Weather in Larissa in March
In Larissa, March brings early-spring weather that is mild and fairly changeable. Average highs reach 16°C / 61°F, with lows of around 4°C / 38°F. Nights feel cold, so warm layers matter. Rain falls on around 6 days, adding up to about 38 mm over the month. Away from the sea, temperatures swing more between day and night than on the coast, so dress in layers. Larissa lies in the middle of the Thessalian plain, one of the hottest parts of Greece in summer. Spring brings green fields, blossom and the occasional thunderstorm. Days bring around 12 hours of daylight. Pack layers, including a warm sweater for the evenings and a light waterproof jacket. Mornings and evenings are noticeably cooler than the middle of the day. It's a lovely time for walking, with fresh air and green countryside. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Larissa in March
Larissa is inland, and the nearest swimming is at the Aegean coast at Platamonas and Agiokampos, about an hour's drive away. In March, the sea there averages around 14°C / 56°F, and it's too cold for most swimmers. For the best swimming, aim for July and August, when the sea is at its warmest. It still makes a pleasant day out for a walk and a seaside lunch. Out of season, beach facilities are mostly closed, so bring what you need.
Crowds & Prices in Larissa in March
March is one of the quietest months in Larissa, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. Prices are at their lowest of the year, although fewer hotels are open. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Larissa in March
Larissa is a lived-in town, so shops, cafés and services run as normal in March. Hotels and restaurants are open as normal. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 25 March. Public transport and services run as normal. 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 March
If Clean Monday falls in March, expect kite flying on hillsides and beaches, and meatless picnics. 25 March is Independence Day, a national holiday with school and military parades, and it's traditional to eat fried salt cod with garlic sauce. In Larissa, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Larissa?
March is a maybe for Larissa. It's cool, often damp and quiet, with short days. In numbers: highs of about 16°C / 61°F, lows of 4°C / 38°F and rain on around 6 days in a typical March. It's fine for a short city stop or exploring the ancient theater, but not the best time for outdoor exploring. For comfortable walking weather, come in May, June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Larissa in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Larissa at around 6:20 pm. Clocks go forward an hour on the last Sunday of March, so by the end of the month sunset is around 7:50 pm. All times are Greek local time. Evenings cool quickly after sunset, so bring a layer.
Is it still cold in Larissa in March?
Mornings and evenings can be. March is a transition month inland, with frosty nights early on and milder, sunnier days as spring arrives. Showers and the odd late cold snap are common, so pack layers and a warm jacket.
Can I visit the Ancient Theater of Larissa in March?
Yes. The Ancient Theater of Larissa is open all year on shorter winter hours, and in March 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 March?
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 March or April better for visiting Larissa?
April. It's milder and greener, with wildflowers and blossom, and good weather for walking, while March can still feel wintry in the mornings and evenings. April often includes Greek Easter, a special time to be in a Greek town or village.
Larissa Weather by Month
