Athens: 2-Day Trip to Meteora With Guided Tours and Hotel

Explore the mystical Meteora on a 2-day journey from Athens. You’ll depart by air-conditioned bus, stopping for refreshments along the way. Upon arrival in Kalambaka, you’ll have free time to discover ancient hermitages and a Byzantine church before witnessing the breathtaking sunset. The next day, you’ll visit all six Meteora monasteries, admiring their Byzantine frescoes. Optional hiking allows you to learn about the rugged landscape. With guided tours, hotel accommodation, and free time in Kalambaka, this comprehensive package offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Meteora’s rich history and spiritual legacy.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Athens.

Key Points

• A 2-day journey from Athens to the breathtaking Meteora region, featuring guided tours of ancient monasteries and free time to explore the charming town of Kalambaka.
• Comfortable air-conditioned bus transportation with a refreshment and restroom stop, allowing travelers to recharge during the scenic countryside drive.
• Opportunities to witness the awe-inspiring Meteora rock formations, including a guided afternoon tour of ancient hermitages and a Byzantine church, and the chance to experience the serene sunset.
• Comprehensive morning monastery visits to explore three of the six Meteora monasteries, admiring the intricate Byzantine frescoes and taking in the reverent ambiance.
• Optional hiking tour to discover old monastery ruins, secluded caves, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, catering to both moderate and challenging hiking preferences.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Departure From Athens

The tour departs from Athens at 07:45 AM, transporting travelers by air-conditioned bus through the picturesque countryside.

Along the way, the group will stop at a local store for a refreshment and restroom break, allowing them to stretch their legs and prepare for the day ahead.

The drive takes approximately 5 hours, with the group arriving in Kalambaka around 12:45 PM.

Upon reaching the destination, travelers will be transferred to their hotel, ready to begin the afternoon’s explorations of Meteora’s hidden gems, such as ancient hermitages, a Byzantine church, and the stunning sunset views.

Refreshment and Restroom Break

During the journey from Athens, the group stops at a local store to enjoy refreshments and use the restroom facilities, allowing them to recharge and prepare for the day’s exploration of Meteora.

The stop provides a welcome break from the bus ride, giving travelers a chance to stretch their legs, use the bathroom, and pick up any snacks or drinks they may want for the rest of the trip.

The local store offers a variety of options, from traditional Greek treats to bottled water and juices.

This brief pause in the itinerary ensures everyone is energized and ready to fully enjoy the breathtaking monasteries and landscapes of Meteora.

Arrival in Kalambaka

After the group’s refreshing stop, they arrive in Kalambaka at 12:45. The bus pulls up to their hotel, where the travelers will be transferred and checked in for their two-day exploration of the Meteora region.

Once settled, they’ll have the afternoon free to discover hidden gems like ancient hermitages, a Byzantine church, and witness the breathtaking sunset over the iconic rock formations. This will allow them to enjoy the serene atmosphere and rich history of the Meteora monasteries before the more comprehensive tour scheduled for the following day.

With their base camp established, the group is now primed to delve deeper into the wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Afternoon Monastery Tour

Kicking off their Meteora adventure, the group embarks on an afternoon monastery tour to uncover the hidden gems of this iconic region.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, they’ll explore ancient hermitages and a Byzantine church, witnessing the sunset over the awe-inspiring rock formations.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Meteora’s rich history and spiritual legacy, providing a deeper understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As the day draws to a close, the group will be captivated by the serene ambiance and breathtaking vistas that have made Meteora a renowned destination.

This immersive experience sets the stage for the more comprehensive monastery visits on the following day.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Morning Monastery Visits

On the second day, the group embarks on a morning tour to visit all six Meteora monasteries, witnessing the interior of three and uncovering hidden gems along the way.

The towering rock formations cast long shadows as the morning light bathes the ancient monasteries in a warm glow.

As the visitors explore the monasteries, they’re struck by:

• The intricate Byzantine frescoes adorning the monastery walls
• The reverent silence that permeates the sacred spaces
• The awe-inspiring views that stretch out from the monastery terraces
• The palpable sense of timelessness and spiritual contemplation

The experience leaves the group humbled and inspired, a deeper understanding of Meteora’s enduring significance etched in their minds.

Optional Hiking Tour

For those seeking a more active and immersive exploration of Meteora, an optional hiking tour is available. This tour takes visitors on a walking journey between the towering rock formations, allowing them to discover old monastery ruins and the secluded caves once inhabited by hermetic monks.

Along the way, hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The trails wind through verdant forests and across rugged terrain, providing a unique perspective of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whether visitors are looking for a moderate stroll or a more challenging hike, the optional tour offers the opportunity to delve deeper into Meteora’s rich history and natural beauty.

Free Time in Kalambaka

After the morning tour of the Meteora monasteries, travelers are granted ample free time to explore the charming town of Kalambaka at their leisure.

Visitors can wander the quaint streets, visit local shops and cafes, or simply take in the town’s picturesque setting nestled at the base of the towering Meteora rock formations. This free time allows guests to soak up the authentic atmosphere of the region and discover Kalambaka’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty before the return journey to Athens.

During this respite, visitors may:

• Admire the Byzantine-style architecture
• Savor traditional Greek cuisine at a family-owned taverna
• Browse handcrafted artisanal goods at local shops
• Capture breathtaking photos of the dramatic Meteora landscape

Return to Athens

With their free time in Kalambaka coming to an end, travelers board the bus for the return journey to Athens. The drive back takes approximately 5 hours, arriving at the original meeting point in the capital city around 10:15 PM.

During the trip, passengers can sit back, relax, and reflect on the remarkable experience of exploring the UNESCO-listed Meteora monasteries and the charming town nestled at their base.

Weary but fulfilled, they’ll have plenty of memories to cherish from their 2-day adventure – the awe-inspiring natural landscape, the centuries-old monastic dwellings, and the insights they gained into this unique corner of Greece.

As the bus pulls into Athens, travelers can look forward to arriving home, inspired by the wonders of Meteora.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The minimum age requirement for this tour is not specified. However, the tour may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments, so the suitability for young children or infants should be carefully considered.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed Inside the Monasteries?

Photography and video recording are generally permitted inside the Meteora monasteries, though visitors must respect the religious nature of the sites and follow any restrictions set by the monasteries. Certain areas may have limited or prohibited photography.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks during the Meteora tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some monasteries may have restrictions on outside food and beverages.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guide is fluent in multiple languages, typically English and the local language. This allows them to provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the tour, catering to the diverse backgrounds of the participants.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allows for full refunds up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s start. Within 24 hours, partial or no refund may apply. Specific policy details are available through the tour operator.

Recap

This two-day excursion from Athens unlocks the enchanting secrets of Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travelers will discover centuries-old monasteries, explore hidden gems, and witness the breathtaking sunset over the awe-inspiring landscape.

The comprehensive package includes round-trip transportation, hotel accommodations, and guided tours, offering an unforgettable exploration of Meteora’s captivating wonders.

For the adventurous, an optional hiking tour promises to unveil the region’s remote ruins and monks’ caves, creating a truly immersive experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: