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.

Located in Meteora Municipality, the iconic Meteora is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful village of Kastraki or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Greece.

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 the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, Holy Monastery of Rousanos - Saint Barbara, Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas at Meteora, and Meteora Digital Projection Center.

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 located in Kastraki, Greece, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Thessaloniki International Macedonia Airport is approximately 89.76 miles (144.43 km) away from Kastraki. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the village, where Meteora is located.

If you’re already in Kastraki, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the rock formation. The exact address of the attraction is Kalabaka 422 00, Greece, Greece.

You can also rent a car and drive to Meteora. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Meteora and other top attractions in Kastraki at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Meteora!

Discover the enchanting beauty of Kastraki and top attractions like Meteora with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Meteora and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Kastraki, Greece, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind rock formation in Greece.

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.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Kastraki by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the village. With the village's most famous attractions like the stunning Meteora just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Kastraki.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Meteora below.

Kastraki offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the village has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Kastraki, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, Holy Monastery of Rousanos - Saint Barbara, and Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas at Meteora.

The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Kastraki, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 7,417 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the village. The exact address of The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour is Kalabaka 422 00, Greece.

Another appreciated attraction in Kastraki is Holy Monastery of Rousanos - Saint Barbara. This is just like The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, one of the most popular sites to visit in the village. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 1,975 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this monastery 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 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,954 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas at Meteora creating core memories of the village. This attraction is located at the address of Kalabaka 422 00, Greece.

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