Day Trips

From Thessaloniki: Meteora Monasteries & Caves Full-Day Trip

Monastery perched on rock formation in Meteora, Greece, part of private day tour from Athens.

Two people sitting and viewing the Meteora Monasteries on rock formations in Thessaloniki, Greece.

Interior of The Monastery of Great Meteoron with ornate religious icons and wooden carvings.

Meteora monastery with stone architecture and lush greenery on a sunny day.

Duration

10 hr

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Transfers included

Meals included

Indulge in a sumptuous meal as a part of your experience

Short on time but want to experience the best of Meteora? This half-day tour from Thessaloniki includes air-conditioned coach transfers and guided visits to two active monasteries, all without the stress of planning.

With a trained archaeologist leading the way, learn how nature shaped Meteora’s cliffs, trace the evolution of its cliff-top monasteries, and witness centuries-old Orthodox rituals still practiced today.

Visit two of Meteora’s living monasteries, perhaps Agios Stefanos, a working convent with beautifully frescoed chapels, or Roussanou, perched atop a slender rock pillar and known for its compact layout and colorful iconostasis.

Stop at scenic lookout points for sweeping 360-degree views of all six Meteora monasteries, perfectly perched against the Pindus Mountains.

Did you know? The tiny rope pulleys and wooden winch baskets once used to haul monks and supplies up Meteora’s cliffs are still on display at Varlaam Monastery, a humbling reminder that, for centuries, the only way up was by faith, muscle, and a handmade lift.

Round-trip transfers to and from Thessaloniki by air-conditioned coach bus

Meteora tour with panoramic views of all 6 monasteries

Entry to 2 monasteries (subject to the day’s schedule, as some monasteries are closed on specific weekdays)

English-speaking trip attendant-archaeologist

Lunch stop in Kastraki village (meal not included)

Basic travel insurance (during transportation)

Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Athens

A small offering of €3 to €5 per monastery

Lunch at Kastraki Village

Guided tour inside the monasteries

Tips for the guide (optional)

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Well organised enjoyable tour with a knowledgable guide.
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What to bring

Bring a small amount of cash for monastery offerings (€3 to €5 per person).

Wear supportive, closed-toe shoes with a solid grip. Many of the footpaths include steps, stones, and uneven surfaces.

Carry a refillable water bottle and a light snack, particularly in the warmer months (June to August).

Make sure to bring your own earphones and a fully charged smartphone to listen to the audio guide during your visit.

What's not allowed

You can take photos in most outdoor areas, but avoid photographing inside chapels or any monks and nuns unless you have clear permission.

Drones are not permitted without prior authorization, due to the area’s protected status and privacy concerns.

Accessibility

Meteora's terrain is not suitable for wheelchairs. Every monastery requires you to climb stairs or walk along sloped paths.

If you have limited mobility, consider visiting St. Stephen’s Monastery. It offers easier access with a paved pathway and fewer stairs than the others.

Additional information

Your tour kicks off at 8am. Meet your guide at the Venizelos Statue, right at the corner of Aristotelous & Egnatia Street.

Depending on the day, you’ll enter 2 to 4 monasteries. Each monastery has one designated closing day per week (Great Meteoron is closed Tuesdays, and Varlaam is closed Fridays), so the tour route may vary.

Most monasteries require a €3 to €5 offering per person, payable in cash at the gate.

Dress modestly. Men must wear long pants; women should cover their shoulders and wear skirts below the knee. Wraps are often provided at entrances.

Transportation between sites is provided via local minibuses or shuttle coaches.

Restrooms are available at the larger monasteries, such as Great Meteoron, Varlaam, and St. Stephen’s. Some may request a small tip for use.

Guides are not allowed inside monasteries. If you'd like to explore further, multi-language audio guides are available to use on your own mobile.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Aristotelous Square and Egnatia Street, in front of the Venizelos Statue.

Address: Egnatia 78, Thessaloniki 546 24, Greece.

Get directions to the meeting point