Things to Do in Larissa, Less Visited Greece
We won’t lie to you: Larissa is nothing special. Even our friend Eleftheria, who is a native, admits it. Now, that’s precisely why you should visit. The city is authentic, traditional, contemporary, and very Greek.
Larissa is in the middle of the country. The city is halfway between Volos and the Sporades Islands on one side, and extraordinary Meteora on the other. So close to popular places, and yet so quiet and different.
If you are looking for a completely off the beaten path destination, you will love it. The following are our favorite things to do in the city.
Visit the Ancient Theatre of Larissa
We never tire of archaeological remains. It’s one of the reasons why we love traveling around Greece. Thus our fascination with the Ancient Theatre of Larissa. The 3 Century BC structure is a sight to behold.
The theatre is in the heart of the city. It crowns Fruorio Hill. It’s in perfect shape and blends beautifully with the city. With a 10,000 people capacity, it’s the biggest in Thessaly. Today, it’s used for cultural and artistic activities.
Be sure to visit the theatre at all times. Everyone in the city visits to walk, chill, and socialize. In fact, go at night too to see it illuminated in all of its glory.
Have Lunch or Dinner by the Ancient Ruins
Next to the theatre you will find the area known as the Ancient Ruins of Larissa. This is where the ancient acropolis used to be. It’s a fairly large area with tall trees that provide much needed shade during the day.
Look out for the Early Christian Basilica of Saint Achilles, sections of city walls, the Agora, and the Sanctuary of Asclepius.
The restaurant with the best views is Fortress, next to the ruins. The food is pretty good too. At night, we strongly recommend having a cocktail at Klimax, overlooking the theatre. They serve good coffee and sweets during the day.
Visit the Metropolitan Church of Agios Achillios
The city’s biggest and most important church is Agios Achilios. It’s also on Fuorio Hill, west of the Ancient Theatre. Tall lush trees surround it and the views from there over the river are fantastic.
Granted, the church isn’t old, but it’s huge, gorgeous, and very much alive. Go in and prepare to be dazzled. Remember that people visit to pray, so be respectful. Though we are not religious, we enjoyed sitting in the temple admiring the art.
If you get hungry or want to rest, stop by Franklin, in front of the church. We always have a coffee and a delicious cheese pita on the terrace while enjoying the views.
Spend Time in the Alkazar Park
Our favorite place in the entire city is the Alkazar Park. What can we say? We love parks! This one is on the slope of the hill and goes all the way to the river. Thus the amazing views.
There are walking paths, benches, children games, exercise equipment, and bike lanes. Look out for the theatre. There’s always something going on there. The park looks amazing during Christmas, with lots of lights and decorations.
There’s a pretty good and inexpensive coffee house-restaurant inside the park, next to the kids games. They even have cocktails and wine!
Visit the New Mosque of Larissa
As you probably already know, Greece was under the Ottoman Empire for hundreds of years. In fact, Larissa was amongst the most important cities of the empire. The Yeni Mosque was built at the end of the 19th Century and used as a temple until 1924.
It was then a library and the city’s archaeological museum till 2012. That’s why it’s in perfect shape. Today, it hosts small exhibits. The ruins of the Justinian Fortification are inside the square in front of the mosque.
Learn History in a Museum
Larissa wouldn’t be one of the most important cities in Greece without a superb museum. The Diachronic Museum of Larissa is a contemporary building 4 miles (6 km) south of the city. It’s dedicated to findings in and around Larissa. Our favorites are the impressive mosaics dating back to the 3rd Century BC.
The Municipal Art Gallery of Larissa G.I. Katsigras Museum is a 15 minute walk from the Diachronic Museum. The gallery homes close to 800 paintings and temporary exhibitions.
You also have to check Larissa’s most important cultural center: Mill of Pappas. The massive 1893 mill homes art exhibits, theatre performances, concerts, yoga classes, and all sorts of activities. At nights we like going to listen to live music. The open air cinema opens during the summer.
People Watch on the Grand Squares
Larissa has two grand squares that are for sure worth your time. Everyone visits them to socialize, rest, and people watch. Since Larissa is not touristy, you will be able to see Greeks going on their everyday lives.
The biggest and most popular one is Mayor Sapkas Square, a.k.a. Central Square of Larisa. There are tall trees, paths, benches, eateries of all types, and street performers. All you have to do is choose your favorite spot and chill.
Tachydromeon Square is nearby. The Faculty of Medicine of the University of Thessaly presides over the plaza. It’s full of trees and much quieter than Mayor Sapkas Square. Franklin Coffee has another shop there with cool tables on the street.
Where to Stay in Larissa
The first time we went to Larissa we stayed at the Divani and loved every minute of it. We stayed in an Executive Room and had a massive balcony with unbelievable views over the city! The indoor pool is superb and the complimentary breakfast delicious.
The second time we stayed at the Hotel Dionisos, in the heart of the city. You can walk everywhere in no time! Every room has a big balcony and it offers onsite parking. The hotel’s bar is a local’s favorite.
