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Afytos is a small picturesque village of Halkidiki. It is 46 km south from the capital of Halkidiki, Polygyros and is located at the northern area of Kassandra peninsula.
History of Afytos
Afytos has a rich history. There are indications of settlements since 3.000 B.C. It was known as Afitis and it grew during the 5th century B.C. Afitis took part in the Persian wars and it is mentioned by many ancient historians, such as Herodotos, Thoukididis, Stravon and many others.
The sanctuary of Dionysos and the temple of Ammon Zeus contributed to the unity of the town. During the years of growth, the town had its own coin, decorated with the head of Zeus, the protector of Afytos.
At 348 B.C. it was ruined to the ground by the Macedonian king Philip II (father of Alexander the Great). During the Roman era it grew again probably because of the monument of Amon Zeus.
How far is Afytos from Thessaloniki Airport?
Afytos is located 74,4 km away from Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia SKG, the nearest Airport to Halkidiki. Many flights arrive every day to Thessaloniki Airport, especially during summer months.
These flights are both national and international, so that visitors can come to Thessaloniki from various places in the world.
Is there an Airport near Afytos?
No, there is no Airport near Afytos.
The nearest Airport is Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia SKG. However the distance between them isn’t long. You can drive from the Airport to Afytos or to every other destination of Halkidiki.
How can I get to Afytos?
As there is no Airport in Halkidiki, the best way to get to Afytos is to take an airplane to Thessaloniki Airport and then head to Afytos. From there you can decide whether you want to take public transportation (KTEL), rent a car and drive to Afytos yourself or hire transfer services and let them take you to your destination.
The KTEL option is certainly cheaper than the other two, but you have to be prepared to face some difficulties. Halkidiki KTEL terminal is located far from the Airport, so you will have to take the local bus first to take you to KTEL station and then take the right bus which takes you to Afytos. Of course there will be many others like you, especially during Summer.
In case you want to rent a car, you can choose between many companies that offer their vehicles. There are a lot of different vehicles and prices from which you can choose the one that suits you best.
It’s a good idea to ask the rental company to have your car waiting at the Airport so that you will have the minimum inconvenience. The road to Halkidiki is quite well and there are signs to guide your way. It will take you about an hour to get to Afytos.
Keep in mind that on weekends or holidays the traffic will make this trip longer.
Another option is to hire a transfer service company and let them worry about traffic and driving. You will find many companies on the Internet and the price for such services might surprise you pleasantly.
There are passenger cars and minivans available to make your trip as comfortable as possible. The driver will be waiting for you at the Airport and you won’t have to worry about anything.
Where can I stay during my vacation?
As many other locations in Halkidiki, Afytos has a lot of accommodations to offer. Various hotels and rooms are available and suitable for every pocket.
You can choose between Eden Hotel, Achtis Hotel or Stratos Hotel. Furthermore, there are villas available for rent, where more people can share the cost. Such places are Fabienne cottage or Villa Maira. Also Afitis Boutique Hotel is located right next to the sea giving its guests easy access to the beach.
Of course there are plenty of other places that can meet everyone’s needs.
What can I see while I am at Afytos?
Afytos is a beautiful, picturesque village of Halkidiki. Most of the houses are built with stone and follow the traditional architecture. Narrow stone alleys lead you to the amazing view of Toronaios gulf, as the village is built up on the cliff. I would definitely suggest a stroll around the village to discover all the hidden places and even enjoy your lunch or dinner in one of the restaurants that serves great Greek dishes.
Many taverns and cafes are located just next to the edge of the cliff, giving you the opportunity to admire the sea from above. You can always take a walk around Afytos and enjoy the scenery as well as the view.
Many believe that this village looks like an island. The houses, the churches and the total scenery reminds you of those of an island.
In Afytos you will find the folklore museum, right in the centre of the village. It is hosted in a building of 1889 and gives you a chance to explore the life in Halkidiki during previous eras. Traditional agricultural and livestock tools are exhibited there as well as a representation of the inside of an old, traditional home.
Also you can see some ceramic and other works of art. It is worth mentioning that both inside and outside of the museum you will be able to see the sculptures of a local sculptor, Vasilis Pavlis. Outside the folklore museum, concerts are given, especially during summer months.
One thing that you will definitely notice while you are at Afytos, is that it is a place that appreciates art. Many volunteers and artists have made an effort to decorate the village by painting many pots. They are scattered all around Afytos making the place unique. Many doors are also painted by more than 70 artists. A walk around could lead you to hidden works of arts.
Furthermore, all around Afytos you will come accross the sculptures of Vasilis Pavlis. They are placed in various places and you will definitely run on some of them.
Right in the centre of the main square is the church of Agios Demetrios. Built in 1859, this church is considered to be the jewel of Afytos. It’s worth seeing the special architecture of this church, as well as the interior decorations.
During Summer months the historic centre of Afytos is closed to cars. So it would be better not to get there by car, but try to find a parking place and then go there on foot. The distance isn’t long.
If you visit Afytos during August and especially on 14, 15 of the month, you shouldn’t miss the traditional local fest. This holiday is very special to all the Greeks and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
However, many artistic happenings also take place all Summer during the Afytos festival.
Where to eat while I am at Afytos?
There are plenty of restaurants, traditional taverns as well as fast foods in Afytos. You can choose between To Palio Remetzo, To Kima, Strouboulis, Thea Thalassa or Pera.
These are all restaurants that serve mostly seafood and fish. For most affordable options you can eat at one of many fast food restaurants. You can try Gregoris for gyros or Petra pizza if you prefer pizzas.
Crescendo serves crepes and pies and you can take your breakfast there. Also you can go to Mandanis bakery and choose the breakfast you like the most.
Where can I go swimming?
You can go swimming in Afytos. The beach here is sandy and is quite long. It is not a surprise that this beach is awarded with the Blue flag every summer.
There are beach bars that offer refreshments, umbrellas and sunbeds. The sea has some spots with rocks and it gets deep a little abruptly.
There are other beaches nearby that you can visit, if you don’t want to spend all your holidays in one place.
Kallithea has an excellent sandy beach and it is not far from Afytos. Also the beaches of Sani and Nea Fokea are known for their clean waters.
Is there vivid nightlife?
Many bars function in Afitos and many of them host live performances.
You can spend your evening at Koutsomylos or Imeros cocktail bar. Of course there are other options as well and you can choose the one you prefer!