Car Rental in Patmos
Hiring a car is worth considering on Patmos, which you reach by ferry. You can pick one up in the main town and at the port, and the same core rules apply as everywhere in Greece: a full licence held for a year, a credit card in the driver's name and a minimum age of 21. This guide covers whether you need a car, where to collect it and what driving on Patmos is like.
- Airport
- None (ferry)
- Need a car?
- Optional
- Drive on the
- Right
- Min age
- 21
Do you need a car on Patmos?
A car is optional on Patmos. Patmos keeps its port, hilltop Chora and monastery close together, linked by a frequent bus. Buses and taxis cover the busy spots, so a car or scooter mainly buys you freedom and quieter beaches.
The island itself is worth reading up on before you drive it. Our Patmos guide covers its beaches, villages and where to base yourself.
Where to pick up a car on Patmos
You can collect a car in the main town and at the Skala port, and many agencies also deliver to your hotel. Book ahead for July and August, when fleets sell out and the walk-up desks run short. Patmos has no airport, so most drivers collect the car on arrival by ferry.
Whichever supplier you choose, check the excess and what the insurance covers before you pay, and photograph the car all round at pickup. Our car hire requirements guide sets out the documents, deposit and insurance in full.
Driving on Patmos
Patmos driving is on the right, like the rest of Greece, and the roads are narrow and winding rather than fast. A road climbs from Skala to the Chora and the Monastery of St John, with short runs out to the northern beaches. A smaller car is the easier choice for tight village streets and steep gradients.
For the rules, road signs, tolls, fuel and parking that apply across the country, see our driving in Greece guide.