Larisa is the largest prefecture in Thessalia and of exceptional natural beauty, with mountains and beaches. The prefecture of Larissa is a perfect destination for those who enjoy touring all year round.

Larisa

The main town of the prefecture and a commercial and agricultural trading centre for the region. The town is on the east bank of the River Pinios, with the Alkazar Park on the other bank. Larisa is a university town also, a major military base, therefore it can be active at night and weekends. The town, according to archaeological indications is on the site of a much older town.

The Acropolis situated on Agios Ahillios, excavations has revealed that the area had been occupied 6000 BC and it was used as an acropolis for the settlement, and later the site of the fortress.

The Archaeological Museum has many artefacts on display from the Neolithic period and later periods.

Historical Museum on display is artisan’s tools and equipment from the pre-industrial age and other artefacts from finds around the district.

Alkazar Park during the hot days of the summer, the park is a delight in which to relax and cool down from the day sighting.

Ambelakia The famous Schwarz mansion, built in 1787, is now a house-museum, with its murals, wood carved adornment, and stained-glass skylights and detailed fireplace. The churches of Aghios Georgios and Aghia Paraskevi also merit a visit. The women of the village have set up a Tourism Co-operative, which have a few rooms to provide somewhere to stay for visitors.

The Vale of Tembi is 29km north of Larisa between Mt. Olympus and Mt. Ossa . This scenic route along the National Highway to Thessaloniki goes through this narrow pass alongside the River Pinios. The area is stunningly beautiful, lush vegetation sparkling springs. These springs, once were dedicated to the Goddess Aphrodite, there was also a temple dedicated to Apollo, said to be older than the site at Delphi . The castle of Orias perched upon the rocky hill overlooks the vale.

Elassona northwest of Larissa with the 14 th century monastery Panagia Olympiotissa built on the hill of the ancient acropolis.

Tsaritsani is a traditional village northwest of Larissa, with mansions, tower-houses and interesting churches.

Mount Olympus the mountain of the Gods, situated in the northeast of Thessalia. Olympus has many towering peaks and its slopes are suitable for winter sports. Mt. Olympus can also be climbed from the Litohoro in Macedonia .