Day 341 , Larisa, Greece
We drove north toward Macedonia, and did an overnight in Larissa. Even for one night, Paul tries to get towns that have a high cuteness factor—total trip planning boss. We stayed at another family run hotel, the Metropol Hotel. The entrance to the hotel, as well as the designated hotel parking, was in the old core part of town, accessible only down a pedestrian shopping road. The hotel owner told us in the instructions that it would feel counterintuitive, but that’s the only way to get there. They were right. The parking lot was under the hotel and looked like an ancient wine cellar with sloped walls. Very cool.
This scooter was parked in front of the hotel. Best. Scooter. Ever!
After we took the bags up to the room, we went back down to the busy square for some food. Families everywhere, everyone mingling, laughing, eating. It’s the kind of happy community mood movies try to create—an authentic Old World Stars Hollows.
Most of the restaurants had outdoor sections, always our first choice in warm weather. The one we chose was like a chalet inside, pitched roof with lots of wood. The lighting was soft, a beautiful setting, the service, attentive and gracious. The manager came by to chat numerous times, offering us information about the area, and many extras to sample. Glasses were never empty, there was alway someone in the wings eager to serve. They sure know how to make you feel like you’re somebody special. It was one of our top five meals on the trip. 
After our meal we walked around the bustling maze of streets in the old core of the city and came upon an amazing bakery. Can never get enough of these. Spent a long time looking over the pastries and buying a few for dessert.
We went to sleep with the hum of the happy square below our window. You never know when even a few hours in a town will create some of the best memories you have on the trip. Best meal in Greece (food, wine, service, ambience, local conversation, family conversation), will have to be awarded to this place. Thank you little Larisa.