Kalabaka is set at the foot of Meteora, a dramatic rock formation where you can visit ancient Eastern Orthodox monasteries perched atop soaring limestone pillars. The monasteries are a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, though you’ll also find gems like a centuries-old Byzantine church in Kalabaka.
Things to do in Kalabaka
Kalambaka is a launchpad to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Meteora monasteries. The ancient monasteries are built atop towering rock pillars and boulders and have been used by Eastern Orthodox monks for thousands of years. Some of the monasteries hover more than 600 metres high and appear to float above the valley floor.
Footpaths take you from the town centre to iconic monasteries like Moni Agias Triados, which you may recognise from the classic James Bond film, “For Your Eyes Only”. On the way, you can climb a staircase carved into the cliffside and enjoy spectacular views over Kalambaka and the surrounding mountains.
Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary rises over Kalambaka and recalls the town’s ancient past. Highlights include the beautiful Byzantine façade and 14th-century frescoes that decorate the interior of the church. Visit in the evening to attend the “vesper” evening prayers.
Kalambaka is dotted with cosy taverns where you can enjoy traditional cuisine from the Thessaly region. Try local specialties like savoury cheese pie made with flaky filo pastry and pork sausages flavoured with leek and onion. Wash down your meal with a glass of sweet “tsipouro” brandy. On Fridays, the bustling market is a great place to stock up on fresh fruit, vegetables and baked goods.
Getting around Kalabaka
Kalambaka is compact and easy to get around on foot. Trains run between Athens and Kalambaka in around six hours. The town is a one-hour drive from Larissa, two hours from Ioannina and three hours from Thessaloniki Airport.