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Offered languages
- German
- Portuguese
- Japanese
- English
- English
- Italian
- French
- Spanish
Join us for a unique day trip from Athens to Meteora that blends sacred heritage with the beauty of the Greek coastline. Unlike other tours that stop at highway gas stations, we take you to peaceful seaside villages for brunch and dinner, right by the water. Enjoy your coffee or meal with a sea breeze and stunning views.
Your day begins with a comfortable bus ride from Athens through the countryside. Midway, we stop at a coastal village for an optional seaside brunch. In Meteora, a local guide leads you through three monasteries, with photo stops at all six, and shares the stories behind this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also explore the hermit caves of Badovas and enjoy an optional lunch at a traditional taverna in Kastraki.
On the way back, we stop again—this time for an optional sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant in Kamena Vourla. It’s the perfect end to a day full of nature, history, and authentic Greek charm. Arrival in Athens is around 22:30.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The bus will depart from Larissis train station in Athens at 08:00am. We request you to be present at the exit of the Larissa metro/subway station on Deligianni str, directly opposite the Athens train station Everest cafe, by 07:45am.
Itinerary
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Athens (Pass by)
Experience one of Greece’s most captivating landscapes in a single, enriching day. Your journey begins in Athens with a scenic drive through the heart of the country, aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach.
Admission ticket free -
1
Coastal Brunch Stop: Unlike typical tours that pause at highway rest stations, our tour offers a peaceful seaside brunch break in the scenic small town of Kamena Vourla, where mountains and sea beautifully blend. Relax with fresh air and stunning sea views while enjoying optional meals and drinks that can be easily pre-ordered through our onboard app for a hassle-free experience.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
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.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
The Holy Monastery of Varlaam is the second biggest monastery. It is located opposite of the Great Meteoro Monastery and it was founded in the mid 14th century by the exercitant Hosios Varlaam. The elegant monastery Catholicon was built in the honour of Agioi Pantes in 1541-42, by two brothers from Ioannina, the priest-monks Hosioi Theophanes and Nectarios the Apsarades. The main church was decorated in 1548. Based on stylistic criteria, this magnificent wall-painting is attributed to the famous hagiographer from Thebes, Frago Catelano.
45 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
(Pass by)
The Great Meteoron Monastery is the biggest and oldest one of all. It was called the monastery that was “suspended in the air” (meteoro), because of the formation of the gigantic rock on top of which it was built.The Great Meteoro Monastery was founded by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite who was the first founder of the monastery and the organizer of the systematic koenovion.
Admission ticket free -
4Meteora
Prepare to be captivated by the hidden hermit caves of Badovas, a testament to the solitude and devotion of the past where you'll discover the fascinating stories of the hermits and monks who once lived in these remote areas. You'll have the chance to witness the remnants of their dwellings and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life.
25 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
5
This is the most accessible monastery, where instead of steps you simply cross a small bridge to reach the entrance. It is ideal for visitors who cannot use the steps and yet they wish to have a real experience of a Meteora monastery. The beginning of monastic life on the rock of Agios Stephanos dates back to early in the 12th century. Hosios Antonios, in the first half of the 15th century, and Hosios Philotheos, who renovated or rather rebuilt from its foundations the old small and elegant Catholicon, the present church of Agios Stephanos, in 1545 are mentioned as its founders. St. Stephen’s Monastery includes two cathedrals; the old 16th century chapel which was severely damaged during WWII and the consequent Greek Civil War, and the 18th century main cathedral that is dedicated to Saint Charalambos and includes his holy relics.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
6
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 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
You will enjoy the panoramic view of the town Kalampaka
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
The Holy Monastery of Roussanou has received the name of the first probable hermit who settled on the rock. The main cathedral was founded at the end of the 16th century and was decorated thirty years later. Compared to other rocks where monasteries were built, the one of Roussanou has a lower elevation, which makes it more accessible. The monastery was initially founded by monks and it suffered severe damage during World War II. It became a convent in 1988.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9
The Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada) is the most difficult to reach, but once you get to the very top the panoramic view of the surroundings is simply captivating! This Monastery is very close to the Saint Stephen’s Nunnery and it is perched on a steep and magnificent rock. It had already been organized Monastery since the year 1362 as indicated in a document by Symeon Uressis Palaeologos. Visitors have to follow a pathway that directs them initially to the foot of the rock, before they start walking up about 140 steps.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10
Sunset Dinner by the sea: On the return journey, we pause at a charming coastal town for an optional seaside dinner. It’s the perfect way to unwind and savor delicious Greek cuisine while watching the sunset over the water.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Dress Code for Monastery Visits: Please note that a modest dress code is enforced to enter the monasteries. For women, skirts below the knee or longer are required. Pants, shorts, or sleeveless shirts are not allowed. For men, sleeveless clothing and shorts above the knee are also prohibited.
- Rain or Shine: This tour will take place regardless of the weather conditions. Please come prepared with appropriate clothing and accessories to ensure a comfortable experience.
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Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Dress Code for Monastery Visits: Please note that a modest dress code is enforced to enter the monasteries. For women, skirts below the knee or longer are required. Pants, shorts, or sleeveless shirts are not allowed. For men, sleeveless clothing and shorts above the knee are also prohibited.
- Rain or Shine: This tour will take place regardless of the weather conditions. Please come prepared with appropriate clothing and accessories to ensure a comfortable experience.
- Climbing Steps to Monastery Tops: Please be aware that reaching the top of the monasteries involves climbing steps. There are no elevators available, so please consider this if you have any mobility concerns.
- Please make sure you have cash for the monasteries 5 euro each entrance. There is no ATM machine in the area.
- Supplier is not responsible if you miss the bus please be there on time (15 minutes before the departure)
- Tour is guided in English only. Additional languages (Spanish, French German, Italian, Portuguese, Polish, Russian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese) are available on a free SMART audio guide.
- At midday, you will enjoy a relaxing break in the picturesque village of Kastraki, where you can savor a delicious traditional Greek meal at a local restaurant. You will have the option to choose from 10 authentic Greek dishes, catering to all dietary preferences: Meat & Poultry Options: Chicken baked in the oven with potatoes Meatballs in red sauce (Soutzoukakia) Pastitsio (Greek-style lasagna) Moussaka Vegetarian Choices: Greek salad Spinach and feta cheese pie Cheese pie Vegan Options: Stuffed peppers & tomatoes with risotto (Gemista) Briam (Greek-style roasted vegetables) Giant beans baked in the oven (Gigantes) Bread and water are included with the meal. If you prefer, you can also choose and pay for your meal directly at the restaurant.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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