Meteora travel guide

Meteora, located in the charming village of Kastraki, Greece, is a geological wonder and a spiritual sanctuary. Its history dates back to the 9th century when hermits first sought refuge in the area's caverns.

By the 11th century, monks established a monastic community on these sky-high rock pillars. Over the centuries, 24 monasteries were built, each an architectural marvel defying the laws of nature.

The name 'Meteora' translates to 'suspended in the air', a fitting description for these monasteries perched on towering sandstone pillars. Beyond its religious significance, Meteora played a crucial role during the Byzantine era, acting as a stronghold against Turkish invaders.

Today, just six of the original monasteries remain and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each offers a glimpse into the past, with ancient frescoes, religious relics, and stunning views. Visiting Meteora is a journey through time, offering insight into the spiritual life of medieval monks while delivering an extraordinary natural spectacle.

Kastraki is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Kastraki offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Kastraki and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour, Holy Monastery of Rousanos - Saint Barbara, Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas at Meteora, Main Observation Deck of Meteora, and Museum of Geological Formations of Meteora.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Kastraki has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Kastraki, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Greece!

Meteora is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Kastraki, Greece. If you're flying in, Thessaloniki International Macedonia Airport is approximately 89.8 miles (144.4 km) away from Kastraki. From there, you can easily reach Meteora by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Kastraki, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Meteora, which is located 0.6 miles (1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Meteora, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Kalabaka 422 00, Greece.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Meteora!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Meteora and other top attractions in Kastraki than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Kastraki include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Meteora's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Meteora and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

The best time to explore Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kastraki, Greece, is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These periods offer mild weather conditions and fewer crowds, providing an ideal environment for hiking and exploring the monasteries. The summer months (July to August) are also popular but do attract larger crowds and can be quite hot. The Holy Week of Easter, a vibrant celebration in Greece, falls in spring and can be an exciting time to visit, but keep in mind that it will be busier than usual. Similarly, the local festival of St. George in April presents an opportunity to immerse in the local culture. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting on weekdays and arriving early in the morning. Avoiding public holidays will help you to dodge large crowds. Overall, plan your visit well to make the most out of your Meteora experience.

Conveniently explore Meteora and plenty more captivating attractions in Kastraki by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the street. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Meteora and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Kastraki has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Meteora below.

Aside from Meteora, Kastraki is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the street offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Kastraki, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour, Holy Monastery of Rousanos - Saint Barbara, and Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas at Meteora.

Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Kastraki, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,600 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the street. The exact address of Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour is G, Kalampaka 422 00, Greece.

Another appreciated attraction in Kastraki is Holy Monastery of Rousanos - Saint Barbara. Like Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the street. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 2,700 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Μετεώρων, Kalampaka 422 00, Greece.

Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas at Meteora is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Kastraki. This church and top attraction in Kastraki has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,200 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Kalabaka 422 00, Greece.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the street of Kastraki below.