Hey Lykkers! Ever dreamed of a place where history, nature, and spirituality come together in the most breathtaking way? Welcome to Meteora—a stunning gem in central Greece! With its awe-inspiring monasteries perched atop towering cliffs and landscapes that feel straight out of a fairytale, this destination is perfect for adventurers, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful escape. Let’s dive into what makes Meteora truly magical!

During our 3-day trip, we explored the best of what this UNESCO World Heritage site has to offer, from the awe-inspiring rock formations to the rich cultural heritage, delicious local food, and activities suited for all kinds of travelers. Here’s a detailed guide, including prices, how to get there, the best time to visit, and much more.

How to Get to Meteora

Flight to Athens

To begin our adventure in Meteora, we first flew into Athens. Flight prices can vary depending on your location and season. For instance, a round-trip flight from New York to Athens can range from $600 to $1,200, while from London to Athens, it can cost between $100 and $300, depending on how early you book. Once in Athens, Meteora is about a 4-hour drive away, but you have a couple of transportation options.

Train to Meteora

If you prefer not to drive, you can take a train from Athens to Kalabaka, the closest town to Meteora. Train tickets are reasonably priced at around $20–$30 USD one way. The journey offers scenic views of the Greek countryside, which is an added bonus!

Car Rental

We decided to rent a car to make the journey more flexible. Rental car prices typically range from $25–$40 per day, depending on the car type and rental company. Keep in mind that Greece has toll roads, so budget around $15–$20 for tolls along the way.

Best Time to Visit Meteora

The best time to visit Meteora is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). We traveled in mid-May, and it turned out to be ideal—pleasant temperatures around 18–22°C (64–72°F), perfect for hiking and exploring. The summer months (July and August) are much busier with tourists, and temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), which can make hiking more challenging. If you prefer a quieter experience, visiting outside the peak summer season is highly recommended.

Where to Stay in Meteora

Accommodation Options

There are two main towns near Meteora where you can stay: Kalabaka and Kastraki. Kalabaka is the larger of the two, with more hotel options, while Kastraki is quieter and closer to the monasteries.

The Grand Meteora Hotel: We stayed at The Grand Meteora Hotel, a 4-star hotel in Kastraki, which provided a peaceful escape with stunning views of the Meteora cliffs. Prices for a standard double room range from $70 to $120 per night, depending on the season and room type.

Hotel Meteora: Located in Kalabaka, this 3-star hotel offers affordable rates starting at $50 per night. It’s centrally located, making it easy to access restaurants and other amenities.

Airbnb and Other Rentals

Airbnb is also a great option if you prefer more privacy or a homely atmosphere. Prices for apartments typically range from $40 to $80 per night.

Where to Eat in Meteora

Meteora is famous for its Vlach cuisine, and we made sure to indulge in the local dishes. Here are some recommended restaurants and cafes, along with the prices.

Yamas Taverna (Kalabaka): A local favorite where we enjoyed a traditional Greek dinner. A meal for two with appetizers, main dishes (like tenderloin), and drinks cost around $35–$45.

Taverna Gardenia (Kastraki): This charming taverna offers delicious Greek food, and we had a memorable dinner here. A typical meal with appetizers, main dishes (like souvlaki), and dessert (portokalopita) cost around $25–$40 for two people.

Café Vatra (Kalabaka): A lovely café where we enjoyed a refreshing Greek coffee and local sweets. Expect to pay around $5–$10 for coffee and a pastry.

What to Do in Meteora

Visit the Meteora Monasteries

The primary attraction in Meteora is the six active monasteries that are perched on the cliffs. Admission to each monastery typically costs between $3 and $5 USD. We visited the Great Meteoron Monastery and St. Stephen’s Nunnery, both of which were spectacular. These monasteries are open daily, with varying hours, so it’s important to check their schedules in advance.

Hiking Tour

For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking in Meteora is a must. We took a guided hiking tour with Visit Meteora, which was an unforgettable experience. The tour took us through scenic paths and up to one of the monasteries, offering magnificent views along the way. The cost of a guided hiking tour was around $40–$50 per person for a half-day tour. The tour guide provided insightful information about the history of the region, making it both an educational and physically engaging experience.

Sunset Tour

One of the highlights of our trip was a sunset tour, which allowed us to witness the monasteries at golden hour. Prices for a sunset tour are typically around $30–$40 per person, depending on the tour operator.

Fun Activities and Sightseeing

Besides visiting the monasteries and hiking, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Meteora:

Visit the Meteora Museum: Learn about the history and geology of Meteora at this informative museum in Kalabaka. Entry costs around $5 per person.

Explore the Village of Kastraki: This quiet village near the cliffs offers a charming, rural experience, perfect for walking and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Final Thoughts

So, Lykkers, if you’re craving a destination that offers jaw-dropping views, rich history, and a sense of tranquility, Meteora is calling your name! Whether you come for the adventure or the serenity, this Greek wonder will leave a lasting impression. Pack your bags, embrace the magic, and get ready to create unforgettable memories. Until the next travel inspiration—happy exploring!