Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option in Athens
Athens, Greece

Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option

Outty Ranking 76 4.8 · 89 traveler reviews5 hoursFrom $28

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September 2026

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Outty Ranking

76/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 89 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option worth booking?

Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option is a 5-hour experience in Athens, Greece, from $28 per person. It scores 76 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 89 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
76 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (89)
Duration
5 hours
From
$28 per person

Join this tour departing daily from Kalambaka's train station to discover Meteora. Explore majestic monasteries, learn the region's history, enjoy panoramic views and taste an authentic Greek lunch.

What you get

    About this experience

    Join this tour departing daily from Kalambaka's train station to discover Meteora. Explore majestic monasteries, learn the region's history, enjoy panoramic views and taste an authentic Greek lunch.

    What's included

    Included

    • WiFi and USB chargers on board
    • Free audio guides in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese and Korean
    • Greek Lunch at a local restaurant (if tour option is selected)
    • Roundtrip Athens to Meteora transportation (if option selected)
    • Panoramic photo stops
    • Local, English-speaking tour guide
    • Visit 3 monasteries and see all of them
    • Transportation by air-conditioned bus
    • Pickup and drop-off from Kalambaka's train station
    • Bottle of water

    Not included

    • Entrance fees
    • Guided tour inside the monasteries

    What you'll see and do

    1. Kalambaka

      Embark on an extraordinary Meteora mid-day tour departing daily from Kalambaka's Train Station at 12:30. If you have your own vehicle you will find a convenient free parking lot there. Alternatively, if you wish to travel from Athens we can also provide roundtrip bus transportation by selecting the specific option on checkout (the direct train route is currently unavailable due to maintenance work). Your journey starts by meeting our guide (holding a signboard with your name) and boarding our private, air-conditioned bus. First stop will be at a traditional local restaurant in the charming town of Kalambaka (exclusive to this tour), where you'll enjoy a delightful, traditional Greek lunch (if tour option is selected). Your meal includes a fresh salad, a choice of main dishes (with multiple options to cater to your preferences), freshly baked bread, and refreshing water. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.

      30 minutes here

    2. Meteora

      Then, prepare for an unforgettable adventure through this natural wonder called Meteora. During this guided tour, you'll be able to see all the majestic monasteries of Meteora and even step inside three of them to explore their captivating interiors. Also, discover the hidden treasures of Meteora, including the ancient hermit caves, the Chapel of Doupiani, and the magnificent St. George Mandilas cave. Immerse yourself in the rich history and intriguing myths of Meteora, as you hear detailed explanations and fascinating stories directly from our English-speaking local guide. If English isn’t your primary language, don’t worry! We also offer free audio guides in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese and Korean. And of course, don't forget to capture breathtaking moments with your camera for lasting memories. The tour concludes at approximately 18:00.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Varlaam Monastery

      The Varlaam Monastery or Monastery of All the Saints is located on an imposing rock exactly opposite of the Great Meteoron and it is the second largest monastery.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. The Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas is literally suspended in air on a small rock and is the first monastery that we meet on our way from Kastraki village to the stone forest of Holy Meteora.

      60 minutes here · Admission not included

    5. Great Meteoron Monastery

      The Monastery of Great Meteoron or Transfiguration of Christ, expresses the greatness and history of the Holy Meteora, as it is the oldest and most important monastery.

      60 minutes here · Admission not included

    6. Roussanou Monastery

      The Roussanou Monastery, also known as Arsani, stands on top of an impressive vertical and steep cliff of Meteora, between the Monasteries of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas and Varlaam.

      60 minutes here · Admission not included

    7. Holy Trinity Monastery

      The Monastery of the Holy Trinity is the third oldest monastery in Meteora and is the most difficult to reach, since the visitor has to cross a downhill path and then ascend 145 steps carved into the rock. It is said that at the time when the monks used a rope ladder and a net, they spent 70 years to carry the materials and build the monastery!

      Pass by without stopping

    8. Agios Stefanos

      The Monastery of Saint Stephen’s is located just above the city of Kalampaka and is the most accessible monastery in Meteora, as there are no steps to reach the entrance and the access is easy through a small stone bridge.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Athens

    If you selected the option "7:45 AM | Tour From Athens without Lunch" or "7:45 AM | Tour From Athens with Lunch" meet us in Athens. The bus will be located on the street across the Central Railway Station of Athens (Stathmos Larisis). You'll identify it by the "Meteora Trip" sign in the front window

    Meeting point

    Athens

    If you selected the option "12:30 PM | Tour From Meteora with Lunch" meet us at Kalambaka Train Station. Our guide will be holding a sign with your name on it and will pick you up from Kalambaka Train Station between 12:30 to 12:45. Please wait at the main entrance of the station

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    If you selected the option "7:45 AM | Tour From Athens without Lunch" or "7:45 AM | Tour From Athens with Lunch" meet us in Athens. The bus will be located on the street across the Central Railway Station of Athens (Stathmos Larisis). You'll identify it by the "Meteora Trip" sign in the front window

    Ends at

    If you selected the option "12:30 PM | Tour From Meteora with Lunch" meet us at Kalambaka Train Station. Our guide will be holding a sign with your name on it and will pick you up from Kalambaka Train Station between 12:30 to 12:45. Please wait at the main entrance of the station

    Options you can book

    • Tour From Meteora with Lunch

      Select this option for an extraordinary Meteora Tour with Greek Lunch, starting from Kalambaka Train Station. Duration: 5 hours Starting point: Sidirodromikos Stathmos Kalampakas, Kalabaka 422 00, Greece

    • Tour From Athens with Lunch

      Select this option for an extraordinary Meteora Tour with Greek Lunch, including Roundtrip Bus Transportation from Athens. Duration: 14 hours Starting point: Stathmos Larisis, Athina 104 39, Greece

    • Tour From Athens without Lunch

      Select this option for an extraordinary Meteora Tour (without lunch), including Roundtrip Bus Transportation from Athens. Duration: 14 hours Starting point: Stathmos Larisis, Athina 104 39, Greece

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    de, ko, ja, en, zh-CN, it, fr, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Meteora Trip

    Know before you go

    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • This Meteora tour was initially tailored for travelers arriving via the convenient train route from Athens. However, at present, the direct train service to Meteora stands temporarily suspended for essential maintenance work. To accommodate those wishing to join us from Athens, we have introduced a convenient roundtrip bus transportation option. When booking your journey, simply select this alternative to embark on a seamless adventure to the captivating Meteora region.
    • The monasteries of Meteora impose a dress code in order to enter inside. Men must wear long trousers and women must wear long skirts (below the knee) and cover their shoulders. Skirts are also available for purchase/rent at the entrance of the monasteries. A long scarf wrapped around the waist is also sufficient to enter the monasteries
    • The monasteries of Meteora only accept cash for the entrance fees (€5 per person/monastery) which are not included in the price of this tour
    • If you wish to use our free audio guides in Spanish, French or Italian, please be sure to bring your smartphone and earphones with you.

    Photos

    Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option in Athens, photo 2Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option in Athens, photo 3Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option in Athens, photo 4Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option in Athens, photo 5Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option in Athens, photo 6Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option in Athens, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 89 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    7 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    4 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Pace and timing

    3 mentions

    Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    89 verified traveler reviews for Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    73
    4 star
    10
    3 star
    6
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    SheungBang_W · August 2026

    Amazing tour and tour guide

    The scenics were mind blowing. Amazing tour especially with Nicolas being our tour guide. So much fun and he made the tour very personal. He managed to explain very detailed to make us understand how and why the cities looking like that.

    via Viator

    James_H · August 2026

    Meteora is amazing, but need more time

    Meteora is stunning. The day before we were told we would meet an hour later than normally scheduled, but we needed this hour. We felt rushed at each of the monastery stops. This is such a unique place, just needed more time to fully enjoy the experience.

    via Viator

    Dawn_P · August 2026

    A day out if Athens for Monestery Magic

    This was a fullday excursion from 7:45 am - 10 pm so was a long drive. The bus had wifi and charging points which was a plus. There were sufficient stops for toilets and food/snacks. The stop was in Kalambaka a pretty town where we sat down for our paid lunch (basic and there were other options available in town). Maria our guide was excellent. She was energetic, friendly, and very knowledgeable. The natural geography, geology and monasteries were indescribable. So worth seeing! If you don’t mind the long drive from Athens it is well worth doing!

    via Viator

    Lydia_M · July 2026

    Awe Inspiring Day Trip

    I had never heard of these monasteries before researching must see things to do in the Athens area. This excursion became one of the highlights of our trip. Neither my husband nor I are religious people but the artwork in the churches located in these monasteries filled us with awe. Our guide and driver (Maria and George) were delightful and knowledgeable. I highly recommend this day trip.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled that Meteora became one of the highlights of your trip and that the monastery artwork left such a strong impression. We’re also delighted that Maria and George made the experience even more enjoyable with their knowledge and warm approach. Thank you for the recommendation!

    via Viator

    paulbataller · July 2026

    A great time

    Had a really good time. Maria was full of knowledge and very friendly and we had a bit of a laugh too. Such a great tour guide. Really loved Meteora.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear you had such a great time exploring Meteora and that Maria made the experience even more enjoyable with her knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor. We’ll be happy to share your kind words with her. Thank you for traveling with us!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $28 to $91
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    31
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 76

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)86
    Review evidence (18% weight)68
    Booking momentum (14% weight)62
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)58
    Local standing (8% weight)51
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Athens.

    How much does Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option cost?

    +

    Prices start at $28 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Athens usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option take?

    +

    Plan for about 5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Athens is not rushed.

    Is Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 76 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 89 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Athens, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option?

    +

    Around 31 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Athens can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Athens and add a light layer if any part of the 5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Meteora: Monasteries Tour with Lunch and Athens Transfer Option start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Athens within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Athens?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Athens experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Athens Small Group E-Bike Tour, Small Group Greek Traditional Food Tour in Athens 20+ Tastings, Athens Scenic Bike Tour with Regular or Electric Bike + Acropolis. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Athens?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Athens?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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