The city of Trikala is ideal for a festive family getaway.
It is the city of Asclepius and the Litheos River, the birthplace of Vassilis Tsitsanis, a vibrant and modern city with its gaze set on the future, that enchants everyone who visits. The river, the old town, the fortress with its 33-meter-tall clock, the squares, parks, pedestrian streets and cycle paths make the city of Trikala ideal for delightful family strolls.
Although a destination for every season, the holidays are the best opportunity to discover the beauty, sights and flavors of Trikala. Every year, the stately Thessalian city hosts the largest Christmas theme park in Greece, the Mill of the Elves, attracting thousands of visitors who want to experience the magic of Christmas.
What to do in Trikala
Litheos River
The Litheos River is the citys jewel. A stroll along its banks, lined with towering trees, is always delightful. Along the rivers course there are 13 bridges, most of them pedestrian-only. Most significant is the central footbridge, constructed by French engineers in 1886, which is a city landmark and the only iron one remaining.
The Fortress
Climb up to the Byzantine castle to enjoy the citys wonderful view from above. The castle was built by the Byzantine emperor Justinian in the 6th century AD on the ruins of ancient Trikka. During the Ottoman period it was repaired by the Turks and used as a stronghold. Here you will also see the famous clock of Trikala - a symbol of the city.
The historic neighborhoods
At the foot of the fortress lies Varousi, the old quarter with the famous - from Vassilis Tsitsanis song - «lanes of Sakaflias». Here you will wander the stone-paved alleys, admiring traditional mansions and Byzantine churches. The other old-town neighborhood you will surely visit is Manavika, once notorious and neglected for many years, which today hosts many noteworthy shops, meze tavernas and cafe bars.
Koursoum Mosque
At the southern entrance of the city stands the Koursoum Mosque, a work of the architect Sinan Pasha. It was built in the mid-16th century and is the only surviving one of the many mosques the city once had. Today, it is a UNESCO-protected monument. A few meters further on is the Twin Ottoman Bath, which belonged to the same complex of Ottoman buildings in the city.
The Vassilis Tsitsanis Museum
Housed in the building of the old Trikala prison is the "Vassilis Tsitsanis Research Center – Museum". The life and work of the great Greek composer and lyricist are presented through photographs, musical instruments, scores and personal items.
The Mill of the Elves
This season, the fairytale Christmas village of the «Mill of the Elves» steals the show, set up at the old Matsopoulos Mill, in the citys namesake park. With various activities and many events, the largest Christmas theme park in Greece guarantees a delightful experience for the whole family. This years central theme is «Christmas in Neverland» (until 6 January 2026). More information here.
Nearby excursions
From Trikala you can make short getaways to Meteora, Kalabaka and Kastraki, as well as to the beautiful villages of Koziakas, Elati, Pertouli and Neraidochori.
Gastronomy
The entire region is an excellent gastronomic destination. Do not leave Trikala without trying the famous Trikala sausage, very tasty cheeses and dairy products (the best known being galotyri and Trikala feta), the renowned Farsala-style halva and traditional spoon sweets. The tasting experience is completed with high-quality wine and tsipouro.
