Meteora
Meteora byzantine monasteries perched on top of steep rocks, Greece
Meteora byzantine monasteries perched on top of steep rocks, Greece

Meteora Tours and Tickets

7,723 reviews

The towering vertical cliffs of Meteora have offered a protected place to pursue spiritual contemplation for centuries. The first hermit monks lived up in caves, but eventually 24 Byzantine monasteries were built (including six still functioning today) atop the imposing rock formations. Part natural wonder, part man-made marvel, the dramatic locale is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular attraction in Greece.

  • Open daily; some monasteries have restricted schedules
  • Kalabaka, 422 00

Tours and Tickets to Experience Meteora

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What are people saying about Meteora

Francois_L, Aug 2023
Amazing tour
We loved visiting Meteora! Our guide was funny and very knowledgeable. The bus was clean and well maintained. We had two teenagers 14 and 16 and they truly enjoyed it too!
Connor_K, Nov 2023
Incredible experience with a phenomenal tour guide
Amazing experience! Our tour guide, Nicholas, went above and beyond to provide my wife and I with a phenomenal tour of the Meteora monasteries and landscape. His knowledge of the area, the history, and the culture was excellent. He thoroughly answered all of the questions we had. Overall, the entire tour was a splendid experience. Very glad we went on it!
Erdal_A, Nov 2023
Meteora is amazing place, our tour guide was too
Hello everybody. Meteora was amazing place. It is far away from Athens, so the way took aproximately 8-9 hours for two way. The trip in this place was so funny and so instructive. Espacially our guide who name is Clementin(hope I spelled correct) from Canada was great guide for us. He knew about Metora’s history very well and told us very clearly in English. I want to thank to him from here too. Finally I can say it was tiring but worth it.
JanMikhail_A, Nov 2023
Wonderful experience
Meteoras a place to die for. Felt so magical. The tour was fun. Only bad thing is the 5 hr trip. But when you come there, you’ll learn a lot
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What are Meteora hours of operation?
A:
Meteora hours of operation: Open daily; some monasteries have restricted schedules. Buy tickets in advance on Viator. If you book with Viator, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.
People Also Ask
Q:Is Meteora worth the trip?
A:Yes, if you have time to visit this gem on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Meteora is about a 5-hour journey from Athens, so it's a long day trip, but the atmosphere, geology, and views are exceptional. Staying one or more nights in Kalambaka or Kastraki allows you to explore and enjoy the monasteries before the day-trippers arrive.
Q:Do I need a tour guide in Meteora?
A:No, but an expert local tour guide can be beneficial for arranging transportation, planning the most efficient routes, purchasing Meteora tickets to enter the monasteries, visiting off-the-path attractions such as caves, and explaining the history. But, provided you comply with Meteora's modest dress code, you can explore independently at your own pace.
Q:What is the best way to explore Meteora and how much time do I need?
A:Hiking is the best way to discover Meteora's stunning views. While it's theoretically possible to whizz round all six monasteries in a day, it's better to allow two---and enjoy both sunset and sunrise. The monasteries follow different schedules and can close without warning, but usually, all are open on Saturday and Sunday.
Q:What is the best time of year to go to Meteora?
A:As often in Greece, shoulder seasons are the best times to visit Meteora. Late spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October) bring mellower temperatures and fewer crowds than the summer peak (June–August)—perfect for hiking. Ceremonies around Greek Orthodox Easter in March or April draw hordes of pilgrims, so check the calendar.
Q:What are the rules for visiting Meteora?
A:Meteora has a strict dress code: sleeveless shirts are a no, while men should wear long pants, and women's skirts should be at least knee-length. Don't use drones, photograph monks or nuns, or take photos inside the churches. You should generally behave quietly and respectfully. Note that alcohol is also banned in the valley.
Q:Is Meteora walkable?
A:Yes. You'll need decent shoes, a water bottle, and a hat, but Meteora has a wealth of hiking trails, and exploring on foot is more fun than sitting in high-season traffic—and most monasteries have enough steps to provide a decent workout. Staying in Kastraki is better than starting from Kalambaka.