Thessaloniki: Full-Day Meteora Monasteries Tour

Overview

Discover Meteora with this extraordinary day trip from Thessaloniki. Explore majestic monasteries, view ancient hermit caves, learn the local history and enjoy panoramic views.

Itinerary

1. Thessaloniki

   Embark on an extraordinary day trip from Thessaloniki 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 the bus departing from Thessaloniki to Trikala at 09:30. Sit back and enjoy a scenic bus ride through the enchanting countryside, offering picturesque glimpses of mainland Greece. At 12:20 the bus will reach the bus station of Trikala where you should switch busses and catch the one departing to Kalambaka (Meteora) at 12:30.

   · 4 h

2. Meteora

   At 13:30, you'll arrive at Meteora, where our friendly local tour guide will await you to begin 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, you'll discover the hidden treasures of Meteora, including the ancient hermit caves and the magnificent St. George Mandilas cave. Immerse yourself in the rich history and intriguing myths of Meteora, as you hear detailed explanations and fascinating stories. If English isn’t your primary language, don’t worry! We also offer free audio guides in Spanish, French, and Italian. Throughout the journey, also take advantage of our multiple panoramic stops to capture stunning moments with your camera, creating lasting memories of this breathtaking tour.

   · 4 h 30 min

3. Monastères des Météores

   The Monastery of Great Meteoron or Transfiguration of Christ, expresses the greatness and history of the Holy Meteora, as it is the oldest and most important monastery.

   · Non-stop passage

4. Monastère de Aghia Triada (Sainte Trinité)

   The Monastery of the Holy Trinity is the third oldest monastery in Meteora and is the most difficult to reach, since the visitor has to cross a downhill path and then ascend 145 steps carved into the rock. It is said that at the time when the monks used a rope ladder and a net, they spent 70 years to carry the materials and build the monastery!

   · Non-stop passage

5. Agios Stefanos

   The Monastery of Saint Stephen’s is located just above the city of Kalampaka and is the most accessible monastery in Meteora, as there are no steps to reach the entrance and the access is easy through a small stone bridge.

   · Non-stop passage

6. Monastère de Varlaam

   The Varlaam Monastery or Monastery of All the Saints is located on an imposing rock exactly opposite of the Great Meteoron and it is the second largest monastery.

   · Non-stop passage

7. Saint Nicholas Monastery

   The Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas is literally suspended in air on a small rock and is the first monastery that we meet on our way from Kastraki village to the stone forest of Holy Meteora.

   · Non-stop passage

8. Monastère de Roussianou

   The Roussanou Monastery, also known as Arsani, stands on top of an impressive vertical and steep cliff of Meteora, between the Monasteries of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas and Varlaam.

   · Non-stop passage

9. Kalambaka

   After the tour, enjoy approximately one hour of free time in the charming town of Kalambaka to explore its numerous restaurants, cafes, and local shops. Relax under the breathtaking Meteora formations or take a short walk to the heart of this small picturesque town. At 19:15, catch the bus departing from Kalambaka to Trikala. At 19:50 the bus will reach the bus station of Trikala where you should switch busses and catch the one departing to Thessaloniki at 20:00. Arrive at Thessaloniki at 22:30.

   · 4 h 30 min

How to use your ticket

Ticket handed over by the operator on site

• Your bus tickets and directions will be sent to you via email 24 hours prior your travel date. Please also check your spam folder. • The bus route have approximately 50 available seats each day. In case they all sell out we will provide train/bus transportaion instead.

Meeting point

What to know before you go

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

This activity can be canceled in case of bad weather or if there aren't enough participants.

Reviews

Product code: 132551P8

Activity offered by Meteora Trip via Viator.