Meteora Tours
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Meteora Day Trips

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From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Bence Laxner
HU

Bence

Hungary
Jun 2025
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+1 more

I liked the service provided by the tour guide, the drivers and the company as a whole. Eva was so kind, considerate , and hospitable. She made sure everyone's needs were met. She answered all our questions with kindness. The tour itself was worth the long bus ride, the views from the bus were breathtaking. Meteora now holds a special place in our hearts. Its beauty and history is something to behold and remembered.
Muntean Claudia-Irina
RO

Muntean

Romania
Feb 2025
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It was an excelent experience, with a duration of 4h 30 minutes in Meteora., full of information, many stops for the most beautiful views. As an Orthodox Christian, I had a spiritual experience too. We had a very good, passionate and helpful guide, Clement, and an excelent driver, Nikos Thank you guys, Claudia and Olga, Romania
Ankit Srivastava

Ankit

Jun 2022
Meteora is an amazing place, and Chris was a really good guide. This is absolutely an experience you should have if you get the chance.
SHANMUKHA RAMA KRISHNA
GB

Shanmukha

United Kingdom
Apr 2025
The trip was good. Guide Mr Nick have shown and explain about the monastery. It was not easy to find out the bus to Meteora as no one there to identify the bus. It has to be improved and helpful to the customer. Finally got it.
Ewa Debicka
GB

Ewa

United Kingdom
Jul 2024
The whole trip was very well organized, Nicolaus the guide very nice and helpful. Meteors amazing. Everybody should visit the place. Great experience.
julia novakova

Julia

Oct 2023
Bus comfortable, departure on time, friendly guide Katherina, regular rest stops. We had a nice day, the visit to the monasteries was really worthwhile, it's beautiful.
James Paterson
GB

James

United Kingdom
Sep 2023
Very easy and straightforward booking, with clear joining instructions for the Meteora tour. Our guide Konstantina and driver Dimitris were both excellent. Well timed stops for refreshments and comfort breaks. Excellent choice of restaurant for lunch. Comfortable new Mercedes minibus. The site at Meteora was magnificent: a natural wonder! The only thing I didn't like was the fact that women visitors at the monasteries were required to wear an additional long skirt even if they were already wearing full-length trousers: a very antiquated and discriminatory attitude towards women!
María Pilar Soriano Palaus
ES

María

Spain
Jan 2025
The place was amazing and the guide was very friendly and very professional.what I didn't like was the food.you sell it as a typical lunch and it is a kind of selfservice that gives you a choice of three dishes and a small plate with salad without dessert.I advise you to make the trip to Meteora but without the option of food.

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What to expect on your Meteora day trip?

Meteora day trip
Meteora day trip
Meteora day trip
Meteora day trip
Meteora day trip
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Travel made easy; wherever you’re starting from

Whether you're coming from Athens, Thessaloniki, or staying locally in Kalabaka or Kastraki, all tours include round-trip transfers in comfortable, air-conditioned coaches or VIP minibuses. Many tours, including the sunset and half-day options, also offer hotel pick-up and drop-off for a worry-free experience, with timely departures, onboard Wi-Fi, and USB chargers making the journey smooth and convenient from start to finish.

Expert takes on Meteora’s history

With a guide by your side, you can explore more than meets the eye—stories you’d likely miss on your own, like how frescoes were subtly altered to evade Ottoman censorship, why prayer chambers face specific directions, and how rope pulleys once hoisted entire communities up the cliffs. These details add depth to the landscape, turning each monastery into a window into centuries of faith and resilience.

Add flavor to the experience (literally!)

A traditional Greek lunch in the village of Kastraki is often part of the experience—think moussaka, grilled lamb, and tzatziki with warm bread, all served with mountain views. Prefer everything taken care of? The Athens full-day tour offers a version with lunch included, while others give you the freedom to pick your own taverna along the way.

Choose your own adventure

Not every visit to Meteora needs an early start. The sunset tour from Kalabaka lets you take it slow and watch the sky shift colors over the stone pillars. For something more active, the guided hiking tour begins in the ancient settlement of Mesochori and follows the same paths once walked by monks. If you’re short on time, try a half-day tour; if you’d rather take it slow, the 2-day tour from Athens lets you explore without watching the clock.

Explore more than just monasteries

Along the way, explore charming villages like Kastraki and Kalabaka, where you can browse handmade pottery in local shops, sip coffee at a café overlooking the cliffs, or simply enjoy the quiet rhythm of life beneath the rocks.

Where should you start your Meteora day tour?

As Greece’s main travel hub, Athens is the most practical starting point for first-time visitors, especially if you’re short on days. Tours are built for day-trippers, with structured itineraries, hotel pick-ups, and smooth connections throughout.

For those already in the north, Thessaloniki offers a more relaxed travel pace and a shorter drive to Meteora. Many tours from here are led by archaeologists or cultural experts, making them ideal for travelers who want deeper context along the way.

Staying in Kalabaka or Kastraki gives you maximum flexibility—half-day and sunset tours run frequently, and you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, without the demands of long travel times.

Things to know before booking your Meteora day tour

  • The roads in Meteora are narrow and winding, making it tricky to explore on your own. We recommend choosing guided transfers to save time and avoid confusion.
  • You'll typically visit 2 to 4 monasteries, depending on the day, since each monastery closes one day a week on a rotating schedule.
  • A small cash offering of €3 to €5 is required to enter each monastery. Carry a few small bills and coins with you.
  • With just 12 people on the hiking tour and 20 on the2-day option, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience with a slower pace, fewer crowds, and guides who take the time to show you hidden corners and share the stories behind them.
  • If your schedule allows, aim for a late afternoon or sunset tour. The golden light, long shadows, and quiet atmosphere completely transform the landscape.
  • Keep your camera ready. Panoramic viewpoints like the main observation deck near Great Meteoron or the road to Holy Trinity offer some of the best photo ops in all of Greece.
  • Most tours use comfortable minibuses or coaches to shuttle you between stops, taking care of the logistics so you can focus on the scenery.
  • Dress modestly in line with Orthodox tradition; men should wear long pants, and women should have long skirts and covered shoulders. Wrap skirts and shawls are usually offered at the entrance if needed.
  • Closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots are a must. Even with transfers, expect stone paths, staircases, and a bit of uphill walking.
  • Wheelchair access is limited across Meteora due to the terrain, but St. Stephen’s Monastery is the most accessible, requiring no stairs.

Plan your Meteora tour

Best time to visit Meteora
  • Spring (March to May): The spring months are one of the best times to visit Meteora. The weather is mild, the cliffs are lush and green, and wildflowers line the walking paths, making it perfect for sightseeing and hiking without the summer crowds.
  • Summer (June to August): Summer offers long daylight hours and clear skies, ideal for photography and panoramic views. However, July and August can be hot and crowded, so early June is the sweet spot if you want good weather without peak-season crowds.
  • Autumn (September to early November): Early fall mirrors spring with warm days and fewer tourists. September is especially great for clear views and golden-hour light, while October adds beautiful fall colors across the landscape.
  • Winter (Late November to February): Winter is the quietest season, with misty cliffs, occasional snow, and a serene atmosphere. While some monasteries have limited hours, it’s a great time if you prefer silence over sunshine.
Getting to Meteora

Skip the stress of renting a car, navigating steep roads, or hunting for parking near the monasteries. No matter where you’re starting from, getting to Meteora is easy with a guided tour that includes transfers. You’ll get to relax, enjoy local commentary, and stop at scenic spots most travelers miss, all without juggling train or bus schedules.

  • Most full-day tours from Athens include round-trip coach transfers to Larissa Railway Station, where you’ll catch the train to Kalabaka. From there, a local minivan or tour bus takes you to Meteora in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that typically includes Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and bottled water.
  • Tours from Thessaloniki also include round-trip transfers by air-conditioned coach, usually with an early morning departure. You’ll travel through scenic Northern Greece with a local trip attendant or archaeologist onboard who introduces Meteora’s history en route.
  • If you’re already staying in Kalabaka or Kastraki, local tours provide hotel or Airbnb pick-up in VIP Mercedes minibuses. This is the most convenient and time-efficient option, especially for sunset or half-day sightseeing tours.
Rules to note when visiting Meteora
  • Photography is not allowed inside monastery chapels or sacred areas.
  • Drones are prohibited in the Meteora area unless special permission is granted.
  • Pets are not allowed inside the monastery grounds.
  • Food and drinks are not permitted inside the monasteries.
  • Follow signposted paths only — off-trail hiking can damage the ecosystem and put you at risk.
  • Always listen to your guide, especially on small groups or hiking tours. Some areas are restricted or seasonal.
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  • Greek Tavern to Kalami (800m away): Known for its slow-cooked lamb in lemon sauce and traditional baked moussaka, this cozy spot serves hearty, home-style Greek classics.
  • Taverna & Ouzeri Pappas (1.2km away): A local favorite for its grilled meats and meze plates, especially the juicy souvlaki and tangy tzatziki paired with ouzo.
  • Taverna Gardenia (1.3km away): Famed for its tender goat stew and fresh village-style salads, all served under a shaded garden terrace with Meteora views.
  • Taverna Bakaliarakia (1.3km away): Specializes in crispy fried cod (bakaliaros) with garlic skordalia dip, a must-try local delicacy done right.
  • Qastiro Meteora (1.6km away): Offers a refined take on Greek cuisine, with standout dishes like grilled feta with honey and sesame, and slow-roasted pork in red wine.
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  • Budget stays
  • Guesthouse Papastathis (140m away)
  • Boufidis Rooms (290m away)
  • Kostis House (900m away)
  • Mid-range hotels
  • Pyrgos Adrachti (1.6km away)
  • The Grand Meteora Hotel (1.9km away)
  • Archontiko Mesochori Meteora (1.9km away)
  • Luxury hotels
  • Theatro Hotel Odysseon (2.1km away)
  • Divani Meteora Hotel (3.9km away)
  • Mirabilis Boutique Hotel (4.5km away)
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  • Kalabaka: Stroll through the old quarter to visit the Byzantine Church of the Virgin Mary, browse local craft shops selling religious icons and handmade ceramics, or enjoy a traditional meal with views of the rock pillars towering overhead.
  • Kastraki: A quiet, picturesque village nestled right under the cliffs of Meteora, Kastraki is perfect for a scenic walk or a slow lunch in a garden taverna. It’s also a popular base for hikers, with several well-marked trails leading directly to monastery sites and hidden rock formations like Doupiani.
  • Trikala: Located about 20 minutes from Kalabaka, Trikala blends modern charm with rich history. You can explore the Ottoman-era Varousi district, relax along the Litheos River promenade, or visit the restored Trikala Fortress for panoramic views. The town also has a vibrant café and food scene, making it worth a half-day trip.

Frequently asked questions about Meteora day trips

Do I need to pre-book monastery tickets separately?

No, entry fees are paid on-site in cash. Your guide will let you know when and where to pay (around €3 to €5 per monastery).

What languages are the tours available in?

Guided tours are offered in English and Spanish (based on the option selected), and most buses provide smart audio guides in multiple languages, including French, German, Italian, Chinese, and more.

How physically demanding are the Meteora tours?

Most tours involve walking, stairs, and uneven paths. While not strenuous, you must be comfortable with light to moderate walking.

Can I bring luggage or backpacks on the tour?

Small backpacks are suitable, especially for hiking tours. For larger luggage, particularly on the 2-day tour, storage compartments on the coach are usually available. It's best to check with your tour provider in advance.

Are the tours suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, but it's best to choose tours with fewer monastery visits or limited walking. The sunset and sightseeing tours are ideal for all ages.

What happens if it rains?

Tours run in most weather conditions, including light rain or cloudy skies. It’s a good idea to bring a light rain jacket. Even in mist or fog, the landscape remains dramatic and memorable.

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