The bustling city of Athens, Greece may be known for its ancient landmarks and vibrant energy, but just a few hours away lies a hidden gem and UNESCO World Heritage site that should also be on your bucket list – the Meteora Monasteries. Located in central Greece, these stunning cliffside monasteries offer an escape from the chaos of city life and provide a serene experience unlike any other.
My friend and I took a day trip to Meteora during our extended stay in Athens after our Mediterranean cruise with Celestyal Cruises. I had heard about the monasteries from other travelers and were intrigued by their breathtaking views and rich history.
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From Athens, Meterea is a great day trip and is the perfect opportunity for discovery and relaxation for all ages. You can rent a car and make the 4 hour drive or take the light rail from the Athens station (5 hours) like I did. Either way, it’s worth every minute.
A Brief History of Meteora and its Cliffside Monasteries
The story of Meteora is as complex and layered as the strata of rock from which it rises. It is a testament to the marvels of both nature and human endeavor. The name Meteora, which translates to “suspended in air” or “in the heavens above,” refers to the unique geological formation of towering sandstone cliffs that rise up to nearly 2000 feet above the surrounding valley. These cliffs were formed millions of years ago by a combination of tectonic plate movement and erosion from wind and water.
But it wasn’t until the 14th century that these natural wonders became home to some of the most important monasteries in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Inaccessible by roads, monks and nuns had to rely on ropes, ladders, and nets to transport building materials and themselves up the sheer cliffs. Over time, 24 monasteries were built on these soaring pinnacles. Today only six monasteries remain in operation.
Each monastery beholds a treasure trove of religious relics, manuscripts, and Byzantine art; however, their very existence is a marvel for the visitor. Whether you stand before the grand Monastery of Great Meteoron or the easily accessible Rousanou Monastery, each offers a doorway into a timeless past where vows of silence once echoed off the mighty rocks.
Where is Meteora?
Located in central Greece’s Thessaly region, the town of Kalampaka (also called Kalabaka) is the gateway to Meteora’s monastic community. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located at the heart of the Greek mainland, approximately 200 miles northwest of Athens.
By car, the journey from Athens takes around four hours, and there are also frequent train and bus connections to Kalambaka. The town is a charming destination with traditional tavernas, shops, and hotels offering stunning views of Meteora’s cliffs.
My Day Trip from Athens
To visit the monasteries of Meteora, one must first make their way to Kalambaka. Visitors can choose to spend just the day or spend the night in the town for a more immersive experience. I had just one day to visit, so it was a long day trip.
I booked an all-day guided tour with Meteora Photo Tour booked via Get Your Guide. The experience included an afternoon with a local photographer and guide, who shared insights on the best photography spots and techniques for capturing the monasteries’ beauty, as well as round-trip train tickets to/from Athens.
My trip to Kalambaka began early one morning at the Larissa train station in Athens. Public transit in the city is fairly easy to navigate, and the train ride to Kalambaka was comfortable with beautiful scenery along the way.
Note: During my trip, a key train bridge was damaged during recent storms. So train passengers traveled to Kalambaka part way and then transferred to a bus for the final leg. The bus transportation took longer than the train.
As I approached Kalambaka, I was immediately drawn to the towering monolithic rocks loomed up ahead. We stepped out into town at the train station, and I was eager to explore. Our tour guide picked us up there, showed us around town, pointed out various landmarks, and gave us a brief history lesson on the area.
Even though there was food on the train, we stopped at a local pie shop, Tsoumbekos George. This shop makes some of the best pies in the area. I had a delicious chicken pie before we hit the road to see the monasteries.
Our first stop was a lookout point for stunning views of the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron, one of the largest and most important monasteries in Meteora. Even from a distance, I couldn’t believe how massive this structure was and how it seemed to be perched on top of a towering rock.
From this lookout point, we could also see the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas and Varlaam Monastery, both equally impressive in their own ways. Our guide explained the history and significance of each monastery as we admired them from afar.
Next, we made our way to the Rousanou Monastery for a closer look.
Women are required to wear appropriate clothing (long skirts and covered shoulders) to enter. So we borrowed these wraps before entering the monastery, which was worth it to see the beautiful frescoes and experience the peaceful atmosphere inside.
Photography isn’t allowed inside the monasteries, but I will always remember the stunning views and intricate details of the artwork.
After visiting Roussanou Monastery, we drove to another lookout point to view the Agios Stefanos Monastery. The panoramic views of the valley here were breathtaking.
Next was one of my favorite stops, a lookout called Psaropetra Lookout. This hand shaped rock formation offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As I stood there taking in the scenery, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of peace and connection to nature.
Our final stop was one last lookout point. We skipped the popular Sunset Rock for this one because it lacked crowds and the view was simply incredible. We watched as the sun slowly set behind the rocks, casting a golden light over the monasteries and creating a truly magical atmosphere.
I couldn’t believe how much beauty and history was packed into one day at Meteora. Our train/bus scheduled put major time constraints on our visit, but I would highly recommend spending more time here if possible. Each monastery has its own unique history and architecture, making it worth visiting them all. It was a truly unforgettable experience that left me in awe of these magnificent structures built by dedicated monks centuries ago.
As we made our way back to Athens, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a special place. The landscape of Meteora is like no other, and the spirituality and peacefulness found within its monasteries is something that cannot be fully captured in photos or words.
Guided Tour versus DIY
For those seeking to capture the ineffable spirit of Meteora in more than just memory, working with a local photography guide is invaluable. The position of the sun and the play of light on the rocks is a dance worth directing, and a knowledgeable local guide ensures you don’t miss a step.
Staying true to supporting local communities, I highly recommend Meteora Photo Tour. Our guide and co-owner Konstantina Tsiamo, knew the region’s best areas and led us to vantage points where the landscape unfolded before my lens like a vast, living canvas, each shot imbued with the essence of Meteora. Her advice on the best camera settings and composition helped me capture some of my favorite photographs from the trip. Plus, her knowledge on the history and culture of Meteora added depth to our experience.
https://www.getyourguide.com/athens-l91/from-athens-all-day-meteora-photo-tour-t322523/But for those who prefer a more independent journey, it is also possible to explore Meteora on your own. The region offers various trails that take you through stunning landscapes and up to the monasteries
But whether you choose a guided tour or go the DIY route, one thing is certain – Meteora is a destination that should not be missed. Don’t forget to pack extra memory cards, because you’ll want to capture every moment in Meteora. Happy shooting!
Travel Tips When Visiting Meteora
A day trip to Meteora is more than just planning your itinerary; it’s about being prepared for spontaneity among ancient stone and rushing wind. Here are a few tips to make your experience richer and respectful:
- Respect Dress Code and Monastic Habits: The monasteries have strict dress codes, and certain areas may be off-limits out of respect for the monks’ privacy. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered, and follow any instructions given by the monks or staff. Women must wear a long skirt. If you don’t have one, you can buy one before entering.
- Mind Your Steps: The trails and steps leading to the monasteries can be steep, narrow, and uneven. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip and take your time climbing up or down. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid taking risks for a perfect shot.\
- Mind the Fragile Ecosystem: Meteora’s unique flora and fauna are part of the UNESCO heritage site. Stick to designated paths, refrain from picking flowers, and avoid engaging with wildlife.
- Savor Local Cuisine: The village of Kalambaka below holds traditional tavernas where you can refuel with local specialties, such as lamb stew and fresh-baked bread, ensuring you experience the full flavor of the region.
- Consider the Weather: The weather on the mountain can change rapidly. Bring layers, sun protection, and water for your ascent.
- Travel Lightly: The ascents are steep, and the fewer things you bring, the more you can connect with the surroundings without the burden of the unnecessary.
Visiting the Meteora monasteries from Athens is a day trip that you and your family will cherish. From the quiet solitude of these celestial abodes, you’ll carry home more than just photographs; you’ll bring with you the sense of time suspended in a place that feels both ancient and fresh with the possibility of discovery. But it is the respect and care for this connection between nature, history, and spirituality that will allow future generations to share in the tranquility and beauty of one of Greece’s greatest natural and manmade wonders.
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