Monasteries of Meteora Shore Excursion from Volos

This full day Volos shore excursion visits Kalambaka and the UNESCO World Heritage monasteries of Meteora, built on granite pinnacles above the town. The drive from Volos to Kalambaka is about 140 kilometers, roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Getting to Kalambaka

After meeting your guide, you drive northwest from Volos through the plain of Thessaly, past Larissa, the capital of the province. This region is associated with the mythical Centaurs and is the site of the Battle of Pharsalus, where Julius Caesar defeated Pompey the Great in 48 BC. On arrival in Kalambaka, you have a short stop for refreshments or shopping before visiting the monasteries.

The Monasteries of Meteora

The granite pillars of Meteora rise hundreds of feet above the plain, most crowned with monasteries built around 600 years ago. Monks first took refuge here from plundering bandits, forming communities modeled on those of the Holy Mountain of Athos. Of the original 24 monasteries, six remain inhabited today, two of which are now run as nunneries. You visit two monasteries: the Monastery of Agios Stefanos, now run by an order of nuns and relatively easy to reach, and the Varlaam Monastery, which requires a considerable number of steps but has notable monastic buildings and views toward the Pindus range.

Following the monastery visits, you return to Kalambaka for lunch, which is not included, before driving back to the pier in Volos.

• Monastery visits require modest dress: women must wear a skirt and have their shoulders covered, and men may not wear shorts. Wraps are provided at some monasteries if needed. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended due to steps and uneven surfaces.
• Due to uneven surfaces, steps, and walking distances, this itinerary is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs. Please contact us for alternative sightseeing options, including private driving tours that may better accommodate your needs.