Posted by Meteora – A Fascinating Destination in Greece
Meteora is one of Greece’s most impressive sights and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The massive rock formations, topped by centuries-old monasteries, provide a breathtaking backdrop. This unique landscape attracts thousands of visitors each year, interested in history, nature, and spirituality.
Where is Meteora?
Meteora is located in central Greece, near the town of Kalambaka. The region belongs to the prefecture of Thessaly and is about 350 kilometers from Athens. The imposing cliffs rise above the valley of the Pineios River and offer spectacular panoramic views.
Day trips by bus from Athens to Meteora are available. It’s a long journey, about 700 kilometers round trip. So, you’ll spend 7-8 hours on the bus and only spend a few hours in Meteora. The visit is worth it, though; it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Greece.
The ticket provider Getyourguide offers day tours from Athens and other cities to Meteora. They also offer tours with an overnight stay (2-day tours) and guided tours of Meteora. Tours from Athens combined with other attractions, such as Delphi, are also often booked.
History and Significance
The first monasteries were established in the 14th century by Orthodox monks seeking refuge from Ottoman invaders in this remote region. There were once 24 monasteries, six of which are still active and open to visitors. These monasteries have served as spiritual centers of the Orthodox faith for centuries and preserve valuable religious artifacts, frescoes, and manuscripts.
The Six Active Monasteries
Megalo Meteoro (Metamorphosis) Monastery – The largest and oldest monastery, known for its wall paintings and historical artifacts.
Varlaam Monastery – Second largest monastery with impressive frescoes and a rich library.
Rousanou Monastery – Easily accessible and with magnificent views of the valley.
Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery – Particularly known for its unique wall paintings by Theophanes Strelitzas.
Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) Monastery – Famous for its spectacular location on a narrow cliff.
Agios Stefanos Monastery – The only monastery with direct access by bridge, ideal for visitors with limited mobility.
Getting to Meteora
By Train
There are direct trains from Athens to Kalambaka, which take approximately 4–5 hours. Trains depart from Larissa Station and offer a comfortable journey with scenic views of the Greek countryside.
By Bus
An alternative is the bus service from Athens to Kalambaka. The journey takes approximately 5 hours, with a change in Trikala. The buses are an affordable option and run frequently.
By Car
For travelers seeking more flexibility, a rental car is a good option. The journey from Athens to Meteora takes approximately 4 hours via the E75 national road and then via Trikala.
Guided Bus Tours from Athens to Meteora
Many tour operators offer day tours from Athens to Meteora. These typically include:
Round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus or train
Visits to two or three monasteries with entrance fees
Guided tour with professional guides
Photo stops at the best viewpoints
The day tour (bus excursion) usually starts early in the morning and ends in the evening in Athens. Alternatively, there are also two-day tours that include an overnight stay in Kalambaka or Kastraki.
>>> Link to book bus tours to Meteora from Athens and other locations
Best Time to Visit Meteora
The best time to visit is in spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. Summer can be very hot and crowded, while the winter months are often foggy and cool.
Practical tips for visitors
Clothing: Strict dress codes apply when visiting the monasteries. Men must wear long trousers, women must wear long skirts and keep their shoulders covered.
Entrance fees: Entrance to each monastery costs approximately €3.
Opening hours: The monasteries have different opening hours and are closed on certain days. It is advisable to check in advance.
Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails between the monasteries, offering spectacular views.
Meteora is a unique destination that combines history, nature, and spirituality in an impressive way. Whether by bus, train, or rental car, a visit is worthwhile for anyone who wants to discover Greece’s cultural and scenic diversity. We recommend a bus tour from Athens; due to the great distance, a 2-day bus trip with an overnight stay is best: Book here