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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
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
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
Whether you're in Meteora or nearby towns like Athens or Thessaloniki, Meteora's stunning landscapes lie within easy reach for a day trip. Organized tours offer comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to explore this magical place without the hassle of planning every detail.
Recommended tickets: From Athens Meteora Monasteries Full Day Guided Tour | Private Day Tour to Meteora from Athens with Transfers & Audio Guide
Athens to Meteora day trips
Recommended ticket: From Thessaloniki Meteora Monasteries Full Day Guided Tour
Thessaloniki to Meteora day trips
Recommended ticket: From Meteora Guided Tour with Monasteries & Caves Visit
Please note: The tickets don't cover guided tours inside the monasteries or their entrance fees (around €3 for each monastery).
Out of the original 24 Meteora monasteries, only six remain active today, each with its own history and architecture. The tours allow you to visit two or three of the monasteries such as the Great Meteoron, Varlaam, and Roussanou, giving you a glimpse into the spiritual life of the monks who reside there.
Before the monasteries were built, the caves of Meteora were home to hermit monks seeking solitude. These caves, hidden among the rock formations, provide a glimpse into the early monastic life that led to the creation of the Meteora monasteries.
Several spots around Meteora offer breathtaking panoramic views of the entire region. The most popular is near the Holy Trinity Monastery, where you can see the monasteries from above, with the Pindos Mountains in the background.
Kalabaka is a charming town located at the foot of Meteora. It's the perfect spot to wander through quaint local shops, savor traditional Greek dishes, and soak up the local atmosphere.
If your tour schedule permits, try to catch the sunset at Meteora. Watching the sun set behind the monasteries and rock formations, casting a golden glow across the landscape, is a magical experience that will stay with you long after you've left.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, and a hat or sunscreen if you're visiting in the warmer months. Don't forget a camera for capturing the incredible scenery, and make sure to dress modestly if you plan to enter the monasteries.
It's recommended to book your day trip in advance, especially during the high season (spring and fall) when tours can fill up quickly. Booking ahead also ensures you get the best options for your preferred travel date and time.
A typical Meteora day trip includes visiting two or three of the six active monasteries, taking in the stunning views of the rock formations, and possibly stopping at panoramic viewpoints. Guided tours often include stories and historical insights that enrich the experience. Some trips also offer time to explore the nearby town of Kalambaka.
Visiting all six monasteries in one day is challenging due to time constraints, especially on a day trip from Athens or Thessaloniki. Most tours focus on two or three of the most significant monasteries, allowing time to fully appreciate each visit. If visiting all six is important to you, consider staying overnight in Kalambaka.
Yes, you can plan a self-guided day trip to Meteora by taking the train or driving from Athens or Thessaloniki. However, a guided tour often provides a more in-depth experience, with knowledgeable guides who can share the history and significance of the monasteries.
Meteora tours typically proceed in most weather conditions, but if the weather is severe (heavy rain, storms), some parts of the tour may be adjusted or canceled for safety reasons.
A Meteora day trip can be moderately physically demanding. The monasteries are perched atop steep rock formations, and reaching them involves climbing a series of stone steps, which can be challenging for those not accustomed to strenuous activity. Walking paths between the monasteries may also include uneven terrain and inclines. However, if you are in reasonably good health and wear comfortable shoes, the experience is manageable and highly rewarding. Guided tours often proceed at a comfortable pace, with opportunities to rest and take in the views.
