Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option
Description
Join this tour departing daily from Kalambaka's train station to discover Meteora. Explore majestic monasteries, learn the region's history, enjoy panoramic views and taste an authentic Greek lunch.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Embark on an extraordinary Meteora mid-day tour departing daily from Kalambaka's Train Station at 12:30. If you have your own vehicle you will find a convenient free parking lot there. Alternatively, if you wish to travel from Athens we can also provide roundtrip bus transportation by selecting the specific option on checkout (the direct train route is currently unavailable due to maintenance work). Your journey starts by meeting our guide (holding a signboard with your name) and boarding our private, air-conditioned bus. First stop will be at a traditional local restaurant in the charming town of Kalambaka (exclusive to this tour), where you'll enjoy a delightful, traditional Greek lunch (if tour option is selected). Your meal includes a fresh salad, a choice of main dishes (with multiple options to cater to your preferences), freshly baked bread, and refreshing water. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.
Then, prepare for an unforgettable adventure through this natural wonder called Meteora. During this guided tour, you'll be able to see all the majestic monasteries of Meteora and even step inside three of them to explore their captivating interiors. Also, discover the hidden treasures of Meteora, including the ancient hermit caves, the Chapel of Doupiani, and the magnificent St. George Mandilas cave. Immerse yourself in the rich history and intriguing myths of Meteora, as you hear detailed explanations and fascinating stories directly from our English-speaking local guide. If English isn’t your primary language, don’t worry! We also offer free audio guides in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese and Korean. And of course, don't forget to capture breathtaking moments with your camera for lasting memories. The tour concludes at approximately 18:00.
The Varlaam Monastery or Monastery of All the Saints is located on an imposing rock exactly opposite of the Great Meteoron and it is the second largest monastery.
The Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas is literally suspended in air on a small rock and is the first monastery that we meet on our way from Kastraki village to the stone forest of Holy Meteora.
The Monastery of Great Meteoron or Transfiguration of Christ, expresses the greatness and history of the Holy Meteora, as it is the oldest and most important monastery.
The Roussanou Monastery, also known as Arsani, stands on top of an impressive vertical and steep cliff of Meteora, between the Monasteries of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas and Varlaam.
The Monastery of the Holy Trinity is the third oldest monastery in Meteora and is the most difficult to reach, since the visitor has to cross a downhill path and then ascend 145 steps carved into the rock. It is said that at the time when the monks used a rope ladder and a net, they spent 70 years to carry the materials and build the monastery!
The Monastery of Saint Stephen’s is located just above the city of Kalampaka and is the most accessible monastery in Meteora, as there are no steps to reach the entrance and the access is easy through a small stone bridge.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This Meteora tour was initially tailored for travelers arriving via the convenient train route from Athens. However, at present, the direct train service to Meteora stands temporarily suspended for essential maintenance work. To accommodate those wishing to join us from Athens, we have introduced a convenient roundtrip bus transportation option. When booking your journey, simply select this alternative to embark on a seamless adventure to the captivating Meteora region.
- The monasteries of Meteora impose a dress code in order to enter inside. Men must wear long trousers and women must wear long skirts (below the knee) and cover their shoulders. Skirts are also available for purchase/rent at the entrance of the monasteries. A long scarf wrapped around the waist is also sufficient to enter the monasteries
- The monasteries of Meteora only accept cash for the entrance fees (€5 per person/monastery) which are not included in the price of this tour
- If you wish to use our free audio guides in Spanish, French or Italian, please be sure to bring your smartphone and earphones with you.
Reviews(80)
The sights and the Monasteries were WELL worth the long drive to Meteora. The reason I am going for three stars is that the process of finding the bus and getting to Meteora was confusing and nobody really explained what was going on or how the day would flow or when we would arrive or anything like that. When we arrived, our actual tour guide was nice and he gave us the information we needed. However, throughout the day he gave no chance to ask questions about the sights and he was not very engaging with the group at all.
This is a must see! The guide Nick was very knowledgeable and approachable. The stairs and path for St.Nicholas were very steep and uneven. You need to follow a dress code and if not they provide skirts and pants to borrow, etc. The bus got a bit warm but had comfortable seats and plugs for chargers. Bathroom break was half way there and back so every 2 hours. there were opportunities to get drink and food during these quick breaks. Once we arrived we had some time in the town to shop or eat. I was along day but an amazing and beautiful place to visit!
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed this amazing destination and that Nick’s knowledge and friendly approach enhanced your experience. We also appreciate your helpful tips regarding the stairs, dress code, and journey. We’re sorry the bus felt a bit warm at times, but we’re glad you found the ride comfortable overall. Thank you for your recommendation and for traveling with us!
It’s a long day if going from Athens but worth it. The town below, the stops along the way and of course the monasteries, amazing.
Thank you for your kind review! We’re delighted to hear that, despite the long day from Athens, you found the experience worthwhile. It’s wonderful to know you enjoyed the town, the stops along the way, and of course the amazing monasteries. We’re glad you enjoyed the experience!
Everything was great ! The only thing i had issue with was the lunch. It was a buffet and it was not good at all, wished it was specified that it was a buffet . If i had known, i would have just gotten my own lunch for the same price at a better restaurant. George and Maria were great and very informative . George drived safely.
Thank you for your feedback! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the tour and that George and Maria helped make the experience memorable with their professionalism and informative guidance. We’re sorry that the buffet lunch did not meet your expectations, and we appreciate your comments. Your feedback is valuable to us. Thank you for choosing our tour.
Nice excursion. Lots of information from Yannis about the area and monasteries
Thank you for your kind review! We’re delighted you enjoyed the excursion and the information shared by Yannis about the area and the monasteries. We truly appreciate your feedback!
Although it was a very long day, the bus was comfortable, the driver and guide were both friendly and knowledgeable, and the lunch was enjoyable. There were sufficient comfort stops allowing you to purchase additional items. The Meteora Monasteries were amazing and the scenery stunning. Adequate time was provided to enjoy each experience however you do need a good level of fitness as there are a lot of stairs!
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted you enjoyed the comfortable journey, the guidance, the lunch, and of course the stunning beauty of Meteora. We also appreciate you highlighting the physical aspect of the monastery visits, as this is very helpful for future travelers. We’re so glad you had such a memorable experience!
Very good price value for one day trip. Must see !
Thank you for your kind review! We’re delighted you enjoyed the experience and found the tour to be great value for a day trip. Meteora truly is a must-see destination, and we’re glad you had a memorable visit!
Women need to wear a skirt or bring a scarf that can be rapted around their waist to create a skirt. No knees or shoulders showing for women or men.
Thank you for sharing this helpful tip! The monasteries do follow a strict dress code out of respect for their religious traditions, and we appreciate you highlighting this for future visitors. We’re glad you took part in the experience and hope to welcome you again on another memorable tour in Greece!
Great experience. Everything went well, good timing. The lunch was not amazing but did the trick for 10 euros more. We were in a group, the atmosphere was friendly.
Thank you for your kind review! We’re delighted to hear that everything went smoothly and that you enjoyed the timing and friendly group atmosphere throughout the experience. We also appreciate your feedback regarding the lunch option, as it helps us improve our services for future guests. We hope to welcome you again on another memorable journey in Greece!
Breathtaking views. Relevant information . Well balanced visits. Thank you!
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted you enjoyed the breathtaking views, the informative guidance, and the well-balanced itinerary throughout the tour. Your kind words mean a lot to us. We hope to welcome you again on another unforgettable experience in Greece!
