Few places on earth look as otherworldly as Meteora, where Orthodox monasteries cling to the tops of sheer rock towers rising from the plains of Thessaly.
Six monasteries are still active and open to visitors, reached by stairways carved into the stone. The views over the valley, especially at sunset, are unforgettable.
Base yourself in the town of Kalambaka below and allow a full day to explore — by car, on foot, or on a guided sunset tour.