Larissa Station
Board your AC luxury coach from Larissa Station in Athens at 8am and enjoy a scenic ride through the Greek countryside. Watch the landscape shift from rolling hills and olive groves to the towering cliffs of Meteora.
335.6 km
5 hours
1
Kalabaka
15 min
Free Admission
Around 12:30pm, arrive in the charming town of Kalabaka, nestled at the base of the Meteora rock formations. Meet your local guide here and start your day in Meteora.
2.1 km
31 minutes
2
Kastraki Village
60 min
Tickets included (based on selection)
Around 1pm, enjoy an optional Greek lunch in the village of Kastraki, based on your ticket choice. Savor traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki while soaking in the stunning views of Meteora’s cliff-top monasteries.
4.7 km
11 minutes
3
Meteora
200 min
6 attractions
Tickets included
Around 2pm, begin your guided visit to 3 of Meteora’s iconic monasteries (out of the six active ones), chosen based on the day’s rotation. Walk among the clouds and explore centuries-old spiritual sanctuaries perched on towering cliffs. To visit each monastery, you must give a small cash offering of €3 to €5 per person.
1. Great Meteoron Monastery
30 min
Great Meteoron, the largest and oldest of the Meteora monasteries, was founded in the 14th century and once housed up to 300 monks. It's museum, filled with rare manuscripts and artifacts, offers a deep dive into Orthodox Christian tradition and the ascetic lifestyle.
2. Varlaam Monastery
30 min
Tickets included
Varlaam is renowned for its exquisite frescoes, depicting biblical scenes that capture the essence of monastic life. While smaller in size than the Great Meteoron, Varlaam housed over 40 monks in its prime and is considered one of the most important examples of Byzantine monastic architecture.
3. Rousanou Monastery
30 min
Tickets included
Situated on a small rock, this monastery is accessible via a beautiful stone bridge, making it the perfect spot for photographers who want to capture both the monastery’s intricate details and the surrounding natural landscape. Unlike other monasteries in the region, Rousanou is home to a community of nuns, providing a unique glimpse into the monastic way of life.
4. St. Nicholas Anapausas Monastery
30 min
Tickets included
Perched atop a tiny rock, St. Nicholas Anapausas is one of the smallest yet most charming monasteries in Meteora. Originally founded as a hermitage, it provided the perfect sanctuary for early monks seeking solitude.
5. Holy Trinity Monastery
30 min
Tickets included
Perched atop a steep rock, Holy Trinity offers sweeping views of Meteora’s cliffs and valleys, making it a favorite spot for stunning sunset photos. If you’re a fan of For Your Eyes Only, you’ll recognize it as the backdrop for some of the film's most iconic scenes.
6. St. Stephen's Monastery
30 min
Tickets included
Unlike the other monasteries, St. Stephen’s is easily accessible via a modern bridge, making it an ideal choice for those with limited mobility. Marvel at its stunning 16th-century frescoes and captivating religious icons, each offering a window into the rich world of Byzantine art.
6.2 km
46 minutes
4
The Hermit Caves of Badovas
60 min
Tickets included
At 5pm, head out to discover the hidden side of Meteora with a visit to the secluded Hermit Caves of Badovas. Once home to monks in search of total solitude, these caves offer a raw, untouched experience. Hike through narrow, quiet trails that lead you to dramatic, sweeping views of Meteora’s rugged landscape, perfect for those seeking peace and breathtaking scenery.
2.5 km
6 minutes
5
Kalabaka
30 min
Free Admission
After sunset, around 6pm, enjoy some free time in Kalabaka before your return journey. Shop for local souvenirs, grab a coffee, or simply take in the final views of the rocks glowing at sunset.
340 km
3 hours 40 minutes
6
Larissa Station
Skip the logistics. Board a luxury coach and explore 6 cliff-top monasteries with an expert guide.
Skip the logistics. Board a luxury coach and explore 6 cliff-top monasteries with an expert guide.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Larissa Station
At 8am, depart from Athens (Larissa Station) aboard a luxury, air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi and USB chargers. As you journey north, the landscape transforms, revealing the towering, mystical rock pillars of Meteora, marking the start of your adventure.
336 km
3 hours 28 minutes
1
Kalabaka
30 min
Free Admission
Arrive in Kalabaka by early afternoon and check into your selected 3-star or 4-star hotel, surrounded by Meteora’s dramatic stone peaks. Settle in and refresh before your first guided tour begins.
7.3 km
20 minutes
2
Panoramic Viewpoint of Meteora
120 min
Tickets included
Later in the day, join a 4-hour sunset tour with a professional guide, stopping at scenic viewpoints. Relax at a hidden cliffside spot as the sun sets behind Meteora’s towering rock formations, casting a golden glow over the landscape and creating a truly unforgettable scene.
6.4 km
20 minutes
3
Byzantine Church of Virgin Mary
30 min
Tickets included
Stop by the Holy Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, a gem of Byzantine architecture, with stunning frescoes and intricate icons. It's the perfect spot to pause, take in the peaceful atmosphere, and enjoy the amazing views of Meteora's towering rock formations in the background. Afterward, head back to your hotel to relax and prepare for the second day's adventures.
3.4 km
10 minutes
4
Meteora monasteries
200 min
1 activities
Tickets included (based on selection)
Depending on the tickets you choose, start your morning with a guided visit to several cliff-top monasteries, each offering unique icons, frescoes, and panoramic views over the Pindus mountains. You’ll explore 3 to 4 monasteries, depending on the day, as they follow a rotational closing schedule. A small cash offering of €3 to €5 per person is required for entry.
Hiking trails
Included (based on selection)
Alternatively, join a professional hiking guide for a 5-hour trek through forest paths, caves, and lesser-known ruins. Encounter the hidden Ypapanti Monastery and panoramic views rarely seen by road-based visitors.
7 km
50 minutes
5
Hermit Caves of Badovas
30 min
Tickets included
Whether hiking or sightseeing, visit the Hermit Caves of Badovas, a hauntingly beautiful cluster of monk dwellings carved into sheer rock. Learn about the ascetic lives once lived here, high above the valley floor.
3.7 km
15 minutes
6
Kalabaka
30 min
Free Admission
After your morning tour, enjoy some free time in Kalabaka. Stroll through its charming streets, enjoy a relaxing lunch, or browse for unique handmade souvenirs, all with the dramatic Meteora cliffs as your backdrop. It’s your last chance to enjoy the charm of this mountain town before heading back to Athens.
338 km
3 hours 44 minutes
7
Larissa Station
Enjoy an overnight Meteora tour from Athens featuring all six monasteries, a cozy hotel stay, and flexible hiking or sightseeing options.
Enjoy an overnight Meteora tour from Athens featuring all six monasteries, a cozy hotel stay, and flexible hiking or sightseeing options.
Inclusions
Exclusions
2 starting points available
1. Kalabaka
Your day starts with a convenient pick-up directly from your hotel or Airbnb in Kalabaka. Settle into your seat in the VIP minibus with free Wi-Fi, bottled water, and a friendly local tour leader ready to guide your small group on a spectacular Meteora experience. Depending on the tickets you choose, your tour begins at 8am or 3pm.
2. Kastraki
Start your adventure with a convenient pick-up directly from your hotel or Airbnb in Kastraki. Relax in the comfort of a VIP minibus, complete with free Wi-Fi, bottled water, and a knowledgeable local guide ready to take your small group on an unforgettable Meteora experience. Depending on the tickets you choose, your tour will begin at either 8am or 3pm.
3.6 km
58 minutes
1
Meteora monasteries
180 min
6 attractions
Tickets included
At 9am, your Meteora sightseeing tour begins with a visit to up to 3 UNESCO-listed monasteries perched atop towering cliffs. If you choose the sunset tour, you'll set out at 4pm, visit 2 to 3 monasteries, and experience a stunning sunset as it casts a golden glow over the Meteora rocks. As you explore, you’ll marvel at ancient frescoes, centuries-old relics, and tranquil stone courtyards, all offering stunning views of the Thessalian Plain stretching out below. Please note, you will need to make a small cash offering of €3 to €5 per person for entry to each monastery.
1. Great Meteoron Monastery (Megalo Meteoro)
40 min
As the largest and oldest monastery in Meteora, Great Meteoron offers a glimpse into monastic life from the 14th century. The main church showcases vibrant frescoes, antique icons, and monk-made artifacts. Meteoron's terrace offers a sweeping vista of the towering rocks and the lush Thessalian Plain below.
2. Varlaam Monastery
40 min
Originally founded in the 14th century, the Varlaam Monastery was later expanded with a series of intricate wooden bridges that connect different parts of the monastery. Admire its frescoes, icons, and manuscripts, and enjoy stunning views of the Meteora rocks. The peaceful courtyard offers a true sense of monastic life.
3. Rousanou Monastery
40 min
Rousanou Monastery, smaller but equally captivating, sits on a rock that seems to float above the landscape. Inside, you will find a vibrant collection of frescoes depicting biblical scenes, including the Last Judgment and the Nativity of Christ. In the distance, the charming villages of Kalabaka and Kastraki dot the landscape, while the Thessalian Plain stretches out against the rocky peaks.
4. St. Nicholas Anapausas Monastery
40 min
The St. Nicholas Anapausas Monastery is a hidden gem, perched on a rock with a spectacular view of the surrounding valleys. Its frescoes, although smaller than those found in the larger monasteries, are intricately detailed and feature scenes from the Bible. The monastery is known for its calm and serene atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for contemplation.
5. Holy Trinity Monastery
40 min
Holy Trinity Monastery offers one of the most picturesque settings in Meteora, with its steep ascent and perched location high above the valley. The monastery’s main church is adorned with intricate frescoes that depict key biblical events. The highlight here is the impressive 14th-century iconostasis, which is beautifully carved and painted.
6. St. Stephen’s Monastery
40 min
Easily accessible due to its bridge connection, St. Stephen's Monastery is known for its intricate frescoes that depict scenes from both the Old and New Testaments. Inside, you'll discover a small yet impressive collection of icons and religious artifacts. The peaceful courtyard, adorned with vibrant flowers, offers a serene spot to relax while taking in the stunning view of the Meteora rocks.
2.5 km
36 minutes
2
Panoramic Viewpoint
30 min
Tickets included (based on selection)
Throughout the sightseeing tour, you'll stop at carefully selected viewpoints where all six Meteora monasteries come into view, offering perfect opportunities to capture stunning photos from dramatic cliff edges and winding ridge roads.
5.8 km
15 minutes
3
Hermit Caves of Badovas
40 min
Tickets included (based on selection)
The sightseeing tour also includes a visit to the hidden Hermit Caves of Badovas, carved into the vertical rock face by monks who once sought total isolation. Peer into primitive cave dwellings while your guide shares their fascinating, reclusive history.
3.7 km
12 minutes
4
Byzantine Church of the Virgin Mary
30 min
Tickets included (based on selection)
On your sunset tour, stop by the Byzantine Church of the Virgin Mary in Kalabaka, a site rich in over a thousand years of religious heritage. Marvel at the stunning 11th-century frescoes that adorn its stone walls, depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.
6.4 km
15 minutes
5
Sunset photo point
30 min
Tickets included (based on selection)
As the sun dips below the horizon, arrive at a secret sunset spot where golden light bathes the rock formations and monasteries in a surreal glow, an unforgettable finale to your Meteora experience.
7.3 km
12 minutes
6
2 ending points available
1. Kalabaka
2. Kastraki
Explore Meteora’s cliffs, caves, and sunsets in style—small group tour with a local expert, VIP van, and flexible sightseeing.
Explore Meteora’s cliffs, caves, and sunsets in style—small group tour with a local expert, VIP van, and flexible sightseeing.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Aristotelous Square & Egnatia Street
Your journey starts at 8am from Aristotelous Square & Egnatia Street (Venizelos Statue) in Thessaloniki. Board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for a scenic trip to Kalabaka. Keep your eyes peeled for charming rural villages nestled in the Thessaly valleys, and catch your first glimpse of the towering Meteora rocks rising majestically in the distance.
232 km
3 hours 33 minutes
1
Kalabaka
30 min
Free Admission
By noon, you'll arrive in Kalabaka after a 30-minute coffee break en route. Nestled at the base of these towering rocks, Kalabaka, offers a quaint charm with its traditional streets and local cafés, setting the stage for Meteora’s cliff-top monasteries rising in the distance.
3.2 km
15 minutes
2
Meteora monasteries
90 min
6 attractions
Tickets included
Around 12:30pm, embark on a 1.5-hour guided tour of 2 awe-inspiring monasteries, perched high above the valley. Keep in mind that the monasteries follow a rotational schedule, so you may visit different ones each time, but all offer sweeping views of the Meteora valley and allow you to peer into centuries-old monastic life. A small cash offering of €3 to €5 per person is required for entry to each monastery.
1. Great Meteoron Monastery
40 min
Great Meteoron stands as the grandest of all the Meteora monasteries, perched high above the surrounding landscape. The monastery’s museum displays everything from ancient manuscripts to tools once used by the monks, while the view from the terrace is unparalleled, with Meteora’s rock pillars stretching endlessly in every direction.
2. Varlaam Monastery
40 min
Varlaam offers a view that feels like it could belong in a dream, with the entire Meteora landscape unfolding below, making every step to the top feel worth it. The frescoes stand out, their vibrant colors and detailed scenes telling stories of faith and devotion. You can’t help but notice the giant wine barrel that once held over 12,000 liters, an impressive relic of the monastery’s past.
3. Rousanou Monastery
40 min
Rousanou is a peaceful hideaway, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers. The monastery is run by nuns who welcome visitors with warmth, adding to the serene vibe. From the balcony, you’re treated to an unobstructed view of the Meteora rocks, and you can almost feel the stillness of the place as you take in the surroundings.
4. St. Stephen’s Monastery
40 min
St. Stephen’s offers a more accessible experience, with a bridge leading you straight into its peaceful grounds. Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful icons and religious relics, offering a glimpse into the monastery’s deep spiritual roots. The view from here is incredible, stretching over the plains of Kalambaka and the Meteora rock formations.
5. Holy Trinity Monastery
40 min
Holy Trinity is as dramatic as they come, sitting atop a narrow pinnacle that feels almost unreachable. The climb is a bit challenging, but once you arrive, the view is absolutely worth it, stretching across the vast landscape of Meteora. Inside, the small chapel is filled with stunning frescoes, and there’s a peacefulness here that invites you to sit back and reflect.
6. St. Nicholas Anapausas Monastery
40 min
St. Nicholas Anapausas is tucked away on a small, isolated rock, and it’s one of the more intimate monasteries in Meteora. The chapel’s frescoes are incredibly detailed, with vivid colors that transport you to another time. The view from here is magnificent, overlooking the valley below and the other towering rocks of Meteora in the distance.
1 km
2 minutes
3
Kastraki Village
60 min
Free Admission
At 1:30pm, enjoy a hearty Greek lunch in Kastraki, where terracotta rooftops and mountain silhouettes create a stunning natural amphitheater. Lunch is at your own expense, and you’ll have the chance to choose from a variety of charming local tavernas. Be sure to try the classic moussaka, a tender lamb souvlaki, or a fresh salad with local olives and feta. Pair your meal with a glass of ouzo or refreshing tsipouro for a true taste of Greek hospitality.
2.4 km
10 minutes
4
Kalabaka
30 min
Free Admission
By 2:30pm, return to Kalabaka town, passing the last views of Meteora’s spires as your journey north toward Thessaloniki begins.
235 km
3 hours
5
Aristotelous Square & Egnatia Street
Inclusions
Exclusions
Scroll down to explore detailed descriptions of each tour and find the perfect option for your adventure.
2 starting points available
1. Kalabaka
At 8:30am, depart from Kalabaka aboard a VIP Mercedes minibus and head toward the foothills of Meteora. With a small group of only 12 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention and a more intimate, immersive experience throughout the day.
2. Kastraki
Depending on your ticket choice, you can also set out from Kastraki aboard a VIP Mercedes minibus and head toward the foothills of Meteora. With a small group of only 12 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention and a more intimate, immersive experience throughout the day.
2.5 km
7 minutes
1
Mesochori (Ancient Settlement of Kastraki)
15 min
Free Admission
Meet your mountain guide at Mesochori, the historic settlement of Kastraki, and begin your hike from the scenic foothills of Doupiani Rock. This beautiful spot lies at the base of the ancient Pantokrator Monastery, offering a stunning backdrop as you start your adventure.
2 km
30 minutes
Northern Meteora
2
Meteora monasteries
60 min
2 attractions
Tickets included
Around mid-hike, stop to explore 2 to 3 of Meteora’s most iconic sanctuaries (likely the Great Meteoron or Varlaam Monastery, depending on their rotational schedule). Step inside to see ancient manuscripts, frescoed halls, and 600-year-old architecture perched impossibly high above the valley. A small cash offering of €3 to €5 per person is required to enter each monastery.
1. Great Meteoron Monastery
30 min
The largest and oldest of the six, Great Meteoron, feels like a fortress in the sky. Inside, you’ll find an impressive museum with ancient manuscripts, religious icons, and a former kitchen with medieval tools still intact. The frescoes in the main church are striking and solemn, depicting scenes of martyrdom in vivid detail.
2. Varlaam Monastery
30 min
Varlaam is famous for its massive wooden wine barrel that once held 12,000 liters of wine—it’s still on display! The monastery’s chapel features delicate post-Byzantine frescoes, and its peaceful terrace offers sweeping views of the Pindus mountains. Climbing up, you’ll appreciate how monks once hauled supplies via rope and winch.
7 km
20 minutes
4
2 ending points available
1. Kalabaka
2. Kastraki
Venture off the beaten path on a guided Meteora hike with forest trails, dramatic views, and monastery visits along the way.
Venture off the beaten path on a guided Meteora hike with forest trails, dramatic views, and monastery visits along the way.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Meteora stuns from the very first glance. Towering sandstone pillars, sculpted by millions of years of wind and water, rise like ancient monuments from the Thessalian plain. Once hidden beneath a vast prehistoric lake, these cliffs now soar over 400 meters, their summits crowned by monasteries that seem to float between earth and sky.
Distance from Meteora: 350 km
Duration: 4.5 to 5 hours by bus
What you can do here: Explore the ancient Acropolis, visit the Parthenon, and stroll through the historic Plaka and Monastiraki neighborhoods. Athens is also a great base to explore the nearby Cape Sounion and its ancient Temple of Poseidon.
Distance from Meteora: 230 km
Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours by bus
What you can do here: Visit the iconic White Tower, explore the ancient Byzantine Walls, and enjoy the lively Ladadika district for traditional dining. Thessaloniki is also famous for its vibrant food scene, with a variety of local markets and coffee shops.
Distance from Meteora: 6 km
Duration: 15 to 20 minutes by bus
What you can do here: Explore the local charm of Kalabaka, with its traditional Greek shops, cafes, and scenic walks offering stunning views of the Meteora rock formations. Don’t miss the Meteora Museum, where you can learn about the region’s rich religious and cultural heritage.
Distance from Meteora: 3 km
Duration: 10 to 15 minutes by bus
What you can do here: Kastraki is perfect for those looking to explore hidden trails and hermit caves around the Meteora rocks. The village itself offers traditional stone houses and charming cafes, ideal for those seeking a quieter, more authentic experience.
Great Meteoron is the largest and oldest monastery in Meteora, perched high above the valley like a fortress in the sky. Founded in the 14th century, it boasts a fascinating museum with ancient manuscripts and religious artifacts, along with incredible frescoes inside the main church depicting scenes of martyrdom in vibrant colors.
Great Meteoron Monastery
Varlaam Monastery stands as a reminder of the resourcefulness of the monks who built it. The highlight here? The giant wooden wine barrel that once held 12,000 liters of wine, still on display! The monastery’s post-Byzantine frescoes highlight the region’s artistic heritage, while the peaceful terrace steals the show, offering uninterrupted views of the Pindus Mountains.
Varlaam Monastery
Rousanou is one of the most photogenic monasteries in Meteora, perched gracefully on a slender rock. This smaller, intimate monastery is run by nuns and is known for its flower-filled courtyard and peaceful atmosphere. The chapel, though modest, is filled with beautiful frescoes, and the surrounding views of the Meteora landscape are simply breathtaking.
Rousanou Monastery
St. Stephen’s feels more like a tranquil convent than a monastery, thanks to its serene atmosphere and easy accessibility; there are no steep steps to climb, just a simple bridge leading you across. Inside, the chapel of St. Charalambos holds a silver casket containing the saint’s relics, a striking reminder of the monastery’s deep religious significance.
St. Stephen’s Monastery
Holy Trinity sits atop one of the most dramatic pinnacles in Meteora and requires a bit of a hike to reach. If you’re a fan of James Bond, you might recognize this monastery from For Your Eyes Only—it was featured as a key location in the film! The terrace offers a stunning panoramic vista of the surrounding valley and the other monasteries perched on the cliffs.
Holy Trinity Monastery
The smallest of the six, Anapausas, is tucked away high above the valley. The monastery’s chapel frescoes, dating back to the 16th century, were painted by the famous artist Theophanes the Cretan. They are incredibly detailed, showing vibrant scenes from Christian history. Despite its small size, this monastery offers a quiet escape from the crowds.
St. Nicholas Anapausas Monastery
Numerous trails wind through the region’s rugged terrain, offering stunning views of the monasteries or leading you to hidden caves. One of the best routes is the Meteora Trail, which leads you through the rock formations and offers views of the entire area.
Sunset in Meteora is truly magical, with golden light illuminating the monasteries and rock spires. For the best views, visit the Kastraki Viewpoint or the area near St. Stephen’s Monastery, where you can capture stunning shots of the towering rocks and monasteries.
While the monasteries are the main draw, Kalabaka offers traditional cafes, local craft shops, and a museum highlighting Meteora’s history, while Kastraki provides an authentic Greek experience with its stone houses, narrow streets, and stunning rock views.
Situated in Kalambaka, the museum is a fascinating stop to explore the region’s geology and wildlife. It features an impressive collection of fossils, mineral specimens, and exhibits that detail how the area’s iconic rock formations were shaped millions of years ago.
Yes, all full-day tours include round-trip transfers to and from Athens, Thessaloniki, and Kalambaka in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, ensuring a stress-free and convenient journey to Meteora.
The journey from Athens to Meteora by bus takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and the route.
The spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are the best times to visit, as the weather is mild, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months.
St. Stephen's Monastery is the most accessible, with a paved path and minimal stairs, making it suitable for visitors with limited mobility.
A half-day tour can cover a few monasteries, while a full-day Meteora tour allows you to explore more thoroughly. For a more immersive experience, you might consider a 2-day tour to fully appreciate the monasteries and hiking routes.
The Kastraki Viewpoint and the area near St. Stephen's Monastery offer the best sunset views, where you can capture stunning photos of the monasteries in the golden hour light.
