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Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup
Athens, Greece, Europe
$73.03
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after
they redeem the gift voucher.
Overview
Embarking on the Meteora Day Trip from Athens by bus offers a distinctive journey into one of Greece's most awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This tour provides the convenience of round-trip transportation from Athens in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic Greek countryside en route to Meteora. Upon arrival, participants have the opportunity to join a small group and visit 3 of the 6 historic monasteries, each perched atop towering rock formations, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into centuries-old monastic life. An optional traditional Greek lunch in the nearby village of Kastraki enhances the cultural experience. The inclusion of an audio guide enriches the journey with historical insights and stories about the monasteries and the surrounding landscape. This combination of seamless transportation, guided exploration, and cultural immersion makes this tour a unique and enriching way to experience the wonders of Meteora.
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The experience offers several options. This price includes:
Tour only (excluding lunch)
Tour guide
Language: English
Human tour guide
Duration: 14 hours
The experience offers several options, check yours above
- Multilingual Monasteries audio tour
- Roundtrip transfer from Athens to Meteora
- Pickup service from centrally located hotels in Athens
- Visit to the hermit caves
- Free map and bottle of water
- Visit the interior of 3 most beautiful monasteries
- Coastal stopovers for brunch and dinner at beachfront restaurant
- Local English speaking tour leader
- Greek lunch with 10 dishes, including vegetarian options (if option is selected)
- Guided tour inside the monasteries (audio guide available for free)
- Entrance fees of the Monasteries (each monastery admission costs €5 per person per monastery)
- Drop-off service in Athens
Meeting point
You need to be at the opposite side of the Athens Railway Station at 07:30 am. You can reach the Athens Railway Station by metro, getting off at the Larissis Metro Station.
Return details
You need to be at the opposite side of the Athens Railway Station at 07:30 am. You can reach the Athens Railway Station by metro, getting off at the Larissis Metro Station.
- 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. (pass by)
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Kamena VourlaSeaside 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.
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KastrakiArriving in Kalabaka around 12:30 PM, switch to a local VIP minibus and meet your expert guide for an immersive exploration of Meteora. Your expert local guide will take you to three of the most famous monasteries, with short photo stops at all six. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views and hear fascinating stories about the history and spiritual life of Meteora.
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Varlaam MonasteryVisit 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.
- 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. (pass by)
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MeteoraBe 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.
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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.
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At the end of the day, our expert escort will transfer you back to Kalambaka, where you will have the time to stroll around and have a light lunch (not included). At 5:35 p.m. the bus departs from Kalambaka, and arrives at 9:58 p.m back to Athens.
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Agios Nikolaos AnapaphsasThe 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.
- Enjoy the panoramic view of the town Kalampaka (pass by)
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Roussanou MonasteryThe 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.
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Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada)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.
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Kamena VourlaSunset 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.
If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How it works?
01
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You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
02
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We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
03
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Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!
Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup
Athens, Greece, Europe
$73.03
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after
they redeem the gift voucher.
How it works?
01
—
You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
02
—
We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
03
—
Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!