Guided Tour Patmos, Grotto of Apocalypses & Saint John Monastery

The guided tour of Patmos offers visitors an immersive experience at two of the island’s most significant religious sites. Explore the revered Grotto of Apocalypse, where the apostle John received divine visions, and marvel at the captivating architecture and sacred relics of the centuries-old St. John Monastery. Accompanied by expert insights, this tour promises an enriching journey for history and spirituality enthusiasts. With convenient transportation, discover why Patmos has long been a pilgrimage destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

Key Points

• Guided tour of Patmos explores renowned religious sites, including the Grotto of Apocalypse and St. John Monastery.
• The Grotto of Apocalypse is the site where the apostle John received divine visions, featuring a crevice and pillar associated with him.
• St. John Monastery is a centuries-old Greek Orthodox monastery showcasing grand architecture, intricate frescoes, and sacred relics.
• The tour includes complimentary pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and a licensed tour guide to provide insights.
• The tour is priced from $326.26 per person, excluding entry fees, and operates daily from 8 AM to 7 PM.

Tour Overview

The Guided Tour of Patmos offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s renowned religious sites, including the Grotto of Apocalypse and the St. John Monastery.

This day tour follows a pre-arranged itinerary, providing a comprehensive experience. The tour is rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.

Priced from $326.26 per person, the tour includes complimentary hotel or cruise ship pickup and drop-off, private transportation with an English-speaking driver, and a licensed tour guide.

However, entry fees aren’t included. The tour operates daily from 8 AM to 7 PM, but accessibility is limited for those with mobility constraints.

Exploring the Grotto of Apocalypse

A highlight of the Guided Tour of Patmos is the visit to the Grotto of Apocalypse, where tradition holds that the apostle John received his divine visions that were recorded in the Book of Revelation. Pilgrims descend into the sacred cave to witness the crevice where John’s voice was said to have echoed and the pillar where he rested his head. The tranquil atmosphere and reverent setting evoke a sense of spiritual connection. Visitors can explore the grotto’s alcoves and chapels, each with its own unique significance.

Grotto Features	Significance
Crevice	Where John heard the voice of God
Pillar	Where John rested his head
Alcoves & Chapels	Spaces for prayer and contemplation

Visiting the St. John Monastery

After exploring the Grotto of Apocalypse, the guided tour moves on to the prominent St. John Monastery.

This centuries-old Greek Orthodox monastery is a key highlight of the Patmos experience. Visitors can marvel at the grand architecture, intricate frescoes, and sacred relics housed within the monastery walls.

The tour guide provides insights into the monastery’s history and significance, allowing guests to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s religious and cultural heritage.

With its serene atmosphere and impressive spiritual legacy, the St. John Monastery leaves a lasting impression on those who visit.

Transportation and Pickup Logistics

As part of the guided tour experience, complimentary pickup and drop-off services are provided from guests’ hotels or cruise ships. A private car with an English-speaking driver transports visitors throughout the tour.

Transportation	Accessibility
Private car	Not wheelchair accessible
English-speaking driver	Stroller accessible
	Infant seats available

The tour is designed to be convenient and accessible, ensuring a seamless journey for guests to explore the historic sites of Patmos.

Tour Guide and Language Support

An experienced, licensed tour guide accompanies visitors throughout the guided tour of Patmos.

The guide provides valuable insights into the historical and cultural significance of the island’s key landmarks, including the Grotto of Apocalypse and the St. John Monastery.

Travelers can expect the guide to communicate in English, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

The guide’s expertise allows them to tailor the tour pace and content to the group’s interests, enhancing the overall experience.

With the knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Patmos.

Inclusions, Exclusions, and Pricing

The guided tour of Patmos includes several key inclusions, while certain expenses are left for travelers to cover.

Complimentary pickup and drop-off from hotels or cruise ships, as well as private transportation with an English-speaking driver, are provided. A licensed tour guide accompanies the group throughout the experience. Plus, bottled water is offered to each participant.

However, entry or admission fees for the Grotto of Apocalypse and St. John Monastery aren’t included in the tour price, which starts from $326.26 per person, varying by group size.

Gratuities for the guide and driver are also optional.

Tour Schedule and Accessibility

The guided tour of Patmos operates Monday through Sunday, from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with this schedule in effect until March 8, 2026. Guests will meet at the cruise ship according to their arrival details. The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, and infant seats are available.

Accessibility	Meeting Point	Schedule
Not wheelchair accessible	Pickup from cruise ship	8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Stroller accessible	According to arrival details	Monday – Sunday
Infant seats available		Until 3/8/2026

Cancellation and Booking Policies

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time). This provides flexibility for travelers’ plans.

The tour also offers reservation options to reserve now and pay later, which can be convenient. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, but it’s important to confirm the tour time with the local provider in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

The cancellation and booking policies aim to provide a hassle-free booking process and accommodate any last-minute changes in the travelers’ schedules.

FAQ

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows guests to bring their own food and drinks, though bottled water is provided. Guests should check with the local provider for any restrictions or recommendations regarding outside items.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?

You don’t need any special equipment for this tour. The tour provider will supply bottled water, and the destinations are accessible without specialized gear. However, comfortable walking shoes are recommended to navigate the sites comfortably.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not wheelchair accessible. Strollers and infant seats are available, making it suitable for families. Participants should be able to navigate some walking and stairs at the sites.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

The tour allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary based on the traveler’s interests. Visitors can discuss their preferences with the tour provider and work with them to tailor the experience to best suit their needs.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for This Tour?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any pre-packaged discounts, but they may be willing to customize the experience to fit the customer’s interests and budget. Travelers can inquire about potential group discounts or flexibility in pricing when booking the tour.

Sum Up

The Guided Tour of Patmos offers an immersive exploration of the island’s spiritual heritage. Visitors can discover the tranquil Grotto of Apocalypse and marvel at the historic St. John Monastery, all while benefiting from convenient transportation and expert guidance. This captivating tour promises an enriching experience for history and spirituality enthusiasts seeking to uncover the island’s profound religious significance.