Where to Stay in Meteora: the Best Locations and Hotels
One of our favorite places in all of Greece is Meteora, in Thessaly. The geological formation is in itself magnificent. Fortunately and once again thanks to the Greeks, the Meteora monasteries are equally beautiful.
These isolated architectural masterpieces date back to the 14th century and offer unforgettable views. Interiors are equally impressive: medieval frescoes line walls and ceilings.
Take note that Meteora is a sacred site, revered in Greece second only to Mount Athos in Khalkidhiki. So plan well where to stay in Meteora and enjoy your visit!
Kalambaka (Kalabaka or Kalampaka)
The charming town of Kalambaka is the main gateway to Meteora. Unfortunately, Kalambaka was savagely damaged and looted During World War II. What we see today is all modern, including infrastructure for tourists.
A roundabout where the tourist info office is marks the center of town. To the west of the Tourist office, you will find Trikalon, the town’s main drag lined with taverns, shops, and cafés.
Couple of blocks east on Patriarchou Dimitriou Street there is the Digital Projection Center of Meteora. They project 3D films of the area.
Great Hotels in Kalambaka
Most hotels in Kalambaka are small family-owned. There are also a couple of big chain hotels. Obviously, the whole point of staying in Kalambaka is the views. To be surrounded by nature, stay in Alsos House, close to the rocks. The views from this quiet traditional Greek hotel are spectacular.
The Divani Meteora is a big hotel part of the Divani Greek chain. It’s located in the heart of downtown and has a spa with an outdoor and indoor pool.
On the other hand, the Dellas Boutique Hotel is on the road to Kastraki. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be away from the fuss, yet pretty close to the center.
Kastraki
If Kalambaka is a town, Kastraki is just a village. While the rock formations are north of Kalambaka, in Kastraki they are in the middle of the village.
The tiny village is completely authentic with houses made of stone and clay roofs, a church, a museum, and a couple of restaurants. Kastraki is closer to the monasteries. What’s more, there are a couple of interesting hermit cells next to the village.
All you have to do is walk around admiring the views. Though there are many hotels and restaurants in Kastraki, most close during low season.
Great Hotels in Kastraki
The best hotels in Kastraki are right next to the rocks. Most are relatively small family-owned hotels and guesthouses. The Pyrgos Adrachti Hotel is like a tower overlooking the rocks. Consequently, the views are incredible.
The lovely Hotel Meteoritis is downtown and offers rooms with balconies overlooking the area.
Located on the road that leads to the monasteries, Hotel Kastraki excels in privacy and service. Of course, the views are superb too.
Other Hotels near Meteora
To stay in the middle of nature and with the best views possible, book a room in a hotel outside of Kastraki. The Hotel Doupiani House is within walking distance to the village and has tastefully decorated rooms with big balconies overlooking the rocks.
The Grand Meteora Hotel, as its name says, is big. There are no houses around, so the views are great.
Finally, stay at the Meteora Hotel at Kastraki in summer. This luxury hotel with all modern-day conveniences has a huge outdoor pool with unobstructed views of the rocks. It is one of the best hotels near Meteora.
Our Opinion on Where to Stay in Meteora
You can’t go wrong with any of the abovementioned options. Kalambaka and Kastraki are both nice quaint towns. On the other hand, staying a bit off urban areas allows for a deeper connection to nature.
If visiting during high season, stay in Kastraki. The village is lively, and you can walk to the monastery of St Nicholas. If visiting off-season stay in Kalambaka since nothing is going on in Kastraki. From Kalambaka, you can hike to a couple of monasteries too.
Those of you with a bit more time should stay outside of Kastraki in any of the large hotels and explore the entire area. Take a look at our detailed guide to visiting Meteora.
