We are thrilled to share valuable travel insights and tips for your upcoming trip to Meteora Greece in 2025. In this blog post, we will dive deep and answer some of the most common questions people ask about Meteora!

Meteora Trip in One Day or Stay Overnight?

Many travelers wonder if Meteora is worth a day trip from Athens, or if an overnight stay is better. As a local insider and co-founder of Visit Meteora, I can assure you that while our day trip is popular, the true magic of Meteora unfolds when you slow down and stay a little longer. We genuinely encourage you to consider spending two or three days exploring this stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Extending your stay will minimize the long round-trip travel time from Athens, which can exceed 8 hours. You’ll be treated to serene mornings and breathtaking sunsets, get to avoid the crowds and summer heat, and fully immerse yourself in experiences such as the Meteora Hiking Tour or the Sunset Tour.

Taking your time in Meteora by choosing to book a 2-day tour from Athens will truly enrich your visit, and I can’t wait for you to experience its beauty! That said, if a day trip is your only option, don’t worry—we go above and beyond to make it as memorable and comfortable as possible.

How Many Monasteries in One Day Trip?

It depends on your fitness level and the day of the week. On weekends, all six monasteries invite you in, but during weekdays, one will be closed each day. Be sure to check our current Monastery Opening Hours for the latest info! With over 12 years of local experience, we recommend exploring 2–4 monasteries per day for a fulfilling visit. Keep in mind that the staircases can be a bit tricky, especially in the summer heat, so enjoy your adventure at a comfortable pace!

Opening Hours of Monasteries and Dress Code

You’ll be delighted to know that the breathtaking monasteries of Meteora are open every day, including special occasions like Christmas, Easter, and May 1st! Just a friendly reminder: since opening hours can change, we recommend checking our Monastery Schedule Page for the latest updates.

Regarding attire during your trip to Meteora and the monasteries, women should wear skirts that reach below the knee and cover their shoulders—no worries if you’re unprepared; wrap-around skirts are available at the monasteries’ entrances! As for men, knee-length shorts are fine, but please remember that sleeveless tops aren’t permitted for either gender.

If you wish to do a Meteora trip independently, our Smart Audio Guide App is perfect for exploring at your own pace! With GPS navigation, support for 11 languages, offline access, and a wealth of cultural insights, it’s an incredible tool for your journey. Pair it with an e-bike or electric scooter rental for an unforgettable experience!

Are There Public Buses for a Trip to the Monasteries? 

While it’s true that the KTEL public bus service to the stunning Meteora monasteries is no longer available due to regulation changes, there’s no need to worry! Some older blog posts might still suggest it as a budget option, but we’ve got something even better for you.  We proudly offer delightful small-group guided tours starting at just €25 per person for a fantastic 4-hour experience. This includes transport, a knowledgeable English-speaking local guide, and a breathtaking visit to three monasteries.

So, don’t miss our daily Half-Days or the Meteora Sunset Tour! We can’t wait to share these amazing experiences with you!

Can I visit Meteora without a tour?

Absolutely, you can drive yourself to the monasteries, but there are definitely smarter options! You may encounter limited parking, heavy summer traffic, and narrow roads shared with big buses. Instead, why not explore a Half-Day Sightseeing Tour, embark on a Hiking Tour to discover hidden gems, or use our Smart Audio Guide App along with an e-bike or scooter? These options not only reduce stress but also allow you to soak in beautiful views while promoting sustainable tourism.

Which Option, Train or Bus?

Depends on where you wish to plan a trip to Meteora from! We’re excited to offer the best option for your Meteora trip, our Express Coach Transfer from Athens, which departs daily at 08:00 am from the Athens Train Station (Red Metro Line). Enjoy a comfortable 4-hour journey featuring free Wi-Fi and USB ports while traveling on the new highway for just €35. For more information or availability, please contact us directly here!

Currently, the train route is less than ideal due to ongoing repairs, resulting in stops 100km away and some tricky bus transfers at Karditsa and Trikala. From Thessaloniki, consider the reliable KTEL Trikala buses with a connection in Trikala, or feel free to contact us for a private transfer that suits your needs!

How can I get from Delphi to Meteora?

While there isn’t a direct public transportation option, don’t worry! Navigating with multiple KTEL buses might be a bit tricky, as it requires several changes and can be time-consuming. Instead, we’re thrilled to offer a convenient shared car transfer service:

– From Delphi to Meteora, departing daily at 12:30 pm

– From Meteora to Delphi, departing daily at 09:00 am

Feel free to contact us to book a seat (there is limited availability) for your transfer or explore our fantastic multi-day packages from Athens to Meteora & Delphi! As for the best time to do a trip to Meteora, it’s a year-round gem, but spring (April-May) and fall (October-November) are truly special, with vibrant scenery and fewer crowds. Just remember to avoid Easter weekend and May 1st for a more relaxing experience!

What’s the Difference Between a Hiking Tour and a Sightseeing Tour?

Hiking Tour:

Ideal for families with kids over 6

Explore the hidden Ypapanti Monastery

Avoid the crowds and traffic

Visit 1 monastery (Great Meteoron or Varlaam)

Half-Day Sightseeing Tour:

Comfortable minibus transport

Visit the interior of 3 monasteries

Great for those who prefer a relaxed pace

Compare all our Meteora Trips and Tours

Is Meteora, Greece, Suitable for Kids, Seniors, or People With Mobility Issues?

Not all tours are suitable for those with mobility issues due to steep staircases and uneven terrain at the monasteries. However, we recommend our Sunset Tour + Hermit Caves, which includes:

• A monastery visit without staircases
• A Byzantine church
• The Hermit Caves of Badovas

This Meteora trip is ideal for families, seniors, and visitors with limited mobility.

Are there Meteora Trips in languages other than English?

Yes! All shared tours are conducted in English by expert local guides. However, we offer a Smart Audio Guide in 11 languages for free to all tour participants:

English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese, Polish, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean

For Meteora trips and private tours, guides are available in:

French, Spanish, Romanian, Russian, German, Greek

Monasteries Entrance Fees

The updated entrance fees for our beautiful monasteries starting January 1, 2025:

Adults: €5 per person, per monastery

Children under 12: Free

This is just a quick reminder that payment is usually in cash, so be sure to bring some small change for a smooth visit!

We’re happy to inform you that photography is permitted in the beautiful outdoor areas, such as the courtyards and balconies, where you can take stunning landscape photos. However, to respect the sanctity of the churches and interior spaces, please avoid taking pictures or videos inside. We appreciate your understanding and adherence to the signs and directions from our monks and nuns. If you have any questions regarding your upcoming Meteora trip, don’t hesitate to ask—they’re here for your assistance! For any further inquiries or to learn more about our incredible Meteora tours and travel services, please contact us.

We can’t wait to welcome you!