Weather in Larissa in December
December in Larissa means early-winter conditions: cold and often wet. Temperatures typically peak at around 11°C / 51°F in the afternoon and fall to about 2°C / 36°F at night. Nights are chilly, so bring something warm for the evenings. With no sea to soften the cold, temperatures swing more between day and night than on the coast. Expect rain on around 7 days and about 50 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Inland Greece has real winters, with frosty nights, fog in the valleys and occasional snow. Larissa lies in the middle of the Thessalian plain, one of the hottest parts of Greece in summer. Daylight lasts about 9½ hours, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack a proper winter coat, gloves, a hat and waterproof shoes. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Larissa in December
Larissa is inland, and the nearest swimming is at the Aegean coast at Platamonas and Agiokampos, about an hour's drive away. The coast there averages around 16°C / 60°F in December, so the sea is too cold for most people. For the best swimming, aim for July and August, when the sea is at its warmest. Even out of season, the coast is worth the drive for a walk and a long lunch. Expect quiet beaches with few facilities at this time of year.
Crowds & Prices in Larissa in December
You'll have Larissa largely to yourself in December. It's the cheapest time to visit, with the best deals on accommodation. The festive season brings a brief rush around Christmas and New Year. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Larissa in December
Larissa is a lived-in town, so shops, cafés and services run as normal in December. Hotels and tavernas are open as usual, with no seasonal closures to worry about. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December. It's a good time for museums and indoor sights, with few crowds. Cafés and tavernas are busy with locals, especially in the evenings and at weekends.
Festivals & Holidays in Larissa in December
The festive season builds towards New Year's Eve, when children sing carols again and families cut the vasilopita cake. Christmas is celebrated with church services, carols sung door to door by children and festive sweets like melomakarona and kourabiedes. Locals in Larissa mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. Outside these dates, it's a good time to experience ordinary Greek life, from the weekly market to the evening stroll.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Larissa?
Only if you don't mind the cold. In December, Larissa is chilly, often foggy and quiet, with short days. In numbers: highs of about 11°C / 51°F, lows of 2°C / 36°F and rain on around 7 days in a typical December. It suits business travelers, food lovers or anyone passing through. For a more enjoyable trip, May, June, September or October would bring far better weather for exploring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Larissa in December?
Through December, sunset in Larissa moves from around 5:10 pm to around 5:15 pm in Greek local time, bringing some of the earliest sunsets of the year. In mid-December, expect it at around 5:05 pm. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it snow in Larissa in December?
It can. December is cold inland, with frost, fog and a chance of snow during cold spells, although it rarely lasts long in town. The surrounding mountains are usually snowy. Pack proper winter clothes and check road conditions before driving into the mountains.
Can I visit the Ancient Theater of Larissa in December?
Yes. The Ancient Theater of Larissa is open all year on shorter winter hours, and in December you'll often have it almost to yourself. Like most Greek sites, it may close on some public holidays, so check the official hours before you go. It's right in the city center.
Do I need a car in Larissa in December?
Not for Larissa itself, which is easy to explore on foot. A car is the best way to reach Meteora, Mount Olympus and the Tempe Valley, as bus connections are much less frequent in winter.
Is December or January better for visiting Larissa?
December has the festive atmosphere, while January is colder, quieter and more likely to bring snow. If you're hoping for snowy scenery, January is the better bet.
Larissa Weather by Month
