Meteora – monasteries above the plain of Thessaly
About two hours from Platamonas: rock pillars, Orthodox monasteries and one of the most extraordinary landscapes in Greece.
Meteora is one of the most extraordinary landscapes in Greece.
Above the plain of Thessaly, huge rock pillars rise almost vertically into the sky. Centuries ago Orthodox monasteries were built on several of these rocks, and today they are among the best-known sights in the country.
From Platamonas, Meteora makes an excellent day trip and offers a striking contrast to the sea and the beach.
- UNESCO World Heritagesince 1988
- Six monasteriesstill active today
- Around 2 hoursdrive from Platamonas
A landscape from another world
The rock formations of Meteora took shape over millions of years. Today steep sandstone and conglomerate rocks define the landscape around Kalambaka and Kastraki. Many of them reach several hundred metres in height and look especially spectacular when the sun is low.
The combination of nature, architecture and religious history makes Meteora unique.
Meteora means something like “suspended” or “high in the air” – a name that could hardly suit this landscape better.
The monasteries of Meteora
From the Middle Ages onwards, Orthodox monks withdrew to these barely accessible rocks. Over time numerous monasteries were built on the rock plateaus – considerably more in their heyday than today. Six historic monasteries are still active and are in principle open to visitors.
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Great Meteoron
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Varlaam
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Roussanou
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Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas
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Agia Triada (Holy Trinity)
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Agios Stefanos
UNESCO World Heritage
Meteora has been UNESCO World Heritage since 1988. The region was recognised both for its extraordinary natural setting and for its cultural and religious significance.
Meteora combines nature, architecture, history and Orthodox tradition in an extraordinary way.
From Platamonas to Meteora
Meteora works well as a day trip from Platamonas. The route leads from the Aegean coast inland towards Thessaly and Kalambaka.
For a relaxed visit, an early start in the morning is advisable.
Kalambaka and Kastraki
Directly below the rocks lie the towns of Kalambaka and Kastraki.
Kalambaka is the larger centre of the region and offers restaurants, cafés and shops. Kastraki lies immediately among the rocks and feels distinctly smaller and quieter.
For visitors to Meteora, both places are good for a break or a meal during the day trip.
Viewpoints
Meteora is not experienced only inside the monasteries. Along the roads between them there are several viewpoints offering particularly striking views over the rocks, the monasteries and the plain of Thessaly.
In the late afternoon in particular, the light changes the landscape considerably.
What to bear in mind when visiting
Practical notes
- The monasteries have different opening times and closing days, and the times can change with the season. Check the current times of the monasteries you want to see before you go.
- Dress rules apply in the monasteries. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Some monasteries involve long flights of steps. Sturdy footwear is advisable.
- Temperatures can be high in summer. Take enough water with you.
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6 active monasteries
Of the once numerous monasteries, six remain active today and can in principle be visited.
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UNESCO World Heritage
Meteora has been UNESCO World Heritage since 1988 and is among the most significant cultural and natural landscapes in Greece.
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A day trip from Platamonas
By car, Meteora is about two hours from Platamonas, so the region is easy to visit as part of a day trip.
Who is Meteora worth it for?
Four reasons to plan the drive inland.
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History & culture
For visitors interested in monasteries, Orthodox tradition and Greek history.
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Nature & landscape
For everyone who wants to experience extraordinary landscapes and spectacular rock formations.
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Photography
For visitors looking for special viewpoints and landscape subjects.
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A day trip
For holidaymakers in Platamonas who would like to spend a day away from the coast.
An unforgettable contrast to the sea
If you are spending your holiday in Platamonas, Meteora shows you a completely different side of Greece.
Instead of sea and beach, visitors find huge rocks, centuries-old monasteries and a landscape that is almost unique in Europe.
Meteora is one of those places you do not merely visit – you remember it.
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