Greece is a never-ending source of wonderful places to explore. You can’t get enough of it’s impressive landscapes, it’s history and of course… it’s food!

  7. Ariane says:

    I love spending holidays in Greece. The beauty of their white little houses and their coastlines combined with absolutely amazing and tasty food… exactly how you described it in your post 🙂

    • Gabi A. says:

      You are right, heading for Greece is a promise of inspiring landscapes, whitewashed houses by the sea, and incredibly tasty food!

  8. iamsuanlee says:

    Pourto Scoutari looks like an awesome place to have a romantic getaway and Psili Ammos is also very stunning (how blue is that sky and water?!)

  9. Tom @ Adventurous Travels says:

    So beautiful – I love the Balkan coast, villages and architecture. Not to mention Greek food. WHat a peaceful peace of paradise. Just amazing, wish I was there…

    • Gabi A. says:

      I agree, this area of the Mediterranean is so full of beautiful places to see. Indeed a piece of Heaven!

  10. siddharthandshruti says:

    Had never heard of Patmos! We love that Greece has so many places that are lesser known and hidden away. No airport! Love the architecture of Patmos. We would absolutely stay in Porto Scoutari.

    • Gabi A. says:

      it is indeed a hidden gem, with lovely people, great food and amazing places to discover. Porto Scoutari is a wonderful structure, ideal for a romantic getaway!

  11. 100cobbledroads says:

    Visited Greece so many years back and I’m pining for it, seeing such lovely pictures all over the internet. Patmos is just the place to live the illusion of perfect Mediterranean life, isn’t it?

    • Gabi A. says:

      Yes, it is an island that really surprised me for the calmness, the beauty and the hospitality of the locals. I loved every place I visited. I surely recommend it for a holiday. It is indeed the perfect Mediterranean!

  12. Chrisoula Skaroulis says:

    This little island is the love of my life. Started going in 1956. I love the people the smell of octopus, even the aroma of herbs growing on the mountain side. Hopefully God will heal me enough to go back.

    I miss my home there also.

    • Gabi A. says:

      Thanks for sharing your thoughts with me, I really wish you all the health and strength to go back there soon. It’s true that when we are in a place that makes us feel happy, everything seems to fall into place. I wish you the very best! Thanks!

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