day trip athens to meteora

How to Go from Athens to Meteora on a Perfect Day Trip

One of the highlights of my first trip to Athens was visiting the monasteries in Meteora. Getting from Athens to Meteora is a bit of a headache, but you can do it as a day trip if you want! While you might prefer to spend the night in Kalabaka to have extra time, for those who truly only have one day here’s how to do it. I’ve listed three different ways to go on a Meteora tour from Athens, plus Athens travel tips to help you plan your trip. 

Read:  17 Spectacular Day Trips from Athens, Greece

3 Ways to Visit Meteora from Athens

In order from easiest to most difficult…

Taking a Guided Meteora Tour from Athens

Awkward monastery selfie!

This is what I chose to do. I went on the Meteora Full-Day Trip from Athens by Train .  It’s not a full guided tour because you still have to take the train on your own from Athens. Here’s how this tour works.

First, you book the tour, and the tour company gives you the information about which train you need to take. You’re responsible for following their instructions and getting on the train. I found the actual journey to be boring but pleasant. It’s about five hours there and six hours back, so this is a long day!

Make sure you bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Even at 8 am, this was one of the dirtiest bathrooms I’ve ever seen on a train. Plus someone had been smoking inside it and the sink was already clogged. You’ve been warned.

So why go on a guided tour if I had to deal with my own public transportation? Well see how high these monasteries are off the ground:

This is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen with my own two eyeballs

I never could have walked up there and back from the train station before the next train. There were only about four-five hours from when I arrived to when I had to leave. The guided tour helped me make sure I saw everything I wanted to.

There aren’t really taxis at the bottom either, so you can’t just hire a driver on the spot. If you wanted to do this, you’d need to pre-arrange it.

Basically, the medieval monks who built Meteora wanted it to be difficult to get to. Mission accomplished.

Once I arrived in Kalabaka, the tour company picked me and the rest of the people on our tour up. From here they drove us to the monasteries. We went inside and toured two of them, learned about the other four from the road, and had two stops for photo shoots. 

Learning about the monasteries on the tour bus

Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about where we were. Tour guides in Greece have to be especially good because there are all these rules about who is allowed to be a guide. It’s also why the tours in Greece are a bit pricier than elsewhere: the guides have to know their stuff.

Not included in the tour price : train tickets, lunch, entrance to the monasteries (one was three Euros and the other had no cost). 

If I was in Athens and wanted to go back to Meteora, I would still want a guided tour or to stay overnight. It’s just not an easy place to see on your own if you’re short on time. 

>> Book a Meteora Tour from Athens or Check Tour Reviews <<

Taking Public Transportation from Athens to Meteora

Catching the train back to Athens

Athens to Meteora by Train

Essentially you’ll do what I did, except once you get to Kalabaka you’ll need to figure out how to get to the monasteries.  Make sure you book the direct train that leaves from Athens Larissa station and arrives in Kalabaka (sometimes written Kalambaka). If you want to do this round trip, you’ll leave on the direct train that leaves around 8:30 am and go back on the train that leaves around 5:30 pm. Double check the exact times when you buy your ticket.

You can buy your tickets online and check schedules at  Train OSE . 

Athens to Meteor by Bus

Another option is to travel from Athens to Meteora on the KTEL bus. I love Greece’s buses (I’ve used them all over, especially in Crete). One thing to keep in mind is that KTEL is not a nation-wide company. The buses are split up at the prefecture level.

Plus, if you go by bus then you won’t have any real time to explore because the trip will take longer. The journey will go from Athens to Trikala, and then you’ll change buses to Kalabaka. 

You can check schedules and book your tickets at KTEL . 

Self-Driving from Athens to Meteora

This is the face of a girl who didn’t have to worry about driving on the crazy steep Meteora roads.

I love doing day trips DIY and renting a car. We wrote about how we love driving in Serbia because we got to see things that are not on the traditional tourist circuit. However, I don’t personally think I would ever want to drive to Meteora from Athens and back in one day. The drive is four hours each way before you account for traffic leaving and returning to Athens.

I am usually all up for a Balkan road trip , but I would personally only drive there from Athens as part of a larger road trip or at least an overnight. The cost of the rental car will most likely cancel out any saving you have on the tour after factoring in the rental cost, gasoline, and tolls. 

But if you insist on driving, like if you have a few people to drive and you’re borrowing a friends car or something, then go for it. Just make sure you have data and that you download the section of Google Maps so that you have access to the driving instructions if you lose connectivity in the mountains. 

Also, if you have a crippling fear of driving in the mountains, (like I do), then don’t be the driver. Have someone else on your trip cover that part. 

How to Follow the Meteora Dress Code

The Meteora dress code is no joke man.

You may be wondering what to wear to Meteora. There is a dress code, and it is strictly enforced: “No entry for men wearing shorts and for women wearing trousers shorts or short sleeves.”

Yes, women, that means you need to wear a dress. Otherwise, they’ll give you a wrap to wear in the monasteries that are, let’s say, not Instagrammable.

You should also wear sturdy shoes that can handle slick staircases and long hours walking on stone steps.

Another thing to consider is that you’ll either be on a train for eleven hours or in a car for nine hours. You want to wear clothes that are appropriate for the monasteries, something you want to be photographed in, and also something that you can wear on the train or in the car.

I chose leggings and a dress, but you know what works best for you. 

The Best Times to Visit Meteora

You can visit Meteora year-round. The crowds will be much higher in the summer, but even in October during my visit, it was quite crowded. I loved visiting Meteora in autumn because the weather was amazing.

Allison visited Meteora in winter and got some amazing photos of the monasteries covered in snow. Bottom line, there isn’t really a bad time to be in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Recommended Meteora Tour from Athens

There’s only one tour that we’re recommending for this day trip:

• Meteora Full-Day Trip from Athens by Train .

If you’re iinterestedin other guided day trips from Athens, check our Athens Day Trip guide.

Where to Stay in Athens

If this is your first trip to Athens, figuring out where to stay in the city can be a bit intimidating. Because of the location of the Acropolis, it really matters which neighborhood you choose to stay in, especially if you’re looking for Acropolis views, easy access to the metro, and a good value for your money.

For our hotel recommendations, Generally, budget means hostel beds for around $30 a night and singles/doubles for around $50, mid-range is from about $50-100 per night, and luxury will cost over $100 per night. However, note that availability, time of year, and how much in advance you book will play a role in how much accommodations cost in Athens.

Budget:  If you want a hostel dorm bed in the heart of Psyri, check out the Acropolis Hostel. This basic-yet-clean hostel boasts what very few in the world can: Acropolis views from its communal terrace. You’ll enjoy having access to an elevator (no lugging you bag all the way up to your room), and you can enjoy the lively neighborhood atmosphere and come home when you want since the hostel has no curfew. 

Check out reviews, pictures, prices, and availability here .

Mid-Range:  For my most recent trip to Athens, we stayed in a couple of different places, but my favorite was the  Ares Athens Hotel   off of Omonia Square. I loved it’s location, close to Omonia station, across the street from a Coffee Island (my personal version of Heaven), and with views of Mount Lycabettus. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and each room has a private terrace. 

Luxury:  If you are a traveler who loves having stunning hotel views, book a stay at  A for Athens,  a boutique hotel in Psyri that has what is considered by many to be the best rooftop bar in the city. You can also enjoy Acropolis views from the panoramic terrace during breakfast, You can even get amazing Acropolis and Parthenon views from some of the rooms. This hotel is basically Instagram crack. 

Check out prices, reviews, photos, and availability here.

Don’t see a hotel that’s the right pick for you? Check out our complete  Athens Neighborhood and Hotel Guide.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I’m sure you’re aware that  travel insurance  is essential for traveling in Greece, the Balkans, or anywhere in the world! Allison and I have both been paying customers of  World Nomads  for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption. 

While Athens is perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel like theft or injury, so it’s better to play it safe. The saying goes “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel” is true!

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Greece Travel Resources

Headed to Greece? We have some great travel resources to help you with your trip. First read our guide to  planning a trip to Greece , which covers visas, budgets, vaccines, and much more. We also have a  Balkan currency guide  which explains how money works in Greece and local tipping customs.

If you are still trying to figure out your itinerary, check out our guides on  where to go in Greece  and when is the  best time to visit. 

If you’ll be spending time in Athens, check out our  Athens Instagram Guide  and our complete  Athens hotel guide.  If you’re looking for more suggestions for day trips, here is our guide to the best Athens day trips.

We publish new content about the Balkans almost every day! For more information about traveling to Greece and the Balkans, bookmark our  Greece  and  Balkan  travel pages so you can find out what’s new before your trip.

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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Meteora Day Trip from Athens: A One Day Itinerary

Last Updated on February 27, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a Meteora day trip from Athens is one of the most spectacular historic days out from the Greek capital. Meteora is undoubtedly one of the most unique places to visit when venturing on a trip to Greece.

Many travelers head to Athens and the islands when visiting Greece, missing the jewels of the mainland.

The 14th-century ethereal monasteries of Meteora perched above the unique and dramatic landscape of naturally formed high rocks offer travelers a truly special experience.

Table of Contents

Getting from Athens to Meteora

By organized tour.

Perhaps you’re someone who would prefer to visit Meteora with a guide and an organized plan for your trip. If this is you, I recommend taking part in a guided tour from Athens to Meteora.

This full-day tour and this full-day tour takes the train from Athens before arriving at the UNESCO Heritage Site of Meteora. You’ll visit 3 of the 6 historical monasteries of Meteora as well as the Caves of Badovas with lunch included.

Another good option is this full-day tour . This option includes the train ride to and from Athens on the same day, a local tour guide during your visit, transportation during the trip, and many photo opportunities.

At the end of the day, you will grab the train back to Athens. It’s an excellent option if you are looking for a Meteora tour from Athens by train.

There’s also the possibility to book this private day tour if you prefer to visit with your own, personal guide.

If you’re looking to get more out of your trip, this 2-day tour or this 2-day tour is perfect for you. You’ll have time to visit all 6 Meteora monasteries as well as enjoy a sunset and hiking tour. The tours include all transport, guides and accommodation.

If you decide to head to Meteora from Athens independently, the best transport option (besides renting a car) will be to take a train. You can reach Meteora from Athens’ Larissa train station (also sometimes known as Larissis station) in around 4 hours. Although it is a long journey, it’s incredibly worth it.

It’s important to note that “Meteora” is the physical structure of rocks and the UNESCO World Heritage Site rather than the town it is located in. The town next to and directly below Meteora is the town of Kalambaka. This is where you will arrive, eat, and seek accommodation if you decide to stay more than just for a day trip.

Trains leave to and from Athens and Kalambaka just about every day with a few departures each day. This means you’ll want to plan your trip well in advance so that your schedule can line up with train times. 

Train tickets are affordable but can differ depending on the time of day as well as the route and speed of the train. Also, keep in mind that purchasing individual tickets will likely come out more expensive in comparison to booking a round-trip ticket.

These routes are quite common and trains aren’t as frequent compared to other European countries so they tend to book up quickly, so you’ll want to reserve in advance. Train schedules for the Hellenic Trains can be found and purchased here .

To reach Meteora from Kalambaka, you can either hike to the rocks and monasteries or take a bus/taxi. The hike is around 1.5 hours with stunning wild scenery, and the bus or taxi ride is quite short but takes you directly to the area of the monasteries.

Alternatively, another transport option for a day trip from Athens to Meteora is to take the bus. Bus transport is a bit more complicated than taking the train, but it is feasible if that’s your preferred option. 

There are no direct buses from Athens to Kalambaka (the nearest town to Meteora), so the journey from Athens to Meteora consists of two different buses.

The first bus departs from the “Liosion 260 Bus Station” in the Kato Patisia area of Athens. From here you’ll take the bus departing to Trikala which takes around 5 hours.

Buses to Trikala from this stop leave multiple times a day with extra departures on weekends. This is the nearest city to the town of Kalambaka and where you will take the second bus onward to Meteora. 

From Trikala, you’ll transfer to another bus towards Kalambaka (your final destination for Meteroa). Buses leave just around every hour for Kalamabaka from Trikala with a journey of just under half an hour. 

This makes a total journey of around 6 hours. With that being said, if you take the first bus in the morning and the last bus in the evening, it’s possible to make the day trip (if you don’t mind the exceptionally long day).

Otherwise, if you’re keen on bus transport, I recommend at least staying one night in Meteora to make the most of your trip. This way you won’t be worn out from the bus journey or rushing to see the sites. 

If you want the flexibility of travelling to Meteora on your own schedule, then another option is to rent a car, particularly if you want to visit other nearby sites such as Delphi .

You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare options for car rentals across many different companies.

Meteora Day Trip Itinerary

Due to the expected length of a day trip, you’ll possibly wonder how many days in Meteora are necessary.

Spending only one day in the area will allow you to see the main sights, however, an extra day or two with overnight accommodation will give you enough time to explore the surrounding areas without being in a rush.

Monasteries of Meteora

The main attractions of Meteora are easily the 6 Greek Orthodox monasteries resting above the immaculate rock peaks making up Meteora. Hiking to the monasteries and witnessing the below towns from above is an incredible experience.

In Byzantine times, Monks had a longing to be “closer to god”, and therefore built these monasteries atop the high rock peaks of Meteora. At the time, there were 24 standing. Incredibly, 6 of the monasteries are still standing today perched above the world below. 

The main thing that stuck out to me during my first visit was the immensity and height of the rocks. I wondered, “there’s no way people hike up there!”. Then just around 1.5 hours later, I too found myself looking down from above in awe.

Reaching the Monasteries

Your options to reach the monasteries from Kalambaka are either by rental car, bus, taxi, or hike.

Buses leave from the main square in Kalabaka to reach the furthest monastery and cost about €3 for each bus journey. A taxi is most expensive transport option to reach the monasteries.

If you have a rental car during your Meteora itinerary, this is a great option to hop around the monasteries that you prefer to visit. And the most popular option is to hike to the monasteries. 

From the town, you’ll want to follow the signs leading you into the forest, through the trail, and to the first monastery. The journey itself is about 2 miles and after about 100 steps upward, the first monastery you’ll reach is Agia Triada (the Holy Trinity).

From Agia Triada, each of the other 5 Monasteries are quite spaced out so be prepared for a long day if you plan to visit all of the monasteries and then hike back to Kalambaka. 

Visiting the Monasteries

While there are still 6 monasteries standing, I personally recommend only visiting a few of them unless you’re someone with a particular interest in monasteries and the Orthodox religion.

Visiting one or two of them is ideal as there is an entry cost for each monastery and it can add up quite quickly if you decide to visit all 6. All of the monasteries are pretty similar in design and history so once you’ve seen a few, you get a good idea of what they’re all like.

The view from each monastery is quite unique though, so this is a benefit if you decide to visit all 6. 

If your Meteora itinerary is within the summer months, keep in mind that it can become extremely hot. So if you’re hoping to hike to the monasteries during the summer, make sure you’re in good physical shape to face the hike as well as have water and food on hand.

There’s nowhere to buy water or food once you reach the top, so having these with you is a necessity. 

Comfortable walking shoes are also something important to keep in mind especially if you plan to walk to and between the monasteries.

There is also a strict dress code in place when visiting the monasteries; women need their shoulders covered and also wear a long skirt, dress, or sarong. For men, a T-shirt or long-sleeved shirt and pants should suffice. Wrap skirts are available to borrow from each monastery which is included in the entry cost to ensure you have the appropriate clothing.

Hermit Caves of Badovas

Another point of interest in the area that’s worth visiting during a Meteora day trip from Athens is the Hermit Caves of Badovas. 

As you make your way toward Meteora from the town of Kastraki (beside Kalambaka), you’ll likely notice a large number of holes within the rocks of Meteora. While they may just seem like holes weathered into the rock formations, they’re actually caves.

These caves are evidence of the earliest days of Monastic presence in Meteora and are where hermits are believed to have settled in the 9th and 10th centuries – rarely if ever leaving their caved homes. 

It’s possible to hike throughout the area of the caves once reaching the entry point between Kastraki and Kalambaka. Wandering through these caves and this peaceful world that the hermits built and lived in are a great way to get an idea of the beginnings of Meteora, how it was created, and by whom. 

There are a few tours led by local guides of the Hermit Caves of Badovas and these are a wonderful way to experience the area as well as learn more about the caves. 

The Town of Kalambaka 

Before leaving Meteora (if you have time), make sure to spend at least a little time in the town of Kalambaka. For an area that’s becoming increasingly busy with tourists, the town itself still has a wonderfully local feel to it.

Wander around the main area, eat at one of the many delicious local restaurants, and mingle with the incredibly friendly locals. Kalambaka is a town with heart and you’ll definitely witness this even if you just spend a few hours there during your one day in Meteora.

Looking for a great restaurant to eat at after a long day hiking and wandering the monasteries and rocks of Meteora? I recommend Skaros Tavern .

It’s a delicious family-run tavern in the center of Kalambaka offering classic Greek tavern dishes as well as dishes local to the area and Thessaly region. 

Have More Than One Day in Meteora?

Do you have more time to spend in the area during your Meteora itinerary and want to dive deeper into this beautiful part of Greece? Luckily the region and surrounding areas are full of natural beauty, rich history, and friendly locals.

Just about 4 km away from Meteora, is the incredible archaeological area of the Theopetra Cave. The Theopetra Cave is easily one of the most important archaeological findings in Greece and throughout the world, with the oldest known man-made structure on earth to this day.

Throughout the years and excavations of the area, archaeologists have found all sorts of items, giving us a look into prehistoric times and some of the first evidence of homo sapiens. 

For outdoor and adventure seekers, about a 2-hour drive or bus ride away is the famous Mount Olympus. Mount Olympus is the home of the Greek Olympian Gods and is also the largest mountain in Greece.

Spend time hiking the area (or to the top if you’re feeling adventurous), take in the otherworldly views, see the waterfalls of Olympus, and explore Litochoro, the town at the feet of Mount Olympus. 

Where to Stay Near Meteora

Dellas Boutique Hotel – Those travelling to Meteora on a mid-range budget will love this 3-star boutique hotel. Located in the town of Kalambaka, it is well-located to exploring the monasteries and all this area of Greece has to offer.

Hotel Doupiani House – This hotel is another fantastic mid-range option close to Meteora. Also situated in Kalambaka, they have a range of cosy and comfortable rooms on offer and there is also a buffet breakfast available for guests each morning.

Meteora Central Hostel – If you’re travelling solo or on a tight budget, then this hostel in Kalambaka is a great option. They have both dorms and private rooms available, a great location and wonderful common areas to help you easily meet other travelers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Meteora hotels!

Though it’s certainly a long travel time, doing a day trip to Meteora from Athens is one of the best things to do while visiting Greece.

Are you planning on visiting Meteora? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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The Best Meteora Tours to Take From Athens

 Dimitrious Tilis/Getty Images

Taking a tour from Athens to Meteora is an astonishing journey through time. People have been occupying the peaks of this group of massive sandstone needles for at least 50,000 years. A 23,000-year-old stone wall across the mouth of a cave, built by humans during an ice age, is the oldest known man-made construction in the world.

From about the 11th century, Eastern Orthodox hermits occupied caves high up on the face of some of the cliffs. But it was in the 14th century when whole groups of monks and nuns, hoping to protect themselves and their Byzantine treasures from raiding Ottoman Turks, built elaborate and virtually inaccessible monasteries on Meteora's pinnacles. At one time, there were 24 monasteries, only accessible by elaborate arrangements of winches and nets. Today, there are six operating monasteries left, and you can reach them by climbing between 150 and 300 steps that were carved into the vertical rock faces in the 19th century. Meteora is an UNESCO listed World Heritage site

A number of tours make visiting these remarkable places a bit easier. Some include train or coach travel from Athens, but some of the best are organized by locals and require you to book your own transportation from Athens to Kalambaka, the nearest village to Meteora. Don't be surprised if a certain amount of typical Greek disorganization and confusion prevails at key points along the way; getting to Meteora can be something of an adventure in itself, but they always get you there in the end.

And by the way, don't be surprised to find the town spelled Kalabaka, Kalapaka or Kalampaka—or all versions, even in the same paragraph. It's just one of those peculiarities of transliterating the Greek alphabet into the Roman alphabet. To turn "p" into "b", Greeks will sometimes add an "m" in front of it. It causes havoc for English speakers trying to read train schedules or look up things on the internet. 

Whichever you tour you choose, wear good shoes, bring water, and dress modestly for the experience of a lifetime. Here are some of the best tours to Meteora we've found.

Visit Meteora Tours

George Papapostolou/Getty Images

Visit Meteora Tours is a relatively new, award-winning destination management organization of travel specialists in the region. They offer a wide variety of reasonably priced tour experiences, including visits to the monasteries, rock climbing, and hiking expeditions in and around Meteora. You need to organize your own train travel for many of their tours, but they'll advise you on schedules, prices, and how to book your trains (not always easy from outside Greece).

The prices for many of these tours are very reasonable:

• F ull day, private tour for up to four adults, including a customizable itinerary, costs only €180 - per car, not per person.
• Train to Train tours  - A local guide, driving a luxury mini van, collects you at Kalambaka station, takes you on a three-hour tour of all six monasteries - including visits inside two of them - and delivers you back to the station in time for the Athens or Thessaloniki train, all for €35 per person, with no minimum number of travelers. 
• Meteora Hiking Tour  - A four and a half-hour guided hike on hidden local paths through the forests at the base of the rock formations. The tour includes a visit to a restored and hidden monastery now open only to hikers as well as visits to one or two of the areas greatest monasteries on paths once used by the monks in the middle ages. Although this tour is open to children and families, the organizers suggest it requires a reasonable level of both physical fitness and, gulp, mental health. The cost is €35 for between two and 12 hikers.

This tour company also organizes multi-day visits, taking in several of the different local tours on offer—food and wine tours, truffle hunting, cave hiking, mountain biking tours.

If you have deep pockets, and are short on time, they'll even organize a private helicopter tour from Athens.

Chauffer-Driven Tours of Meteora

 Paul Birit/Getty Images

Prestige Greece provide private, luxury limos to celebrities, sports figures, and corporate executives. They can also organize private two-day limo or luxury mini-van jaunts to Delphi and Meteora. The itineraries are much like the itineraries described above—travel to Delphi, then stay overnight in either Delphi or Kalambaka, make a visit to the monasteries, and head back to Athens.

But the similarities end there. Where you stop for lunch, drinks, evening entertainment, and a spot of shopping is up to you. So are your accommodations and the particular vehicle that conveys you there. In addition to your English-speaking chauffeur, a professional guide can be organized to meet you at each location. And, if that is a bit restrictive, the company can put together a completely personalized, private tour to meet all your requirements.

Naturally, this kind of personal attention comes at a price. Everything Prestige-Greece does is bespoke - including the pricing. You can email them with your requirements or phone them on +30 210 3254 151 to talk about it. They'll come back to you with a quote and some well-informed suggestions of their own.

Two or Three-Day Excursions to Delphi and Meteora

Jean-Pierre Lescourret/Getty Images 

If you'd prefer to avoid the hassle and stress of organizing train travel, you can leave the driving to CHAT Tours, one of Greece's leading coach tour operators. They operate two- and three-day tours to Athens and Delphi with stops at other points of interest along the way.

Tours on luxury, air-conditioned coaches depart from the company's base in a central Athens hotel, The two-day tours run from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the second day. The three-day tours leave Athens at 8:45 a.m. on the first day and return at 7 p.m. on the third day.

The two-day tour (Trip 8A), which includes either "tourist class" or "first class" accommodation in Kalambaka, begins with a drive to Delphi and a visit to the archaeological site but not Delphi's wonderful museum. Then it's on to Kalambaka to explore the village and have dinner. The second day includes visits to the rock monasteries of Meteora and the drive back to Athens with a photo stop at Thermopylae, scene of the famous battle between the Spartans and Persians featured in the film 300.  In 2018, this tour, on a half-board basis, starts at €185 per person.

The three-day version of this trip (Trip 8), includes more time in Delphi, including a chance to visit the museum, an overnight stay in the town and a free morning there. Though Delphi is a magnet for tourists, it still has some good souvenir shopping, notably for Greek-made gold jewelry, pottery and reproductions of classic pieces. On the afternoon of day two, the coach travels to Kalambaka for a visit to the town and and overnight stay, and day three, as above, includes Meteora and a possible photo stop at Thermopylae on the way back to Athens. In 2018, this tour is offered on a half-board basis starting at €342 per person.

Both tours are accompanied by entertaining, well-informed, English-speaking, professional guides. These tours can be booked online on the CHAT Tours website or organized the old-fashioned way, through your own travel agent.

Trips by Rail

 Jeremy Villasis/Getty Images

The online tour and experience booker Viator organizes day trips coordinating train travel from Athens with local, Meteora drivers and suppliers. 

This tour, costing £80.44 per person in 2018, includes round-trip rail travel from Larissa Station, Athens's main station. It's a full-day tour, but keep in mind you will be spending about five hours on the train each way, to Kalambaka station and back. It's a very dramatic journey across central Greece, but you probably will want to bring something to read.

The tour includes a scenic drive to see (but not visit) all six monastic retreats, with photo stops and a chance to learn more about their histories from a local guide. You can also choose to climb up to one or two of the monasteries. In all, you spend about 3.5 hours in Meteora.

Local transportation is in a luxury, air-conditioned minivan with free Wi-Fi. Entrance fees to the monasteries (€3 each), meals, drinks and tips are not included.

How to Book:

• Booking is online through the Viator website .
• When you book, they send a confirmation email that includes a pdf document of your tickets that you should print out. 
• There are contact numbers for the actual travel supplier with the confirmation email.
• It's a good idea to check with the travel supplier to make sure you have an actual seat reservation for the train journey, which is different from simply having a ticket to board. Some travelers have complained about having to stand for long parts of the train trip.
• You are essentially on your own until you reach Kalambaka, so make sure to contact the trip organizer to make sure you know how to get from your hotel or the airport to Larissa Station and how you will be met at Kalambaka.

Viator also offer a two-day package that includes many of the same features but gives more time to explore the town of Kalambaka and includes a stay in a 3- or 4-star hotel, breakfast and dinner and a longer, 4-hour tour of the monasteries. The two-day package also includes Kalambaka hotel pick-up and drop-off for the morning monasteries tour. If you have the time, it's worth the overnight stay to have a stress-free tour the next morning. In 2018, the price is about £140.

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How To Get From Athens to Meteora

Updated On: December 4, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

You basically have 4 ways to get from  Athens to Meteora :

• Public Intercity Train from Athens to Trikala (4.5 hours) and then a second train from Trikala to Kalabaka (20 minutes), and then a taxi to actually take you to the monasteries/rocks or just walk for about 1 hour (uphill)
• Licensed Guided Tour that includes all train tickets from Athens to Trikala and Kalabaka, a tour guide that will explain to you what you are seeing and will also provide a minibus to take you to Kastraki village and the best locations for views on the rocks
• KTEL Bus from Athens to Kalabaka and then obviously a taxi to the monasteries or just walk (more than 1 hour hike)
• Rent a car and drive there yourself.

I honestly believe that the  Best Way to get from Athens to Meteora is by booking a licensed guided tour . This can also be done as a day trip to Meteora from Athens, but get prepared for a long, tiring, but totally rewarding day because Meteora is deep in mainland Greece, and it’s a 5-hour train trip.

• Best Day Trip from Athens to Meteora: From Athens – Meteora Monasteries Bus Tour and Hidden Caves

A guided tour from Athens to Meteora, like this one , will take you on a train from Athens Train Station (“Larissis Station” or “Larissa Station”) to Trikala Town. From there, you will get another public train to Kalabaka town, which is next to the rocks. A licensed guide will escort you anywhere during the train trips. Once you get to Kalabaka, private minibuses will pick you up and drive you to the best places on the monasteries and the local museums on the rocks. They will explain everything to you, along with many stops to the best spots for photos and views.

However, you have a few other options to get to Meteora from Athens, if you want to explore the area by yourself. These are all the options:

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It goes without saying that whatever I am detailing in this post also applies to the return trip from Meteora to Athens.

Keep reading…

ATHENS TO METEORA TIPS:

• You basically have  4 options  for getting from Athens to Meteora:  by a guided bus tour , by KTEL Bus , by public train or by renting a car and driving yourself.
• Best way To get From Athens to Meteora:  by a licensed guided bus/train tour ( like this one )
• There are no flights to Meteora; the only way to get there is by bus, car or train. The place is up on the mountains in a remote area of mainland central Greece.
• Official Website for KTEL Buses to Meteora:  KTEL Trikalon
• Bus from Athens to Meteora : you have to take it from the Liosion KTEL Bus Station ( on Google Maps ), which is unfortunately the worst in the country and really dated without any modern facilities
• Meteora on Google Maps
• Meteora’s name obviously comes from the way these billion years old rocks are standing like “meteors”
• Between April-October,  there are usually 6 KTEL Buses from Athens to Meteora and from Meteora to Athens
• How long is the bus ride from Athens to Meteora:  the bus ride takes about 5 hours
• How long is the train ride from Athens to Meteora:  the train ride takes about 5 hours in total (to Kalabaka town)
• How much does it cost to take a bus from Athens to Meteora: the bus ticket on KTEL Buses costs 29 euros but this changes so always check the official website of KTEL Buses Trikalon
• How much does it cost to take a train from Athens to Meteora: the train ticket to Meteora costs 30 euros (to Kalabaka final station) but this may change so always check the official Hellenic Trains website .
• Where to Get the bus from Athens to Meteora: you have to go to the Liosion Bus Station in Athens (NOT TO BE CONFUSED with the Kifisos Bus Station; it is a different Bus Station)
• Where to Get the train from Athens to Meteora: you have to go to the “ Larissis Train Station ” in Athens (or “Larissa Station”)
• Best Way to Get From Athens Airport to KTEL Liosion Bus Station is by taking the Express Bus X93 ( see its route here )
• Best Way to Get From Athens Airport to Athens Train Station (Larissis Station) is by taking the “Proastiakos Train – Suburban Train” ( see its route and timetables here ) ; it’s a 45 minutes train from the airport
• Where to Book the Bus from Athens to Meteora: from KTEL Trikalon website

Ok, so let’s see all the options from Athens to Meteora (that also apply to the return trip from Meteora to Athens):

ATHENS TO METEORA BUS (KTEL)

You can certainly take the Ktel bus to Trikala from Athens instead of the train (and then another bus to Kalabaka town).

In order to get the KTEL Trikalon Bus to Meteora you have to go to Liosion Bus St Station in Athens ( on Google Maps ). This is not the same station as Kifissos Bus Station and it’s in a different location.

HOW TO GET TO “LARISSA” ATHENS TRAIN STATION (ALSO CALLED “LARISSIS”)

Larissis train Station (just “Athens” stop on train routes is very easilly accesible from the airport with the suburban train (“Proastiakos”) and you can check the timetables here.

You can also get to the Larissa Train Staion by metro line 2.

HOW TO GET TO LIOSION BUS STATION

You can reach the Liosion Bus Terminal in Athens either with a bus or Metro Line 2 from Syntgmuare.

• From Athens International Airport: you have to take the X93 Express Bus

You can also see the details of X93 Route and timetables on the official website of Athens Buses.

• From Syntgma Square to Kifissos Bus Station: you have to take the Metro Line 2 (M2) and then walk for about 15-20 mins

You basically have 4 options to get from Athens to Meteora: by a guided tour or by a KTEL bus or by the public train or by renting a car and driving there. I recommend taking the guided tour because you will experience the whole trip in a much better way.

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

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How To Organize the Perfect Trip From Athens to Meteora

• Last Updated on: Jan 19, 2024
• Read Time 12 mins
• Published: Aug 5, 2020

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A trip from Athens to Meteora is among the top priorities of travelers who choose to visit the Greek capital but don’t want to spend their whole vacation there. 

Located in central Greece and only a few hours away from Athens, Meteora is a unique place with amazing natural beauty and stunning views of mountainous landscapes and the famous Meteora monasteries.

Its rich cultural heritage and extraordinary sites are the main reasons why Meteora sees so many visitors in both summer and winter and why a short trip from Athens to Meteora should not be missing from your itinerary.

Is Meteora a Good Destination for a Trip From Athens?

You might wonder why you should choose Meteora for a trip from Athens over any other destination if you only have a few days to spend in Greece.

Granted, many locations near Athens would make for a great trip . But Meteora is probably the only one that combines history, religion, architecture, gastronomy, and natural beauty in a single place.

Visiting Meteora will give you valuable insight into the country’s history and culture without meaning that you will be stuck in a museum or on a common sightseeing tour. Quite the contrary.

Why Should You Visit Meteora?

Still not convinced?

What if we listed all the highlights, sites, and activities that a day trip to Meteora from Athens will cross off your bucket list?

Here are the top 5 reasons why you should visit Meteora:

• A visit inside the world-famous Meteora monasteries. The vast majority of them still operate today and you can enter and see what the everyday life of nuns in Greece is like.
• To test your strength and stamina by climbing 300 steps to reach the highest peak of Meteora and the Great Meteoron.
• A visit to cave Theopetra, the site where some of the oldest human footprints in the world were discovered.
• To experience authentic Greek gastronomy as you would only in rural Greece, in the shade of the colossal rocks.
• To go hiking on the rocks over the town of Kalampaka and experience an amazing sunset from an extraordinary vantage point.

How Many Days Do You Need in Meteora?

Even though Meteora features many exciting sights and things to do, we strongly believe that staying longer than a couple of days will not be necessary.

Spending just one or two days in Meteora is enough to experience the town’s charms, explore the famous monasteries and take in the views.

If you plan, you can fit in your schedule all the things you want to do there while still having enough time to spend in the city, or even go on another day trip from Athens, like a cruise to the Saronic islands.

The Ideal Day Trip From Athens to Saronic Gulf Islands

Is it possible to visit meteora from athens on a day trip.

Yes, it’s definitely possible. In fact, you will find quite a few organized tours for a day trip to Meteora from Athens .

However, remember that a one-way journey lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours.

So a day trip would mean heading off early in the morning and returning to Athens quite late at night.

If you have enough time to spend in Athens and want to enjoy your trip to Meteora more leisurely, we recommend staying overnight at Meteora before heading back.

How to Get from Athens to Meteora

There are actually several ways you can get from Athens to Meteora.

You can hire a private taxi service or join one of the guided tours that will get you there and have everything planned out for your visit.

Meteora: 2-Day and 1-Night Tour by Train from Athens

You could also choose to travel by train or bus, but note that the online resources for schedules and itineraries are scarce and sometimes can be found only in Greek.

Luckily for you, we have gathered all the information you need to get from Athens to Meteora easily and conveniently.

How Far is Meteora from Athens?

The distance from Athens to Meteora is approximately 360 kilometers or around 224 miles .

Getting to Meteora from Athens by a rented car ( check Rentalcars.com ) or a private taxi would take about 4,5 hours .

Athens to Meteora by Train

Getting to Meteora from Athens by train is probably the best way to travel if you want to enjoy the scenic route.

The most important thing you should know when booking your train ride to Meteora is that the train station closest to Meteora is not named Meteora as you would expect but Kalampaka or Kalambaka.

Don’t be alarmed. Kalampaka is the name of the town nestled just under the rocks of Meteora.

Two trains are traveling directly between Athens and Kalampaka every day.

Train 882 goes from Athens to Kalampaka. It departs at 07:57 in the morning from Larissa Station or Larissis Station, the central train station of Athens.

The easiest way to reach Larissa Station is by Metro 2 (red line).

Train 887 goes from Kalampaka to Athens. It departs at 18:22 from Kalampaka train station.

The train ride duration between Athens and Meteora is approximately 4,5 hours .

Train tickets from Athens to Kalampaka can be booked online via the website of trainose or bought at Larissa Station.

The tickets cost approximately 36 euros if you want to travel in the first class and about 30 euros for the second class.

Please remember that all train schedules and prices mentioned above may change even during the tourist season without prior notice. You can always check the timetables and prices on the official website of the Hellenic Railways Organisation here . Note : You can change the language from Greek to English by pressing the button on the upper left corner of your screen

Athens to Meteora by Bus

Getting to Meteora from Athens by bus is slightly more complicated than one would expect.

Do not let that discourage you, however.

The central bus station, where you can hop on a bus to Meteora, is located on Mission Street near the Kato Patissia train station (green line). Visit our Athens maps page to download for free the map of the Athens Metro

You must walk about five to ten minutes from the train stop to the bus terminal.

Next comes the tricky part.

There is no direct bus from Athens to Meteora.

Instead, you have to get on a bus to Trikala, a small town located near Kalampaka and Meteora, and then get on another bus from Trikala to Kalampaka.

Several buses (or ktels as locals call them) go from Athens to Trikala daily.

The journey lasts approximately 5 hours, and we would recommend booking your tickets at the bus station to avoid mistakes. You will almost always find a place on the bus. We recommend you read our detailed guide on how to get around Athens.

Athens to Meteora With a Group Guided Tour

If you value convenience and you want to really travel in comfort without having to worry about booking tickets or catching the train too early in the morning, then we recommend reserving a place in a small guided group heading on a trip to Meteora from Athens.

There are quite a few operators and agencies organizing guided trips to Meteora and the quality of the tours can vary.

Luckily for you, we have screened your options and selected the best guided tours from Athens to Meteora for you.

Things to See and Do in Meteora

Meteora is, beyond doubt, one of the most extraordinary destinations in Greece, if not in the whole continent of Europe.

Due to their religious and cultural significance and rich history, the magnificent monasteries of Meteora have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO .

Apart from the high rocks of Meteora, Kalampaka, the town located right beneath is also worth a visit.

If you are going from Athens to Meteora on a day trip, however, your time will be quite limited, so you will have to choose wisely.

Here are our picks for the most interesting things to see and do in Meteora:

Visit the 6 famous active monasteries

Let’s start with the obvious choice. The best thing you should do in Meteora is visit the six active monasteries.

They are probably the reason why you are there in the first place anyway.

These monasteries were perched atop the rocks to ensure privacy and absolute seclusion but you can still get there via bridges and long staircases.

The monasteries are:

• The Great Meteoron Monastery. Or simply the Great Meteoro or Holy Monastery. Dating back to the 14th century, this one is both the oldest and the largest monastery among the six.
• The Holy Trinity Monastery. Famous as the backdrop to a James Bond movie (For your eyes only), this monastery is the hardest one to reach but offers views that will reward you.
• St. Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery. This monastery also dates back to the 14th century but is quite different from the rest as it was surprisingly built vertically with multiple levels on each other.
• Varlaam Monastery. This one is the second-largest monastery across the Great Meteoro.
• St. Stephen’s Monastery. This one is the most visited monastery, the most easily accessible, thanks to a small bridge. It’s also one of the two monasteries that nuns inhabit.
• Roussanou Monastery. This monastery dates back to the 16th century and like St. Stephen’s monastery, it’s inhabited by nuns.

Join a hiking tour and explore the rocks of Meteora. There is an extensive complex of paths and trails around the area.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try rock climbing or hiking.

From Kalampaka: 5-Hour Hiking Tour of Meteora! Take a guided morning hike in Meteora

On your journey, you may come across the rock forest of Meteora, a dazzling landscape with otherworldly rock formations and several abandoned monasteries.

Stroll through the village of Kastraki

Just a few kilometers away from Kalampaka, you’ll find a charming small village called Kastraki.

It’s a typical rural traditional village with narrow alleyways, beautiful churches, alluring alfresco cafes, and magnificent views over Meteora.

Visit Theopetra Cave

Literally translating to ‘God’s Stone’, Theopetra cave is located about 5 kilometers away from Meteora and you can reach it either by road or rock climbing.

This cave is located beneath a massive rock that emerges from the side of the road. It’s the famous site where human footprints that date back hundreds of thousands of years were discovered.

Taste local gastronomy

In both Katsraki village and the town of Kalampaka, you will find numerous cafes and traditional tavernas that serve typical Greek cuisine dishes and local delicacies.

Note that vegetarians and vegans might have limited options on the tavernas’ menus, but there will definitely be at least a few dishes with no meat and dairy.

Enjoy the sunset views

The unique landscape of Meteora is ideal for sunset watching.

Whether you’re up the rocks of Meteora, the town of Kalampaka, or Kastraki village when the sun sets, you are bound to be fascinated by the colorful skies and the astonishing sunset views.

Majestic Sunset on Meteora Rocks Tour from Kalampaka! Experience an amazing sunset in Meteora on this VIP minibus tour.

Tips and Recommendations for a Trip From Athens to Meteora

In this section, we will list some of our tips for your day trip from Athens to Meteora and brief answers to some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions.

What is the best period to visit Meteora?

Meteora is a year-round destination, but if you want to avoid the high temperatures of summer and the strong winds of winter, we suggest choosing late Spring ( March to May ) or Autumn ( September to November ).

Which Meteora Monasteries to visit?

We recommend visiting all six active monasteries: the Great Meteoron, the Holy Trinity, St. Nikolaos Anapafsas, Varlaam, St. Stephen, and Roussanou. However, if you don’t have enough time or don’t want to visit all of them, visit only the Great Meteoron if you can go up the 300 steps or St. Stephen’s monastery, which is the most visited.

Is there an entrance fee to the monasteries?

Yes. Each one of the six active monasteries of Meteora has an admission fee of 3 euros .

What do you wear to Meteora monasteries?

The Meteora monasteries have a strict dress code, as they are considered to be holy places. Ladies will be required to wear pants or long skirts. Sleeveless clothes and shorts are prohibited. Some monasteries have clothing at the entrance for those not meeting the dress code requirements.

How many steps do the monasteries at Meteora have?

The Great Meteora and the Holy Trinity monasteries have over 300 steps . Varlaam, St. Nikolaos and Rousanou monasteries have an average of 140 steps . Finally, the monastery of St. Stephen is the most accessible, connected to the road by a small bridge.

Whatever your interests are, there is one thing for certain: a trip from Athens to Meteora will give you unforgettable memories from your holiday in Greece.

A Quick Reminder:

Remember that Athens By Locals is here to guide you with planning the perfect trip to Athens and help you every step along the way. If you didn’t found what you’re looking for, or need any recommendations about your trip to Athens, feel free to  contact us  and we will do our best to help you. Please be as more detailed as possible regarding your subject so as to help you better.

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Athens to Meteora Full-Day Trip with Greek Lunch

Discover Meteora with this exclusive day trip from Athens. Explore majestic monasteries, view the ancient hermit caves and learn the history of the region directly from a local. Also, enjoy panoramic views and taste an authentic Greek lunch. Find out why 2+ million visitors every year look forward to seeing the rocks that “suspend in the air”.

• Effortless and convenient roundtrip bus transportation
• See all six monasteries and admire the interior of three of them
• Learn the history and legends directly from a local
• See the magnificent St. George “Mandilas” cave
• View the ancient Chapel of Doupiani
• Experience the panoramic views
• Capture breathtaking photos
• Taste the area’s local cuisine

Tour Details

Embark on an extraordinary day trip from Athens to the Unesco World Heritage Site of Meteora. Explore centuries-old monasteries, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and uncover hidden gems of Meteora that most travelers won’t know about.

Your journey starts as you board our private, air-conditioned bus at 07:45 AM, conveniently departing from the area opposite the Central Railway Station of Athens (Stathmos Larisis). Sit back and enjoy a scenic bus ride through the enchanting countryside, offering picturesque glimpses of mainland Greece.

By noon, you’ll arrive at Meteora, where your friendly local tour guide will await you. Board our comfortable and luxurious minibus and prepare for an unforgettable adventure through this natural wonder called Meteora. During this guided tour, you’ll be able to see all the majestic monasteries of Meteora and even step inside three of them to explore their captivating interiors. Also, discover the hidden treasures of Meteora, including the ancient hermit caves, the Chapel of Doupiani, and the magnificent St. George Mandilas cave.

Uncover the ‘secret’ side of Meteora, learning about why hermits chose to settle in these imposing caves a thousand years ago and the remarkable achievements of the monks. And of course, during our multiple panoramic stops don’t forget to capture breathtaking moments with your camera for lasting memories.

Additionally (exclusive to this tour), discover the charming small town of Kalambaka located in the foothills of Meteora and enjoy a delightful, traditional Greek lunch at a local restaurant. Your meal will include a fresh salad, a choice of main dish (with multiple options to cater to your preferences), freshly baked bread, and refreshing water. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available. Come evening, we’ll set off on our journey back to Athens, and you can expect to arrive there at approximately 11 PM.

• Roundtrip bus transportation from Athens to Meteora
• Transfer with a luxury VIP bus
• A 5-hour (approx.) Meteora Tour
• English-Speaking local guide
• Panoramic photo stops
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Free Wi-Fi in the bus
• Transfer to/from hotels in Athens
• Entrance fees of each monastery (3 euros per person)
• Guided tour inside the monasteries (available upon request)

Worry-free bookings with our 24 hour free cancellation policy. Cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the tour’s starting time and be eligible for a full refund. *If you do not show up for the tour or fail to cancel at least 24 hours in advance, you will not be liable for a refund.

• Begin your adventure by boarding our private, air-conditioned bus at 07:45. The bus will be conveniently located on the street just opposite the Central Railway Station of Athens (Stathmos Larisis). You’ll easily identify it by the “Meteora Trip” sign displayed in the front window. There’s no need for a printed ticket, simply provide your name or show your booking voucher on your phone when boarding the bus.
• The monasteries of Meteora impose a strict dress code. Men must wear long trousers. Women must wear long skirts and cover their shoulders.
• The monasteries of Meteora only accept cash for the entrance fees.

from €133 €92

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Meteora Thrones – Travel Center

2 days Meteora Tour from Athens with Local Guide & Hotel

Best rated tour on tripadvisor, tour language, starting time, departure point.

Athens Train Station (Larissis Station)

Pick up / Meeting Point

Across the road Theodore Diligianni Str

• Travel by bus and enjoy amazing views
• Enjoy 2 Top Rated Meteora Tours
• See all 6 monasteries
• Best local English speaking Tour Leader
• Runs 365 days

Tour Description

Catch the bus from Athens Train Station at 08:00  to Kalabaka and admire the beautiful Greek landscapes during your trip. 

Arriving in Kalabaka at 13:00 we will transfer you to your hotel to check in and be prepared for the Majestic Sunset Meteora Tour . We will pick you up from your hotel for the tour. After your tour we will drop you off again at your hotel or in the center of the city of Kalabaka for a short walk. 

Next morning at 09:00 join a comprehensive  Panoramic Morning Meteora Tour  or an  Authentic Hiking Meteora Tour  (your choice). For 4 hours you will have the chance to experience all the beauty of the unique phenomenon of Meteora and the Holy monasteries on top of the rock giants. 

After your morning Meteora activity we will transfer you back to your hotel to relax and prepare for your departure back to Athens.

The bus departs at 18:00 from Kalabaka and you will arrive in Athens at 23:00

Catch the bus from Athens train station to Kalabaka and admire the beautiful Greek landscape during your trip

Arriving in Kalabaka at 13:00 we will transfer you to your hotel to check in and be prepared for the Majestic Sunset Meteora Tour . We will pick you up from your hotel for the tour.

Enjoy the best rated tour of the area. See all 6 monasteries and visit inside 1 of them. Plenty of photo opportunity stops. See more

Join the Panoramic Morning Meteora Tour ( see more ) or the Authentic Hiking Meteora Tour ( see more ). Your choise ! See the rest of the area and the holy monastereries. 

Be prepared for the way back. Walk to the beautiful city of Kalabaka or enjoy a meal.

• Roundtrip transportation from Athens by lux coach - bus
• One night 3* hotel accommodation with breakfast (4* extra cost)
• Majestic Sunset Meteora Tour – ( 1st day )
• Morning OR Hiking Meteora Tour – ( 2nd day )
• Highly educated , English speaking , Tour Leader
• VIP Limo Mini Bus (small groups) during the tour
• Hotel Pickup / Drop off (for the tours)
• Free WI FI on the bus
• Pick up / Drop off from Hotel in Athens to the meeting point
• Entrance fees of Monasteries (3 euro each) - ONLY BY CASH
• Licenced Tour Guide – Guidance inside the Holy Monasteries
• Stayover hotel tax paid personally in reception (1.5€/room 3* hotel , 3€/room 4* hotel)
• Meals and soft drinks
• Gratuities (optional)

Useful info - Meeting Point

• Departure time : 08:00 am (please be at the meeting point at least 15 min before the bus departure)
• Departure place : Athens Train Station (Larissis Station).
• Meeting point : The bus will be waiting for you outside the train station on the road across the street. (Theodore Diligianni Street)
• There will be a sign “METEORA THRONES – TRAVEL CENTER” on the window of the bus.
• It is not necessary to print the voucher you can just have it on your phone
• No bus ticket is required. Just give your name to the driver
• Short stops during the trip from / to Athens

Departure and return point

Appropriate clothing for everyone is required to enter the monasteries. For ladies skirts by the knee or longer are required. No pants for ladies, no shorts, no sleeveless shirt. For men sleeveless clothing and shorts over the knee are prohibited.

We highly advice you to read our F.A.Q. page for more information.

Cancellation Policy

• LAST MINUTE – Cancellation received more than 48 hrs before the tour will get a full refund
• Cancellation received within 48 hrs before the tour will incur a penalty of 100% per person (no refund)

SPECIAL RATES

• Child ( 4-12 yrs ) : 128 €
• Infant ( 0-3 yrs ) : FREE
• 4 stars hotel upgrade available

LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEE NO HIDDEN FEES

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Full Day Private Tour to Meteora from Athens

Explore the best of Meteora!

Book this Full-Day Private Tour to Meteora From Athens and enjoy a personalized itinerary that will cover the main attractions and much more.

Discover the wonders of UNESCO World Heritage site Meteora on a full-day private tour from Athens with Visit Meteora. Our highly educated local tour leaders have first-hand knowledge of the area’s topography, history, and culture, ensuring you get the most out of your experience.

Share this tour with your friends

Full day private tour to meteora from athens.

Departure: from Athens

Up to 2 people: 755 EUR

Up to 6 people: 800 EUR

Up to 6 people – VIP: 900 EUR

Up to 19 people: 1300 EUR

Up to 50 people: 1500 EUR

Tour Highlights

• Local English speaking Drivers and modern luxury cars
• You will avoid the crowds and discover the hidden gems
• Enjoy spectacular panoramic views
• See all the 6 active monasteries visit inside 3
• Visit the hidden inactive monasteries and the hermit caves
• Visit the picturesque village Kastraki and Kalampaka town.

Useful Information

• Duration: 14 hours
• Max People: 6
• Availability: Daily Departures
• Dresscode applied

Why to book the Full Day Private Tour To Meteora From Athens with us

• Quality & value for your money
• You will experience Tailor-made itineraries according to your specific preferences and wishes.
• You will go to secret local spots that the vast majority of other travelers will never experience
• You'll travel in a private car, spacious and comfortable
• See all six monasteries, visit inside 2 or 3.
• Bottle of water provided on the tours
• Stop in spots with panoramic view for photo shooting
• Learn about the local traditions, myths and history
• English, French, Italian, Spanish, or speaking Russian local tour leader. .
• Optional add on a state licensed guide

Not inclusions

• Gratuities (optional)
• Entrance fees 3 euro per person at each monastery
• Personal travel insurance
• Breakfast or lunch
• Licensed guide for guiding inside the monasteries. Available on request

Book with confidence

• 100% refund if you cancel your reservation up to 24 hours prior to the start time of the tour
• Rearrange your dates once with no change fee
• COVID-19 safety measures apply

ATTRACTIONS

Just a few of the beautiful sights you’ll see during your tour

Meteora Monasteries

Badova Hermitages

Doupiani Old Chapel

Kastraki Old habitation

Tour details.

Our private tour package can be easily modified to cater to your specific interests and requirements. With a total duration of 12-13 hours, our tour offers the perfect balance of driving and private tour time. Avoid the crowds and discover hidden gems as you visit 2 or 3 of the 6 active monasteries, the hidden monasteries, and the Hermit Caves. Our staff will ensure you capture amazing photos and make unforgettable memories.

Our private tour is ideal for families with young children, couples, and seniors. For an enhanced experience, add on a state-licensed guide inside the monasteries for €130.00 and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant to taste the local cuisine.

At Visit Meteora, we strive for customer satisfaction by understanding the unique needs and interests of each client. We offer a flexible tour package that can be customized to meet your preferences, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable experience.

Book your full-day private tour to Meteora from Athens now for a memorable and personalized adventure. Duration of the tour is approximately 12 to 13 hours.

With a driving duration of 4 hours each way and private tour duration of 4 hours, our tour provides ample time for you to explore the beautiful Meteora region at your own pace.

This is an ideal tour for Families with young children, Couples, and elder people.

• Add on a state licensed guide inside the Monasteries  for 130,00€.
• Add on your Lunch at a local restaurant and discover the local tastes and cuisine.
• Duration of the tour is approximately 12 to 13 hours

Cancellation Policy

• 100% refund if you cancel your reservation up to 24 hours prior to the start time of the tour​
• Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Tour

First of all, keep in mind that, since every monastery closes on some days of the week, we do not visit the same monasteries every day. The monasteries we usually visit though are the following: Meteora Half-day Tour: Great Meteoron, Varlamm and Rousssanou Sunset Sunset Tour: St. Stephen Meteora Hiking Tour: Great Meteoron, Ypapanti 

All our bus tours run regardless of weather. If we are forced to cancel an activity because of extreme weather conditions, you have the option to change date or switch activity or cancel and receive a refund.

Yes you can! In case there is no room in our bus, we will drop off your luggage on our offices and you will be able to pick them up after the end of the tour.

You can make a booking with us literally at the last minute! Just keep in mind that there may be no seats left on the tour if you do that! We recommend booking at least one week in advance, in order to have the best chances of finding availability.

We have split our tours tom morning and afternoon ones. Furthermore, all our tours visit different places at Meteora. This way, you can combine any morning tour with any afternoon tour you wish! All all-time-classic combination is the Meteora Hiking Tour in the morning and the Meteora Sunset Tour in the afternoon.

What other tourists are saying about us

2800+ Excellent reviews on TripAdvisor See the reviews

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Further reading.

Tips and ideas for your visit to Meteora in 2022

10 reasons why a day-trip to Meteora is not enough!

5 Amazing Tours to book from Athens in 2022

Privacy Overview

Comfort plus hotels.

Hotel Doupiani House

Hotel Archontiko Mesochori

Hotel Kastraki

Hotel Dellas Boutique

Hotel Meteoritis

Hotel Kaikis

Alsos House

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Any public transport from Athens airport to Meteora please? - Greece Forum

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Any public transport from Athens airport to Meteora please?

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The plan is using public transport as we can't drive. This is my brief planning:

Day 4: from Meteora to Delphi

Day6: from Delphi to Athen

Day 8: Athen airport back home.

I was thinking started from the furthest location and work our way back to Athen, so we don't have to worry about traveling to the airport too much.

looking to travel towards end of September.

Would like to know if there's any public transport in September to connect this round trip please ?

Does sites, museums and shops tend to close early in September?

any suggestion is appreciated.

You will have to go in town either to the railway station if you take the train or to the KTEL bus station if you take the bus.

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