Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup

1. Athens
   Pass by
   Discover one of Greece’s most awe-inspiring landscapes on a single, unforgettable day trip. Departing from Athens, you'll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, taking in the scenic beauty of the Greek countryside as you make your way to the breathtaking monasteries of Meteora.
   Catch the bus of 07:30 am to Kalambaka in the morning from opposite the Athens Railway Station and enjoy a trip that will give you the chance to admire the beauty of the countryside. Arrive around 12:30 pm in Kalambaka.
2. Kamena Vourla
   30m
   Seaside Brunch Stop: Skip the busy highway rest areas—enjoy a peaceful brunch by the sea, just steps from the water. Sip your coffee or savor a light meal with ocean views and fresh coastal air. Meals are optional and can be pre-ordered via our onboard app for a hassle-free experience.
3. Kastraki
   40m
   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
4. Varlaam Monastery
   45m · Admission ticket not included
   Visit the impressive Varlaam Monastery, the second largest of Meteora’s monasteries, perched high on a rocky pinnacle. Your guide will share the fascinating history of its 16th-century construction and the lives of the monks who once hauled materials up by rope. Admire the richly frescoed chapel, historic relics, and panoramic views over the dramatic landscape below.
5. Great Meteoron Monastery
   Pass by
   The Great Meteoron Monastery is the largest and oldest of all the Meteora monasteries. Built atop a towering rock formation, it earned the name “meteoro,” meaning “suspended in the air.” Founded by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite, it became the first organized monastic community in the area, laying the foundation for Meteora’s rich spiritual heritage.
6. Meteora
   25m
   Be amazed by the secluded hermit caves of Badovas, a powerful reflection of the solitude and spiritual dedication of Meteora’s earliest monks. As you explore these remote cliffside shelters, you’ll uncover the stories of the hermits who once lived here and see the traces of their simple dwellings—offering a rare glimpse into their austere, contemplative way of life.
7. 30m · Admission ticket not included
   St. Stephen’s Monastery is the most accessible of all the Meteora monasteries, requiring no stairs—just a short walk across a small bridge to reach its entrance—making it ideal for visitors with limited mobility who still want an authentic monastic experience. Monastic life on this rock began as early as the 12th century, with key figures like Hosios Antonios and Hosios Philotheos credited for its development, the latter having rebuilt the original church in 1545. Today, the monastery features two churches: a 16th-century chapel that suffered damage during WWII and the Greek Civil War, and a larger 18th-century cathedral dedicated to Saint Charalambos, which houses his revered relics.
8. 1h
   At the end of the day, our expert escort will transfer you back to Kalambaka, where you will have the time to stroll around. At 5:35 p.m. the bus departs from Kalambaka, and arrives at 9:58 p.m back to Athens.
9. Agios Nikolaos Anapaphsas
   10m
   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.
10. Kalambaka
    Pass by
    Enjoy the panoramic view of the town Kalampaka
11. Roussanou Monastery
    10m · Admission ticket not included
    The Holy Monastery of Roussanou is believed to be named after the first hermit who settled on its rock. Its main church was established in the late 16th century and beautifully decorated around thirty years later. Unlike some of the more elevated Meteora monasteries, Roussanou sits on a lower rock, making it easier to reach. Originally founded by monks, the monastery suffered significant damage during World War II. In 1988, it was transformed into a convent and continues to be a place of spiritual life and tradition.
12. Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada)
    10m · Admission ticket not included
    The Holy Trinity Monastery is the most challenging to access, but the breathtaking panoramic views from the top make the climb well worth the effort. Situated near St. Stephen’s Nunnery, this monastery sits atop a striking, steep rock formation. To reach it, visitors follow a path leading to the base of the rock, then ascend approximately 140 steps to the summit, where stunning scenery and spiritual history await.
13. Kamena Vourla
    45m
    Sunset Dinner by the Sea: On the way back, enjoy an optional dinner stop in a picturesque coastal town. It’s the ideal setting to relax, enjoy authentic Greek dishes, and take in a stunning sunset by the water—an unforgettable end to your day.

Pickup details

A complimentary pickup service is offered from selected centrally located hotels in Athens approximately one hour before the tour's departure. The supplier will email you prior to your tour date with details about the pickup location and time. Please note that drop-off service is not included, the tour ends at Larissis Station.

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Infants (ages 3 and under) are free
• To enter the monasteries, appropriate clothing is required. Women should not wear short skirts and must have long sleeves. Men are not allowed to wear shorts.
• Amendments are serviced based on the availability
• The tour requires customers to climb stairs upon their approach to the monasteries. If someone finds climbing stairs challenging, it is possible to wait at the parking area where some benches are.
• Customers do not need to buy the monasteries tickets ahead of time. They pay in cash on the spot.
• The bus that will drive the customers to Kalambaka is only for the travel group.