The Monastery of Varlaam is the second-largest monastery in Meteora and one of the most impressive to visit. Perched atop a towering sandstone pillar, it was founded in the 14th century and expanded by two monk brothers who scaled the cliffs carrying building materials by hand. Today, visitors can explore its richly decorated main church (katholikon), adorned with 16th‑century frescoes, and its museum, which houses rare manuscripts and religious artifacts. The climb up its stone stairway is manageable and rewards you with panoramic views of the Meteora complex and the Pindus mountains in the distance.

👉 Go early in the day to enjoy Varlaam before tour groups arrive. Its narrow pathways can feel crowded later in the morning.