Meteora Monasteries and Hermit Caves Day Trip with optional lunch

based on 690 reviews

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

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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 : Ajit_from_Australia
Earlier, I had excellent customer service experience, but when I was supposed to go on their tour.

They didn't inform me that the train is not operating, especially when they knew many months before.

Money they used, and after the tour left by coach, now they processed a refund.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-01-07 01:38:02

Posted By : Anna_M
The landscapes were beautiful. This tour is definitely a great escape from Athens city. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and easy to talk to.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-01-05 06:44:30

Posted By : 872maryamd
Really nice place to visit, beautiful area.
Our leader dimitri was really one of the best, he has good knowledge about meteora. he was so kind, he took alot of pictures from us, we had great time.
Thank you dimitri :-)
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-01-02 10:25:34

Posted By : Buddhadeb_D
Very nice your
Excellent organization
Ran on time
Very knowledgeable and friendly tour guide
Would highly recommend!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-12-31 10:27:14

Posted By : Stellayyl
Tour guide Jim was excellent! Definitely go during low season to avoid the crowds. Suggest to spend two days in Meteora instead of one day trip. The trip back and forth to Meteora and Athens was 9 ½ hours alone (without traffic). Make the best of the trip to justify the time.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-12-31 05:30:07

Posted By : 795yukil
The tour was perfect. As sunset falls early in December, we also watched the sunset from a cliff. Our tourguide, Jim, was one of the best tourguides I ever had. He truly loves his job and transferred this to the group.

Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-12-30 11:04:19

Posted By : Samira_M
The tour starting in Kalampaka was unbelievable! The guide was knowledgeable and funny. The monasteries were amazing and the views out of this world. However, the bus we travelled on from and to Athens was pretty dirty, uncomfortable, there were no USB ports. Not the best experience for such a long drive.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-12-28 00:50:07

Posted By : I M
The trip was, in one word, amazing. Meteora is such a piece of heaven. The driver was very decent and the guide was very nice and very well-informed. The bus broke down on our way back, which is nobody’s fault, but they made that up by dropping us at city center. Overall, a mesmerizing experience, totally worth it.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-12-07 03:02:01

Posted By : Julie_E
The views and monasteries have to be seen in person. The only down side was the bus did not have WiFi and no charging stations and for 10 hours in the bus that was not appreciated, a. It was promised.
The tour was fantastic and Jim shared a lot of local knowledge.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-12-07 02:49:44

Posted By : BrendaGracia
This is a long trip but we've been warned. Spent around 10 hr on the bus, but it was comfortable and I had a great time. Our guide, Tolis was really nice and fun to talk with. He shared Greece history and trivia with us on the bus. The views were breathtaking and I am glad that I joined the tour because there's no way you could see 5 monasteries (and enter 2) in one day!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-12-01 17:18:45