Meteora Monasteries and Hermit Caves Day Trip with optional lunch

based on 826 reviews

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

From $

Book in 2 easy steps

1. Select A Date

2. Enter Total No Of Travellers

ADULT (Age : 0 to 99)

Free Cancellation

Upto 24 hours in Advance.

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

Top Selling Tours & Activities

Culture

Full-day Tours

Excellent Quality

Bus Tours

Additional fees

Day Trips

Walking Tours

Audio Guides

Cultural Tours

PRODUCT DETAILS
TRAVELER REVIEWS
TRAVELER PHOTOS

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 : Shannon_B
The tour was poorly organized. One email told us to go to Everest cafe, one said across the street, and the location pin was actually where our bus was. There are many buses do it’s very confusing. They don’t check your tickets, and they don’t make sure you get back on the bus so ensure your on time during breaks. But when you get to meteora another tour guides takes over and she is wonderful, knowledgeable, ensuring your comfort and safety. The rocks and monestaries are amazing, It’s a true wonder of this earth. We got to see the hermit caves. It was absolutely worth the long ride. Also. The bus advertises wifi but it doesn’t work, and the charging stations are only for usb cords, and these give very poor charge. If your travelling solo bring a usb or your own charging pack
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-29 17:50:16

Posted By : Stacy_L
The wonderful views, the well organized excursion. The tour guide was very knowledgeable, well prepared and made de experience great, she was like an enciclopedia and she talked in a soft slow voice making it even easier to understand. The driver excellent taking great pictures with wonderful ideas. Overall above and beyond experience
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-27 20:37:13

Posted By : Kiran_Y
Very memorable experience! Our guide Dimitris was amazing and well versed in his history of the area. We are glad we took this trip and would recommend it!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-26 04:27:24

Posted By : Zdenkavdb
The trip to Meteora from Athens was definitely worth it. Our guide Dimitris and driver Dino were fantastic taking good care of us and passing on some amazing information.
The bus trip to and from Athens was long but the big bus was so comfortable and airconditioned which made for a pleasant rest.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-25 03:24:02

Posted By : G9849GVlynnem
My teenage son and I loved it. They customized our trip from Athens to Meteora by bus, had lunch and toured great photo stops and monasteries with the group and then left them to go on our own and stay in Meteora. It was perfect. We spent the following day on our own and then grabbed a bus west to go to Corfu.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-23 12:30:21

Posted By : Katrina_M
We had the best tour guide and driver. I loved how our tour guide explained the history of the hermit caves and answered all questions. The views were just breathtaking.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-23 11:19:40

Posted By : Cara_D
Absolutely recommend taking the day for this trip. It’s a journey there and back but well worth the time and money. Our tour guide was great and knew so much about the history and the area.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-22 07:51:58

Posted By : sorenv2014
A well organized tour and a real fascinating experience. The very friendly and well informed guide filled to the brim with the desire to share knowledge. Extremely educational
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-20 16:20:12

Posted By : Abigail_J
This is a very unique experience. Meteora is such a beautiful place, and I'm glad I got the chance to experience it. BUT, be prepared, because it's a very long day. I think the tour could have ended an hour earlier.
Our guide, Katarina, was AMAZING! She's very friendly and knowledgeable. She really made us feel at home.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-20 15:54:04

Posted By : Thuy T
It was great despite the heat of over 38 degrees, they tried to make us more fun and amused with the stories, taught us more knowledge. Well worth seeing and well done, recommend it
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-06-20 15:32:38