Explore Trikala

The Trikala region is renowned for its natural beauty, offering a diverse landscape that ranges from adventurous mountains to serene lakes and rivers. Let nature welcome you to endless hours of exploration and rejuvenation.

Meteora

Meteora is one of Greece’s most breathtaking and iconic landscapes, famous for its towering rock formations and its monasteries.

Visitors have the chance to explore the six active monasteries, as well as the ruins of older ones, which add another layer to the region’s rich history.

Beyond its cultural and historical significance, Meteora offers thrilling outdoor activities such as hiking and rock climbing, with scenic trails through rock formations, offering stunning panoramic views.

This extraordinary destination provides a serene and inspiring experience for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature, whether by visiting the planetarium for a 3D presentation of the area or by witnessing the mesmerizing sunset from the high cliffs. 

Plastira Lake

Plastira Lake, one of the most stunning natural landscapes in Thessaly, offers visitors a unique and immersive experience.

Surrounded by lush forests, picturesque villages and majestic mountains, the lake is perfect for activities such as boating, water biking, canoeing-kayaking, SUP, SUP yoga and fishing.

A network of scenic hiking trails weaves through the region, offering breathtaking views, while adventure enthusiasts can enjoy archery, cycling and off-road 4x4 excursions.

Beyond its natural beauty, the area is rich in history and tradition, with charming villages where visitors can savor local delicacies and explore the cultural heritage of the region.

Pertouli

Pertouli is an exceptional destination for those seeking an authentic mountain experience, combining breathtaking natural beauty with endless outdoor activities.

During winter, the Pertouli Ski Center offers skiing, snowboarding and the perfect conditions for exhilarating snowmobile rides.

In the summer, the mountain trails transform into a paradise for hikers, while the area also attracts horseback riding and mountain biking enthusiasts.

Equally popular is Pertouli Lake, ideal for fishing and rowing, providing peaceful moments in the middle of a stunning natural setting.

Elati

Built on the southwestern slopes of Koziakas, Elati offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks of Southern Pindos, surrounded by dense fir forests, true to its name (elato = fir tree).

This picturesque village, with its traditional architecture and cobbled streets, is well-known for its authentic atmosphere and tranquility.

For adventure seekers, climbing the Kokkinos Vrachos (Red Rock) provides exciting routes reaching up to 60 meters in height, with spectacular views from the top.

Hiking to Arkoudotrypa Cave, located at 1.400 meters altitude, rewards visitors with a stunning panoramic view, while the cave itself carries historical and local folklore significance.

Finally, Alsos of Prophet Elias, with its stone-built chapel and recreational facilities, is the perfect spot for relaxation and peaceful nature walks.

Kalambaka & Kastraki

The nearby areas of Kalambaka and Kastraki are perfect for enjoying the local cuisine and experiencing traditional hospitality.

Here, you can taste exquisite local wine and tsipouro in tavernas serving authentic dishes.
We recommend trying kokoretsi, kebab, sausage, pies, prasotigania, gioulbasi lamb and slow-cooked beef in a clay pot.

Other delicious options include meat soup, traditional stews like stifado, pork or lamb kebab, kontosouvli (slow-roasted meat on a skewer) and many more local delicacies.

Trikala and the surrounding area offer many options for activities for every taste, from thrilling adventures to breathtaking views of the landscape. If you're the kind of traveler who seeks excitement, get ready for experiences that will stay alive in your mind and heart forever.

Mountain Biking on Mount Koziakas

The Koziakas area, just a few kilometers from Trikala, is ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts. It offers a variety of trails with different levels of difficulty, from easy routes for beginners to more challenging ones for experienced cyclists. All the trails lead to stunning views of the surrounding forests and imposing mountains, making them perfect for exploration and adventure in nature.

Climbing on Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus, just 1 to 1.5 hour from Trikala, is one of the most famous areas for mountaineering in Greece. With its imposing peaks and breathtaking views, Olympus offers a variety of trails for climbers of all levels. The sense of conquering the summit is unmatched, while the mountain's natural beauty and the silence of nature will amaze you in every step you take.

Rafting on Acheloos River

Acheloos River, near Trikala, offers a unique rafting experience, perfect for those who love action and adventure. The powerful waterfalls and fast currents create an exhilarating experience for participants, allowing them to explore the wild natural beauty of the area. A descent on the Achelous promises adrenaline rushes and unforgettable moments.

Helicopter Flights (Meteora/Olympus)

For a truly unique experience, helicopter flights over Meteora or Mount Olympus offer an exhilarating adventure. From above, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the stunning rock formations of Meteora or the majestic peaks of Olympus, adding a whole new dimension to your exploration. If you're interested in such activities, local tour operators provide various options to help you plan this unforgettable experience.

Hiking in Tzoumerka National Park

Hiking in Tzoumerka National Park, located 80-90 km. from Trikala, offers a unique opportunity to explore the area's breathtaking natural beauty. The trails pass through dense forests, crystal-clear streams and mountain peaks, while hikers can observe rare plant and animal species. The park is ideal for hikers of all levels, featuring routes that vary in difficulty and length, all with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Easily accessible for day trips from Trikala, Tzoumerka is a perfect destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Horseback Riding Around Trikala

Near Trikala, you can find organized horseback riding routes in the surrounding areas of Koziakas and Meteora. These trails pass through picturesque villages and valleys, offering stunning views of the beautiful natural landscape. The activities cater to all skill levels, with opportunities to explore the region through local stables and riding centers, such as in the Valtinou area and other nearby locations. This experience combines adventure with relaxation, allowing participants to connect with nature and animals in a truly special way.

The region around Trikala uniquely combines tradition with modern life, deeply rooted in its rich history and culture. Experience tradition coming to life through museums, local customs and the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Trikala Folklore Museum

The Trikala Folklore Museum is a place full of local history’s treasures. It showcases artifacts related to the daily life of the region’s inhabitants from the 19th century onward. From traditional costumes, tools and musical instruments, to items used in agriculture and farming, the museum offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage and roots of the area.

Museum of Natural History and Mushroom

The Museum of Natural History and Mushrooms in Kalambaka is a perfect destination for children and nature enthusiasts. Dedicated to the world of mushrooms, it features exhibits that explore their history, nutritional value and the various species found in the region. The museum also offers interactive experiences and workshops, making it an ideal choice for families.

Tsitsanis Museu

The new Tsitsanis Museum, located in the city of Trikala, tells the story of the great composer and folk artist Vassilis Tsitsanis. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring personal and professional artifacts, highlighting his musical legacy and deep connection to the city. The museum offers documentaries and showcases timeless songs, while also hosting special events such as live concerts and exhibitions that link music with local traditions.

Byzantine Castle of Trikala

Built by Emperor Ioustinianos in the 6th century AD, the Byzantine Castle of Trikala is one of the region's most impressive landmarks. Constructed on the ruins of ancient Trikki, the fortress remains remarkably well-preserved and is part of a series of imposing Byzantine fortifications. The castle features five towers and a series of battlements, structured in three levels. The second level is dominated by the clock tower, while the third houses the inner fortress, which served as the defenders' last refuge. With its breathtaking views and rich historical significance, the castle stands as one of the most important cultural attractions in the area.

Clock Tower

The clock tower on the eastern side of the ancient Trikala Acropolis is an impressive historical monument. Its clock, which once ran four minutes fast, is connected to the city's history, with the engineers of the time adjusting it slightly ahead to ensure its smooth operation, compensating for any delays in the mechanism. The fortress that houses the clock has a history of four hundred years and stands as a significant landmark for the region, combining the ancient and medieval elements of Trikki.

Monasteries of Meteora

Meteora is world-renowned for its monasteries, which are perched into towering rocks. The most notable is the Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior (also known as the Monastery of Meteora), the largest and most accessible, as well as the Monastery of Saint Stephen, famous for its breathtaking views and beautiful frescoes. The Monastery of the Holy Trinity, featured in the movie "James Bond: For Your Eyes Only," is harder to access but equally impressive, while the Monastery of Varlaam, an all-male monastery on top of a steep rock, is famous for its staircase. All the monasteries in the area are distinguished by their unique frescoes, spiritual significance and the stories they hold.

Theopetra Cave

The Theopetra Cave, located near Meteora, is famous for human footprints dating back approximately 130.000 years. Situated on a dramatic rock, it attracts climbers as well as visitors interested in its historical and geological significance. It is an excellent site for those wanting to explore the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

Local Traditions and Festivals

The region is famous for its traditional festivals, celebrated with food, dances and music. These celebrations offer a unique way to experience the local culture and traditions, bringing locals and visitors together. One of the most famous festivals in Trikala is the Saint Vissarion Festival, held every June in Megalochori. It is a grand celebration featuring traditional music, dances, and, of course, local delicacies such as dairy products and grilled meats. Visitors have the opportunity to join in traditional dances and taste local specialties, while the festival also includes religious ceremonies in honor of Saint Vissarion.

Bazaar of Trikala

The Bazaar of Trikala, held every September in Karyes, Trikala, from the 14th to the 21st, is a vibrant tradition with dozens of stalls and street vendors. The bazaar offers local products, grilled skewers, freshly baked halva from Farsala and "wool of the old lady" (a traditional sweet), creating an atmosphere full of aromas and life. The bazaar has its roots in the historic livestock market and has been running since 1883, attracting thousands of visitors each year with commercial and cultural events. The atmosphere is further enhanced by jugglers, a funfair and live music.