Are you planning a trip to the Greek islands in the Aegean soon? Then here are the best places to stay on Patmos!
Located in the Aegean Sea, Patmos is part of the Dodecanese archipelago, of which it is the northernmost island. Considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the beautiful Greek island is home to three important religious sites: the Monastery of St. John the Theologian, the Grotto of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of the Annunciation. As a result, the island is more geared towards cultural and religious tourism – due to the presence of its illustrious monasteries – than leisure. Rest assured, however, Patmos, like all Greek islands, boasts marvellous natural scenery and a number of charming beaches where you can relax after a day’s sightseeing or enjoy a magnificent sunset. On Patmos, time slows down and travelers can enjoy typical Greek hospitality, delicious meals and a unique gentle way of life, far from the hustle and bustle of other more touristy and crowded islands! And above all, the island boasts some of the most picturesque architectural treasures in the world. So where to stay on Patmos during your trip?
To make the most of your stay on this island of magnificent cultural heritage, it’s important to choose the right accommodation on Patmos. To help you prepare for your Greek adventure, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay on Patmos!
The port of Skala
Photo credit: Flickr – Andrea Moroni
Skala is the island’s main port, and a charming place to stay on Patmos! While Skala is the preferred port of call for cruise liners, which only stop here for a few hours while tourists make their way to the Monastery of St. John the Theologian, life in the little town is not so much affected by the tourist hustle and bustle.
A certain calm still reigns in the ancient alleyways, even in the height of summer. Travelers will still be able to enjoy the charms of the little port and savor a succulent dinner in the evening, when the big ships have sailed away and only the locals remain in Skala! All the more so as Skala is a town of incredible charm: Patmos was once an important trading power whose refined culture and taste for architecture can still be seen in Skala’s houses, which date back to the 16th and 19th centuries! You’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Patmos in this wonderful little port.
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Chora, or the village of Patmos
Photo credit: Instagram – dimitris_pliagkos
The village of Patmos, also known as Chora, is located on the heights overlooking the port of Skala and Grikos. The village is home to the Monastery of St. John the Theologian, the Monastery of the Annunciation and other charming Byzantine churches.
In summer, the village is overrun by the tourists who arrive by cruise ship from the port of Skala. However, travellers who choose to stay in Patmos rather than just passing through can enjoy the hidden face of Chora in the evening, when the sun has not yet set and the hordes of tourists have left the area: A picturesque village, a sea colored by the last glints of sunlight below, sublime villas dating back to a golden age, thousand-year-old churches… A dream setting that can only be revealed to travelers who have chosen accommodation in Patmos in its ancient village!
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Grikos
Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons – Raki_Man
At the foot of Chora, Grikos is a charming little port and a perfect place to stay in Patmos! Thanks to its location, the town is less busy and noisy than its neighbors Skala or Chora. You’ll also find plenty of hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses to suit all budgets in Grikos. So there’s no shortage of options for your accommodation in Patmos. In Grikos, you’ll discover typical little restaurants, where you can enjoy a seafood lunch or a coffee on the terrace! The coastal road from Skala to Grikos is a magnificent sight. It’s easily accessible on foot, by bike or by bus.
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Find an Airbnb in Grikos
Kampos
Photo credit: Instagram – antonis_skempes
Located in the north of the island, Kampos is an excellent place to stay on Patmos! Like Grikos, it’s not overrun by tourists visiting the monastery. You’ll enjoy the peace and quiet here. There’s also no shortage of picturesque restaurants, old houses and alleys, hotels and charming beaches!