Full Day Tour from Athens to Meteora by Train & Bus

Athens , Greece

Full Day Tour from Athens to Meteora by Train & Bus

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(2 reviews)

14h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on an exhilarating one-day expedition from Athens to the stunning rock formations of Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your adventure begins early at the Athens railway station, where you'll board the train bound for Kalambaka.

[NOTE: Due to damage to the local railway system, you will have to disembark half-way through (at Paleofarsalos Train Station) and from there, you will continue by bus to Meteora (and vice versa), using the same tickets provided.]

Upon arrival in Kalabaka, an expert English-speaking local tour leader will be waiting to guide you through the ethereal landscape of Meteora. You'll have ample time to see all 6 monasteries and explore 3 of them, each offering breathtaking views.

The tour concludes at Kalabaka's railway station, where you'll begin your return journey to Athens, reflecting on the day’s wonders.

Available options

Full Day Tour from Athens to Meteora by Train & Bus

What's included

WiFi on board

Local English speaking tour leader.

Small group (up to 6 people)

Air-conditioned vehicle

Bottled water

Stops for photos at the most panoramic spots

Round-trip train tickets (Athens-Kalampaka-Athens)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Enjoy your almost 5 hours trip through green valleys from Athens to Kalabaka. When you arrive you will see the giant rocks of Meteora and your trip to the Unesco World Heritage monument.

Have a quick look of Kalabaka city. One of the most ancient lands in Greece.

See village Kastraki which is built at the roots of the giant rocks. Learn the story and traditions related to the village.

The monastery of Tranfiguration of Jesus is the first monastic community in the area. Before blessed Athanasion of Mt Athos started this monastic community monks were living in Meteora only as hermits or ascetics. A monastery with a great almost 700 years history.

The monastery of Varlaam, which was the first that a pulley system was used from monks so they could bring materials on the top of the rock easier and safer. The monastery has an amazing museum and also you can admire the original pulley system and the frescoes of the great artist Frago Catellano.

Explore the first convent of the area. Monastery was founded in 14th century by monk Antonios and was bombed during WWII and depopulated. From 1941 monastery was empty of life since 1961 when nuns asked and took permission to reconstruct the broken section and organize the first convent of the area.

To take the train from Kalabaka's trainstaion you should be there 15 minutes earlier. Board in the train, relax and experience the lanscape of Greece with almost 5 hours trip back to Athens.

What's not included

Gratuities (optional)

(Guided) Tour inside the monasteries

Meals/Snacks/Soft drinks

Pick-up from/Drop-off at your accommodation in Athens

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting point is the St. Larissis in Athens. Go to the main trainstaion in Athens 15 minutes before the train departure, get on board and enjoy the green valleys until your train arrive to Kalabaka which is the last station.

Important notes

Train tickets and tour's voucher are not the same. Train tickets will be sent directly to you and will be mentioned as train tickets. Keep them in your device and show them the tickets when the ticket inspector ask for them.

About Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city rich in history and culture, often considered the cradle of Western civilization. It is home to iconic ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving modern scene.

Top Attractions

Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is the most iconic landmark in Athens, featuring ancient ruins and temples, including the Parthenon.

Historical 2-3 hours €20 (combined ticket for multiple sites)

Ancient Agora of Athens

The heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.

Historical 1-2 hours €8 (included in the combined ticket)

Plaka

A charming, historic neighborhood with narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and vibrant nightlife.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore

Acropolis Museum

A modern museum showcasing artifacts from the Acropolis and its surroundings.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Temple of Olympian Zeus

An ancient temple dedicated to Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour €6 (included in the combined ticket)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moussaka

A baked dish with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Dinner Vegetarian versions available

Souvlaki

Grilled meat skewers, often served with pita bread and tzatziki.

Snack Can be made with chicken, pork, or vegetarian options

Tzatziki

A yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Baklava

A sweet pastry made with layers of filo, nuts, and honey syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Rock climbing Scuba diving Beach visits Spa treatments Café hopping Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Athens is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.

18°C to 32°C 64°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Athens is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious with ATMs and credit cards

Getting there

By air

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Athens Central Railway Station

By bus

KTEL Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned. Easy to navigate with clear signage in English.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Plaka Monastiraki Psiri Koukaki Kolonaki

Day trips

Cape Sounion

65 km from Athens • Half day to full day

A scenic coastal area featuring the Temple of Poseidon with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Delphi

180 km from Athens • Full day

An ancient archaeological site and home to the famous Oracle of Delphi.

Meteora

350 km from Athens • Overnight

A unique landscape featuring rock formations and medieval monasteries perched atop cliffs.

Festivals

Athens Festival • May to October Athens Epidaurus Festival • June to August Athens International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Use the metro for easy and efficient travel around the city
Explore local neighborhoods for an authentic Greek experience
Try local street food for a quick and delicious meal
Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals