Things to do in Trikala

Embark on a 2-day tour to the archaeological site of Delphi and the historic Orthodox monasteries built on the rocks of Meteora. Learn about the myths and history attached to these sites from your guide on this guided tour from Athens. Day 1: Depart Athens for the ancient site of the Oracle of Delphi. Travel by air-conditioned coach through the pretty towns and villages of Thebes, Levadia, and Arachova on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. Arrive in Delphi and explore the ruins of the ancient sanctuary of Pythia, the high priestess of the Temple of Apollo. Explore the temple and learn about its significance from your guide. Then, continue to the beautiful town of Kalabaka for dinner and your overnight stay. Day 2: After breakfast, make your way to Meteora, famous for its stunning rock formations. Visit the monasteries built to serve the monks and nuns following the teachings of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Return to Athens via Trikala and Lamia. Stop at Thermopylae to admire the monument to the Greek warrior-king Leonidas I, who died there in 480 BC. Arrive back in Athens by the early evening.

2 days (on halfboard basis) 1st day First you will drive to Delphi through Levadia and Arachova. At Delphi you will visit the archaeological site. Then depart for Kalambaka. Drive passing the towns of central Greece (Amphissa, Lamia and Trikala) crossing the Thessalian plain, the granary of Greece, to reach Kalambaka. Overnight 2nd day Morning visit two of the breathtaking Meteora and its monasteries built on the top of high rocks. Then start the drive back to Athens passing through Thermopylae where Leonidas was killed (visit) and Kamena Vourla. * Dinner on day 1 ** Breakfast on day 2

Embark on an extraordinary day trip from Thessaloniki to the Unesco World Heritage Site of Meteora. Explore centuries-old monasteries, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and uncover hidden gems of Meteora that most travelers won't know about. Your journey starts as you board the bus departing from Thessaloniki to Trikala at 09:30. Sit back and enjoy a scenic bus ride through the enchanting countryside, offering picturesque glimpses of mainland Greece. At 12:20 the bus will reach the bus station of Trikala where you should switch busses and catch the one departing to Kalambaka (Meteora) at 12:30. At 13:30, you'll arrive at Meteora, where our friendly local tour guide will await you to begin an unforgettable adventure through this natural wonder called Meteora. During this guided tour, you'll be able to see all the majestic monasteries of Meteora and even step inside three of them to explore their captivating interiors. Also, you'll discover the hidden treasures of Meteora, including the ancient hermit caves and the magnificent St. George Mandilas cave. Moreover, uncover the 'secret' side of Meteora accompanied by your local, knowledgeable, English-speaking guide, learning about why hermits chose to settle in these imposing caves a thousand years ago and the remarkable achievements of the monks. Immerse yourself in the rich history and intriguing myths of Meteora, as you hear detailed explanations and fascinating stories. If English isn’t your primary language, don’t worry! We also offer free audio guides in Spanish, French, and Italian. Throughout the journey, also take advantage of our multiple panoramic stops to capture stunning moments with your camera, creating lasting memories of this breathtaking tour. After the tour, enjoy approximately one hour of free time in the charming town of Kalambaka to explore its numerous restaurants, cafes, and local shops. Relax under the breathtaking Meteora formations or take a short walk to the heart of this small picturesque town. At 19:15, catch the bus departing from Kalambaka to Trikala. At 19:50 the bus will reach the bus station of Trikala where you should switch busses and catch the one departing to Thessaloniki at 20:00. Arrive at Thessaloniki at 22:30.

Day 1: Leave by the coastal road to the Corinth Canal (short stop). Drive on and visit the Theatre of Epidaurus, famous for its remarkable acoustics. Then, proceed to the town of Nafplio (short photo stop), drive on to Mycenae and visit the archaeological site and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Then, depart for Olympia through central Peloponnese and the towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis. Overnight in Olympia, the cradle of the Olympic Games (dinner) Day 2: In the morning, visit the archaeological site with the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the ancient stadium, the spot where the torch of the modern Olympic Games is lit and the Archaeological Museum. Then, drive on through the plains of Ilia and Achaia until the magnificent bridge that crosses the Corinthian Bay from Rion to Antirion. Pass by the picturesque towns of Nafpactos (Lepanto) and Itea. Arrive in Delphi (dinner and overnight) Day 3: In the morning, visit the archaeological site and the Museum of Delphi, the most famous oracle of the ancient world. Depart for Kalambaka, a small town located at the foot of the astonishing complex of Meteora, surrounded by gigantic rocks (dinner and overnight) Day 4: Visit Meteora, a striking scenery perched on top of huge rocks which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless monasteries, where you can see exquisite specimens of Byzantine art. Return to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae (short stop to see across the road to Leonida's Monument). Arrive in Athens early in the evening.

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.

Your private tour will start from your hotel in Athens and head to the central mainland of Greece. The first stop is the battlefield of Thermopylae and the "Hot Gates" named after the hot springs there. Here is where King Leonidas and 300 brave Spartans gave their lives for the freedom of Greece.  Pass by Trikala, Karditsa, Kalambaka and Kastraki, before finally reaching the Meteora monasteries. They come second in religious importance and size after Mount Athos in orthodox Christianity. Meteora means "middle of the sky", and the monasteries are built on high pillars at the northwestern edge of the Plain of Thessaly, near the Pineios river and Pindus Mountains. There are still monks and nuns inhabiting them today. You will visit up to 3 monasteries, depending on what time allows before having a memorable Greek lunch. You'll eat at a traditional tavern in Kalambaka or Kastraki where you'll have plenty of choice of Greek dishes to choose from.

Embark on an extraordinary overnight trip from Thessaloniki to the Unesco World Heritage Site of Meteora. Explore centuries-old monasteries, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and uncover hidden gems that most travelers won't know about. Your journey starts as you board the bus departing from Thessaloniki to Trikala at 09:30. Sit back and enjoy a scenic bus ride through the enchanting countryside, offering picturesque glimpses of mainland Greece. At 12:20 the bus will reach the bus station of Trikala where you should switch busses and catch the one departing to Kalambaka (Meteora) at 12:30. At 13:30, you will arrive at Meteora, where you will enjoy some relaxation to your hotel. In the afternoon you will be picked up from your hotel for the 4h “Meteora: Guided Sunset Tour with Monasteries and Caves Visit”. During this tour you will be able to discover some of Meteora’s most spectacular hidden gems, like the ancient hermitages of Bandovas, the hermit caves, the Byzantine Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary and the picturesque old district of Kalambaka. You will also step inside one of the Meteora’s majestic monasteries. 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. Next morning, you will be able to participate in a 4h tour of your choice. You can either participate in our “Meteora: Morning Half Day Sightseeing and Monasteries Tour” or our “Meteora: Hiking Tour with Local Guide and Monastery Visit”. • Meteora: Morning Half Day Sightseeing and Monasteries Tour: During this guided tour you will have the opportunity to see all six magnificent monasteries of Meteora and admire the interior of three of them. Additionally, view some of Meteora’s most spectacular hidden gems like the ancient Chapel of Doupiani and the magnificent St. George “Mandilas” cave. You will also discover the “other side” of Meteora, like the truth about why the hermits settled in these imposing caves a thousand years ago and how the monks achieved the “impossible”. Last but not least, take the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views and capture some amazing photos that you will cherish forever. • Meteora: Hiking Tour with Local Guide and Monastery Visit Enjoy a walking trail between 2 impressive rock formations. Take in the breathtaking scenery, including old monastery ruins and monks’ caves. Venture to the unknown Monastery of Ypapanti and many other of Meteora’s secret treasures, all of which have been there for over a thousand years. Your guide, a local who was born and raised in the area, will be eager to share his wisdom and knowledge about the myths and legends of Meteora's rich history. Complete your hike with a visit to the Great Meteoron or Varlaam monastery. After the morning tour of your choice, enjoy some free time in the town of Kalambaka prior to your bus's departure at 15:15. You will arrive to Thessaloniki at 18:30.

Embark on a 2-day private tour from Athens to Delphi and Meteora. Explore the ancient ruins of Delphi, visit the monasteries of Meteora, and stop at the battlefield of Thermopylae. Start your journey with a drive along the national highway heading towards northern Greece. Pass the plane of Theves and the city of Levadia. Soon after, be on the slopes of Mount Parnassus before reaching the mythical Delphi. Stop in Arachova, a small mountainous village, very close to a ski resort, made up of traditional houses and shops selling locally produced products. Walk through the village with its narrow, country streets and shops on the central street. After spending some time in this area of serenity, drive to the ancient site of Delphi, a famous sanctuary with a PanHellenic character dedicated to Apollo. It served as an oracle and was considered the naval center of the world. Today, Delphi is a symbol of Greek cultural unity. The scenic location allows you to have a soothing view of the Greek mountains and two more interesting sites, the Gymnasium and the secondary sanctuary of Athena Pronea. Visit the temple of Apollo where Pytheia spoke to the oracles, the theater, and the stadium. In the museum, see the famous charioteer and Gold Ivory statues. Afterward, have lunch at the modern village of Delphi with a peaceful view of the mountains of Fokis. Stop at a point well known for its great view, where you can see the Corinthian Sea, the port of Itea, and the valley full of olive trees. Continue with a drive through the mountains, not taking the national highway, to see the real Greek countryside. Pass by the cities of Lamia, Trikala, and Karditsa to reach Kalambaka, a beautiful small city that is dominated by the Meteora. Have time to take an evening walk and enjoy a local dinner after settling at the hotel. On the following day, start in the morning for a visit to the monasteries and a closer look at the holy rocks. On the rocks that are like suspended in the air (that’s what Meteora means) there is one of the largest and most important complexes of Eastern Orthodox Monasteries still in use. Meteora combines natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a unique destination. After having lunch at Kalambaka, start heading towards Athens and to the last stop. On the way back, meet the battlefield of Thermopylae. In the historical center of the site, enjoy a 3D movie. Travel through time and feel the presence of all who died for their freedom under a foreign conqueror. To complete the visit, see the statue of Leonidas standing right opposite Kolonos Hill where the persisting Spartans left their last breath. After that, drive back to Athens.

Located at the foot of Mt. Parnassos, the pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi was once regarded as the center of the world. Experience this mystical place, set between the twin rocks of the Phaedriades, on a 3-day excursion from Athens. Traveling by bus, you will drive into the mountains and learn the legend of the most famous oracle of Ancient Greece. Continue to Meteora to explore the large complex of monasteries, built on natural sandstone rock pillars, and seemingly suspended in air. Day 1: Athens - Delphi Depart Athens in the morning and drive through the historic towns of Livadeia and Arachova, the latter famous for its bright, multicolored carpets. Upon arrival in Delphi, on the southwestern spur of Mount Parnassos, explore one of the most famous archaeological sites in Greece. Sacred to Apollo in Greek mythology, Delphi was once considered the naval of the world. According to legend, it is where the two eagles sent by Zeus from the end of the universe met. Soak up the mysterious atmosphere of the sanctuary, set within a spectacular landscape. For centuries, Delphi was the cultural and religious center, and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world. It was also the site of the Pythian Games, the second most important games after the Olympics. Explore the ruins of the theater, set above the Temple of Apollo, and admire the reconstructed Treasury and Doric columns of the Tholos, constructed between 380 and 360 B.C. You'll spend the night in Delphi after a complimentary dinner. Day 2: Delphi - Kalambaka Enjoy the morning and lunch at leisure before heading north to Kalambaka, passing through olive forests and the towns of central Greece, including Amfissa, Lamia, and Trikala. This scenic drive to one of the most beautiful towns in Greece takes you over the plains of Thessalian, considered the granary of the country. You'll spend the night in Kalambaka after an inclusive dinner. Day 3: Meteora – Athens Today, you will explore one of the most amazing sites in Greece on a tour of Meteora. Meaning “suspended in air,” this rock community of 24 monasteries is the largest and most important group in Greece after Mt. Athos. When they were built, there were no steps leading to the buildings. The main access was by a net that was hitched over a hook, and then hoisted by rope and hand-cranked windlass connected to winch towers overhanging the chasm. Each community of hermits developed their own resources, and by the end of the 14th century the Grand Meteoron emerged as the dominant community. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the breathtaking complex has been a backdrop for James Bond films and other movies. Following your guided tour, drive back to Athens, pausing at the hot sulphur springs of Thermopylae and the spa resort of Kamena Vourla to take photos.

Do not miss the chance to visit the mountainious Meteora. There lie some of the oldest Byzantine monasteries of the world on the highest cliffs. It is the chance of your life to see and feel the stunning natural phenomenon of the Meteora rocks and the Byzantine Monasteries heritage of Unesco. Kalampaka is a city of rich history and important monuments. The one of the greatest importance is the Holy Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary that is at the north-eastern part of the city under the very high rock of Aea. The city of Kalampaka is built on the feet of the Meteora and it is at the left side of the river Pinios at the point that it enters the plain of Thessaly. Trikala is a city in northwestern Thessaly, Greece, and the capital of the Trikala regional unit. The city straddles the Lithaios river, which is a tributary of Pineios. Trikala is a lively Greek city with picturesque monuments and old neighborhoods with traditional architecture.