Discover Meteora, Greece: Beyond the Monasteries

Things to Do in Meteora, Greece

Meteora, which means “suspended in the air,” offers more than just its breathtaking monasteries. The stunning landscape combined with friendly Greek traditions makes it an ideal travel destination. A four-hour drive from Athens leads to this remarkable area. By basing ourselves in the main town of Kalabaka, we experienced the full extent of the region’s beauty.

1. Tour the Monasteries of Meteora

Visiting Meteora is incomplete without exploring its monasteries, which are marvels perched on towering cliffs. Built by monks in the 14th century, they remain a testament to faith and resilience.

These are the must-visit monasteries:

• The Great Meteoron Monastery – The largest and oldest, established by Saint Athanasios.
• The Holy Trinity Monastery – Recognized for its stunning views and appearance in a James Bond film.
• The Varlaam Monastery – The second largest, located adjacent to the Great Meteoron.
• The Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas – Offers serene beauty and historical significance.
• St. Stephen Monastery – Established in the 12th century, currently inhabited by nuns.
• Holy Monastery of Roussanou – More accessible due to its lower elevation.

2. Hike Through the Monasteries and Monoliths

While many visit Meteora by car, hiking unveils hidden gems among the abandoned monasteries. The picturesque paths lead to stunning landscapes that most tourists overlook. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective of the area.

3. Natural History Museum

A standout feature of Meteora is its unique combination of a Natural History Museum and a Mushroom Museum. Visitors can explore over 300 preserved animals, showcasing Europe’s wildlife history.

4. Mushrooms of Meteora

The Mushroom Museum is particularly fascinating, highlighting the area’s damp climate that fosters a rich variety of mushrooms. The museum displays over 250 hand-painted mushroom replicas, offering insights into this culinary delight.

5. Mushroom Dinner

Connected to the museum, the Neromilos Restaurant presents a delightful 6-course mushroom meal, showcasing this versatile ingredient in various dishes. Complementing the dining experience, a shop offers unique souvenirs, including exquisite truffle oil.

6. Wine Tour

Theopetra vineyard, located near prehistoric sites, reflects the region’s deep-rooted wine-making tradition, dating back to the 14th century when monks began distilling spirits. Visitors can also sample the well-known Tsipouro, a potent Greek spirit.

7. Enjoy Local Life in Kalabaka

Kalabaka serves as the main hub of Meteora, brimming with local culture and hospitality. The picturesque town features breathtaking views of the monoliths and is an ideal place to savor traditional Greek dishes.

8. Eat Local Cuisine

Indulging in Greek cuisine is a must in Meteora, with numerous restaurants offering delightful culinary experiences. Each restaurant has a unique atmosphere and dedication to quality.

• Restaurant Meteora – Guests can see their meals being prepared in the open kitchen.
• Panelinion Restaurant – Known for its warm hospitality right under Meteora’s rocks.
• Paramithi Restaurant – Features live music and an opportunity for lively Greek dancing.
• Gardenia Restaurant – Offers breathtaking views from its location in Kastraki.
• Palazzo Restaurant – Another excellent option for dining in the area.

9. Try the Via Cordata

For the adventurous, the Via Cordata to the Great Saint allows visitors to experience climbing along ancient trails with safety equipment. This exhilarating venture offers a glimpse into the past, where monks traversed these paths without modern gear.

10. Hike and Scramble Tour of the Great Saint

This tour takes you to the highest cliffs in Meteora, the Rock of the Great Saint. With secured routes, you can ascend to breathtaking heights, experiencing the natural beauty unique to this location.

11. Monk Cave Jails

A striking feature of Meteora is the historical Monk Jail, a towering structure designed to isolate disobedient monks across 14 levels. This intriguing site showcases the region’s unique history.

12. Theopetra Prehistoric Cave

The Theopetra Prehistoric Cave, located just 4 km from Meteora, is an important archaeological site revealing evidence of human existence dating back 130,000 years, including the world’s oldest known wall.

13. Rock Climbing

Meteora offers exhilarating rock climbing opportunities, affirming its status as a climber’s haven with nearly 800 routes near Kastraki and Kalabaka. This thrilling activity allows you to experience the stunning landscape from new heights.

14. Take in the Views of Kalabaka

If possible, renting a car will facilitate visits to the most breathtaking viewpoints around Meteora. Early morning excursions can provide quieter, magical moments to appreciate the beauty of this unique landscape.

Where to Stay in Meteora

We found exceptional hospitality at the Divani Hotel Meteora. Situated near the towering rocks, the hotel offers comprehensive amenities, including a pool and spa.

Meteora is a splendid destination that deserves at least a few days of exploration. Be sure to include this stunning area in your travel plans.