If you find yourself captivated by this region of Greece, it’s likely that your main focus is to visit the awe-inspiring rocks and magnificent monasteries of Meteora. However, once your day exploring Meteora is complete and you descend to Kalambaka, there are other hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Kalambaka, Greece, serves as an excellent base with its own astonishing churches, monasteries, and respectable accommodation and dining options. Surprisingly, it is also quite economical to stay in this town. Allow me to guide you through Kalambaka and the alternative activities you can enjoy in both Meteora and Kalambaka.
Kalambaka as a Base:
Kalambaka, also known as Kalabaka or Kalampaka, is a medium-sized town located at the foot of the Meteora hills. While it has a population of around 20,000, this number swells during the tourism season, making it a lively place in the evenings. As a result, there are plenty of facilities to accommodate travelers passing through. The town is conveniently situated within 2km of the monasteries, making it ideal for those who wish to visit them on foot, by car, or through a guided tour.
Traveling to Meteora & Kalambaka:
Thessaloniki to Meteora & Kalambaka:
The fastest way to reach Meteora and Kalambaka is by driving from Thessaloniki, which is the closest international airport serving the area. The journey covers approximately 238 km and takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes by car. Along the way, you’ll pass by the majestic and shimmering Mount Olympus, which was once the home of the Greek gods. This is the route I chose to take.
Alternatively, you can opt for public transportation. Trains from Thessaloniki to Kalambaka depart from the New Railway Station, located somewhat outside the city center. Bus 78 from the airport can take you there, and from the station, a route runs to Kalambaka. The train journey can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours and often involves a transfer at Paleofarsalos. However, the scenic countryside views make the trip quite beautiful.
Athens to Meteora & Kalambaka:
If you’re traveling from Athens, you can easily reach Meteora and Kalambaka by train. Trains depart from Syntagma station in Athens, and the journey is relatively short using the city’s metro system. Trains to Kalambaka run frequently and take around 4 hours, sometimes with a transfer at Paleofarsalos. Driving from Athens, covering a distance of 350 km, takes approximately 4 hours as well, although traffic during rush hour can be challenging in the capital city.
Alternative Activities in Kalambaka & Kastraki:
Kalambaka and the neighboring village of Kastraki offer several attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Visit the Meteora Monasteries:
The most obvious activity is to visit the Meteora monasteries, which I had the opportunity to explore by car and on a hiking tour during my stay. The monasteries are perched atop the spectacular Meteora rocks and are arranged along a circular route. For those seeking adventure, rock climbing in this area is truly amazing. Some of the notable monasteries include Varlaam Monastery, Roussanou Monastery, and Grand Meteoron.
Tours from Kalambaka to Meteora:
If renting a car or embarking on a long hike isn’t your preference, Kalambaka offers various companies that provide day trips to Meteora. These tours typically aim to visit three monasteries in a full day, offering insights and information that may not be readily available on-site. Additionally, sunset tours are available, providing an unforgettable experience as the sun sets over the magnificent landscape. For those preferring longer tours, options are available from Athens and Thessaloniki. It is advisable to book private tours in advance, and I recommend using Get Your Guide for this purpose.
Theopetra Cave:
Located approximately 3km outside of Kalambaka, Theopetra Cave is a cave system known for its archaeological remains. Some of these remnants date back as far as 50,000 years ago, providing insight into human life throughout the Middle and Upper Paleolithic, as well as the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the chance to visit the caves myself until I started writing this article.
Museums of Kalambaka:
Another attraction that I missed during my time in Meteora is the Natural History Museum and Mushroom Museum. While I personally believe that the area is best appreciated in the great outdoors, this museum offers a unique collection of sculptures showcasing mushrooms from different ecosystems. It also provides information on the three stages of a mushroom’s life. Additionally, the museum features a “dead zoo” displaying over 300 mammals and birds, along with information about their habitats and endangerment. The museum is located at 20 Pindou, 42200, Kalambaka, and admission costs €5.
In Kalambaka, you can find the Digital Projection Centre of Meteora’s History and Culture, situated on P. Dimitriou & Nikolaou Plastira Street. This 3D theater is open seven days a week, allowing visitors to watch shows on the Mythology of Holy Meteora and take a virtual tour through the rocks and monasteries. It’s an ideal option for those who prefer indoor activities.
The Hellenic Culture Museum of Kalambaka houses the private collection of Mr. Pavlos Balogiannis, which includes rare books and maps. The collection focuses on ancient works, such as those by Homer and Aristotle, as well as Greek mythology. The museum offers insights into Ancient Greek learning, the evolution of Greek education, and its history. It is open seven days a week from 12 pm to 8 pm.
Sunset in Kalambaka:
While the sunset from Meteora is a must-see, if circumstances prevent you from experiencing it, Kalambaka offers its own breathtaking sunset views. With the sky above the rocks transforming them into a new realm of beauty, I was treated to a stunning display of orange and pink hues.
Meteora Rocks from a Distance:
Meteora can also be admired from a distance, and the best vantage point for this is the Mirador de Kalambaka. From here, you can enjoy a view of the town in the foreground and the magnificent rocks in the background. It’s a worthwhile visit during both day and night. The mirador is just a kilometer’s stroll from the center of Kalambaka, making it accessible even for those with tired legs. The view of Kalambaka at night is particularly impressive.
Day Trips from Kalambaka:
If you have more time to spare, there are several day trip options from Kalambaka worth considering. Ancient Delphi, a popular religious site of the Ancient Greeks, is approximately a three-hour drive south towards Athens. Significant ruins from this ancient city still remain.
Two hours to the west lies the wild Vikos Aoos National Park, home to the world’s deepest canyon in relation to its width.
Just an hour further lies the coastal resort town of Parga, which also serves as the nearby entrance to Hades. I have always been curious about what the underworld looks like.
Returning to the starting point of my journey, Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, offers a vibrant atmosphere with its Byzantine churches and rich street art scene. Monastery enthusiasts may also be drawn to Mount Athos, the center of Greek monastery life. However, please note that visiting Mount Athos is currently restricted to men only.
Kalambaka:
Kalambaka is a destination in its own right, with enough attractions to entice visitors. Often overshadowed by Meteora, it offers a more authentic experience with its churches and access to lesser-known monasteries. In the age of mass tourism, finding yourself alone, gazing at incredible art or architecture, is a rare and valuable experience.