Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a unique destination in Greece that offers a breathtaking landscape of towering rock formations and ancient monasteries perched on top of them. Located in the central part of Greece, Meteora is a popular destination for travelers who are looking for a combination of natural beauty, history, and spirituality. In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to do and see in Meteora, as well as provide practical tips for planning your trip.

Getting There

Meteora of Greece is located in the Thessaly region, about 350 km north of Athens. The nearest airport is in Thessaloniki, which is about 150 km away. From Thessaloniki, you can take a bus or rent a car to get to Meteora. The journey takes about 2-3 hours by car or 4-5 hours by bus. Alternatively, you can take a train from Athens to Kalambaka, the nearest town to Meteora. The train journey takes about 5 hours.

Bus Routes                Train Routes

Where to Stay

The best place to stay in Meteora is in the town of Kalambaka, which is located at the foot of the rock formations. There are plenty of hotels and guesthouses in Kalambaka that cater to all budgets. If you want to stay closer to the monasteries, you can also find accommodation in the nearby village of Kastraki. However, keep in mind that these hotels are often more expensive and may require a bit of hiking to reach.

Meteora Hotels

What to See and Do

1. Visit the Monasteries

The main attraction in Meteora is the six monasteries that are perched on top of the rock formations. These monasteries were built in the 14th and 15th centuries by monks who were seeking refuge from the invading Turks. Today, only six of the original 24 monasteries remain, and they are open to visitors. Each monastery has its own unique history and architecture, and it's worth visiting all of them if you have the time. The monasteries are open from 9 am to 5 pm, and there is a small entrance fee.

2. Hiking

Meteora is also a great destination for hiking enthusiasts. There are several trails that lead to the monasteries, as well as through the surrounding countryside. One of the most popular trails is the Path of the Gods, which offers stunning views of the rock formations and the valley below. The trail is about 8 km long and takes about 3-4 hours to complete.

3. Sunset Views

One of the best times to visit Meteora is during sunset. The rock formations take on a golden hue, and the monasteries are bathed in a warm light. There are several spots in the area where you can watch the sunset, including the viewpoint near the Monastery of Great Meteoron and the viewpoint near the village of Kastraki.

4. Photography

Meteora is a photographer's paradise. The unique landscape offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning images. Whether you're an amateur or a professional photographer, you'll find plenty of inspiration in Meteora. Some of the best spots for photography include the viewpoints near the monasteries, the Path of the Gods trail, and the village of Kastraki.

Practical Tips

- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking
- Dress modestly when visiting the monasteries (no shorts or sleeveless shirts)
- Bring a water bottle and snacks for hiking
- Check the opening hours of the monasteries before visiting
- Respect the rules and regulations of the monasteries
- Hire a guide for a more in-depth experience

Meteora Tours

Conclusion

Meteora is a destination that offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history, and spirituality. Whether you're interested in hiking, photography, or exploring ancient monasteries, Meteora has something to offer. With this travel guide, you'll be able to plan your trip to Meteora with ease and make the most of your time in this stunning part of Greece.