A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Arachova for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Arachova. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a historic, spiritual, and dramatic destination. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and museums.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Arachova: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Kalampaka (Meteora) and Arachova are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Kalampaka (Meteora) attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Kalampaka (Meteora) is famous for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Arachova is famous for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Arachova?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arachova and Kalampaka (Meteora). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova Better for Skiing?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Kalampaka (Meteora) is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kalampaka (Meteora) that are not to be missed. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Is the Food Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kalampaka (Meteora) area. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Arachova has a large number of nightlife venues. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova Better for its Old Town?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for its old town. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Arachova. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova Better for Hiking?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Arachova is very family-friendly. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Arachova makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good destination for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Arachova has some public transit options. There are some public buses in the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Arachova

Arachova is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Arachova Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arachova or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Arachova. In our opinion, Arachova has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Arachova than Kalampaka (Meteora). However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Arachova than Kalampaka (Meteora). Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Arachova, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Arachova than Kalampaka (Meteora). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Arachova that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arachova than Kalampaka (Meteora) if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Arachova.


  • How many days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3 
    Arachova 2-3

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

The beautiful destination of Kalampaka (Meteora) offers museums and food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Arachova, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this destination makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kalampaka (Meteora), a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Arachova for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arachova, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The destination of Arachova offers food and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This destination offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Arachova. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, and The Best Budget Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Arachova or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, while the average daily cost in Arachova is €112. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Arachova in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Arachova 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Arachova 100
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Arachova

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora)


Hotels in Arachova


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Arachova 51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $42
  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $272

Is it cheaper to fly into Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Prices for flights to both Arachova and Kalampaka (Meteora) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Arachova 29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Arachova 28

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Varlaam Monastery Greece Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $17
  • Meteora Full Day Tour from Kalabaka with Audio in 6 languages: $27
  • Meteora: Hermit Caves Sunset Hiking Experience: $38
  • Sunset Meteora Tour on E-Bike: $40
  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $42
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $43
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $43
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $43
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $43
  • Midday Meteora Monastery tour from Kalabaka's train station : $43
  • Morning Monastery E-bike Tour: $46

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Arachova 6.43

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kalampaka (Meteora) and Arachova, we can see that Kalampaka (Meteora) is more expensive. And not only is Arachova much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Arachova would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Arachova and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Kalampaka (Meteora) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kalampaka (Meteora) than you might in Arachova.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Expensive? and Is Arachova Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) and Arachova, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova in the Summer?

Both Arachova and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally around the same temperature as Arachova. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 26°C (78°F), and Arachova fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kalampaka (Meteora). In the summer, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets less sunshine than Arachova. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arachova receives 357 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets more rain in July than Arachova. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Arachova receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 26°C (78°F) 
    Arachova 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Arachova. Most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Arachova because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is cooler than Arachova in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Arachova fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less sunshine than Arachova during autumn. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Arachova receives 206 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arachova. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arachova receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 17°C (62°F) 
    Arachova 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kalampaka (Meteora) as well as Arachova. The winter months attract visitors to Kalampaka (Meteora) because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Arachova this time of year.

In the winter, Kalampaka (Meteora) is much colder than Arachova. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Arachova averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets less sunshine than Arachova. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arachova receives 143 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in January than Arachova. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Arachova receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 6°C (42°F) 
    Arachova 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Arachova in the Spring?

Both Arachova and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arachova for the small town charm.

In April, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally cooler than Arachova. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 14°C (56°F), and Arachova fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Arachova. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less sunshine than Arachova during spring. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Arachova receives 226 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more rain than Arachova. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Arachova receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F) 
    Arachova 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Arachova and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) Arachova
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)


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