Tour itinerary
12 hours roundtrip | 7 places | 1 stop for lunch
Start our tour from Athens
We begin our tour early in the morning from Athens. Our driver will collect you from your hotel, apartment, or the airport/port.
The travel time is about 4.5 hours.
Kalabaka
Kalabaka is a town and the administrative center of the municipality of Meteora in the Trikala regional unit of Thessaly, Greece. According to the 2011 census, the population was 12,000, with 8,330 residing in the town itself. Situated near the town are the Meteora monasteries, renowned for their stunning location atop towering rock formations.
Meteora
Upon arriving at Meteora, we have the opportunity to explore up to three monasteries, each a breathtaking sight to behold. These monasteries hold immense cultural and natural significance, their origins dating back millions of years as they stand atop towering rock formations sculpted by earthquakes, wind, and water.
Meteora itself is a remarkable rock formation in central Greece, home to one of the largest complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Originally, there were 24 monasteries, but only six remain today, perched atop massive natural pillars and rounded boulders that dominate the surrounding landscape.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the name “Meteora” means “lofty” or “elevated,” reflecting the awe-inspiring nature of these geological wonders.
As we embark on our visit, it’s important to dress modestly out of respect for the religious significance of the monasteries. For women, this typically entails wearing long skirts and sleeves. However, if you’re not appropriately dressed, don’t worry – skirts will be provided for you upon arrival.
Kastraki
After our exploration of Meteora, you’ll have some free time to indulge in either a leisurely lunch at a traditional Greek tavern with your loved ones or some shopping in Kastraki, a charming village nestled near the Meteora rock formations. Whether you choose to savor the flavors of Greek cuisine or peruse the quaint shops for souvenirs, this time is yours to enjoy and unwind amidst the beauty of the surroundings.
Thermopylae
Thermopylae, a place in Greece known for its narrow coastal passage, owes its name to the hot sulphur springs found there. In Greek mythology, Thermopylae, or the Hot Gates, is believed to be one of the entrances to Hades.
Historically, Thermopylae gained prominence as the site of a famous battle between the Greek forces and the invading Persian army. This battle is immortalized in the words of Simonides of Ceos, who penned the iconic epitaph: “Go tell the Spartans, stranger passing by, That here obedient to their laws we lie.” Due to its strategic location, Thermopylae served as the only land route capable of accommodating significant traffic between Lokris and Thessaly. Consequently, the pass witnessed numerous battles throughout history as forces vied for control of this crucial pathway.
Battlefield of Thermopylae
As we bid farewell to the awe-inspiring beauty of Meteora, let’s take a moment to reflect on the historic Battle of Thermopylae, a significant event that has captured the imagination of countless individuals for centuries. Dating back to 480 BCE, this battle is renowned as one of the most iconic last stands in military history.
As we journey back to Athens in the late afternoon, we’ll have the opportunity to pay homage to the memory of the great King Leonidas of Sparta at the monument erected in Thermopylae. This site serves as a poignant reminder of the valor and sacrifice displayed by the Greek forces, including Spartans, Lakedemonians, Thebans, and Thespians, who valiantly defended against the invading Persian army.
The words of Simonides immortalize the courage of these warriors in his famous epitaph: “Go tell the Spartans, stranger passing by, That here obedient to their laws we lie.” This inscription stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of bravery and honor associated with the Battle of Thermopylae.
Leonidas momument
Leonidas, a revered figure in ancient Greek history, served as king of the city-state of Sparta and was the 17th ruler of the Agiad dynasty, tracing its lineage back to the legendary demigod Heracles and Cadmus. Born the son of King Anaxandridas II, he ascended to the throne around 489 BC, succeeding his half-brother King Cleomenes I.
Leonidas’s most renowned moment came during the Second Persian War, where he played a pivotal role in leading the allied Greek forces in a heroic last stand at the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC. Despite facing overwhelming odds against the invading Persian army, Leonidas and his 300 Spartans, along with other Greek warriors, displayed extraordinary valor and determination. Though they ultimately perished in battle, their sacrifice became legendary, immortalizing Leonidas as a symbol of bravery and defiance against tyranny.
While the Greeks may have lost the Battle of Thermopylae, their resistance inspired subsequent victories, ultimately leading to the expulsion of the Persian invaders in the following year. Leonidas’s legacy endures through the ages as a testament to the enduring spirit of freedom and resistance against oppression.
Way back to Athens
We start our way back to Athens late in the afternoon. The drive is about 4.5 hours.
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