Excursion Greek life on patmos tour at Patmos

Indulge your senses with the beauty, history and flavours of Patmos during this memorable, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Grotto of St. John and Chora

Depart the pier for the brief, scenic drive to the Grotto of St. John. This small cave, now converted into a beautiful chapel, is where the Saint lived, had his revelation and wrote the world-renowned Book of the Apocalypse. During your visit, see the stone orifice St. John is said to have used as a pillow. From here, proceed to the village of Chora, which features simple houses and Byzantine churches.

Monastery of St. John the Theologian

Upon arrival, begin the climb on-foot to the Monastery of St. John the Theologian. In the courtyard, see the intricate pebbled floor, decorated arches and the old well in its centre that is fed by the reservoir running beneath it. Through the supporting arches, splendid decorative frescoes can be seen adorning the entrance to the Chapel of Christodoulos, which houses sacred relics. The Old Treasury is now a museum displaying jewelled artefacts and manuscripts dating from 1073.

Simandiris House & Taverna Visit

A stop is then made at the 300-year-old home of the Simandiris family to see one of the finest antique collections dating from the Russian Empire up to the Turkish occupation. Your tour concludes with a brief stroll through the old winding streets of Chora, and a visit to a traditional taverna for meze, wine and refreshments accompanied by Greek music and dancing. Following your visit, commence the brief return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Patmos, Grotto of St. John, Chora, Monastery of St. John the Theologian, Chapel of Christodoulos, Old Treasury, Simandiris House, Antiques, Taverna

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, with a strenuous uphill climb to reach the monastery, and steps to negotiate at the cave and monastery. This tour is not recommended for guests with claustrophobia, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Please watch your step inside the cave. Please note that sometimes a mass is taking place in the Grotto in which case a guide will give commentary before you walk through the cave. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses from the ship. A strict dress code is observed at the monastery; ladies must wear skirts and cover their shoulders, and shorts are not permitted inside. The tour sequence may vary.