Οδηγός Μετεώρων

Why Visiting Meteora is Incredible

Meteora is a series of monasteries built atop large rocks. The monasteries are an operose creation of monks, and their internal beauty belies their location. It’s rocks were formed some 60 million years ago, when a series of movements pushed the seabed upwards. This created a high plateau with a series of fault lines. The rocks are a mixture of sandstone and conglomerate.

The area was first settled by monks around the 11th century looking for solitude and with time the concept of the monasteries grew. With the threat of the Ottomans the monks retreated higher and higher in defence and eventually the first monastery Great Meteoron was constructed. At one time 24 monasteries stood atop the rocks in its golden era. If you are wondering is visiting Meteora worth it, let me now assure you it is.

How to get to Meteora

Meteora and Kalambaka is easily reached by train from Athens. The Athens to Meteora train runs from Syntagma station, taking around 4 hours, but also sometimes requiring a change at Paleofarsalos. Driving the 350 km from Athens takes in the region of 4 hours as well.

Public transport to Kalambaka from Thessaloniki is serviced by rail. Trains run from the New Railway Station and can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours and often involving a change at Paleofarsalos.

I in fact spent three nights in Meteora, using it as a base to explore the surrounding area. My international flight brought me to Thessaloniki and after picking up my rental car a 3 hour and 238 km trek across the country saw me arrive in Kalabaka just after 6 pm on a Monday.

You can also visit Meteora Monasteries by full day private tour from Athens or by train tour.

Kalabaka

As a base for Meteora, the many hotel options in Kalabaka are the perfect solution. Most staff here are English speaking. It’s also a great location to find Meteora tours. The town is more than just a base though. Not to be missed are:

Hellenic Culture Museum: which contains the collection of Mr. Pavlos Balogiannis and dedicated to the history of Greek education and learning.
Natural History Museum: a dead zoo collection of local wildlife and a unique mushroom museum.
The Digital Projection Centre: a 3-D guide through the mythology and monasteries of Meteora.
Private Tour offering a full day trip to see the monasteries if you don’t have your own transport. You can also book a sunset tour.

Things to do

Hiking & Nature Walks
Explore scenic trails around Meteora — from gentle paths to adventurous climbs.
Tip: The trail from Kastraki to Holy Trinity Monastery offers stunning views.

E-Bike Tours
Join a guided e-bike ride through the rocks and monasteries — perfect for sunset lovers.

Rock Climbing
Meteora is a world-class climbing destination. Local guides offer safe routes for beginners and thrilling ones for pros.

Truffle Hunting
Yes, it’s a thing! Join the truffle hunt in the forest with trained dogs — followed by mushroom tasting.

Rafting & Kayaking
Try rafting in the shadow of Meteora or kayaking in the Aspropotamos river — nature at its wildest.

Horse Riding
Ride through the forests of area or along quiet country roads — ideal for families.

Wine Taste Visits
Visit local wineries for tastings and a glimpse of rural life.

Photo Tours
Join a local photographer for a guided photo walk — capturing Meteora’s magic at golden hour.