Meteora Monasteries and Hermit Caves Day Trip with optional lunch

based on 812 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.
Our live local English-speaking guide will provide engaging explanations of the history and significance of each site, ensuring a memorable and informative adventure.

Plus, enjoy a free audio smart guide in Spanish, French, German and English covering 19 points of interest, enhancing your experience with detailed insights

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 : rebeccawV5669WF
Wonderful tour with interesting insights of three Meteora Monasteries. The trip from Athens is long and grueling, but the sights are worth it!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-15 14:38:02

Posted By : P6006PEmaryanns
the most beautiful landscape, and the monasteries themselves are incredible. Definitely a must see. The bus ride from athens was pleasant and air conditioned, and they waited for me for 5 minutes to get on when I had trouble finding the pick up location and we still arrived on time. The tour guide was very knowledgeable, accomodating and fun. The prepaid meal before going up the mountains wasn't gourmet but was tasty and filling
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-15 11:11:29

Posted By : Lilly_M
This was such a cool idea and an amazing trip! Our tour guide was Maria and she was amazing! She was super nice and knew so much about Meteora! The whole town and monestaries are beautiful and will leave you in awe. This is a trip you will not forget.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-14 22:32:06

Posted By : Livia_O
The tour guide was awesome! She really knew the place and provided us with a lot of interesting details. She was also very funny. Meteora is incredible. Its history and beauty are breathtaking. Even with the high temperaturea of the day, the tour was totally worth it. The restaurant had vegetarian options and there the guide always stopped the van for us to photograph the landscapes. The only thing I didn't like was the bus. I'm tall and my legs just would't fit. I had to travel around over 8 hours being squeezed.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-14 04:26:39

Posted By : Roger_B
The guide was very knowledgeable about the history of the region and monastaries. He was very expressive and he articulated very well. The exceptional driver helped us take pictures. Highly recommended.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-13 17:30:33

Posted By : Lv2lurn
The scenery was magnificent near the monasteries and the monasteries each had unique features. The negatives—food was mediocre at best. It would have been helpful to know about dinner stop at 8 ahead of time. We had under ten minutes to eat due to being at the end of the line of three tour buses so we finished our meals on the bus. Our long distance driver was very uncommunicative and couldn’t answer any questions. We understand he had limited English but he couldn’t tell me about stops on the return trip. The bus driver in Meteora was wonderful as was our guide. This was a great trip if you have the time and energy For a very full day.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-13 06:43:34

Posted By : JudiH51
Excellent, efficient organisation and communication. Large a/c tourist bus with wifi left Athens on time and on arrival we were immediately divided into groups of 12 into a new Mercedes minivan. Great guide, knowledgeable and friendly.Long day but most enjoyable. Meteora is not to be missed.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-13 03:40:22

Posted By : Mariana_S
I love all monasteries and hermit cave. I love the view and history behind it. Meteora becomes one of my favourite place in Greece. The local guide is super friendly and knowledgeable.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-11 18:25:24

Posted By : 417jeanlucv
Very condensed for just one day. Way too many miles.
Two monasteries would have been enough since they are similar
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-11 10:30:25

Posted By : Damla_I
The tour guide does not go into monasteries with you to explain the history and you barely get 20-30 min per stop, way too expensive, really bad experience and our guide was someone way too terrible that she was showing us pictures of her cats instead of explaining where we are… the lunch restaurant is also average. Overall do not choose this tour!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-10 08:14:52