Patmos · Getting there
Patmos has no airport, and that is a large part of why it stays so calm. Everyone arrives by sea at Skala, the harbour below Chora. Take the ferry straight from Piraeus, or fly to a neighbouring island and finish the trip by boat, watching the monastery appear on its hill as you come into the bay.
By plane
Fly to one of three nearby islands, then take the boat. Check that the boat times match your flight before you book.
Partheni, north Leros
The closest airport, with small planes from Athens all year. Seats are few, so book early.
Into town: Take a taxi to Agia Marina, about 10 minutes, then the boat to Skala, which takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour in summer.
Antimachia, Kos
Direct flights from much of Europe in summer, and from Athens all year. The easiest choice from abroad.
Into town: Take a bus or taxi to Kos Town, about 30–40 minutes, then a ferry or high-speed boat to Skala, which takes about 2.5–4 hours.
Next to Pythagorion, Samos
Flights from Athens all year and some direct European flights in summer.
Into town: Pythagorion port is 5 minutes away. The high-speed boat to Skala takes about 1–2 hours and runs daily in summer.
By ferry
Ferries from Piraeus, the port of Athens, about 40 minutes from the city centre by metro.
Piraeus (Athens) Skala, Patmos
Patmos is usually the first Dodecanese stop. Most sailings run overnight with cabins, and a few run by day.
Island hopping
Skala Lipsi & Arki
Small boats run to quiet islets, which make an easy day trip.
Skala Leros
Skala Kos & Rhodes
Catamarans and ferries go on via Leros and Kalymnos.
Skala Samos (Pythagorion)
Skala Ikaria & Fourni
On the ferry line to Samos and the North Aegean.
When you land
Book the taxi ahead
Patmos has only a handful of taxis, and they all meet the late ferries. Ask your hotel to send one, or have one booked before you land.
Rent a scooter or small car
Every road is short. A scooter or small car from Skala is enough to reach the beaches, and buses run from Skala to Chora, Grikos and Kampos.
Easter books up a year ahead
Pilgrims fill the island for Orthodox Holy Week, so book beds and boats months ahead if you want to be here then.
Times and frequencies are typical for the summer season and change every year. Check the current timetable before you book.
Rooms with a view, picked for how they feel, not for star ratings.
See where to stay