Discover Larissa by Hire Car
Larissa is a city in the eastern part of mainland Greece in the center of the Thessalian Basin.
Currently, it is home to just under 127,000 people, making Larissa the seventh largest city in the country. Nestled in a basin defined by the 2917-meter-high Mount Olympus to the northeast, Larissa’s cityscape is primarily shaped by the Pinios River, one of the longest rivers in Greece.
Sights in Larissa
The earliest traces of settlement in Larissa date back to the Palaeolithic period, with the town playing a particularly central role in ancient times. Many of the famous Greek sagas originated here. Due to the region’s fertile soil and its famous horse farms, Larissa came into early prosperity.
Today, tourism is becoming increasingly important to Larissa and a stroll through the historic town should not fail to include a look at the medieval fortifications, the Alkazar Park as well as the ancient theatre.
The archaeological museum of the city exhibits in particular archaic finds from Larissa and its surroundings. According to tradition, the “father of medicine”, Hippocrates, also died here.
The capital of Thessaly is also famous for its extensive picture gallery with numerous paintings by famous masters. In addition to the beautiful mansions with their imposing courtyards and colorful gardens, the commercial city of Larissa with its many small shops also invites you to go shopping.
Exploring the surroundings of Larissa
Not to be missed, however, is an excursion by hire car into Larissa’s charming surroundings.
The fertile, green valley of Agia and the gently sloping beach of Agiokambos are particularly impressive.
Also worthwhile is a drive up Furio with the remains of the ancient royal palace and the church of St Panagia.