Holidays to Chalkidiki

by admin | Feb 1, 2024

Halkidiki is a unique destination. It will enchant you with its beautiful turquoise beaches, lush green forests, and picturesque villages. It is a destination that will be unforgettable.

If you love the sea and nature and want to relax in a wonderful environment, then Halkidiki is the ideal choice for you.

Halkidiki will give you the opportunity to rest on its beaches, go cycling or hiking in its forests, and wander through its traditional villages.

Passing through Thessaloniki

Of course, to reach Halkidiki, you will first pass through Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece and has many sightseenig that you can visit.

If you wish, you can spend some hours in Thessaloniki before heading to Halkidiki. In just a few hours, you will be able to see the White Tower and Nea paralia, Kamara (or Arch of Galerius), Rotonda, the Byzantine Walls, and Eptapyrgion.

Most of the city’s landmarks are accessible by car, and you can stop at some of them. During the summer months, when the city is relatively empty, finding parking is easier. However, if you prefer to avoid the traffic and the roads, you can choose one of the companies that offer guided tours in the city.

You can ask them to tailor the tour to your schedule and see only the attractions you desire.

And if you love photography and romantic shots, know that Thessaloniki has amazing sunsets. Whether you find yourself in the afternoon on the beach or high up in the castles of Ano Poli, make sure to have your camera or phone with you. You won’t regret it.

Thessaloniki is also famous for its unique cuisine. Most restaurants and taverns offer excellent food. If you want to get a taste, you can spend some time for a meal at one of the many dining establishments in the city.

Destination Halkidiki

After Thessaloniki, it’s time for Halkidiki.

Certainly, if you plan to spend a few days in Halkidiki, you’ll first need to decide on your accommodation.

Halkidiki consists of three peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos. Both Kassandra and Sithonia have many seaside villages that are attract many tourists.

Kassandra

The choices are truly countless in Kassandra. You can choose Afytos, Kallithea, Possidi, Pefkochori, Fourka, or Kryopigi if you enjoy lively places.

On the contrary, if you don’t like crowds, you can make a reservation in an area with less demand and benefit at the same time from the price difference in their accommodations.

Moreover, if you are a nature enthusiast, you might prefer camping. In Kassandra, you will find several campings for your holidays, some of which are located in Kryopigi, Agios Nikolaos, and Siviri. These facilities are close to beautiful beaches and offer services that will make your stay comfortable.

Most of these campsites are surrounded by pine trees, a distinctive natural feature of Halkidiki. In campings, you will undoubtedly get close to nature and spend the whole day by (if not in) the sea.

The beaches in Kassandra are enchanting. You can decide in which area to stay and visit a different beach every day. Some are bustling, while others are more secluded. You will undoubtedly enjoy the hours you spend in Halkidiki.

In Kassandra, you will also find the Agia Paraskevi Baths, which are thermal baths offering incredible relaxation. You can experience the warm baths in the modern facilities of this specific area.

Sithonia

Similarly, Sithonia has many wonderful destinations. For many people, Sithonia is an ideal holiday destination. Here you can find accommodations suitable for groups, couples, or families. The options are countless.

Some of the villages in Sithonia that welcome numerous visitors every year are Vourvourou, Sarti, and Nikiti. Additionally, you can choose among Neos Marmaras, Sykia, and Toroni. You will definetely find accommodations that meet your needs and requirements.

Sithonia features unique beaches, with some of the most famous being Kriaritsi, Platanitsi, Karydi in Vourvourou, and Diaporos.

Diaporos is a complex of islands across Vourvourou, characterized as a little paradise, and rightfully so. Among the nine islets that make up Diaporos, you will discover the most incredible beaches.

The most famous beaches include Galazia Nera (or Blue Lagoon), Myrsini, and Kryftos. However, even the lesser-known ones are equally beautiful.

If you enjoy adventure, you can rent a boat from Vourvourou and explore the beaches of Diaporos. During summer months, Diaporos attracts many visitors eager to enjoy its crystal-clear, warm waters.

A different beach experience awaits you at Porto Koufo, famous for its impressively deep sea. Just a few steps from the sand, the sea takes on the characteristic deep blue color of very deep waters. The sensation is unique, but everyone who is unfamiliar with strong swimming should be extremely cautious at this beach.

Similar to Kassandra, Sithonia also offers fully equipped camping sites ready to welcome summer visitors. If this type of vacation appeals to you, you can head to the campsites in Neos Marmaras, Armenistis, Platanitsi, or Tristinika. However, be aware that many of Sithonia’s campsites may require reservations during the summer, as the demand is significantly high. Therefore, make sure you have a spot for yourself and your friends or family before getting there.

Βesides the sun and the sea, Halkidiki offers opportunities for many other activities. You can go cycling and hiking, especially on the mountainous side of Halkidiki. The area is rich in natural beauty with lush green mountains. You can explore forest roads and trails or wander through traditional villages such as Vavdos, Agia Barbara, Taxiarchis, Arnaia, and many more.

Regardless of the region where you choose to stay, you can take a trip to Stagira, the birthplace of Aristotle. There is an archaeological site that is open to the public.

Agion Oros (Mount Athos)

Ηowever, Halkidiki is also well-known for its third peninsula, Mount Athos. This monastic state is globally famous and has been included in UNESCO’s list of monuments as a place of unique natural beauty harmoniously combined with the architectural creations of the monasteries.

Mount Athos, also known as the Holy Mountain, can only be visited by men following specific procedures. Nevertheless, there are small boats in Ouranoupolis that frequently tour around the peninsula. From the boat, you’ll be able to see several monasteries and spend your day differently.

Furthermore, Ouranoupolis is beautiful and features wonderful sandy beaches. Accommodations here can meet your needs, whether you prefer luxurious or more budget-friendly options.

Ammouliani

Opposite to Ouranoupoli lies Ammouliani, a small island with one single village. The beaches of Ammouliani are simply enchanting. In its’ “tail”, you’ll find Drenia, a cluster of small islands known for their crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches.

When you come to Halkidiki, you must savor its delicious cuisine. Northern Greece is known for its tasty dishes. If you’re a fan of good food, especially seafood, you’ll thoroughly enjoy your vacation in Halkidiki. Restaurants and taverns offer traditional as well as more modern dishes, meeting everyone’s needs and preferences. Even fast-foods have many interesting options.

Advices before coming to Halkidiki

Finally, to ensure you won’t find yourself unprepared when you arrive in Halkidiki, it’s good to consider the following tips:

Make a reservation at the accommodation you want to stay in. If you leave it for July and August, it will be particularly difficult to find available rooms.
Bring comfortable shoes so you can enjoy walks without pain and discomfort.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen. It is essential if you don’t want to suffer from sunburns. Midday hours are always the most dangerous, so you might need to be extra cautious and prepared. Equally important are a hat and sunglasses.
Don’t neglect to try the local products. Halkidiki is famous for its honey and wine, among many other products.

Of course, the final choice of destinations and activities in Halkidiki depends entirely on you. Certainly, the days you will spend as well as your interests will determine the experiences you will have in Halkidiki.

But whatever you choose, one thing is certain: Halkidiki will leave you with unforgettable memories!