Private Full Day Tour of Meteora & Thermopylae from Athens

Athens , Greece

Private Full Day Tour of Meteora & Thermopylae from Athens

Active

12h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our first stop is at historical Thermopylae! Paying tribute to King Leonidas of Sparta and his 300 Spartan warriors, we will visit the amazing monument of his statue which is captivating!

Next stop breathtaking Meteora! Meteora is considered one of the most beautiful areas of mainland Greece and its hanging monasteries are one of the country’s most unique attractions.

The monasteries are perched on top of towers of sandstone, which for centuries provided totally inaccessible retreats for the monks. They are built on top of rock towers and they provide fantastic views over the plain.

The Meteora Monasteries themselves, besides providing incredible views are full of religious treasures, wall paintings, icons and libraries rich in old manuscripts. Everyday, innumerable visitors gather here from all four corners of the world to meditate and pray. The fascinating landscape was used when filming the Bond film “For Your Eyes Only” (Holy Trinity). The whole experience is not to be missed.

Available options

Private Full Day Tour of Meteora & Thermopylae from Athens

Pickup included

What's included

WiFi on board

Professional Tour Drivers with in-depth knowledge of Greek history

Fully Private Tour

Bottled water & refreshing wipes

Hotel/Port pick-up and drop-off service

Transportation by private first class vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Pickup from your Hotel, Airbnb or apartment in Athens. Drive to Thermopylae.

Thermopylae is an area in Greece by the Malian Gulf in the western Aegean sea where a narrow coastal passage existed in antiquity. The Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC was fought between 300 Spartans, 700 Thespians & locals led by King Leonidas of Sparta against the mighty Persian Empire led by King Xerxes.

The Gates of Fire: Deriving from the Hot sulphur Springs and in Greek mythology the cavernous entrances to one of the 7 gateways to Hades.
The baths of Thermopylae could be described as a paradise of healing spas as a treatment for specific ailments, illnesses and injuries but also to promote general well-being. It is right here where you can enjoy a 20 minute sulphuric bath.

Visit the Statue of King Leonidas paying respect to the fallen. "Molon Lave" - If you want our weapons... "Come and Take Them!" Across the monument we visit Mt Kolonos (Hill) where we read the epitaph stating "Stranger, tell the Lacedomians and the world that we lay here according to our orders." The Final Stance!

Visit the Thermopylae Information Center which is dedicated to the 480 BC battle that changed the course of Greek history and western civilization as we know it today.

Visit the Gates of Fire - one of the 7 gateways of Hades.

Stop 6

Visit the “Hanging Monasteries" (1 to 3 monasteries).
Enjoy panoramic breathtaking views of the pillars suspended in the air and of the majestic Pindos Mountains. Natures grandeur!

Lunch at a traditional taverna at the town of Kalambaka or the village of Kastraki.

Stroll amongst the village shops where you can treat yourself and buy handmade souvenirs for your family and friends.

Return to Athens.

What's not included

Entrance fees to the sites. Monasteries require loose change donations approx 3eur pp, per monastery

Airport pick-up and drop-off (additional cost, on request)

Food and Drinks

Licensed tour guide to accompany guests into the Monasteries (from 200eur for 2 monasteries

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.

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