Patmos is one of Greece's most captivating islands.

It's home to centuries-old monasteries, hidden beaches, whitewashed villages, and a pace of life that feels increasingly rare in the Aegean. Yet despite its appeal, Patmos remains one of the most difficult Greek islands to reach.

Unlike many popular destinations, Patmos has no airport. Getting there has traditionally meant spending hours on ferries, making multiple connections, or even staying overnight while waiting for the next departure.

Today, there's a faster way.

With hoper's shared helicopter flights from Mykonos to Patmos, travelers can reach the island in just 36 minutes. Shared helicopter flights from Athens to Patmos are also available, offering a convenient alternative to lengthy ferry journeys from the mainland.

How Do You Get to Patmos?

One of the most common questions travelers ask is: how do you get to Patmos?

Since the island does not have an airport, most visitors arrive by ferry. Depending on where you're travelling from, reaching Patmos can require multiple ferry connections and travel times that easily exceed 7 hours.

For travelers looking to maximize their time in Greece, helicopter flights to Patmos offer a faster and more comfortable alternative.

hoper operates both shared and private helicopter flights to Patmos, connecting the island directly with Athens and Mykonos.

Why Patmos Is Difficult to Reach

Part of Patmos' charm comes from its relative isolation.

Unlike neighbouring islands that receive thousands of visitors through major airports every day, Patmos has remained largely protected from mass tourism. The result is an island that feels authentic, peaceful, and distinctly different from many of Greece's busiest destinations.

The challenge, however, has always been access.

Even from Mykonos, there are no direct ferry connections. Reaching Patmos can involve a full day of travel, with ferry changes, waiting times, and limited schedules often dictating the itinerary.

That's exactly why helicopter flights have become an increasingly popular option for travelers visiting the island.

Fly from Mykonos to Patmos in Just 36 Minutes

Few routes in Greece showcase such a dramatic contrast between destinations.

Mykonos is vibrant, energetic, and constantly moving. Beach clubs fill throughout the day, restaurants buzz late into the evening, and the island's famous nightlife attracts visitors from around the world.

Then, just 36 minutes after boarding a helicopter flight from Mykonos to Patmos, everything changes.

The pace slows.

The crowds disappear.

The atmosphere becomes unmistakably calm.

Flying above the Aegean, passengers enjoy panoramic views of islands, coastlines, and crystal-clear waters before arriving on one of Greece's most serene islands.

What would normally be a full day of travel becomes part of the experience itself.

Discovering Patmos

Overlooking the island from above, the imposing Monastery of Saint John immediately dominates the landscape.

Built in the 11th century, it remains one of Greece's most important religious landmarks and continues to define the skyline of Patmos today.

Below the monastery lies Chora, a maze of whitewashed houses, narrow alleyways, and shaded courtyards where mornings begin slowly and afternoons seem to stretch endlessly.

The island's beaches offer the same sense of tranquility.

Psili Ammos

Often considered the most beautiful beach on Patmos, Psili Ammos rewards visitors willing to make the journey. Reached via a hiking trail, its golden sand and crystal-clear waters feel wonderfully untouched.

Petra Beach

Named after the distinctive rock formation rising from the sea, Petra combines dramatic scenery with a peaceful atmosphere that perfectly reflects the island's character.

Grikos Bay

With calm waters and a naturally sheltered setting, Grikos is one of the most picturesque bays in the Dodecanese and a favourite among visitors seeking complete relaxation.

Athens to Patmos by Helicopter

While the Mykonos–Patmos route creates one of the most exciting island-hopping experiences in Greece, many travelers begin their journey in Athens.

hoper also operates shared helicopter flights from Athens to Patmos, allowing visitors to avoid long ferry journeys from the mainland and arrive on the island significantly faster.

For travelers with limited vacation time, flying directly from Athens to Patmos can transform what was once a full-day journey into a seamless travel experience.

Shared and Private Helicopter Flights to Patmos

Whether you're planning a multi-island itinerary or travelling directly to Patmos, several flight options are available.

Shared Helicopter Flights

Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups.

• Mykonos to Patmos in 36 minutes
• Athens to Patmos in 86 minutes.
• Scheduled flights operated in a Robinson R66 helicopter
• From €291 per seat

Private Helicopter Flights

For maximum flexibility and comfort.

• Choose your preferred departure time
• Select the aircraft that best suits your group. Twin engine aircrafts like Airbus H135 and Airbus 355 are also available, powered by hoper.
• Fly directly between destinations on your schedule
• From €2,155 per flight

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting to Patmos

Can you fly to Patmos?

Patmos does not have an airport, but travelers can reach the island through shared and private helicopter flights operated by hoper.

What is the fastest way to get to Patmos?

The fastest way to get to Patmos is by helicopter. The Mykonos to Patmos helicopter flight takes approximately 36 minutes.

How do I get from Athens to Patmos?

Travelers can reach Patmos from Athens by ferry or by booking a shared helicopter flight, significantly reducing travel time.

Is there a helicopter from Mykonos to Patmos?

Yes. hoper operates shared and private helicopter flights from Mykonos to Patmos throughout the season.

Are private helicopter flights to Patmos available?

Yes. Private helicopter flights can be booked directly through hoper, offering flexibility in departure times and aircraft selection.

Patmos may be one of Greece's most difficult islands to reach by conventional means, but it has never been easier to visit.

Whether you're flying from Athens or island hopping from Mykonos, helicopter flights to Patmos open the door to one of the Aegean's most remarkable destinations — in a fraction of the time.