Activities

Patmos, being one of the most renowned tourist destinations, is perfectly equipped to cater to its numerous visitors’ needs. Beaches of spectacular beauty extend across the whole island. Whether small, family-friendly or large, fully organized, remote or frequented, sand or pebble beaches, they match all visitors’ tastes and expectations.

Restaurants full of character and scenic tavernas can be found on almost every beach and town square on the island, serving homemade meals and offering quality services. Organized markets with shops offering a large variety of quality products (clothing, art, food, and services) can be found in the traditional settlement of Chora and at Skala port.

Cultural or historical sights are located in the traditional settlement of Chora, as well as at the three historical monasteries, covering a broad spectrum of the island’s history and its unique religious heritage. Important ecclesiastic heirlooms, and byzantine and archaic art pieces of unique value can be found on exhibit.

For those who wish to partake in religious traditions, a large number of liturgies and ceremonies are held throughout the year at numerous churches, the climax being orthodox Easter, which is celebrated in grandiosity at Patmos’ monasteries.

Modern cultural activities promote the arts and showcase the island’s tradition. Numerous visual art exhibits are held in private showrooms and in separate spaces of the cultural centre. Concerts and theatre performances take place in the summer months in intriguing outdoor spaces that come as a surprise to audiences. Several impromptu traditional fairs take place in tiny remote churches, where everyone is welcomed to participate and enjoy the local hospitality.

Significant cultural events, whose reach extends beyond a national scope, are held with professionalism and diligence, thus raising the island’s profile within the arts industry.

The International Film Festival of Patmos, which is held every year in late July, and the Festival of Sacred Music of Patmos, held in late August, are two such events that draw international interest and coverage, and attract visitors and artists from all over the world.