Where to Stay in Meteora: Kalambaka or Kastraki

Meteora is one of the most extraordinary places in Greece: monasteries built on top of giant rock pillars above the town of Kalambaka and the village of Kastraki, in Thessaly. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and six of the monasteries are still active and open to visitors. Many people see it on a long day trip from Athens, but staying at least one night is the real secret – the rocks at sunset and the quiet early morning are unforgettable. Here is how to choose where to stay, and the partner hotels we book for our guests.

Kalambaka or Kastraki? Choosing your base

• Kastraki – a small village right at the foot of the rocks, on the road up to the monasteries. Quiet, very atmospheric, and the closest base for the old footpaths.
• Kalambaka – the town below Meteora, with more tavernas, shops and services. Its old town, at the upper end under the rocks, is also close to the paths up to the monasteries.

The two are only a few minutes apart by car, so you cannot really go wrong.

Our partner hotels in Meteora

We work directly with these four properties. All prices on request – we send you a personal offer.

How to get to Meteora

Meteora is about 350 km from Athens – around 4½ hours by car – and about 240 km (2 h 45) from Thessaloniki airport. The direct train to Kalambaka has been out of service since storm Daniel in 2023, so the easiest way is a private transfer straight to your hotel: Athens to Meteora, Thessaloniki airport to Kalambaka or Thessaloniki city to Kalambaka. From Athens you can stop at Thermopylae on the way. Compare all options in our guide from Athens airport to Meteora.

What to do in Meteora

• Visit two or three of the monasteries – each closes on different days, so check before you go, and cover shoulders and knees (women are usually asked to wear a skirt).
• Walk the old footpaths between the rocks, and watch the sunset from one of the viewpoints.
• Short on time? Our Meteora and hermit caves day trip from Athens.
• Combine it with Delphi or Zagori: Athens – Delphi – Meteora in 4 days, Delphi, Meteora & Zagori in 5 days or Zagori in 3 days.
• Read more in our Meteora travel tips.

Frequently asked questions

Is it better to stay in Kalambaka or Kastraki?

Kastraki is a small, quiet village right under the rocks – the most atmospheric choice and closest to the monasteries and the footpaths. Kalambaka is the town below Meteora, with more shops, tavernas and services, and the old town at its upper end is also close to the paths. Both are only a few minutes apart.

How many nights should I stay in Meteora?

At least one night, so you can see the rocks at sunset and visit the monasteries early in the morning before the day trips arrive. Two nights let you visit more monasteries, walk the old paths between them and relax.

Can you book the hotel together with my transfer?

Yes. Tell us your dates and the hotel you like – we check availability with our partner and send you one offer with your private transfer from Athens or Thessaloniki, tours and activities if you wish. We reply within 24 hours and nothing is booked until you accept.