Meteora Guide

In the heart of Greece, monasteries built on the tops of rocks that soar into the sky. It's a visually mesmerizing and soul-touching place: Meteora. If you are looking for a vacation full of nature, history and peace, Meteora should definitely be in the back of your mind.

Where is Meteora?

Meteora is located in central Greece, in the region of Trikala. The closest city in the region is Kalambaka. Next to it is the village of Kastraki, which is a bit smaller but just as charming. Meteora takes its name from a Greek word meaning "hanging in the sky". And believe me, this name will make a lot of sense when you see the monasteries on top of the giant rocks.

How to get to Meteora?

The first step is to fly to Athens or Thessaloniki. Then, from Athens you can take a train or bus to Kalambaka (the train ride is very scenic).
From Thessaloniki, you can get there by road in a shorter time. If you rent a car, you can travel more freely around Meteora. Since there is a distance between the monasteries, the car is really comfortable.

When to go?

Meteora is beautiful in all seasons, but if you want to be in touch with nature, spring and fall months are ideal. In May - June or September - October, it is neither too hot nor too crowded. In summer it can get a bit hot and the tourist crowds can increase, while in winter the scenery is great but it can be a bit difficult to navigate between the monasteries.

Places to Visit 

The monasteries in Meteora have been standing since the 14th century. Once upon a time, monks chose these high rocks for their retreats. Today you can visit 6 monasteries that are still active:

• Great Meteoron Monastery (the largest and most popular)
• Varlaam Monastery (great view but with some stairs)
• Ayios Nikolaos Anapafsas (small but the frescoes are very impressive)
• Roussanou Monastery (women's monastery, very elegant)
• Ayios Stefanos (easy access, ideal for the elderly)
• Ayios Triadas (a bit tiring but the view is beautiful enough to be filmed)

What to Eat?

Greek cuisine is great here too! In the local tavernas you'll find fresh vegetables, olive oil, grilled meats, homemade wines and warm Greek hospitality. Local flavors await you in the small restaurants, especially in Kalambaka.

Transportation & Sightseeing Tips

If you haven't rented a car, you can get around on foot or by taxi, but be aware that there are many hills and stairs.
Sneakers are a must!
Be sure to dress appropriately to enter the monasteries (skirts for women and long pants for men - some places offer skirts).

Shopping

You can find handcrafted icons, local wines, olive oils and souvenirs in the shops in the area. The boutiques in the city center are also very pleasant to browse.

Culture & Festivals

Religious festivals and events are organized throughout the year. If you have the time, joining a local celebration can be a unique experience.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Meteora Hotels page.