Athens Meteora Monasteries Day Trip by Rail 2023

If you’re planning a visit to Athens in 2023, don’t miss out on the Athens Meteora Monasteries Day Trip by Rail. This full-day tour will take you on a train ride through inland Greece to the picturesque town of Kalambaka. From there, you’ll enjoy a panoramic drive to see all six rock-built monasteries of Meteora, which are UNESCO-listed retreats.

What makes the Athens Meteora Monasteries Day Trip by Rail unique?

This rail trip to Meteora is an unforgettable experience, offering a chance to see the natural beauty of Greece’s inland regions in addition to the man-made beauty of the monasteries. You’ll travel comfortably in first-class train carriages and luxury minivans, ensuring your comfort throughout the day.

Plus, the tour is led by a highly-educated tour leader, who will be available to answer any questions you may have and guide you through your journey.

What should I expect during the tour?

You’ll depart Athens Train Station at 7:52 AM and arrive in Kalambaka at 12:05 PM. Your tour leader will then take you on a customized Special Panoramic Midday Meteora Tour, which lasts approximately five hours.

During the tour, you’ll see all six monasteries and have the opportunity to visit inside three of them. Your tour leader will provide you with full attention and care since the group size will be small. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and visit many secret places that only locals know about.

What’s included in the tour?

The tour includes roundtrip train tickets from Athens to Kalambaka, panoramic views of all six monasteries, a comprehensive 5-hour tour of Meteora, pickup and drop-off at Athens’ Larissa train station, and entrance fees to the monasteries (approximately 3 euro each). The tour also includes gratuities.

What about the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted. Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.

Why should I book the Athens Meteora Monasteries Day Trip by Rail?

Travellers who book this tour will experience the unique beauty of Meteora, Greece’s central inland regions, and they’ll learn about the history and significance of the six monasteries atop their rock pinnacles. The tour also includes convenient and comfortable transportation, experienced tour leaders, and plenty of opportunities for taking photos.

How can I book the Athens Meteora Monasteries Day Trip by Rail?

You can book your tour via the official website of the tour provider. Your train tickets will be e-tickets (PDF file) and will be sent to your email three days before the trip, or immediately if it is a last-minute reservation. It is not necessary to print the train tickets; you can just have them on your phone.

Conclusion

Athens Travel Guide: An Insider’s Guide to Local Attractions, Dining Spots, Cultural Experiences, Local History, and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Athens is a beautiful city that is rich in history and culture. It is famous for its ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon. If you are planning to visit Athens, this insider’s guide will help you to uncover the hidden gems of the city, explore its history, taste local cuisine, appreciate art and culture, and discover some off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Athens is filled with iconic landmarks and historic sites that attract millions of visitors each year. Here are some of our top recommendations:

Acropolis and the Parthenon: This ancient citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses several iconic landmarks including the Parthenon, the Propylaea, and the Erechtheion. Visit the Acropolis Museum that showcases sculptures and artifacts.

National Archaeological Museum of Athens: This museum holds treasures from Greece’s ancient past, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.

National Gardens of Athens: This tranquil park in the heart of the city features lush greenery, colorful flowers, and glistening lakes.

Dining Spots

Athens is a foodie’s paradise with a plethora of dining spots offering authentic Greek cuisine, street food, and international flavors. Here are some of our favorite picks:

Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani: This is a traditional deli and restaurant that serves cheese, cold cuts, olives, and other Greek delicacies.

Galaxy Bar & Restaurant: This rooftop restaurant offers a spectacular view of the Acropolis along with Mediterranean cuisine and cocktails.

Kanella: This is a cozy restaurant in the charming neighborhood of Psyrri that serves contemporary Greek cuisine with a creative twist.

Cultural Experiences

Athens offers an array of cultural experiences that help visitors to appreciate the city’s heritage, art, and traditions. Here are some of our recommendations:

Theater of Dionysus: This ancient open-air theater was built in the 5th century BC and hosted performances for over a millennia.

National Theater of Greece: This is a state-supported theater that presents classic and contemporary plays, musicals, and dance performances.

The Museum of Cycladic Art: This museum houses a collection of ancient Greek art and artifacts, including pottery, marble and bronze sculptures, and jewelry.

Local History

Athens has a rich history that spans over several centuries and has shaped the modern world. Here are some of the must-visit historic sites:

The Ancient Agora of Athens: This was a central public space in ancient Athens where democracy was born.

Temple of Olympian Zeus: This colossal temple was built in the 6th century BC and was dedicated to the king of gods and men.

The Roman Agora of Athens: This was the commercial and administrative center of Athens during the Roman period.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Apart from the main tourist attractions, Athens has some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

Anafiotika: This is a picturesque neighborhood located on the slopes of the Acropolis that transports you to the Greek islands with its whitewashed houses and blue shutters.

Gazi Technopolis: This former gas observatory has been converted into a cultural center that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and festivals.

Mount Lycabettus: Take a funicular or hike to the top of this hill to enjoy a panoramic view of Athens.

In conclusion, Athens is a city that has something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you are interested in history, culture, art, or food, Athens will mesmerize you with its charm, beauty, and hospitality.