This was a well organized, informative and enjoyable trip. The guide was witty and very knowledgeable, as only someone who grew up there could be. This format is better suited to independently minded travelers: think of it as a minibus transfer between monasteries with live commentary. So nobody will shepherd you into a restaurant or toilet. If you need either, it's up to you within the time window allowed at each stop. Only one monastery had a small kiosk selling light snacks, so bringing sustenance is essential. The guide mentioned that the tour normally starts with a quick lunch, but because the train was delayed the group decided to skip that in favor of a snack on the go.

This was a great experience. Our travel guide did a great job, he spoke English clearly and was very knowledgeable about the monasteries..It was pretty chilly and rainy this day and I asked if he knew of a place on the way that I could pick up a jacket. They stopped at a place and I ran in for 3 mins to get a jacket. Thanks so much, enjoyed the tour.

The guided trip was excellent! Our guide was very knowledgeable and could answer any question you asked him. Be prepared to walk up and down a lot of steps-not for the faint-of-heart. The train trip was very long but I was able to nap, and there's food and drink available. The toilets were not the best so try to relieve yourself before the train or right as you get on. I would recommend to anyone wanting to see the geological phenomena with a strong spiritual connection and beautiful architecture. It was my last day in Athens and I'm very glad that I went. The history is fascinating, a must-see if you do one thing outside of Athens.