Extension Program Meteora UNESCO World Heritage Site Meteora: between Heaven and Earth Would you like to spend a few extra days at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora and would you like a program that offers both pre-organized activities and free time to discover the Greek mainland on your own? Then we recommend our three-day extension program in Meteora. This includes travel to Meteora, two nights in a hotel in the center of Kalabaka or in the village of Kastraki, a varied treasure hunt in Kalabaka and a guided activity of your choice to explore the world-famous Meteora rocks and monasteries (either an e-bike tour, hike or horseback riding) as well as dinner in a typical Greek taverna. Zusatzprogramm anfragen
Itinerary Time travel through eleven centuries of history So close to heaven: the fascinating area of the ‘Floating Monasteries’ near the town of Kalabaka consists of a forest of towering rock formations. This spectacular complex of Greek Orthodox monasteries is enthroned on these stone towers, which are up to 400 meters high. The Meteora monasteries have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. A sacred place in a truly beautiful corner of the world that offers you a feeling of tranquility. The first hermits found peace between heaven and earth as early as the 10th century. They called the place “METEORA”, which literally means floating in the air. Day 1 Athens - Meteora – Kalabaka treasure hunt In the morning, you will be transferred from the port to the bus station and take the pre-booked bus from Athens to Kalabaka (journey time approx. 4.5 hours). After checking into the hotel booked for you, you will have some time for an individual lunch and to relax before setting off on a self-guided treasure hunt in Kalabaka in the late afternoon. With the clues prepared for you, you will experience the city, which lies directly at the foot of the fascinating Meteora Rocks, from an insider’s perspective and at the same time learn a lot about the history of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This eventful day ends with a delicious dinner in a typical Greek taverna. Day 2 Meteora (guided activity of your choice) Today, either in the morning or afternoon, you will enjoy your pre-selected activity (e-bike tour, hike or horseback riding tour), during which you will not only get to know the breathtaking landscape of Meteora, but also the monasteries themselves. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Just do what you feel like and let your mind wander. Day 3 Meteora (Departure) Goodbye Meteora! After breakfast, check out of your hotel and travel home or onwards individually. On request, we can pre-book a scheduled bus ticket or private transfer to Athens or Thessaloniki for you at an additional charge. Übersicht Day1 (Fr) Day 2 (Sat) Day 3 (Sun)
Available Accomodations Charming Hotels not far from the Meteora Rocks You can choose to stay in a 3* or 4* hotel in Kalabaka town or in the nearby village of Kastraki. Each of our partner hotels has been carefully selected and is centrally located near the Meteora Rocks. All major sights are within walking distance. Hotel bookings are subject to availability. Divani Hotel Kalabaka (4 Stars) The Divani Hotel is located on the outskirts of Kalabaka at the foot of the Meteora Rocks of Meteora. The Divana Hotel offers a large outdoor pool and spacious rooms furnished with oak wood furniture. All rooms are equipped with the latest modern amenities. These include air conditioning, TV and a minibar. The Divani also has a large wellness area with indoor pool, sauna, whirlpool, steam bath and fitness room. Monastiri Guesthouse Kalabaka (3 Stars) The monastery-style Monastiri Guesthouse is located just 200 m from the center of Kalampaka. It offers tastefully decorated country-style rooms with panoramic views of Meteora. Each room has its own style and color scheme with most rooms having wooden floors and hand-painted frescoes on the walls. Start each day with a great breakfast. WLAN is free of charge. Grand Meteora Kastraki (4 Stars) The Grand Meteora is located right next to the Meteora cliffs near the picturesque village of Kastraki. The name says it all, as visitors expect what they will see when they visit the area. The hotel is characterized by its special architecture and artistic touches. Earth tones, stone and wood dominate the entire building and create a cozy and familiar atmosphere all around. Tsikeli Hotel Kastraki (3 Stars) Tsikeli Boutique Hotel Meteora, an exclusive adults-only retreat, is perfectly located next to the Meteora Rocks in the enchanting village of Kastraki. Combining traditional architecture with modern elegance, all rooms are well-equipped with a private balcony. The delicious, lovingly prepared breakfast is served in the garden. Free WLAN is available throughout the hotel. Die Hotels Divani Hotel Monastiri Guesthouse Grand Meteora Hotel Tsikeli Hotel
Activity of your choice (one of these activities is included in the tour price) Meteora E-Bike Tour One of the best ways to get an overview of the World Heritage Site is on an e-bike tour. On this guided bike tour, you will explore the sacred world of the Meteora Rocks at a relaxed pace. Your guide will lead you along a safe, low-traffic route to all the places worth seeing. You will experience an extraordinary and unique landscape. Insider tips and centuries-old stories included! The highlights of the tour include breathtaking panoramic views and a visit to one or two Meteora monasteries. The mystical atmosphere of these unique buildings will inevitably cast a spell over you! Meteora Hike Meteora can also be explored on foot in the company of a competent local guide. On foot, you walk along hidden paths through the impressive rock formations to the north side of Meteora. Here you will discover the hidden monastery of Ypapanti with the relics of St. Dimitrios. Immerse yourself in fascinating stories and legends that bring the thousand-year-old history of Meteora to life. You will then explore the world-famous monastery complexes of Great Meteoron or Varlaam and finally hike back to Kalabaka along the historic path that the monks have followed for centuries. Meteora Riding Tour Enjoy a one-hour guided horseback ride through the fascinating rock world of Meteora on the back of a well-trained and easy-to-handle horse. No riding experience is required to take part in this activity: Whether you are an experienced rider or a novice, this tour is suitable for all levels. The horses have undergone extensive training and have been selected for their gentle temperament to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. There is also a twenty-minute training session before the start of the tour, during which you can familiarize yourself with your horse. Your ride will be particularly special if you book it as a sunset tour. Tip: Are you having difficulty deciding between these tour offers and would you prefer to take part in several activities? No problem! You are welcome to add any other of these activities for an extra charge of 70 euros/person.
Included Highlights Kalakaba Treasure Hunt (self-guided walk) This 2.5-hour, interactive, self-guided walking tour takes place on the day of your arrival and invites you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Kalabaka. Solve puzzles, interact with key landmarks and learn fascinating facts and legends as you navigate your way through the city using our clues. Perfect for first-time visitors to familiarize themselves with the unique area of Meteora. As you follow the discovery trail, you will get to know the city from an insider’s perspective. The aim is not only to finish the game, but also to enjoy the company of your fellow travelers, taste the local cuisine, talk to locals and immerse yourself in Greek culture. Dinner at Archontariki Restaurant in Kalabaka or Efrosino Restaurant in Kastraki In addition to the treasure hunt, an authentic Greek dinner awaits you at 19:30 on your first day in Kalabaka. We will reserve a table for you in a charming taverna in the heart of Kalabaka or Kastraki. You will enjoy a traditional Greek menu. Drinks are exclusive.
Prices and Services (Minimum number of participants: 2 people) Price per person (valid for 2025) 3-Star Hotel in a double room with breakfast: 650 Euro 4-Star Hotel in a double room with breakfast: 690 Euro Included Services Transfer Marina Alimos bus station Liosion Athens on day of arrival Bus ticket from Athens to Kalabaka on the day of arrival 2 nights in Kalabaka or Kastraki, either in a 3-star hotel (Monastiri Guesthouse, Tsikelis Boutique Hotel or similar) or a 4-star hotel (Divani, Grand Meteora or similar) Self-guided treasure hunt in Kalabaka on the day of arrival 1 dinner in a traditional Greek taverna (drinks not included) on the day of arrival 1 guided activity of your choice: either e-bike tour or hike or horseback riding (all tours are offered either as a morning or evening tour, last approx. 3-4 hours and are guided exclusively in English) Detailed brochure with lots of good tips for your stay in Meteora Not included Cab from Kalabaka bus station to the hotel in Kalabaka/Kastraki (only necessary in exceptional cases, most hotels are within walking distance of the bus station) Meals and drinks not mentioned in the program Entrance fees to the monasteries and other sights Guided tour within the monasteries Additional Optional Services Single room, surcharge: 3-star hotel: 170 Euro; 4-star hotel: 210 Euro Additional nights in Meteora: prices on request Additional guided activity, surcharge: 70 Euro/person Scheduled bus ticket from Kalabaka to Athens or Thessaloniki on the day of departure: price on request Private transfer from Kalabaka to Athens or Thessaloniki on the day of departure: price on request
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you would like to book this extension program, please send an email with the following information: Desired travel date? How many people would you like to book for? Which hotel category: 3-star or 4-star? Single or double room? Which guided activity? E-bike tour or hike or riding tour? As a morning or afternoon tour? Are additional services required? Voucher Delivery After booking, you will receive a simple confirmation/invoice and all hotel and activity vouchers in digital form by e-mail well before your departure. You will also receive these in printed form on board your ship from your guide together with the ferry and/or bus tickets booked for you and all instructions for your treasure hunt in Kalabaka.
