✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
There are great many things to do in Greece, and so are in Larissa.
Discover the hidden gems nestled within the ancient streets of Larissa, a city that weaves its rich history with contemporary charm.
From taking in the panoramic views of Mount Olympus to savoring the taste of authentic Greek cuisine, Larissa beckons you to explore its myriad of delights.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Larissa:
1. Archaeological Museum of Larissa
What to see or do: The museum houses collections from the Paleolithic period to the late Roman era. Visitors can admire various artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and sculptures.
The exhibition mainly focuses on the ancient city of Larissa and its surroundings.
Don’t miss: The statue of Hippocrates, the marble kouros, and the relief of Asclepius. Also, make sure to check out the mosaic floor from a Roman villa.
Insider travel tips: The museum is easily accessible by foot or by public transportation. Get the audio guide to learn more about the exhibits and the history of the region.
Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection. If you’re visiting during the summer, bring a hat and water, as temperatures can get quite high.
2. Alkazar Park
Alkazar Park is a public park located in the heart of Larissa, Greece.
What to see or do: The park is known for its picturesque scenery, featuring lush gardens, fountains, and a small lake with ducks and geese.
Visitors can take a stroll on the park’s walking paths, relax on its benches, or enjoy a picnic on the lawn.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the park’s stunning views of the nearby mountains and the city’s castle, which dates back to the Byzantine era.
Insider travel tips: – The park is especially beautiful during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
3. Municipal Art Gallery of Larissa
A contemporary art museum located in the heart of Larissa, Greece.
What to see or do: The museum boasts a wide range of contemporary Greek and international art exhibitions that are constantly changing. It’s a great place to discover up-and-coming artists, attend workshops and educational programs, and take part in cultural events.
Don’t miss: The permanent collection of the museum includes works by famous Greek artists such as Yannis Gaitis, Nikos Alexiou, and Costas Tsoclis.
Be sure to also check out the rotating exhibitions, which feature everything from painting and sculpture to photography and video installations.
Insider travel tips: The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-2pm and 6pm-9pm. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
Take the opportunity to stroll around the old city of Larissa, where the museum is located, and discover its charming cafés and historic monuments.
4. Old Town of Larissa
The Old Town of Larissa is the historic center of the city of Larissa in Greece. It is a charming area filled with traditional buildings and narrow streets, surrounded by a Byzantine wall.
What to see or do: Stroll around the picturesque streets and take in the traditional architecture. Visit the old mosques, the Byzantine fortress at the top of the hill, and the ancient Roman amphitheater.
Check out the Folklore Museum and the Municipal Art Gallery, both located in the area.
Don’t miss: The Church of Saint Achillios, a beautiful 5th-century temple said to have been built on the site where the saint was martyred.
The ancient Roman theater, which is still used for cultural events today.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Old Town during the weekend when many local artisans sell handmade crafts, and traditional taverns are bustling with locals and visitors.
Climb the stairs to the fortress at sunset for breathtaking views of the city.
5. Hippocrates Garden Cultural Center
Hippocrates Garden Cultural Center is a museum dedicated to the history of medicine, located in the city of Larissa, Greece.
What to see or do: Explore exhibits showcasing the evolution of medicine from ancient Greece to modern times. View replicas of ancient medical instruments and manuscripts, as well as rare books and documents.
Attend lectures, seminars, and educational programs.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see the bust of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine. The garden with medicinal plants and the impressive library of old medical books.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for information on upcoming events and exhibitions. Guided tours are available for an in-depth experience.
The gift shop offers unique souvenirs related to the history of medicine.
6. The Castle of Larissa
The Castle of Larissa is a fortress located on a hill overlooking the city of Larissa in Greece.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the impressive castle walls and towers, and climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Inside the castle there is a small museum featuring artifacts from the Byzantine and Ottoman era.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the castle’s central tower and the view of the ancient theater of Larissa from the top of the hill.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the late afternoon for a beautiful sunset over the city.
7. Frourio Park
Frourio Park is a historical park located in the city of Larissa, Greece.
What to see or do: In the park, you can explore the ancient fortress of Frourio, which dates back to the Byzantine period and was later used by the Ottomans.
The fortress offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to walk around the greenery of the park and relax under the shade of trees. Also, make sure to visit the small church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos, located inside the fortress.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the park’s trails. Additionally, visit the park during weekdays for a quieter and more peaceful experience.
Avoid visiting in midday when the sun is at its highest point, and instead, go in the morning or late afternoon.
8. Church of Agios Achilios
The Church of Agios Achilios is a historic Byzantine church located in the city of Larissa, Greece.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive architectural details of the church, including its intricate design and stunning frescoes.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the impressive mosaic of the Ascension of Christ, as well as the ancient baptismal font.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the church is in the morning when it first opens, as it can get crowded later in the day.
9. St Paraskevi Church
St Paraskevi Church is a historic Greek Orthodox church located in the central square of Larissa, Greece.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture of the church that dates back to the 19th century and is characterized by its Byzantine- and Gothic-style elements.
Don’t miss: The impressive bell tower which stands at a height of 42 meters and is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the evening for a chance to witness the church beautifully illuminated.
10. National Resistance Memorial
The National Resistance Memorial is a museum dedicated to the Greek Resistance during World War II.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits which showcase the history of the Greek Resistance against the Axis powers between 1941 and 1944.
The museum displays photographs, personal belongings, weapons, and documents that highlight the bravery and sacrifices made by the Resistance fighters.
Don’t miss: Make sure to explore the outdoor area, which features a collection of military vehicles, a replica of a Resistance fighter’s hideout, and a monument dedicated to the fighters who sacrificed their lives during the war.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays.
11. Park of Vale of Tempe
The Park of Vale of Tempe is a lush green space located in Larissa, Greece. It is a natural paradise consisting of fertile river valleys, towering cliffs, and diverse flora and fauna.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the park’s walking trails and admire the beautiful scenery.
The park is also home to the ancient Peneus River, the mythological site of Apollo’s slaying of the Python, and the picturesque Chapel of St.
Paraskevi.
Don’t miss: The majestic Tempe Gorge is a must-see attraction located within the park. This awe-inspiring natural wonder is a narrow gorge flanked by steep cliffs that rise up to 500 meters high.
Insider travel tips: Bring sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as the park’s trails can be challenging in some areas.
Also, visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the park.
12. Plateia Krinis
Plateia Krinis is a lively square located in the heart of the city of Larissa in Greece.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll around the square and take in the local atmosphere.
The square is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops where tourists can grab a bite to eat or shop for souvenirs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Greek food and coffee at one of the cafes or restaurants in the square.
The fountain in the center of the square is also a great spot to take photos.
Insider travel tips: Try visiting the square in the evening when it is lit up and bustling with people. The locals gather here to socialize and unwind after a long day.
Also, make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the square is pedestrian-only.
13. Theater of Larissa
The Theater of Larissa is a magnificent ancient Greek theater located in the heart of the city of Larissa, Thessaly.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a walk through the theater’s massive stone seating terraces and explore its impressive stage, orchestra, and backstage structures.
The theater is also host to a variety of cultural events and performances throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the theater, including the nearby mountain range of Pelion.
Insider travel tips: Don’t miss the chance to catch a performance or concert at the theater during your visit. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the walk up the steep stone steps can be quite challenging.
14. Historical Folklore and Ethnographic Museum of Tyrnavos
The Historical Folklore and Ethnographic Museum of Tyrnavos is a museum located in the town of Tyrnavos, in the region of Larissa, Greece.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits and displays of traditional folk art, local crafts, and cultural artifacts that showcase the history and traditions of the town and surrounding area.
The museum has several sections devoted to topics such as agriculture, weaving, pottery, and traditional clothing.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the exhibit of traditional Greek costumes, which includes clothing and accessories from different regions and time periods of Greece.
Also, be sure to check out the display of traditional agricultural tools and equipment.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum during the annual Tyrnavos Carnival, a festive celebration that takes place every February and celebrates local customs and traditions.
If you have time, explore the town of Tyrnavos, which is known for its wine production and has several wineries and vineyards in the area.