Meteora: Monasteries Tour, Lunch, and Athens Transfer Option

Meteora’s monasteries have long captivated visitors with their stunning cliffside locations and rich cultural heritage. This guided tour offers the chance to explore three of these awe-inspiring monasteries and one nunnery, complemented by a traditional Greek lunch. With convenient daily departures from Kalambaka and an optional Athens transfer, it’s the perfect way to learn about the beauty and history of this remarkable region. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the area, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to uncover more.

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Key Points

A full-day tour of the Meteora monasteries, including visits to 3 monasteries, 1 nunnery, and a traditional Greek lunch, priced at $48.96 per person.
Departures daily from Kalambakas train station, with optional roundtrip transportation from Athens available.
Tour features guided exploration of hidden gems like Hermit Caves and St. George Mandilas Cave, and concludes with panoramic photo stops.
Suitable for most guests, though not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments due to challenging terrain.
Tour includes an English-speaking guide, free audio guides in multiple languages, and requires cash for entrance fees and adherence to a dress code.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Meteora Monasteries Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the awe-inspiring monasteries perched atop towering rock formations in Thessaly, Greece.

Priced at $48.96 per person, the tour lasts 5-14 hours with daily departures from Kalambakas train station. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes visits to 3 monasteries and 1 nunnery, as well as a traditional Greek lunch. Transportation is provided via air-conditioned bus, with an optional roundtrip transfer from Athens available.

Looking for more options in Kalabaka? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting locations for the Meteora Monasteries Tour include Kalambaka or ΣΤ. ΛΑΡΙΣΗΣ.

The guided tour visits 3 monasteries and 1 nunnery, exploring hidden gems like the Hermit Caves, Chapel of Doupiani, and St. George Mandilas Cave.

Guests enjoy a traditional Greek lunch at a local restaurant, and the tour includes panoramic photo stops.

A traditional Greek lunch at a local restaurant, along with panoramic photo stops, are included in the tour.

The excursion concludes around 18:00.

This tour provides a comprehensive Meteora experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes.

Transportation and Accessibility

The Meteora Monasteries Tour provides pickup and drop-off from the Kalambakas train station, with transportation via air-conditioned bus.

For those seeking a seamless experience, roundtrip transportation from Athens is available, though train service is currently unavailable.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the terrain and monastery access can be challenging.

Guests should come prepared with cash for entrance fees and audio guides, which can be rented using a personal smartphone and earphones.

Tour Inclusions and Requirements

A local, English-speaking tour guide leads the Meteora Monasteries Tour.

Free audio guides are available in Spanish, French, and Italian for those who prefer.

Entry fees to each monastery cost €5 per person, payable in cash only.

Visitors must adhere to a dress code – men in long trousers, women in long skirts. Rentals or purchases are available on-site if needed.

Guests should bring cash for the entry fees and audio guides, and ensure they’ve a smartphone and earphones.

The tour provides a comprehensive, yet convenient, way to explore the iconic Meteora monasteries.

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Customer Feedback and Experience

With an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 77 reviews, the Meteora Monasteries Tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers.

The Meteora Monasteries Tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, earning an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating from 77 customer reviews.

Highlights include:

Knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary on the region’s history and culture
Comfortable transportation that enhances the overall experience
Small group sizes (12 people) that reduce crowding and allow for more personalized attention

Customers also praise the tour’s ability to showcase the breathtaking views and well-preserved interiors of the monasteries, making it a must-do day-trip from Athens.

With suggestions for longer visits, the Meteora Monasteries Tour offers an unforgettable exploration of this unique and awe-inspiring destination.

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Exploring the Monasteries of Meteora

Although perched atop towering rock formations, the monasteries of Meteora beckon visitors to explore their storied pasts and architectural wonders.

These holy sanctuaries, some dating back to the 14th century, showcase remarkable Byzantine art and intricate frescoes. Visitors can wander through the monasteries’ halls, churches, and hidden caves, seeing the tranquil, spiritual atmosphere.

The guided tour provides access to three monasteries and one nunnery, allowing guests to witness the unique monastic lifestyle and appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views.

With a traditional Greek lunch included, the Meteora experience offers a comprehensive glimpse into this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.

Experiencing the Local Cuisine

The guided tour also includes a traditional Greek lunch at a local restaurant, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the region.

This dining experience offers:

Authentic Greek cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
An opportunity to try regional specialties like moussaka, dolmades, and tzatziki
A relaxed setting to recharge and enjoy the company of fellow travelers before continuing the exploration of Meteora’s spiritual wonders.

After the hearty meal, the tour resumes, leading visitors to uncover more of the monasteries’ hidden gems and breathtaking vistas.

Extending Your Visit to Athens

For those visitors exploring Meteora who wish to extend their journey, the tour offers an optional roundtrip transportation service from Athens. This allows travelers to seamlessly combine their monastery visit with time in Greece’s vibrant capital.

While train service is currently unavailable, the tour provides air-conditioned bus transfers to and from Athens, making it a convenient option.

With this add-on, visitors can enjoy the historical and cultural richness of Athens, from the iconic Acropolis to the lively neighborhoods, before or after their Meteora experience. The flexibility enhances the overall trip flexibility.

Since You Asked

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Monasteries?

The dress code for visiting the monasteries requires men to wear long trousers and women to wear long skirts. Visitors can rent or purchase suitable attire if they don’t have the appropriate clothing.

Can I Use a Credit Card to Pay for the Entrance Fees?

No, you can’t use a credit card to pay the monastery entrance fees. The tour requires cash only – €5 per person for each monastery. Make sure to bring enough cash with you to cover these fees.

Are Wheelchairs or Strollers Allowed Inside the Monasteries?

Wheelchairs and strollers aren’t allowed inside the monasteries due to the steep stairs and narrow passageways. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments. Visitors should expect to navigate many steps during the visits.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Meteora?

The best time to visit Meteora is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Summers can be quite hot, while winters may bring snow and icy conditions, making visits more challenging.

Can I Extend My Stay in Meteora After the Tour?

You can extend your stay in Meteora after the tour. The tour concludes around 6 PM, providing plenty of time to explore the area further on your own or book additional accommodation for a longer visit.

Final Words

The Meteora Monasteries Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With a well-curated itinerary, comfortable transportation, and a delightful Greek lunch, this tour provides a seamless way to explore the majestic monasteries and connect with the local traditions. Whether you’re seeking a day trip or looking to extend your journey to Athens, this experience is a must-add to any Meteora adventure.