Yes, Larissa is the "capital of the plain" and the capital of Thessaly. Yes, it is a significant economic, commercial, and administrative center. Yes, it is also the "coffee capital." But it is so much more than that! With a dynamic blend of ancient history, modern urban life, cultural activities, remarkable infrastructure, and vibrant nightlife, Larissa rightfully earns its place on the travel map of Greece.

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A Starting Point in the Depths of Millennia

The history of Larissa dates back to the prehistoric period, with evidence of habitation from the Neolithic era. In antiquity, it was a powerful center of the Pelasgians and later the Thessalians, exerting significant military and political influence. During the Hellenistic and Roman periods, the city flourished, boasting impressive infrastructure like the First Ancient Theater, which still stands today, showcasing its grandeur. Through Byzantine and Ottoman times, Larissa continued to play a vital role, evolving into an administrative and commercial hub.

Beyond the iconic First Ancient Theater in the heart of the city, visitors can marvel at the Second Ancient Theater, the ruins of the Byzantine castle on the hill of the Fortress, and notable modern landmarks like the Mill of Pappas.

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A City to Live In

Strolling through Post Office Square, Central Square, or the pedestrian streets of the historic center highlights the charm of modern Larissa, blending the old with the new while offering a safe environment for families with young children.

Larissa is one of the few Greek cities where green spaces and open areas are fully integrated into the urban fabric. Alcazar Park, located along the banks of the Pineios River, is a green oasis featuring walking and cycling paths, playgrounds, and open-air cultural spaces like the beloved Garden Theater. The Pineios River, flowing through the city, provides unique natural scenery and a relaxing atmosphere, serving as a meeting point for all ages.

The presence of the University of Thessaly infuses the city with youthful energy. Thousands of students from across Greece live and move through its streets, filling its cafes, bars, and taverns with life. The nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering options for every taste, from cozy wine bars and live music venues to clubs with loud music and themed events.

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Culture Everywhere, Every Day

Larissa never stops producing and hosting culture. The Diachronic Museum of Larissa showcases the region's history from prehistory to modern times with unique exhibits. The Municipal Art Gallery – G.I. Katsigras Museum houses an impressive collection of works by Greek painters, while the Folklore and Historical Museum offers a journey into the folk culture of Thessaly. The Mill of Pappas, a renovated industrial complex, has been transformed into a cultural center hosting theatrical performances, concerts, exhibitions, and creative workshops.

Additionally, the city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year. From the Pineios Festival, held every summer along the riverbanks with music, theater, and ecological activities, to the International Film Festival Artfools and the Student Festival of Ancient Theater, Larissa becomes an open stage for arts and culture.

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Conference and Sports Tourism

Larissa is evolving into a conference tourism hub, hosting significant scientific and professional events thanks to its infrastructure and modern hotel accommodations. The prominent School of Health Sciences (with six departments) of the University and the city's connection to Hippocrates, the "father of modern medicine" who passed away in Larissa, create the ideal environment for medical conferences.

At the same time, its modern sports facilities make the city ideal for organizing and hosting sports events at both national and international levels.

The easy accessibility of the city makes it an ideal destination for a long weekend. It combines culture, gastronomy, entertainment, and natural beauty. It can also serve as a "base" for excursions and day trips to Meteora, Pelion, Mount Olympus, and Lake Plastira.

Larissa is not just the agricultural heart of Greece. It is a city that moves, creates, and evolves. It is a blend of history and modernity, tradition and youthful creativity, vibrancy and hospitality. It is a city that offers visitors more than they expect, breaking stereotypes and showcasing its unique character.

This long strip of land embraces you gently, lifts the tension off your shoulders, and day by day guides you through open sea horizons to places you never imagined could exist. And it’s not just what you’ll discover on the ridges and along the shores of Alonissos.

There is a Polynesian paradise scattered in the surrounding sea, full of beauty and of immense ecological and aesthetic value. And just when you think you’ve counted and noted everything worth discovering, someone mentions the magic word “seabed”, “ancient shipwrecks”, “the world’s first underwater museum” and other incredible, invisible… well-hidden secrets!

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Old Alonissos

A small jewel in size but in a prominent position is, of course, the Chora – Old Alonissos – which you can explore only on foot. It hugs the rock and the castle, leaving very narrow alleys free to walk through as you seek out viewpoints overlooking the open sea. Its most beautiful hour is when the sun dives into the sea and the palette of colors unfolds from golden to deep blue… the lights come on, and the soul smiles!

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Beaches and Hiking

Discovering the most beautiful beach during the summer months is one of the most enjoyable activities, as Alonissos' lace-like coastline leaves no one disappointed—each one fringed with pine trees or olive groves. This is the signature refreshing effect of the Northern Sporades! Most beaches are located in the southern part of the island and are easily accessible, while for the northern ones or the nearby islands (where access is allowed), you will need your own boat.

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The most recommended way to truly make Alonissos “your own” and capture the essence of being there is none other than hiking, simple walking! The network of trails is extensive, in most cases well-maintained and with sufficient signage. The changing landscapes and diverse vegetation are elements that may stay imprinted in your memory forever, while the serenity of the scenery usually touches those sensitive strings in people that make their holidays… unforgettable!

Text: Giannis Drenogiannis