The adsorption properties of structurally well defined bimetallic Pt/Ru(0001) surfaces, consisting of a Ru(0001) substrate partly or fully covered by monolayer Pt islands or a monolayer Pt film, were studied by temperature programmed desorption (TPD) using CO and deuterium as probe molecules. Additionally, the adsorption of CO was investigated by infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (IRAS). The presence of the pseudomorphic platinum islands or monolayer film leads to considerable modifications of the adsorption properties for both adsorbates, both on the Pt covered and, to a smaller extent, on the bare Ru part of the surfaces. In addition to distinct weakly bound adspecies, which are adsorbed on the monolayer Pt islands, we find unique contributions from island edge desorption, from spill-over processes during the desorption run, and a general down-shift of the peak related to desorption from Pt-free Ru(0001) areas with increasing Pt coverage. These effects, which we consider as characteristic for adsorption on bimetallic surfaces with large contiguous areas of the respective types, are discussed in detail.