Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup

Discover one of Greece’s most awe-inspiring landscapes on a single, unforgettable day trip. Departing from Athens, you'll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, taking in the scenic beauty of the Greek countryside as you make your way to the breathtaking monasteries of Meteora. Catch the bus of 07:30 am to Kalambaka in the morning from opposite the Athens Railway Station and enjoy a trip that will give you the chance to admire the beauty of the countryside. Arrive around 12:30 pm in Kalambaka.

Seaside Brunch Stop: Skip the busy highway rest areas—enjoy a peaceful brunch by the sea, just steps from the water. Sip your coffee or savor a light meal with ocean views and fresh coastal air. Meals are optional and can be pre-ordered via our onboard app for a hassle-free experience.

Arriving in Kalabaka around 12:30 PM, switch to a local VIP minibus and meet your expert guide for an immersive exploration of Meteora. Your expert local guide will take you to three of the most famous monasteries, with short photo stops at all six. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views and hear fascinating stories about the history and spiritual life of Meteora.

Visit the impressive Varlaam Monastery, the second largest of Meteora’s monasteries, perched high on a rocky pinnacle. Your guide will share the fascinating history of its 16th-century construction and the lives of the monks who once hauled materials up by rope. Admire the richly frescoed chapel, historic relics, and panoramic views over the dramatic landscape below.

The Great Meteoron Monastery is the largest and oldest of all the Meteora monasteries. Built atop a towering rock formation, it earned the name “meteoro,” meaning “suspended in the air.” Founded by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite, it became the first organized monastic community in the area, laying the foundation for Meteora’s rich spiritual heritage.

Be amazed by the secluded hermit caves of Badovas, a powerful reflection of the solitude and spiritual dedication of Meteora’s earliest monks. As you explore these remote cliffside shelters, you’ll uncover the stories of the hermits who once lived here and see the traces of their simple dwellings—offering a rare glimpse into their austere, contemplative way of life.

St. Stephen’s Monastery is the most accessible of all the Meteora monasteries, requiring no stairs—just a short walk across a small bridge to reach its entrance—making it ideal for visitors with limited mobility who still want an authentic monastic experience. Monastic life on this rock began as early as the 12th century, with key figures like Hosios Antonios and Hosios Philotheos credited for its development, the latter having rebuilt the original church in 1545. Today, the monastery features two churches: a 16th-century chapel that suffered damage during WWII and the Greek Civil War, and a larger 18th-century cathedral dedicated to Saint Charalambos, which houses his revered relics.

At the end of the day, our expert escort will transfer you back to Kalambaka, where you will have the time to stroll around and have a light lunch (not included). At 5:35 p.m. the bus departs from Kalambaka, and arrives at 9:58 p.m back to Athens.

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.

Enjoy the panoramic view of the town Kalampaka

The Holy Monastery of Roussanou is believed to be named after the first hermit who settled on its rock. Its main church was established in the late 16th century and beautifully decorated around thirty years later. Unlike some of the more elevated Meteora monasteries, Roussanou sits on a lower rock, making it easier to reach. Originally founded by monks, the monastery suffered significant damage during World War II. In 1988, it was transformed into a convent and continues to be a place of spiritual life and tradition.

The Holy Trinity Monastery is the most challenging to access, but the breathtaking panoramic views from the top make the climb well worth the effort. Situated near St. Stephen’s Nunnery, this monastery sits atop a striking, steep rock formation. To reach it, visitors follow a path leading to the base of the rock, then ascend approximately 140 steps to the summit, where stunning scenery and spiritual history await.

Sunset Dinner by the Sea: On the way back, enjoy an optional dinner stop in a picturesque coastal town. It’s the ideal setting to relax, enjoy authentic Greek dishes, and take in a stunning sunset by the water—an unforgettable end to your day.