Meteora Monasteries and Hermit Caves Day Trip with optional lunch

based on 752 reviews

Duration:14 hours (approx.)
Location: Athens, Greece

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ADULT (Age : 0 to 99)

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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Athens at 8:00 am in a modern coach, soaking in the scenic Greek landscapes en route. Enjoy a picturesque break midway, perfect for capturing the essence of your adventure. Arrive in Meteora by 12:30 pm and savor lunch in the charming Kastraki Village. Explore all six iconic Meteora monasteries during a 4-hour tour, with exclusive access to three, and discover hidden monasteries and ancient hermit caves. Conclude your day with a relaxing return to Kalabaka, arriving back in Athens around 10:30 pm, enriched with memories and stories. Book now for a unique blend of comfort, culture, and exclusive access to Greece’s sacred sites.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

WHAT TO EXPECT

1. Kastraki
Upon reaching Kalabaka, we'll begin the adventure with a leisurely lunch and a convenient restroom break in the charming village of Kastraki. Take this opportunity to refuel and prepare for an awe-inspiring exploration of the breathtaking Meteora region.
2. Meteora
Prepare to be captivated by the hidden hermit caves of Badovas, a testament to the solitude and devotion of the past where you'll discover the fascinating stories of the hermits and monks who once lived in these remote areas. You'll have the chance to witness the remnants of their dwellings and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life.
3. Agios Stefanos
This is the most accessible monastery, where instead of steps you simply cross a small bridge to reach the entrance. It is ideal for visitors who cannot use the steps and yet they wish to have a real experience of a Meteora monastery. The beginning of monastic life on the rock of Agios Stephanos dates back to early in the 12th century. Hosios Antonios, in the first half of the 15th century, and Hosios Philotheos, who renovated or rather rebuilt from its foundations the old small and elegant Catholicon, the present church of Agios Stephanos, in 1545 are mentioned as its founders. St. Stephen’s Monastery includes two cathedrals; the old 16th century chapel which was severely damaged during WWII and the consequent Greek Civil War, and the 18th century main cathedral that is dedicated to Saint Charalambos and includes his holy relics.
4. Varlaam Monastery
The Holy Monastery of Varlaam is the second biggest monastery. It is located opposite of the Great Meteoro Monastery and it was founded in the mid 14th century by the exercitant Hosios Varlaam. The elegant monastery Catholicon was built in the honour of Agioi Pantes in 1541-42, by two brothers from Ioannina, the priest-monks Hosioi Theophanes and Nectarios the Apsarades. The main church was decorated in 1548. Based on stylistic criteria, this magnificent wall-painting is attributed to the famous hagiographer from Thebes, Frago Catelano.
5. Great Meteoron Monastery
The Great Meteoron Monastery is the biggest and oldest one of all. It was called the monastery that was “suspended in the air” (meteoro), because of the formation of the gigantic rock on top of which it was built.The Great Meteoro Monastery was founded by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite who was the first founder of the monastery and the organizer of the systematic koenovion.
6. Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada)
The Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada) is the most difficult to reach, but once you get to the very top the panoramic view of the surroundings is simply captivating! This Monastery is very close to the Saint Stephen’s Nunnery and it is perched on a steep and magnificent rock. It had already been organized Monastery since the year 1362 as indicated in a document by Symeon Uressis Palaeologos. Visitors have to follow a pathway that directs them initially to the foot of the rock, before they start walking up about 140 steps.
7. Roussanou Monastery
The Holy Monastery of Roussanou has received the name of the first probable hermit who settled on the rock. The main cathedral was founded at the end of the 16th century and was decorated thirty years later. Compared to other rocks where monasteries were built, the one of Roussanou has a lower elevation, which makes it more accessible. The monastery was initially founded by monks and it suffered severe damage during World War II. It became a convent in 1988.
8. Agios Nikolaos Anapaphsas
The Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas is the first Monastery that we encounter on our way to the Holy Meteora and was founded at the end of the 14th century.
9. Kalambaka
You will enjoy the panoramic view of the town Kalampaka

ADDITIONAL INFO

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Dress Code for Monastery Visits: Please note that a modest dress code is enforced to enter the monasteries. For women, skirts below the knee or longer are required. Pants, shorts, or sleeveless shirts are not allowed. For men, sleeveless clothing and shorts above the knee are also prohibited.
• Rain or Shine: This tour will take place regardless of the weather conditions. Please come prepared with appropriate clothing and accessories to ensure a comfortable experience.
• Climbing Steps to Monastery Tops: Please be aware that reaching the top of the monasteries involves climbing steps. There are no elevators available, so please consider this if you have any mobility concerns.
• Pick-up and Drop-off at Kalambaka Train Station: Your tour guide will be waiting for you at Kalambaka Train Station, regardless of any train delays. Please be aware that the activity provider is not responsible for any train delays that may affect the duration of the tour.
• Please make sure you have cash for the monasteries 3 euro each entrance. There is no ATM machine in the area.
• Supplier is not responsible if you miss the bus please be there on time (15 minutes before the departure)
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 35 travelers

CANCELLATION POLICY

Posted By : Susanna_V
The trip from Athens was long and tiring but the tour overall was definitely worth it. I wish to point out that our tour guide, Katerina, was absolutely exceptional. Her local perspective and personal stories helped much better understand the history and the community.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-25 11:34:33

Posted By : Guide816863
Meteora is a unique place and really recommend the trip to everyone,especially thanks to our guided ,very professional,helpful,he made our experience 💯 better,I don’t know his full name,just remember Tolis,the tour was very organized and very punctual only issues with the transportation from Athens to Kalampaka,the was old and the second one has not air conditioning
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-24 22:35:41

Posted By : Tom_D
The guide was very nolagable and answer all my questions. He had a very positive outlook and made the trip fun
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-24 15:29:48

Posted By : Meander12076004549
Very well organized tour, amazing guide, beautiful location, put this location on your bucket list if your planning to visit Greece
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-24 08:54:19

Posted By : Hannah S
Truly an amazing experience. The hermit caves were an extremely interesting site and the view from the top of the monasteries (although quite the walk) were definitely worth going on this tour for. The highlight for us was definitely our guide Katerina. She shared with us her own personal stories about the sites and had such a deep connection with them which made the tour so much more personal. We also experienced heavy rain toward the end of the tour but katerina made sure we still had the best experience and got all the photos we wanted even if it meant her getting soaked in the rain for these. We could not have asked for a better guide and the trip was breathtaking, highly recommend.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-24 04:38:48

Posted By : krizianik
On that day, there was a 24 hour public transport strike in athena, we couldn't reach the meeting point easily. Fortunately the tour guide inform us beforehand and help us arrange private transfers. Very helpful even in extraordinary circumstances.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-23 07:47:37

Posted By : Sean_S
Though a long bus ride from Athens, was well worth it. Our guide Maria was excellent. Very friendly and knowledgeable. The views were beautiful and learning the history of the orignal hermits and the monasteries was amazing and interesting.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-22 20:42:20

Posted By : Kelly_F
The Meteora area is amazing but the 5 hour bus ride with no commentary is a bit long. Glad we did it but it’s a lon long long day.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-22 01:28:37

Posted By : Almas_S
The place is fabulous and very picturesque and the weather was great. Not hot, not cold. Had an issue in the beginning but it was managed to well. The team works great, checks people are in place, communicates clearly and acts responsibly. If you have any needs or questions - always there to help. Highly recommended
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-21 12:44:31

Posted By : Safari10957216820
The tour was amazing! The view was great and we visited the most awesome monasteries. They take you to the most beautiful locations for pictures too!
Our tourguides were Katerina and Dinos. We have never met such amazing people! If you have them as guides you will learn so much about the history of the place and have an amazing day! 10/10 reccomend this tour.
The busride from Athens is long but definitely worth it. Also they get you some delicious lunch before you go into the mountains with the guides.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-21 05:30:42