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Editor's pick

Metéora

Kalambaka, Greece

History

Monasteries perched on top of sandstone pillars. Opening days vary by monastery; dress modestly.

Meteora is a rock landscape near Kalambaka in Greece, known for Byzantine monasteries perched on slender stone pinnacles. Medieval masons built the complexes; today they are collectively a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and according to Lonely Planet Meteora is one of the most visited attractions in Greece. The Greek tourism authority calls the area the most significant monastic centre in the country after Mount Athos.

Six monasteries are still active: Great Meteoron, Agiou Stefanou, Varlaam, Agia Triada, Roussanou and Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas. Organised monasticism began here in the 11th century and peaked in the 13th and 14th centuries. Great Meteoron was founded in 1340 by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite on the highest rock, Roussanou in 1529.

Lonely Planet also notes good opportunities for walkers and climbers. Check opening hours, dress code and access with the monasteries or locally before you go.

Nearest town
Kalambaka, Greece
Category
History & culture
GPS
39.7217, 21.6306
Editor's pick
★

Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.

Good to know

Best time to go

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in June, September and November. Hot in July–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

Getting there

  • Greece: Motorway tolls. Motorway limit for cars: 130 km/h.

Sources

Featured in these trip guides

Nearby

Campsites nearby

All campsites in Greece · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026

FAQs

Where is Metéora?

Metéora is in Kalambaka, Greece, at GPS 39.7217, 21.6306. It is about 22 km from Trikala.

Can you camp near Metéora?

Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is the Cave, about 1 km away; within 25 km there are 3 campsites and motorhome stopovers.

Which road trips pass Metéora?

Metéora is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Central Greece: Euripus, Thermopylae, Lake Plastira and Metéora.

What is there to see near Metéora?

Places worth a stop nearby: Metsovo (39 km), Lake Plastira (49 km), Nisi Island, Lake Pamvotida (64 km) and Ioannina Castle (67 km).

When is the best time to visit Metéora?

The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in June, September and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

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