by Jo Huffhines A Luxury Travel Advisor
We often talk about "elevated" travel experiences, but nowhere is that term more literal—or more spiritual—than in Meteora. Perched atop towering sandstone pillars formed millions of years ago, these structures don’t just sit on the landscape; they dominate it.
The name Meteora translates to “suspended in the air,” a phrase that perfectly captures the ethereal beauty of these six Greek Orthodox monasteries. While many travel to Greece for the islands, I always encourage my clients to look inland to these medieval marvels. Whether you are seeking spiritual grounding or simply the most dramatic views in Europe, Meteora offers a unique perspective on monastic life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Below, I’ve curated a guide to the six active monasteries that still inhabit these peaks. All are working religious sites housing clergy, and they graciously welcome visitors from around the globe to witness their history.
1. Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada)
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2. Great Meteoron Monastery
The Grandest of Them All For those who want to see the pinnacle of monastic prestige, this is it. Founded by St. Athanasios and once home to exiled royalty, the Great Meteoron is the oldest, largest, and highest of the complexes, rising over 2,000 feet (615 meters) above the valley floor.
- The Experience: You will climb over 300 steps to reach the entrance, but the complex is vast. It features a grand 14th-century church, a wine cellar, and a fascinating museum.
- Advisor Note: Don’t miss the sacristy, where the skulls of the monastery’s former monks are neatly lined up on shelves—a somber but powerful reminder of the site's history.
- Status: Active Greek Orthodox Monastery; Open to Visitors.
3. Varlaam Monastery
The Architectural Marvel As the second-largest monastery, Varlaam offers incredible insight into the sheer grit required to build these sanctuaries. It took the monks 22 years just to hoist the building materials to the summit using ropes and baskets.
- The Experience: Until the 20th century, visitors had to be hoisted up in a net! Today, you can take a much safer 195 steps carved into the cliff. Inside, the refectory museum displays the original rope basket, and the main chapel features harrowing, detailed frescoes of the Apocalypse.
- Status: Active Greek Orthodox Monastery; Open to Visitors.
4. St Stephen Monastery
The Accessible Sanctuary Visible from the town of Kalambaka, St. Stephen’s is ideal for travelers who want to experience the majesty of Meteora without a strenuous hike. It is easily accessed via a bridge from the main road.
- The Experience: This site has a complex history—damaged by WWII bombing and defaced during the Greek Civil War—but it was revitalized in 1961 when it became a nunnery. The 15th-century refectory is now a museum displaying exquisite embroidered robes.
- Advisor Note: The nuns here are wonderful hosts and often sell their own handmade embroidery. It is also home to the skull of St. Charalambos, believed to hold miraculous healing powers.
5. Rousanou Monastery
The Garden in the Sky Lower in elevation than the others, Rousanou feels intimate and approachable. Founded in the 16th century, it was converted into a nunnery in 1988.
- The Experience: Access is easy thanks to a newly restored bridge that mitigates the fear of the sheer cliff drops. The atmosphere here is distinct—while the chapel frescoes depict intense scenes of martyrdom, the nuns have cultivated cheerful, picturesque courtyards and gardens that are perfect for photography.
- Status: Active Greek Orthodox Nunnery; Open to Visitors.
St. Nicholas Anapausas Monastery
The Hidden Gem Because it is relatively small, St. Nicholas is often bypassed by the large tour buses—which is exactly why I recommend it.
- The Experience: Located just a short climb (150 steps) from the road near Kastraki, this 14th-century monastery punches above its weight artistically. The main chapel was adorned by the famed Cretan painter Theophanis Strelitzas. His lively illustrations of Biblical scenes and 16th-century monastic life are considered some of the finest art in the region.
- Status: Active Greek Orthodox Monastery; Open to Visitors.
Style Guide: What to Wear to the Monasteries
One of the most common mistakes travelers make in Meteora is assuming their standard "activewear" is acceptable. It often isn't. As active religious sites, the monasteries enforce a strict dress code. If you are not properly dressed, you will be asked to wear a communal wrap-skirt provided at the entrance—which, frankly, ruins the outfit (and the photo).
For Her: The "Meteora Chic" Look
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For Him: Respectful & Sharp
- The Golden Rule: Long trousers are non-negotiable. Shorts are not permitted, regardless of the heat.
- The Look: A pair of lightweight chinos or linen trousers paired with a polo or a short-sleeve linen shirt. Sleeveless shirts are strictly prohibited.
Logistics: How to Get to Meteora
Meteora is located in central Greece, roughly 4 hours from Athens. Here is how I recommend my clients make the journey.
- The "Door-to-Door" Private Transfer (Recommended) For a truly seamless experience, I arrange a private Mercedes V-Class or sedan from your hotel in Athens directly to your hotel in Kalambaka.
- Why choose this: You avoid the chaos of public terminals, and we can schedule a stop at Thermopylae (site of the famous battle of the 300 Spartans) or a seaside lunch in Kamena Vourla on the way up.
- Duration: Approx. 4 to 4.5 hours.
- The First-Class Train If you enjoy rail travel, the train is a scenic and efficient option.
- The Route: There is a direct train from Athens (Larissa Station) to Kalambaka that departs in the morning.
- Advisor Tip: I only book First Class (A seats) for my clients. It separates you from the backpacker crowds and ensures you have a reserved seat with a table. The route cuts through the mountains and offers views you can't see from the highway.
- Duration: Approx. 4 hours.
- The Helicopter Arrival (The VIP Option) For those short on time or looking for an unforgettable entrance, we can charter a helicopter from Athens.
- The Experience: You will land directly at the helipad in Meteora. Nothing compares to approaching these rock formations from the air—it is a perspective 99% of visitors never see.
- Duration: Approx. 55 minutes.
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