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Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup

678 Reviews 4.66 out of 5 stars Based on 678 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 93% of reviewers
93% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Athens, Greece
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from $95.87 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup Image 1
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.
14 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 10 more
French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Chinese Simplified
Instant confirmation

Overview

Embarking on the Meteora Day Trip from Athens by bus offers a distinctive journey into one of Greece's most awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This tour provides the convenience of round-trip transportation from Athens in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic Greek countryside en route to Meteora. Upon arrival, participants have the opportunity to join a small group and visit 3 of the 6 historic monasteries, each perched atop towering rock formations, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into centuries-old monastic life. An optional traditional Greek lunch in the nearby village of Kastraki enhances the cultural experience. The inclusion of an audio guide enriches the journey with historical insights and stories about the monasteries and the surrounding landscape. This combination of seamless transportation, guided exploration, and cultural immersion makes this tour a unique and enriching way to experience the wonders of Meteora.

What's Included

  • Greek lunch with 10 dishes, including vegetarian options (if option is selected)
  • Local English speaking tour leader
  • Roundtrip transfer from Athens to Meteora
  • Drop-off service in Athens
  • Entrance fees of the Meteora Monasteries (per person per monastery)
  • Guided tour inside the monasteries (audio guide available for free)
See 6 moreSee 7 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

A complimentary pickup service is offered from selected centrally located hotels in Athens approximately one hour before the tour's departure. The supplier will email you prior to your tour date with details about the pickup location and time. Please note that drop-off service is not included, the tour ends at Larissis Station.

OR
Meeting point

Athens 104 37
Greece

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Athens (pass by)

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.
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Kamena Vourla

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.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Kastraki

Upon reaching Kalabaka, we'll begin the adventure with a leisurely lunch and a convenient restroom break in the charming village of Kastraki. Take this opportunity to refuel and prepare for an awe-inspiring exploration of the breathtaking Meteora region
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40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Varlaam Monastery

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.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Great Meteoron Monastery (pass by)

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.
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Meteora

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.
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25 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Holy Monastery of Saint Stephan

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.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Kalabaka

At the end of the day, our expert escort will transfer you back to Kalambaka, where you will have the time to stroll around. At 5:35 p.m. the bus departs from Kalambaka, and arrives at 9:58 p.m back to Athens.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Agios Nikolaos Anapaphsas

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.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Kalambaka (pass by)

Enjoy the panoramic view of the town Kalampaka
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Roussanou Monastery

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.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada)

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.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Kamena Vourla

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.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Amendments are serviced based on the availability
  • The tour requires customers to climb stairs upon their approach to the monasteries. If someone finds climbing stairs challenging, it is possible to wait at the parking area where some benches are.
  • Customers do not need to buy the monasteries tickets ahead of time. They pay in cash on the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EET). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-2876P31

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.66
678 reviews

Average 4.66 out of 5 stars based on 678 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
522
4 stars
109
3 stars
26
2 stars
16
1 star
5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EET).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Greek lunch with 10 dishes, including vegetarian options (if option is selected).
  • Local English speaking tour leader.
  • Roundtrip transfer from Athens to Meteora.
  • Coastal stopovers for brunch and dinner at beachfront restaurant.
  • Visit the interior of 3 most beautiful monasteries.
  • Visit to the hermit caves.
  • Pickup service from centrally located hotels in Athens.
  • Multilingual Monasteries audio tour.
  • Free map and bottle of water.
The following is NOT included:
  • Drop-off service in Athens.
  • Entrance fees of the Meteora Monasteries (per person per monastery).
  • Guided tour inside the monasteries (audio guide available for free).
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup is as follows:

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Athens: Meteora Monasteries, Hermit Caves Tour with Pickup will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Greek lunch with 10 dishes, including vegetarian options (if option is selected)
  • Local English speaking tour leader
  • Roundtrip transfer from Athens to Meteora
  • Coastal stopovers for brunch and dinner at beachfront restaurant
  • Visit the interior of 3 most beautiful monasteries
  • Visit to the hermit caves
  • Pickup service from centrally located hotels in Athens
  • Multilingual Monasteries audio tour
  • Free map and bottle of water
  • Drop-off service in Athens
  • Entrance fees of the Meteora Monasteries (per person per monastery)
  • Guided tour inside the monasteries (audio guide available for free)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Infants (ages 3 and under) are free
  • To enter the monasteries, appropriate clothing is required. Women should not wear short skirts and must have long sleeves. Men are not allowed to wear shorts.
  • Amendments are serviced based on the availability
  • The tour requires customers to climb stairs upon their approach to the monasteries. If someone finds climbing stairs challenging, it is possible to wait at the parking area where some benches are.
  • Customers do not need to buy the monasteries tickets ahead of time. They pay in cash on the spot.
  • The bus that will drive the customers to Kalambaka is only for the travel group.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 45 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name