Travelling from Kos to Patmos: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Exploring the stunning Greek islands is one of the Mediterranean's greatest pleasures, and the journey from Kos to Patmos offers travellers a perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of the Dodecanese. This popular route spans approximately 93 km (57.8 miles) across crystal-clear Aegean waters. Ferry services operate regularly throughout the year, with an average journey time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it an accessible island-hopping adventure. Whether you're a history enthusiast drawn to Patmos's religious significance or a traveller seeking authentic Greek island charm away from the busier tourist hubs, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about navigating between these two captivating destinations.

How to get from Kos to Patmos: Ferries

The ferry route from Kos to Patmos spans 50.2 nautical miles across the Aegean Sea. The journey offers spectacular views of the surrounding islands and the deep blue Mediterranean waters, making it an experience in itself rather than just a means of transportation.

Ferry services on this route operate throughout the year with approximately 11 weekly connections, totalling around 52 sailings per month. This consistent schedule ensures travellers have flexibility when planning their island-hopping adventure. The average crossing takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, though journey times can vary depending on the specific vessel and weather conditions.

For those concerned about pricing, ferry tickets generally start from around £126 for a standard foot passenger fare, though this can fluctuate based on season, booking time, and selected amenities.

Taking the ferry from Kos to Patmos

You can take a ferry from Kos to Patmos. Ferries sail in around 2 hours and 30 minutes with about 1 sailing a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 1 hour and 30 minutes and is provided by Dodekanisos Seaways. Ferry prices are typically around £126 for a standard foot passenger ticket. Departures start as early as 10:10, with the last departure from Kos to Patmos at 21:35.

Dodekanisos Seaways is the primary operator offering the fastest service on this route. Their modern vessels are equipped with comfortable seating areas, cafés serving refreshments and light meals, and outdoor deck space where you can enjoy the magnificent Aegean panoramas. The high-speed services reduce travel time significantly, making even day trips between the islands feasible during peak season.

Onboard amenities typically include air-conditioned lounges, cafeterias serving Greek and international cuisine, and comfortable seating options. Many ferries also offer outdoor deck space where passengers can enjoy the stunning Aegean views and fresh sea air during the journey. Wi-Fi is available on most modern vessels, though signal strength may vary during the crossing.

While summer brings more frequent connections, the year-round service means Patmos remains accessible even outside the peak tourist season. Winter crossings may occasionally face delays or cancellations during particularly adverse weather, so building some flexibility into your travel plans is advisable if visiting during the off-season months.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Kos)

Kos Port is conveniently located near the island's main town, making it easily accessible for travellers. The port facilities are modern and well-organised, with clear signage directing passengers to the appropriate boarding areas for different ferry services.

If you're staying in Kos Town, the port is within walking distance from most accommodations. For those based elsewhere on the island, local buses connect major resorts to the port, with services typically increased during peak sailing times. Taxis are readily available throughout the island and provide a convenient door-to-port service, especially if travelling with luggage. If you're arriving by rental car, short-term parking options are available near the port area.

The terminal offers essential facilities including waiting areas, ticket offices (though we recommend booking in advance), restrooms, and a few cafés where you can grab refreshments before boarding. Currency exchange services and ATMs are also available within the port area or in the immediate vicinity.

Arrival Port (Patmos)

Patmos Port is located in Skala, the island's main harbour town. The port is relatively small and straightforward to navigate, with ferry arrivals typically docking at the main quay. As you disembark, you'll find yourself just a short walk from Skala's amenities and services.

From the port, Skala's centre is approximately a 5-minute walk, where you'll find a range of restaurants, shops, and accommodations. To reach Chora (the island's capital) and the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, you can take a local bus or taxi for the uphill journey of about 4 km. Buses meet most ferry arrivals during summer months, but services are less frequent in the off-season.

Near the port, you'll find several car and scooter rental agencies if you wish to explore the island independently. Taxis are usually waiting for ferry arrivals, though pre-booking is recommended during busy periods. The port area offers basic facilities including cafés, a tourism information point, and shops where you can purchase essentials.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Kos to Patmos is feasible but requires careful planning around the ferry schedule. With the fastest crossing taking just 1 hour and 30 minutes each way via Dodekanisos Seaways, you could potentially enjoy around 6-8 hours on Patmos before returning to Kos.

For an optimal day trip experience, we recommend catching the earliest morning departure from Kos (typically around 10:10) and returning on the latest evening service (around 21:35). This schedule would give you sufficient time to visit Patmos's main attractions, including the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse.

A sample itinerary might look like this: Arrive in Patmos by midday, take a taxi or bus to Chora to visit the monastery and cave (allow 2-3 hours), return to Skala for a late lunch at a waterfront taverna, spend the remaining time exploring Skala's shops and beaches, before heading back to the port for your return journey.

If the ferry schedule doesn't allow for a comfortable day trip during your travel dates, consider staying overnight in Patmos. Even a one-night stay will significantly enhance your experience, allowing you to enjoy the island's peaceful atmosphere after day-trippers depart and witness the magical sunset views from Chora.

Things to Do in Patmos

Patmos offers a compelling mix of spiritual significance, historical sites, and natural beauty that appeals to various types of travellers:

Monastery of Saint John the Theologian

This imposing fortress-like monastery dominates the island's skyline from its perch atop Chora. Founded in 1088, this UNESCO World Heritage site houses priceless religious artifacts, manuscripts, and icons. Open daily except for certain religious holidays, visitors should dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).

Cave of the Apocalypse

Located halfway between Skala and Chora, this sacred cave is where St. John is said to have received his divine revelation. The humble site features the rock where John rested his head and the crevice from which he heard God's voice. Open daily with a small entrance fee, this is a must-visit regardless of religious beliefs.

Chora Village

The island's capital is a labyrinth of whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and elegant mansions. Its car-free centre makes it perfect for wandering, with numerous small churches, traditional bakeries, and craft shops to discover. The village offers spectacular panoramic views of the island and sea.

Beaches of Patmos

Grikos Beach offers a sheltered bay with calm waters ideal for families. Kampos combines golden sand with water sports facilities, while Psili Ammos (accessible only by boat or footpath) rewards adventurous travellers with pristine isolation. Lambi Beach is famous for its unique colourful pebbles that make for stunning photographs.

Patmos Folklore Museum

Housed in a 17th-century mansion in Chora, this museum showcases traditional island life through exhibits of household items, textiles, and nautical equipment. The collection provides fascinating insights into the island's cultural heritage beyond its religious significance.

Weather in Patmos

Patmos enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with distinct seasonal variations that can impact your travel experience. Summers (June to September) bring reliable sunshine with temperatures consistently between 25-30°C, minimal rainfall, and clear blue skies. These conditions make for perfect beach weather and reliable ferry crossings, though July and August can see occasional meltemi winds that bring welcome cooling but can create choppier sea conditions.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) offer milder temperatures around 18-25°C with fewer crowds. These shoulder seasons provide ideal conditions for exploring the island's historical sites and hiking paths without the intense summer heat. Occasional rainfall becomes more likely, particularly in late autumn, but typically consists of short showers rather than prolonged periods.

Winter (December to March) brings cooler temperatures ranging from 10-15°C with increased rainfall and the possibility of stormy conditions. While the island remains inhabited and functioning year-round, some tourist facilities close, and ferry schedules become more limited and subject to weather-related cancellations. However, winter visitors experience a profoundly authentic side of island life and can enjoy the major religious sites without crowds.

Ferry operations are generally reliable throughout the year but are most consistent during summer months. In winter, we recommend building flexibility into your travel plans and checking weather forecasts before travelling. The sea crossing can become rougher during stormy periods, so travellers prone to seasickness might prefer to schedule their journey during calmer seasons.

Cost of Visiting Patmos

Patmos offers options for various budget levels, though prices tend to be moderate by Greek island standards. Accommodation ranges from £50 per night for simple rooms to £200+ for luxury options with sea views. Dining costs average around £15-25 per person for a full meal with wine at a traditional taverna, while quick gyros or souvlaki can be found for £5-7.

A moderate daily budget of approximately £100-150 per person would cover comfortable accommodation, meals at mid-range restaurants, entrance fees to attractions, and some local transportation. Budget travellers could manage on £60-80 daily by choosing simpler accommodations, self-catering some meals, and walking rather than taking taxis.

To save money, consider visiting during shoulder season (May-June or September-October) when prices drop but weather remains pleasant. Many accommodations offer significant discounts for longer stays, particularly outside peak season. Look for the fixed-price lunch menus offered by many restaurants, typically providing excellent value compared to à la carte dining.

Transportation costs include approximately £3-5 for bus journeys between Skala and Chora, while taxis for the same route cost around £10. Entrance to the Monastery of Saint John costs approximately £6, with similar fees for other museums and cultural sites.

Best Time to Visit Patmos

The ideal time to visit Patmos largely depends on your priorities and preferences as a traveller. Peak season (July-August) brings the warmest temperatures, liveliest atmosphere, and most frequent ferry connections. However, this period also sees higher prices, more crowded sites, and the need to book accommodations well in advance. The religious sites can become particularly busy during this time, somewhat diminishing the contemplative atmosphere that makes them special.

Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer what many consider the perfect balance. During these shoulder months, you'll enjoy warm temperatures suitable for swimming and outdoor activities, while encountering fewer crowds and more reasonable prices. The island maintains a lively feel with most facilities open, but the pace is noticeably more relaxed than during peak summer.

For those interested primarily in Patmos's religious and cultural aspects, the off-peak months (April, November) can be particularly rewarding. While sea temperatures may not be ideal for swimming, the major sites can be experienced in a more authentic and peaceful atmosphere. Easter is especially significant on Patmos, with moving religious processions and ceremonies that attract pilgrims from around the world.

Notable events include the Easter celebrations (dates vary annually), the Feast of Saint John on May 8th and September 26th, and the Religious Music Festival in September. These cultural highlights offer unique insights into the island's spiritual traditions and local culture that summer visitors might miss entirely.

Where to Stay in Patmos

Finding the right accommodation in Patmos can enhance your Greek island experience. This holy island offers a range of lodging options to suit different budgets and preferences.

Accommodation for Every Traveller

Solo travellers will find comfortable guesthouses in Skala (the main port) starting from around £40 per night. Couples might prefer the boutique hotels nestled in Chora, the island's picturesque capital, where rooms typically range from £70-150 per night depending on the season. Families can opt for spacious apartments or vacation rentals in Grikos or Kambos beaches, with prices starting at approximately £100 per night.

Budget-conscious visitors should consider staying in Skala, where you'll find affordable options within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the ferry terminal. For a more authentic experience, the traditional settlements of Chora offer charming accommodation with stunning views, though prices tend to be higher.

We recommend booking accommodation well in advance if travelling during the high season (June-September) when availability becomes limited due to Patmos' popularity.

Getting Around Patmos

Patmos is a relatively small island at just 34 square kilometres, making it quite manageable to explore.

Transportation Options

Public buses connect the main settlements of Skala, Chora, and popular beaches. The service is reliable during summer months, with tickets costing approximately £2 per journey. Taxis are readily available in Skala and can be booked to reach more remote parts of the island, with most journeys costing between £8-15.

Renting a car, scooter, or quad bike gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Daily car rental rates start from around £30, while scooters can be hired for about £15-20 per day. Many visitors find that renting a vehicle for at least part of their stay enhances their experience.

Walking is pleasant in the main towns, with the climb from Skala to Chora taking about 30 minutes on foot via a scenic traditional path. The island also has several hiking trails for the more adventurous.

Plan Your Island-Hopping Adventure

Travelling from Kos to Patmos by ferry offers an authentic Greek island experience that combines convenience with stunning Aegean views. The journey covers approximately 93 km (58 miles) across the sparkling Aegean Sea, typically taking around 2 hours 30 minutes.

With Dodekanisos Seaways offering the fastest crossing at just 1 hour 30 minutes for around £126, you can maximise your time exploring these beautiful Dodecanese islands. Ferries operate year-round with approximately 11 weekly connections, giving you flexibility when planning your Greek island adventure.

Whether you're drawn to Kos for its ancient ruins and vibrant nightlife or to Patmos for its spiritual significance and tranquil beaches, this ferry route connects two distinctly different yet equally captivating Greek island experiences.

Ready to embark on your Aegean journey? Book your ferry tickets in advance to secure the best prices and preferred sailing times, especially during the busy summer months when these popular islands welcome visitors from around the world.