It was founded little before the mid-14th . Some of the sights that are covered on the Meteora day trips include the great Meteoron monastery, Hidden Monastery of Ypapanti, Varlaam monastery, etc. Already since 1362, it has been an organised monastery and the catholic was built in 1456-1476. Kalambaka is a nice town of roughly 12,000 inhabitants. St. Dimitrios, which was formerly an Eastern Orthodox monastery, and was once destroyed in 1809, is now a part of the Meteora Monasteries. See all the 6 monasteries, and get an inside look into 3 of them. 1. Each monastery has its own visiting days and hours, and while one monastery might be open on a certain day, others might be closed. What are the timings of the Meteora Hiking Tour? There are a number of tours you can consider, such as the 3 day Rail Tour, the stunning Meteora Sunset Tour or the 3-day coach tour. The monasteriesprovided great protection during the Turkish invasions over the years and particularly during the 14th century. Many people rush this part of the world in a single day or perhaps an overnight trip but in reality, it really is a destination that will continue to impress you if you invest a bit of time. The Acropolis Museum is a museum in Athens, where archaeological findings from the site of the Acropolis citadel are housed. She was describing the history of Meteora in a professional way. The direct train back to Athens departs at 5:22 pm and gets to the capital at 10:12 pm. Alternatively, you may use, We're sorry, hotels cannot be booked for more than 30 days. The Meteora train trip starts daily at 7:57 am and the total duration of this tour is 14 hours. This full-day tour to Meteroa is the cheapest we've seen, but it comes highly rated by over 320 happy customers. Price: Ticket prices range from $36-$75 for adults and $25-$64 for children depending on the session date and time. What are the timings of Meteora Day Trips? For something even bigger then Vista delle Rocce has 3 bedrooms and can sleep up to 8. It is quiet and peaceful and there are some truly stunning views from some of the hotels especially at sunset and sunrise. The church 'Katholikon', honouring the 'Transfiguration' of Jesus, was erected in the middle of 14th century and decorated from 1483 to1552. Which Great Meteoron Monastery tickets and tours are offered in multiple languages? The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron, located at Meteora-Greece, is the biggest and oldest one of all. Meteora day trips by train offer you to relish the views of the Greek countryside and visit 6 cliff-top monasteries in Meteora while learning about the history and splendour of the Meteora. Commence your tour immediately by boarding a clean and luxurious VIP minibus, after you meet your guide. Heel leuke dagtrip. The first ascetics came here in the 11th century. You can avail of discounts on tickets by booking them online. The main cathedral in the central courtyard is embellished with beautiful 16th century frescoes. Built by hermits over the course of centuries by hauling building materials up ladders and pulleys, the six Eastern Orthodox monasteries constitute some of the most remarkable feats of human endeavor anywhere on Earth, rivalling Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza in terms of the effort taken to construct. On this adventure from Athens, you'll learn all about that story. The price of a one-way ticket costs between 15and 20. You will have What are the best half-day tickets and tours for Great Meteoron Monastery? If this is booked out then we recommend Hotel Kastraki which is just around the corner or Tsikeli Hotel for an adults-only experience. The hike begins on the foothills of Meteora and the trail itself has historic significance since it has been used for 15 centuries by the earliest monks who took this path. The roughly 358km trip can be completed in 6-7 hours. What is included in a Meteora day trip by train? Local agency in Meteora Greece .Authentic Tours. Absorb their interiors and views, and learn how and why they were constructed. The guide was very enthusiastic and kind. Stephen 09:00-13:30 and 15:30-17:30 closed MondaysSt. Guests can admire the city's sights during a gradual rotation of the tower, which lasts for approximately one hour. Meteora trips are worth going to. Note - Long skirts are available at the entrance of each monastery. Be awed by the beauty of the centuries-old rock formations and the monasteries, and feel the solemn spirituality of the place coursing through you. Each level is them built vertically and is accessed by a narrow staircase. Buy tickets in advance on Viator. Continue on and you will come across the sign below and you turn left on a dirt road. What will my experience look like on the Meteora Hiking Tour? The Holy Monastery of Varlaam, which was established in the middle of the fourteenth century by a monk named Varlaam is the second-largest monastery in Meteora. The Skyline Bar is located in the heart of Thessaloniki, on the top floor of the OTE tower. A. Considered to be one of the most important prehistoric sites in Greece this cave is home to the oldest known man-made structure in the world, a wall that is believed to be 23,000 years old. 1. . There are two ways to get to Meteora: either by signing up for one of the numerous guided Meteora tours from Athens or Thessaloniki or by using your own means of transport and staying a night or two in the city of Kalambaka or the village of Kastraki, and visiting the monasteries at your own pace. Thessaloniki: Full-Day Bus Trip to Meteora. This bridge is quite hard to find and we almost gave up after several wrong turns. . Q. However, depending on the tickets you decide to buy, the price of Meteora tour Tickets may vary. Founded around 1350 by a monk named Varlaam, the Varlaam Monastery has a fascinating history, having been abandoned at one time for more than a century. Opening hours and days: April 1st to October 31st -the monastery stays closed on Fridays. What is included in a Meteora Hiking Tour? From March to the end of May it will close earlier at either 16:00 or 15:00. If you plan on taking the train from Athens, the nearest stop to Meteora is Kalampaka ( see below). against driving if you didn't have your international driver's license as you could get pulled over and receive a ticket. The total length is 65 meters.The bridge was restored in 1968 and 1983 and again in2006. Explore this UNESCO world heritage site and admire the unique landscape. The present frescos were created by the brothers Antony,a priest, and Nicolas in 1741. You can even walk up to the Monasteries from here if you are fit and adventurous. The old monastery is used as a museum, nowadays. De kloosters zijn adembenemend en de gids maakte er een fantastische ervaring van. St. Stephens Monastery also has two cathedrals; the old 16th-century chapel which was severely damaged during WWII and the consequent Greek Civil War, and the 18th-century main cathedral that is dedicated to Saint Charalambos and includes his holy relics. Also, youll find some prized artwork inside, including the frescoes of the well-known painter, Theophanes Strelitzas. Skirts are provided at the entrance of each monastery. The elegant monastery Catholicon was built in the honour of Agioi Pantes in 1541-42, by two brothers from Ioannina, the priest-monks Hosioi Theophanes and Nectarios the Apsarades. The Museum of Illusions Thessaloniki is a family-friendly visitor attraction that aims to discombobulate your perception of reality, using the power of science! Enjoy 360 views of one of the oldest and most diverse cities in Europe, as well as some excellent coffee and delicious snacks! Im Sandy a tragic Grecophile married to a Greek and hoping to help you have the best trip to Greece you possibly can. With the rocks that rise into the sky in the background of majestic mountains sprinkled with red-roofed monasteries, the place, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, is different from any other place on Earth. Admire the Holy Monasteries of Meteora, perched on top of massive natural rocks. Children ages 4 and under enter free of charge. The mountain ranges to the east and north of Meteora experiences a wide climatic variation from baking heat in summer to severe cold in winter with heavy snowfalls. Part of the floor mosaic is intact whilst the walls are covered in restored paintings and frescoes from the 12th to 17th centuries. Archeologists believe this is where Modern Humans first evolved from Neanderthals and later transition to farmers after the Ice Age. This marvelous 15 day tour is the chance of a lifetime. Nicholas Anapafsas 09:00-17:00 open every day. There are currently six functioning monasteries in Meteora, each housing a limited number of monks or nuns. Tour guide was very informative and helpful . If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. If you book with Viator, you can cancel at least 24 hours . Depart Thessaloniki in the morning and journey to the amazing monastery complex of Meteora to visit 2 of the 6 holy monasteries, depending on their operating schedule. If you are travelling in a group and would like to stay in the area a while ( which I strongly recommend!) It is called the monastery which remains "suspended in the air" (meteoro), because of the cliff formation of a gigantic rock on top of which it was built. Are Meteora Day Trips wheelchair accessible? Quite how these monks managed to build these immense structures at the top of sheer rock formations is one of history's great stories. The Meteora Monasteries are located close to the city of Kalambaka in Greece, near the Pineois river and the Pindus Mountains, about 360km north of Athens. Admire the scenic views of the Greek countryside on the journey to Meteora. Having been destroyed time and time again by earthquakes, elemental decay, and religious sacking, the temple ruins that we see today date back to the 4th century BC. At 12:05 the train arrives at Kalabaka Train Station where our expert in the area local Tour Leader will be waiting for you holding a signboard with your name. Excellent experience . An error occurred, please try again later. A. If your accommodation is in Kalambaka, chances are you can see St. Stephens monastery all the way from there, as its the only monastery visible from the city. Meteora is a seismic rock formation in central Greece containing one of the most precarious, inaccessible, and naturally beautiful monastic sites in all of Christianity. There is no airport at Meteora nor in the surrounding towns. De kloosters zijn adembenemend en de gids maakte er een fantastische ervaring van. Having been destroyed time and time again by earthquakes, elemental decay, and religious sacking, the temple ruins that we see today date back to the 4th century BC. It is also quite easy to visit Meteora yourself by driving or using public transport. It has a high stone semicirculararch that is 29 meters wide and 13 meters high and is constructed of limestone and sandstone. Meteora day trips are the best option to explore three of the existing six monasteries by getting inside them. The trip was fantastic. There is plenty of parking at each of the Monasteries and overflow parking at some of the bigger ones. This monastery is now also inhabited by nuns rather than Monks. 11350 Constitution Highway. METEORA. A true jewel of Meteora is its secret monastery, Ypapanti. 2-Day Delphi and Meteora Tour from Athens. then then check out Zosimas House which has 2 bedrooms, can sleep 6 people and has amazing views. You'll be picked up at Kalabaka and whisked into the mountains in a VIP minibus with an expert local tour guide. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed place is a must-see as it combines geological beauty with a historically important monastery. It is run by Headout and works with attractions and tour operators to provide incredible experiences at the tap of a button. Panoramic view of all 6 monasteries. There is one location in Greece that you must see when you are in the country: the Meteora Monasteries. This phenomenon was formed through many series of earth movements which count back to 60 million years ago. Dont get me wrong they are nice towns and if you have a few spare days they are really worth some time but not if your objective is to stay near the Monasteries of Meteora. Transfers to and from Meteora are included, ensuring you have a hassle-free experience. It is the biggest of the Meteora monasteries. The Meteora day trip tickets can be purchased online in advance. Enjoy the chance to visit two of these monasteries, and explore the interesting attractions within! The beautiful wall-paintings of the Catholicon were executed in 1560, when the priest-monk Arsenios was the abbot of the monastery. The Monasteries are comparable to visiting somewhere like Petra for their sheer grandeur and impressive architecture and engineering and the geology of the area only adds to the awe. The guide was very enthusiastic and kind. The price of a one-way ticket costs between 15 and 20. Explore this UNESCO world heritage site and admire the unique landscape. Kastraki is a small and quite charming Greek village that has a number of excellent tavernas and some really picturesque scenery. After living in caves for a while, the ascetics built the 21 Meteora monasteries on top of the sandstone megaliths, thus securing a life free from intruders. Operated by: If you would like to join a tour to visit the monasteries this tour will pick you up from either Kalambaka or Kastraki. You can see still some of these caves, or hermitages in use for similar purposes today. It is located in one of the most impressive rocks of Meteora. Get an opportunity to discover the ruins of St. Dimitrios apart from the beautiful picturesque views along the trail. The ruins of the Temple of Apollo in Delphi are among the most imposing and important ancient Greek archaeological heritage sites. Famous for being featured in the James Bond movie, Four Your Eyes Only, the Holy Trinity Monastery, also known as Agia Triada, is set on a very steep rock and is the most difficult monasteries to access. The experience kicks off with a four . It is fairly easy to find and is right on the main road that heads into the mountains. It is the closest monastery to the village of Kastraki and can easily be visited from there on foot. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. There are no shops or facilities here however there are a few good tavernas in the nearby village of Ropotos. Train tickets from Athens to Kalabaka and back (second class), Pick-up at Kalabaka Train Station & 5-hour tour of Meteora in a VIP minibus, Entrance to 1, 2 or 3 monasteries, depending on your selection, Meteora Monasteries: Day Tour from Athens. Meteora is a location that offers exceptional sights of the combination of geological wonder and a historic monastic community. The monastery is open every day. If youre not following a tour, and you plan on visiting Meteora by taxi, by car or by train, its important to plan ahead and consider avoiding the days when each of the monasteries are closed. Entrance to 1, 2 or 3 monasteries, depending on your selection. 1 day Meteora Tour from Athens by Train. Duration: approx. Every meal we had in Kastraki and Kalambaka was excellent but these 3 places are exceptional; Each of the six Meteora monasteries have their own stories to reveal and are steeped in history and intrigue. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants are recommended for men. According to the type of tickets you purchased, your Meteora bus tours will take you to awe at the magnificence of each of the six monasteries in Meteora in a VIP minibus. We will take you on a 5-hours Meteora tour with a local tour leader who will show you the most beautiful spots around Meteora. Each level is them built vertically and is accessed by a narrow staircase. Days: Various sessions open daily. Get swept off your feet by the picturesque views atop the Meteora boulders and rounded hill formations on your road trip to the monastery complex. The Great Meteoron, also known as the Holy Monastery of the Metamorfossis (Transfiguration of Christ), is a male monastery and is the oldest and largest of all the monasteries of Meteora. A. Today the Roussanou monastery is inhabited by nuns and has been since 1988. It is situated very close to the Great Meteoro Monastery and it has breathtaking views as well as a stunning new museum that houses many of the monastery's priceless artifacts. Inside, you'll find a host of optical illusion exhibits and installations designed to play tricks on the naked eye, and make you question what your eyes behold! Tickets for Meteora day trip tours start at 25. Take a trip to Meteora to experience the beauty of nature and the religious vibe of the monasteries. At the entrance of the Monastery lies the Church of St. Anthony and the crypt where the codes and the monasterys heirlooms were previously stored. Meteora is famous for its monasteries perched on top of cliffs. Yes. Mostly accessible on foot, the old, deserted monastery, built in the 14th century is situated in Meteora's northern region. To get to Meteora from Athens by car, take the freeway E75 and head toLamia-Karditsa-Trikala-Kalambaka. Meteora monasteries opening days and hours in winter (November 1st to March 31st): Great Meteoron Monastery: 9:30 AM - 2 PM, closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; Varlaam Monastery: 9 AM - 3 PM, closed on Thursdays and Fridays; Roussanou Monastery: 10 AM- 2 PM, closed on Wednesdays. The bridge sits over the Portaikos River and until 1936 this bridge was the only way to get from Thessaly to Epirus. Beyond the monasteries and mountains, Meteora houses the worlds oldest known man-made structure a wall believed to be 23 000 years old, which lies at the entrance of the Theopetra Cave. All you need to do is look forward to the day of! A. Opened to the public in 2009, the museum is home to over 4000 artifacts found on the rock and on the surrounding slopes of the Acropolis, and contains relics from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. Revel in the quaint lifestyle of the Greek country towns and visit six monasteries of the Eastern Church, as you look inside three of them. Treat yourself to a spectacular sunset with a late afternoon visit, or soak up the atmosphere with live piano melodies after dark. The trip was fantastic. A local mountain guide will be present during the tour to help you make the most of this hike. We really enjoyed our stay at Doupani House which is a traditional hotel with very friendly service and absolutely breathtaking views. Rescheduling is possible until 144 hours before your visit. Panoramic Meteora and all Monasteries Tour from Kalabaka - Local Agency. Local, English or Spanish-speaking guide. Check our calendar of events for special events and unique seasonal activities. Admire the scenic views of the Greek countryside on . Constructed by ancient monks, the monasteries at the top of Meteora look out over some of the most spellbinding scenery anywhere in Greece. The guide was very enthusiastic and kind. They are not. Also known as the "Megalo Meteoron," it was built in the fourteenth century by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite. The colours of the sky behind the extraordinary rock formations is truly something to behold! Hiring a taxi or renting a car is a popular choice among foreigners since it provides a more personalized approach to the trip and to the route that you can take. Women must wear long skirts (no pants/trousers) and have their shoulders covered. It was built in 1514 by Saint Bissarion and is the second-largest arch bridge of Thessaly. We . It is also where the oldest human footprints in Europe have been found, thought to be from four children. 60-90 minutes (the walking trail takes approx 45-75 minutes) Location: the awe-inspiring woods of Morven Park, 41580 Sunday Morning Lane, Leesburg, VA 20176. Quite how these monks managed to build these immense . Meteora was formed of deposits of stone, sand, and mud from streams flowing into a delta at the edge of a lake . This tour is done by a private driver who picks you up in Athens and includes a guide for your time at the Monasteries. Avail roundtrip train tickets from Thessaloniki so that no thoughts about getting back intrude on your tour. The features of the Berlin Boat Tour, including its duration, amenities, and other attractions, may vary depending on the ticket you choose. Age requirement: all ages are welcome. The direct train leaves at 8:20 am and takes 4 hours and 50 minutes. Montpelier offers a variety of tours that cater to your interests and help make your visit unique and memorable. There is a large car park and a number of small shops and stalls selling fruit, snacks, and drinks and is a great stopping off point if you are planning on heading up to the villages of Koziakas, Elati, Pertoyli, Neraidohori and the larger area of Aspropotamos including the ski fields. Tour of the Monasteries: Meteora has plenty of amazing historical structures which are home to the monks and nuns of this region . Tickets for Meteora Monasteries: Day Tour from Athens by Train, Meteora Monasteries: Day Tour from Athens, Journey into the history of Greece with a day tour from Athens to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Meteora, Enjoy roundtrip transport, a 5-hour guided tour in a VIP minibus, and access to one, two or three monasteries, Learn the mind-blowing story of how these monasteries were built, and capture some of Europe's most unique views, You will be sent your train tickets after booking via email in a pdf. Treat yourself to a spectacular sunset with a late afternoon visit, or soak up the atmosphere with live piano melodies after dark. It was erected between the 10th and 11th century on the ruins of an early Christian Royal. The direct train back to Athens departs at 5:22 pm and gets to the capital at 10:12 pm. It is built on the greatest rock of the complex, the Platys Lithos or Playtlithos. Visiting St. Stephens is quite a treat as you will be greeted by the hospitality of the nuns and the unique pieces found in the religious museum inside the monastery, as well as their beautiful gardens. From Athens: Full-Day Meteora Tour by Train with Greek Lunch. Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron. What are the timings of the Meteora Bus Tour? . If you're short on time, these are the best half-day Great Meteoron Monastery tickets and tours: These Great Meteoron Monastery tickets and tours are offered in multiple languages: Tours, activities and experiences bookable on Tripadvisor, ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, popularity, user preferences, price, and bookings made through Tripadvisor. Meteora hiking tours provide you the chance to experience a one-of-a-kind terrain surrounded by local flora and species with the company of a professional guide. Discounted prices are available during night-time sessions on weekdays. St. Stephens Monastery also has two cathedrals; the old 16th-century chapel which was severely damaged during WWII and the consequent, the archaeological site of Asklepieion of Trikke, The Old City of Trikala built between the 17th and 19th centuries, TOP 10 APARTMENTS, VILLAS AND AIRBNBS IN MY, 21 OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN GREECE, VISIT IKARIA THE ISLAND OF MODERN DAY IMMO. It has a three-aisled basilica and, unique to Greece, a central Pulpit. We want you to experience the famous Greek Filotimo before you even get there. The surrounding valley and mountains are lush, green and provide a real contrast to the dry and sometimes desolate islands many tourists will only see and the area provides great insight into agriculture, farming and other industries based on nature and the environment. Discover the hidden trails of the rock formations of Meteora, as an expert local mountain guide takes you through the foothills, following with an exploration of the ancient ruins and monasteries on the way. Depending on the experience type you have bought, you will benefit from amenities like free wifi, an English-speaking guide, etc. The site is believed to be over 130,000 years old and numerous artifacts including tools, animal remains and other relics have been found here. Private VIP - Meteora tours. Make sure to board the train at least 15 minutes before departure! Constructed by ancient monks, the monasteries at the top of Meteora look out over some of the most spellbinding scenery anywhere in Greece. Tour Details. Most of these rocks on which the Meteora monasteries were built average 1,000 feet (300 m) in height, but there are some that reach 1,800 feet (550 m). Leave the city hustle behind as you embark on a hiking tour, discovering the trails of Meteora, that is both refreshing and informative. This tour is specially designed for people that traveling from Athens or Thessaloniki to Meteora by train and departing the same day. Q. It is set on a lower rock, so you can access it quite easily via a bridge, and inside youll find some interesting frescoes. You can still see the original winches and nets the monks used to haul goods and indeed, each other, up and down the rock face as well as original wine barrels and food storage. The temple ruins are located on Mount Parnassus, in Delphi, Greece. Visit the Varlaam or Great Meteoron monasteries, as well as the "hidden" Ypapanti monastery too. Travel to Kalambaka to visit two of these six UNESCO-listed sanctuaries, each built on a giant rock pillar between the 14th and 16th centuries. Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery. When you visit Meteora you will experience one of the most prized cultural and historical landmarks in the country, and in fact in all of Europe. The word Anapafsis translates to resting from Greek so it is thought this monastery is so named as a place to rest before the more arduous journey up to the other monasteries beyond. You will not just be admiring all the 6 monasteries, but will also enter 3 of them. She was describing the history of Meteora in a professional way. Prices above are provided by partners for one person and may not include all taxes and fees. With this tour, you will travel by train from Athens to Kalambaka railway station where you get a chance to take in the varied scenery. Q. The price includes round-trip train tickets from Athens to Kalambaka, an English-speaking tour guide and a tour of Meteora by luxury minibus. Date: from October 29, 2022. What will my experience look like on the Meteora day trip by train? The hiking tour starts daily at 8:30 am. Once upon a time, it was only accessed by ropes! The Stone Bridge of Pyli is located two kilometers west of the village Pyli and about 20 minutes away from Trikala. Embark on a full-day bus trip to Meteora from Thessaloniki. Please see our partners for full details. Q. Excellent experience . Meteora is a vast rock formation placed in central Greece, between the mount range of Pindus and the west plain of Thessaly. Meteora Monasteries A Preserved and Protected Monument of Humanity One of the greatest monuments of the world, protected by UNESCO and characterized by it as "A Preserved and Protected Monument of Humanity", Meteora is the most important (after Aghios Oros) monastic center in Greece. . Full Day Rail Tour to Meteora with Hermit Caves. The ring road delivers you quickly and easily from one to the next and is very well kept and maintained. Dont forget to take pictures while you visit the most spectacular Eastern Orthodox monasteries on your hike, in addition to the flora and fauna that contribute to breathtaking views on Meteora. The Meteora day trip tickets are available online. Your ticket includes round-trip train tickets from Athens, as well as pick-up and drop-off from Kalambaka station for a convenient transport experience. Note - Skirts are available at the entrance of each monastery. Although more expensive than a bus or a train, this is a good way to visit Meteora, especially if you want to stop at a few other destinations along the way. Holy Temple of Dormition of the Virgin Mary. Because of the cliff structure of a huge rock on top of which it was constructed, it was given the name Meteora, which means "monastery that remains hanging in the air". You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund. Hotels near Natural History Museum of Meteora & Mushroom Museum, Hotels near Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada), Hotels near Meteora Trip - Boutique Travel Experience, Hotels near Ieros Naos Kimiseos tis Theotokou, Hotels near Digital Projection Centre of Meteoras History and Culture, Meteora Hike with Transport from Kalambaka, iPhoneogrraphy -Smartphone Sunset Tour at Meteora, Private Meteora By Night Photography Tour, See all Great Meteoron Monastery experiences on Tripadvisor, Local Agency - 1 day by Train Athens to Meteora in English or Spanish, 3 Days private tour- Meteora Rocks & Monasteries, Delphi/ Apollo Oracle, Thebes, Private Full-Day Trip to Meteora by Train From Athens - Local Agency, 2 Days Private Tour/ Delphi (Apollo Oracle) & Meteora (Orthodox Monasteries). The nearest town to the Monasteries is Kalambaka which wraps around the foothills of the complex on the western side. In the 9thcentury, hermit monks with impressive climbing skills settled into the rock caves and hollows taking on a life of great isolation and solitude. Choose from multiple tickets, tours and combo options by verified operators. It is not necessary to print the train tickets; simply show them on your smartphone, Arrival in Kalabaka at approximately 11:30, Outside Kalabaka Train Station, look for the purple minibus and your guide holding a signboard with your name, and show your smartphone voucher to the guide, After the tour, you will be transferred back to Kalabaka Train Station. After a few meters, you will come across the signs for Ano Palaiokarya, Mesi Palaiokarya and Palaiokarya. Today the Meteora Monasteries are on the UNESCO World Heritage List and the Meteora-Antichassia region has been officially declared a Natura 2000 Ecological Zone by the Greek Ministry of Environment and the EU. Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsa, Meteora: Our most recommended tours and activities. At the Holy Convent is the chapel of Holy Baptist . Soak in the breathtaking views of the attraction, as you take Instagram-worthy photos for the #traveller vibes! The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery in Meteora, Greece is the largest and oldest monastery located there. Free cancellation option available for all tickets. . Whether youre on your first Greek holiday, or youre now planning to visit after many years of Greek Island hopping, the mainland of Greece should not be overlooked. Your ticket includes round-trip train tickets from Athens, as well as pick-up and drop-off from Kalambaka station for a convenient transport experience. Visit all monasteries. Visit the ruins of St. Dimitrios to learn about the legends or the Ypapanti Monastery of the Eastern Orthodox belief and get to know about the ancient religious beginnings. During thefamous battle in 1878 between local Chieftains and the Turks here there were several casualties in the Turkish defeat. Do Meteora Day Trips have audio guides? It will take around 4 hours and 30 minutes (375 km away). Train tickets from Athens to Kalabaka and back (second class), Pick-up at Kalabaka Train Station & 5-hour tour of Meteora in a VIP minibus, Entrance to 1, 2 or 3 monasteries, depending on your selection, Transport between the hotel and the train station. The train departs at 17:15 and will reach Athens at approximately 21:30, Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron: Closed on Tuesday, Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapausas: Friday, Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron: Closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Holy Monastery of Varlaam: Thursday, Friday. Directions. A. The temple ruins are located on Mount Parnassus, in Delphi, Greece. As a result, there are two waterfalls that make the bridge quite unique and very special. See Meteora's rocktop monasteries on a day trip from Thessaloniki. This ancient citadel contains the remains of several historically significant ancient buildings, the most famous being the Parthenon, a former temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. The origins of the extraordinary geological formations are difficult to explain. Varlaam gives you the best insight into the design, engineering and construction of the monasteries and how the Monks operated for many centuries without modern science or amenities. They are all unique and impressive, filled with spiritual wisdom, serenity and the promise of a remarkable travel experience you will never forget. Het enige minpuntje was de trein: zowel tijdens de heen- als de terugreis was er ruim een uur vertraging. Depart Thessaloniki in the morning and journey to the amazing monastery complex of Meteora to visit 2 of the 6 holy monasteries, depending on their operating schedule. The great thing about joining a Meteora Tour is that you dont have to plan much of anything, and the itinerary you follow takes into account when each of the monasteries is open. With an archaeologist-guide by your side, learn a great deal about the history and significance of the monasteries. This means you can see Meteora at sunset (and sunrise if you are really keen) which really is the best time to see it in all its glory. Redeem your train e-tickets (they will be delivered to you via email after your booking) for the 7:57 AM morning train departure from the Central Railway Station of Athens (Stathmos Larisis) to . The Monastery of Great Meteoron. Best Offer - 89 - English or Spanish language Meteora tour daily - See all Monasteries in a 5 hrs Panoramic tour only by us. There are several trains that depart from Athens (Larissa Railway Station) to Kalambaka every day. Only the journey by train from Athens to Kalambaka is taking 4,5 hours what can be a little tiring. This truly is the birthplace of farming! Do NOT stay in Trikala or anywhere else many of the booking sites will have you believe are in Meteora. The local tour guide will be waiting for you at the station and take you to the UNESCO-protected Meteora sites, and inside three monasteries. The bridge was built at the beginning of the 15th century by the owner of the nearby Dousiko Monastery, Saint Bessarion. You will come across the bridge in about 100 meters and there is plenty of room to park. The price is for two people and increases with more people. It is the second biggest Monastery and is located across from Great Meteoron. The trip was fantastic. Enjoy 360 views of one of the oldest and most diverse cities in Europe, as well as some excellent coffee and delicious snacks! Other buildings in the Monastery include a kitchen and a small hospital as well as a bibliographic workshop and workshop of equisite gold-embroidery. The day trips provide you a chance to hike the mountain, starting from the slopes of Meteora, and listen to the mythical tales and history of these hills from a guide. The word meteora, means hovering in the air which, whist a literal description of the famous monasteries, also shows just how otherworldly they seem. De kloosters zijn adembenemend en de gids maakte er een fantastische ervaring van. See for yourself the almost unbelievable wonder of the monasteries that appear to be suspended over air on massive rock pillars. Adjacent to Kalambaka is the charming village of Kastraki. Trikala is the capital of Thessaly and is a pretty town less than an hour south of Meteora by car and centrally located on the Thessaly plains. Q. The tour transports you there in a minibus and allows you to explore nature's unsolved secrets and unexpected marvels and takes you to the monasteries in Meteora, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on a full-day bus trip to Meteora from Thessaloniki. Enjoy convenient pick-ups and drop-offs on this guided tour. Admission Required. The gardens are really quite impressive as are the amazing views of the entire Valley of Thessaly and the mountain ranges beyond. Learn the mystical history of Meteora , Panoramic photo stops. It was built on a rocky trough above the riverbed bridging the Palsiokarites River and aided the Pylis community with their farms and water supply. Barbara, Varlaam, St. Stephens, St. Nicholas Anapausas and the Monastery of the Holy Trinity. Discover exactly why the Meteora monasteries are one of Greeces most visited destinations, and one of the most popular UNESCO sites. Q. Embark on a 5-hour tour to the mystic monasteries of Meteora, accompanied by an expert tour leader. Visiting hours 09:00 - 16:00. Behold the picturesque Greek countryside as you make your way to Kalampaka by train. Instead of being volcanic rock which tend to form similar structures, they are largely formed of sandstone and various deposits of stone, sand and mud that have arisen from the deposits brought by streams flowing into a delta at the edge of a large lake. These Great Meteoron Monastery tickets and tours are offered in multiple languages: Local Agency - 1 day by Train Athens to Meteora in English or Spanish (From $119.18) Meteora One Day Trip from Corfu (From $130.01) 3 Days private tour- Meteora Rocks & Monasteries, Delphi/ Apollo Oracle, Thebes (From $352.12) One of the oldest monasteries, the St Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery is famous for being the only monastery thats run by a single monk. In 2021 the opening hours for Meteora Monasteries are: Great Meteoron 09:00-15:00 closed TuesdaysHoly Trinity 09:00-17:00 closed ThursdaysVarlaam 09:00-16:00 closed FridaysRoussanou 10:00-16:00 from June to September, March to May is 10:00-15:00 closed WednesdaysSt. Inside, you'll find a host of optical illusion exhibits and installations designed to play tricks on the naked eye, and make you question what your eyes behold! Strict dress code - There is a strict dress code to enter the Meteora monasteries. A. English or Spanish language Daily Tour. A lot of people will choose to overnight in Kalambaka or other nearby towns which is an option. Some of the Meteora tour packages also include round trip tickets for transport and combo tickets of nearby attractions. Are you ready to explore some of the most amazing and unique geography that Greece has to offer? To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Read on to know more about the attraction, timings, highlights, ticket options and more. The total duration of the tour is around 4 hours. Yes. Once there you can either drive yourself around the Monasteries or join a local tour such as this tour from Kalambaka. No. The ruins of the Temple of Apollo in Delphi are among the most imposing and important ancient Greek archaeological heritage sites. Just before you reach Stournareika village you will see a sign for Ropotos village, you continue straight. Metora, group of monasteries on the summits of vertical rock formations in Thessaly (Modern Greek: Thessala), Greece.The monasteries are located just north of the small town of Kalambka, south of the village of Kastraki, and east of the Pindus (Pndos) Mountains in the valley of the Pineis River.The name was derived from a Greek contraction meaning "suspended in the air." Age requirement: wizards, witches and Muggles of all ages are welcome! On Dimitrios Rock, where the Ypapanti Monastery is situated, you will see the monastery ruins of St. Dimitrios. Many centuries later, a monk called Athanasios Koinovitis from sacred Mount Athos, traveled to Thessaly in search of the hermits and initiated the construction of the first monastery, Great Meteoron. The Skyline Bar is located in the heart of Thessaloniki, on the top floor of the OTE tower. If you are able to drive around the area you will see many food stalls selling fruit and vegetables such as berries, apples, walnuts, figs, and grapes as well as honey and smallgoods. The Cave can be found just outside the village of Theopetra which is 5 kilometres south of Kalambaka/Meteora. Roundtrip Train tickets ( *First class upon availability , extra cost ) *The monastery will follow the mentioned opening hours and days from June to September. Take a day trip from Athens to Meteora with a guide, with round-trip train tickets to Kalambaka and onward transportation included. The monastery is the most accessible and is the best Meteora monastery for people with mobility issues. Q. Wine in this area is very good and it is possible to visit some local wineries. Discover the history of this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site, and start by taking a train from Athens. The Holy Monastery of . For more information check out the KTel website. While exploring the region's hidden gems, visit the hermit . The Holy Monastery of Roussanou is named after the first hermit who settled on the rock. The Meteora Monasteries are located in central Greece close to Kalambaka which is about 4 hours north from Athens. Visit one, two or three of the monasteries, depending on your preference, and savor sweeping panoramic views while being told tales of spirituality and conquest. Renovated in 1512, it now houses a famous ecclesiastic museum and a barrel that could at one time hold up to 12 tons of rainwater. Location. Six of them are still in use today and can be visited by the public, whilst others are popular for sightseeing externally by hikers and photographers. The total duration of the tour is around 4 hours. A. Far from being a hair-raising road experience as is sometimes the case in Greece, this is a very easy place to drive even for novices. It is located at an impressive 615 meters above sea level, and it towers above the other monasteries atop a giant and highly imposing stone pillar. Im very glad we persevered however as it is incredibly beautiful, and due to its hidden nature, devoid of visitors! FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GREECE FOR VISITORS, Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum, TRANSFERS IN GREECE BOOK YOUR AIRPORT OR PORT PICK UP. The area around the bridge is lush and green with many big trees and is a lovely spot for a picnic. The trip was fantastic. Dive into the intriguing history, myths and secrets of the place with your guide. The Museum of Illusions in Athens challenges basic perception and allows you see how human brains process endless streams of information every day. There are rarely many tourists and it is quite a remarkable place to see and feel the sheer age and gravity for yourself. Het enige minpuntje was de trein: zowel tijdens de heen- als de terugreis was er ruim een uur Heel leuke dagtrip. Q. There is quite a lot to see and do in the area and you can do many of them as a day trip from Kalambaka or Kastraki whilst visiting Meteora or stay a night or two to dig a bit deeper. The site is small and construction would have been very challenging. Train tickets from Athens to Kalabaka and back (second class) Pick-up at Kalabaka Train Station & 5-hour tour of Meteora in a VIP minibus. Though some tours allow prams and strollers, the tours are not wheelchair accessible. About 60 million years ago, a series of earth movements from the seabed created a vertical plateau featuring many distinct fault lines in its layers of stone. What are the timings of the various Meteora day trips by train? If you dont have a car you can join a tour from Kalambaka. Most popular is the chapel of Timios Prodromos (St John the Forerunner), a small circular church with a cupola, decorated with wall-paintings of fine art dating from 1682. Hotels in Kalambaka that we recommend are Hotel Kaikis and Epavlis Hotel. More like a small village than a single Monastery the complex is made up of a series of different buildings. You can choose to take a trip by train from Athens, Thessaloniki or Kalabaka, depending on your itinerary, but be rest assured that you will enjoy the scenic views of the countryside during any of the tours! The Meteora bus tour starts daily at 12.03 pm from Kalampaka's Train Station. The Great Meteoron Monastery is the oldest, largest and most famous of the monasteries. The most important monasteries of Meteora are: The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron. Enjoy a convenient drop off back at the Kalampaka train station after the tour. One of the largest of the Greek Stone Bridges at 123 meters long this bridge was originally built in 1520 and sits over the river Peneus near Trikala. Men must wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts. She was describing the history of Meteora in a professional way. It is possible to visit Meteora by bus from many locations including Athens, Volos, Ioannina, Thessaloniki or Patras as well as numerous small towns along the way. According to its tumultuous history, the monastery was looted during WWII by the Germans, and only a few of the once-prized treasures housed there still remain to this day. Where can I buy Meteora Day Trip tickets? 09:00 to 17:00. Make your way through a vortex tunnel, and enjoy mind-melting installations and games. A. Full-Day Meteora Tour from Athens by Train. Yes. The fertile plains of Thessaly are the food bowl of Greece and grown a multitude of crops year-round that feed the country and other parts of Europe. Includes coach transport, guide . Check the official page for opening hours. The Museum of Illusions Thessaloniki is a family-friendly visitor attraction that aims to discombobulate your perception of reality, using the power of science! PracticalInformation. Find your expert local guide ready and waiting to board a comfortable Limo VIP minibus with you. What is the cost of Meteora Day Trip tickets? The main cathedral was founded at the end of the 16th century and was decorated thirty years later. The bridge of Sarakina is approximately 1 Kilometernorth-west from Sarakina village and served the transport route to Diava. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. People are drawn to Meteora for a variety of reasons, including its extraordinary geological structures, which make the tour of this place unforgettable. Inside the monastery, there are some beautiful frescoes, a museum with ecclesiastical objects, and also an impressive water barrel that used to hold 12 tons of rainwater. Q. The six monasteries that are still in use today are the Monastery of Great Meteoron, as well as Roussanou/St. Most of the Meteora day trips don't have audio guides. Experience History. Welcome to Greece Travel Secrets! You can however fly from Athens to Ioaninna and hire a car as we did. Tour guide was very informative and helpful . Learn the fascinating history of Greeces second biggest monastic community, straight from your expert local guide. It is a very easy and pleasant drive that takes about 90 minutes and there is some stunning scenery along the way. Use the hour before your trains departure to admire the towns sights on your own. For more information check out the Trainose website. You will also stop off at Thermopylae, the battlefield for the 300 Spartans in their legendary fight against the Persians. Reflect on how dedicatedly the ancient monks must have scaled the sky-high cliffs centuries ago, as you make your way to the monasteries. Visit the ruins of St. Dimitrios and the monastery of Great Meteoron or Varlaam with your guide who will tell you about the history and legends of these landmarks. Visitors can take a number of tours which give insights into Greek history, or walk the site alone. Visitors have to follow a pathway that directs them initially to the foot of the rock before they climb 140 steps. The dam behind it was not built until 1975 which better helps to irrigate the surrounding valley. Men must wear trousers, while women must wear long skirts and cover their shoulders.
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