Our most recommended things to do in Kastraki

From Athens: Meteora Monasteries & Caves Tour Optional Lunch

1. From Athens: Meteora Monasteries & Caves Tour Optional Lunch

Embark on a captivating journey from Athens to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora with our exclusive day tour. As the premier local operator, we specialize in intimate group experiences, offering unparalleled access to Meteora's hidden gems. Join us for an exceptional exploration of Meteora's secluded hermit caves in Badovas, guided by our expert local escorts. Travel in style aboard our luxurious VIP minibus, marveling at the majestic rock pillars and grand monasteries of Meteora. Experience the spiritual and architectural marvels by visiting the interiors of three historically significant monasteries. Each monastery offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich cultural and religious heritage. Our journey will also provide opportunities to view all of Meteora's monasteries from the most scenic vantage points, ensuring you capture the essence of this awe-inspiring landscape. Witness breathtaking views that offer perfect photo opportunities, creating memories to last a lifetime. On our tour, choose between two rates: with or without lunch. Opt for lunch and savor a meal in Kastraki, a picturesque village near the Meteora rocks. Our lunch offering includes diverse local dishes, with vegetarian options, plus salad, bread, and water. Enjoy this culinary experience at your leisure, fitting both your taste and budget. For our guests joining the tour during the winter months, the day will culminate with a spectacular viewing of the Meteora sunset, a magical experience unique to this season. Witness the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the monastic landscape, before we conclude our tour. Your adventure begins at 08:00 am from Athens' Larissis train station, where you'll board a comfortable bus due to a temporary train suspension. Enjoy a refreshing break for lunch in the picturesque village of Kastraki, before immersing yourself in the exploration of Meteora. Reflect on the day's wonders on your return journey, with an estimated arrival in Athens at approximately 22:20 pm. Option for lunch: Choose from a selection of main dishes featuring local recipes, including a vegetarian option, accompanied by a salad, bread, and water. Option for a private tour with options for English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, or Romanian speaking guides. Book now for a unique and seamless experience, uncovering the secrets of Meteora. The tour concludes at Kalabaka train station, leaving you with the choice to either return to Athens or continue exploring the local area.

Thessaloniki: Full-Day Bus Trip to Meteora

2. Thessaloniki: Full-Day Bus Trip to Meteora

Embark on a full-day bus trip to Meteora from Thessaloniki. Explore this UNESCO world heritage site and admire the unique landscape. Depart Thessaloniki in the morning and journey to the amazing monastery complex of Meteora to visit 2 of the 6 holy monasteries, depending on their operating schedule. Get access to holy sites such as the women's Monastery of Agios Stefanos with its impressive wood-carved iconostasis, or visit the Monastery of the Holy Trinity, perched on the top of a rocky precipice over 400 meters high. Alternatively, discover the tower of the old preserved net at the Monastery of Varlaam, or explore the largest of the monasteries at the Monastery of Great Meteoron. Take in panoramic views of these incredible structures and the stunning landscape. Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in Kastraki, near the city of Kalampaka, before heading back to Thessaloniki.

From Athens: Meteora Monasteries and Hermitages Day Trip

3. From Athens: Meteora Monasteries and Hermitages Day Trip

Discover the beauty and history of Meteora on a day trip from Athens. Take in stunning views of the Greek countryside on the comfortable coach ride to the town of Kalambaka. Travel with a guide on a van or bus and stop to capture pictures at six historic monasteries. Begin from Stathmos Larissis, the fabulous central railway station of Athens, where you find your coach that will take you to Kalambaka. Throughout your journey, indulge in the unique scenic routes the Greek countryside provides. Upon arrival, meet your guide, who will be holding a signboard with your name on it. Walk with your guide to the Meteora Monasteries, where you can admire the fantastic Christian architecture. Discover the over 700 years of history and influence of the monasteries. Please note that your transfer from Athens is temporarily done by an airconditioned bus departing from the Athens Train station, instead of a train. The reason is that trains have stopped operations due to a devastating flood. You will still enjoy the experience in the most stress-free manner possible. Not only is the bus ride to Kalabaka efficient and a bit faster, but it also allows you to soak up the enchanting countryside of Greece. Awe at the gorgeous landscapes that unfold before your eyes and prepare yourself for the wonders of Meteora to come.

Kalabaka: Majestic Sunset Meteora Tour with a Local Guide

4. Kalabaka: Majestic Sunset Meteora Tour with a Local Guide

Your 4-hour sunset tour begins with a pick-up at your Kalambaka or Kastraki hotel, and a drive by minibus to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora at the amazing views of Meteora in top of the world. Travel in comfort and safety in an air-conditioned minibus to the unique and world-famous rock forest of Meteora. Enjoy a comprehensive tour that takes you to all 6 monasteries, with the opportunity to visit the interior of 1 or 2 of them. Your tour leader will remain with you throughout, providing information about the area in your language. Avoid the traffic and parking problems. At the end of the monastery tour you’ll be able to enjoy one of the best sunsets in Greece from the best vantage point in Meteora.

Meteora: Guided Sunset Tour with Monasteries and Caves Visit

5. Meteora: Guided Sunset Tour with Monasteries and Caves Visit

Join this extraordinary sunset tour to Meteora and fully experience this true marvel with it’s majestic monasteries and ancient rock formations. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide you will learn all about Meteora’s history and myths of the region. The tour starts with a convenient pick-up (with our luxurious minibus) from your hotel in Kalabaka or Kastraki. During this guided tour you will have the opportunity to see all six majestic monasteries and admire the interior of one of them. You will also view some of Meteora’s most spectacular “hidden gems” like the ancient hermitages of Bandovas, the Byzantine church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary and the picturesque old district of Kalabaka. Last but not least, you will enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views, capture some amazing photos and witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets you will ever see.

Kalabaka: Meteora Private Day Tour with a Local Guide

6. Kalabaka: Meteora Private Day Tour with a Local Guide

Experience the unique Unesco World Heritage site of Meteora. Take in the stunning views from the hill-like rounded boulders. Discover the 6 Holy monasteries with the chance to visit inside 2-3 of your choice. Visualize how the first monks established one of the biggest monastic communities in Greece on top of these unique rocks. Walk around the special site, which is still home to several monks in residence. Start your tour in the morning and be picked up from your hotel in Kalabaka or Kastraka. Travel towards the cliff-top monasteries comfortably and safely in a luxurious mini-bus or car. See the best viewpoints and make plenty of stops on your short walks. Learn about the geological phenomenon that occurred to form these impressive rocks.

Meteora: Sunset Hike to Secret Caves

7. Meteora: Sunset Hike to Secret Caves

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with this exclusive afternoon sunset hike to Meteora's elusive "secret" caves, led by an insightful local mountain guide. Start your journey with a convinient pick-up from your hotel in Kalabaka or Kastraki. The hike begins in the foothills of Meteora, where hidden treasures await. Explore mesmerizing "hidden gems" that most travelers overlook, such as the ancient hermitages of Bandovas, standing for a millennium, and the mysterious monks' prison. Delve into the secrets of the "hidden" hermit caves, shrouded in the mystique of centuries gone by. Your local mountain guide, a fountain of knowledge, will weave tales of Meteora's rich history and legends, bringing the ancient rocks to life with stories untold. As the day draws to a close, find yourself at the perfect vantage point to witness Meteora's awe-inspiring sunset, a spectacle that transcends the ordinary. Capture this moment forever with your camera, immortalizing the beauty that unfolds before your eyes. Join us on this spellbinding journey, where every step reveals a piece of Meteora's untold story, and every sunset leaves an indelible mark on your memory.

From Athens: Private Full Day Meteora and Katraski Tour

8. From Athens: Private Full Day Meteora and Katraski Tour

We start our tour early in the morning from Athens till Meteora. Our driver will pick you up from your hotel/ apartment or the airport/ port. The travel time is about 4,5 hours. The first stop is at Kalabaka, a town of the municipality of Meteora in the Trikala regional unit, part of Thessaly in Greece. The population was 12,000 at the 2011 census, of which 8,330 in the town proper. The Meteora monasteries are located near the town. We arrive at Meteora and visit up to three Monasteries. Breathtaking at first site, the Monasteries are of great cultural and natural importance. Split from earthquakes, weathered from the wind and the water over millions of millions of years, these immense rocks are an authentic masterpiece of mother nature. The Meteora is a rock formation in central Greece hosting one of the largest and most precipitously built complexes of Eastern Orthodox Monasteries. The six (of an original 24) monasteries are built on immense natural pillars and hill-like rounded boulders that dominate the local area. Meteora is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List and the name means "lofty", "elevated", and is etymologically related to meteor. Please be modestly dressed. Women are suggested to wear long skirts & long sleeves. If you do not have, you will be given a skirt on your way in. Next stop is at Kastraki, a picturesque village near Meteora, where we have free time for lunch at a traditional Greek tavern with your friends and family or shopping. As we leave the magnificent Meteora behind us, let us not overlook the Battle of Thermopylae of 480 BCE, which has long been the topic of cultural motivation, as it is perhaps the most famous military last stand of all time. The monument of the Great Leonidas, King of Sparta, in Thermopylae, will grace our path on our way back to Athens in the late afternoon. The drive is about 4,5 hours.

Kastraki: Horse Riding Adventure under the Meteora Rocks

9. Kastraki: Horse Riding Adventure under the Meteora Rocks

When in Meteora you can experience easy horse riding with a local instructor who will guide you in the wonderful valley of the Meteora rock formations which are listed in the UNESCO Heritage list and have several spots of natural beauty. The local horse instructor is knowledgeable about the area and its history and provides you with helmets, the horses are treated responsibly and wear leather saddles. The staff provides a 20-minute training session to ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident before the tour begins. During the horse ride you will be offered water and fruit. In addition, photos will be taken of you (using your phone/camera) to capture your unforgettable experience or upon request. All horses are well-trained, and the staff is experienced in handling tours and takes all necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. All tours cater to riders of all levels, including beginners. The staff ensures you have a wonderful time, regardless of your riding experience.

From Meteora: Hermit Caves Sunset Hiking Tour

10. From Meteora: Hermit Caves Sunset Hiking Tour

Starting from the picturesque village of Kastraki, we will embark on a scenic hike through the breathtaking landscape of Meteora. Along the way, we will explore the hermit caves that have been used by monks for centuries, providing us with an insight into the spiritual history of the area. As we make our way up the hills, we will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the rock formations and monasteries that make Meteora so unique. Our experienced guide will share their extensive knowledge of the area's history and culture, providing you with an unforgettable experience that you won't find anywhere else. This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with options to customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. So whether you're an avid hiker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, we have the perfect adventure for you. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Meteora. Book your Hiking Meteora's Hermit Caves tour now and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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What people are saying about Kastraki

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 802 reviews

An incredible experience, the landscapes, the architecture, the peace. Some tips: - Make sure you dress appropriately both for the weather and for entertains the monasteries. - If you’re taking the train from Athens, it’s quite the long ride and there is no wifi onboard. Bring something to entertain yourself or sleep! - Also don’t forget that if you purchased a package with a train ticket, you will get it separately in your email! Have it ready to get on the train, GYG support is really helpful if you can’t find it.

Excellent guide, Natalie gave us a lot of information and made the trip very enjoyable. Punctuality and plenty of time to visit monasteries

Guid was very knowledgeable. She made the trip a smooth one. Thank you.

amazing experience and excellent staff!! This is a must!

המדריך מאוד נחמד והסביר הרבה על יוון סלוניקי ומטאורה