Ten of the Best Places to See in Patmos

Ten of the Best Places to See in Patmos

Patmos may not be the average summer destination but can be the perfect choice for Easter in Greece. Perched over the southeastern Aegean Sea, this tiny island has a reputation as one of the most archaic sights of Christianity. It was where John wrote the famous "Revelation," at a time when Patmos was a prison for the exiles. Today, it is a place of unique beauty and cosmopolitan character that attracts more and more people.

Explore the Paths of the Medieval Chora

The island is built on top of the hill to protect against pirate attacks in antiquity. Chora is crowned by the awe inspiring the Byzantine fortress surrounding the Monastery of St. John. The city is an architectural jewel of traditional whitewashed homes and medieval churches and has been designated as a UN World Heritage Site.

Visit the Monastery of St. John in Chora

The 1000-year-old monastery includes a truly majestic Byzantine church and a museum that features ancient texts and treasures. Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowd and enjoy the stunning views of the Monastery. Before leaving, stand for a moment and feel the tranquility of the beautiful courtyard of the temple.

Saint Levias Square

Before the sun set, enjoy a drink, a coffee or the stunning rosé wines of the island in the bustling square of Agia Leviia in Chora. The perfect place to relax! You can sit in one of the cafes and watch the passage of elegant visitors coming to the island for shopping at the exclusive local boutiques. You are not recommended to eat there but you can shop in local souvenir shops and gifts.

Visit the Cave of Apocalypse

Whether you are a faithful Christian or not, the Cave of Apocalypse is an important cultural attraction of Patmos, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are several guided tours inside the church that is built around the southern part of the cave, which explains St. John's story and the revelations he received from God through a slit in the rock.

Take a boat on the beach

Take one of the cruise ships from the port of Skala that offer day trips to the best beaches of Patmos and the nearby islands. A one-day cruise includes visiting the best beaches with the cleanest waters. If you are looking for a more exclusive experience you can rent the entire boat with a master.

Explore the paths of the island

Enjoy hiking, an activity that will help you to improve your energy  and endurance and activate the body and mind in one of the old paths that have been the main transport routes to the island. Today they are unfortunately abandoned, but they are important pieces of history as they offer important information about how people lived, but also amazing views of the island. One of the most popular routes is the old road from Skala to Chora and back. Before you go to the island, look for maps of the hiking routes and other alternative tourist activities that Patmos has to offer.