Summary
Looking for things to do in Halkidiki, Greece? Compared with the thousand islands in Greece, tourists have yet to discover the Halkidiki regions, other than neighboring Bulgaria and Romanian sunseekers. I visit Halkidiki almost every year and love it. I am confident that this guide to Halkidiki, Greece, will inspire you to add it to your list of Greek summer escapes.
Corina from Another Milestone shares everything you need to know and all of the best things to do in Halkidiki, Greece.
About Halkidiki
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The Halkidiki Region is situated in the northern part of Greece. It is well-known for its three distinctive peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos. The Kassandra Peninsula serves as the primary tourist destination, while Mount Athos, otherwise known as The Holy Mountain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site regarded as one of the holiest places for the Greek Orthodox community. Meanwhile, Sithonia Peninsula in Halkidiki boasts some of the best beaches in the region.
Things to do in Halkidiki
Visitors can spend an entire vacation here with various activities without ever feeling bored. You can explore the cities, visit traditional villages, discover hidden beaches, and swim in the crystal-clear, emerald waters of the Aegean Sea.
1. Visit Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is the main city of the region and the second largest city in Greece. It stands out as one of the most frequented places to visit in Halkidiki and serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploration.
While in Thessaloniki, you can visit its many churches, explore the historic old town with its cobblestone streets, or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, where you’ll find the iconic symbol of Thessaloniki – the White Tower.
2. Byzantine Tower of Nea Fokea
Located in the village of Nea Fokea, St. Paul’s Byzantine Tower is a significant historical site. Dating back to 1407, this old Byzantine fortress stands 17 meters high (55 feet) and was initially built to protect local farmers. It later served as the headquarters for Emmanouil Papas, a leader of the Greek War of Independence. While visiting the Byzantine Tower of Nea Fokea, don’t forget to check out the Agioi Apostoloi, built in 1868.
Look for the 20km underground corridor, which is one of the more intriguing places to visit in Halkidiki. According to lore, St. Paul sought refuge underground due to perceived threats to his life.
3. Take a cruise to Mount Athos
Mount Athos, home to numerous monks and over seven monasteries, contributes to Halkidiki’s fame.
The only way to experience the Mount Athos Monasteries is through a dedicated cruise. Departing from Ormos Panagias (Sithonia), the boat allows you to approach the majestic monasteries closely. In the afternoon, the cruise stops at Ouranopolis, a picturesque village featuring charming old houses and a white tower.
Note: Women are not permitted on Mount Athos, meaning that if you are traveling as a couple, only the male can visit the monasteries.
4. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Sithonia
The Sithonia Peninsula of Halkidiki is renowned for its stunning beaches. Beyond the beach, you can hop from place to place to admire the breathtaking landscape. In Sarti, you can capture perfect views of Mount Athos.
In the southern part of the peninsula, Mamba beach is visible from the road. For crystal-clear waters, visit Vourvourou or Kalogria beach, both offering soft sand and emerald waters.
5. Explore the beaches of Kassandra Greece
Kassandra is the first small peninsula of Halkidiki, making it the easiest to reach from Thessaloniki. Although more developed than its counterpart Sithonia, Kassandra offers some secluded beaches as well. Popular beaches can be found in the main resorts such as Kallithea, Kriopigi, or Hanioti.
For a peaceful experience, Paliouri beach near the northern tip of Kassandra is a beautifully isolated choice.
6. Relax in the Resort Town of Ouranoupoli
The port of Ouranoupoli on the Mount Athos peninsula is a favored stop for cruise ships and is home to the Ouranoupoli Byzantine Tower, dating back to 1344. It was originally built to spot pirates threatening the monks and farmers of the Vatopediou Monastery.
Shopping for local produce, such as olive oil from the nearby groves, honey, and wine is a popular activity in Ouranoupoli, along with enjoying refreshments at a taverna along the waterfront.
7. Explore Petralona Cave
Just outside the village of Pentralona lies an intriguing cave housing fossils that are around 700,000 years old. In 1959, the remains of a prehistoric man were discovered by villagers. Additionally, the cave contains fossils of elephants, rhinoceroses, and panthers.
Taking a guided tour offers the chance to marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites within the cave.
8. Visit Traditional Villages Around Halkidiki
Apart from the beaches of Kassandra, you can also explore the traditional village of Afitos. Stroll through Afitos’ old town, which is perched on a cliff above Toroneos bay, offering breathtaking sea views.
The narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and local restaurants with fantastic views create a charming atmosphere. Even on rainy days, Afitos remains a delightful choice if the beach is not available.
Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos is a popular destination in Halkidiki, known for its shady pine trees, olive oil, honey, and wine. It serves as a well-liked spot to stop for a meal.
Parthenonas
Parthenonas, located on Sithonia, is an ancient town built in the mountains that has the feel of an open-air village museum, making it worthy of a visit! As you ascend toward it, be sure to glance back for a view that will remain etched in your memory!
Great beaches, stunning panoramas, well-preserved traditional villages, and the largest monastic complex in Greece are just a few reasons to consider visiting Halkidiki.
Visit Olynthos
Dating back to the Neolithic period (12,000 years ago), Olynthos provides visitors with a glimpse into its rich history. Notable attractions include the Church of St. Nicolas, Tower of Mariana, and the ancient city of Mikyverna.
How to get to Halkidiki?
If driving to Halkidiki, the Egnatia Odos highway borders the region to the north and connects with numerous national roads leading deep into the peninsula. Although the national roads are not very fast due to their mountainous routes and coastal serpentine paths, they provide stunning views along the way. Those arriving by plane will land in Thessaloniki.
From Thessaloniki, a car transfer can be arranged to your hotel or via car rental. Upon arrival at your hotel, you can find several car rental options available in the main resorts, though it is usually more beneficial to rent a car from Thessaloniki airport to explore the area fully.
Public transportation does exist in the region, yet the beauty of Halkidiki lies in its secluded beaches that are inaccessible by public transport. Therefore, having a car is essential.
Where is Halkidiki, Greece?
Halkidiki is a peninsula on the Greek mainland, located six hours north of Athens. With mountains on one side and seaside resorts stretching from Akanthos to Egnatia Odos on the east and from Thessaloniki to Nea Moudania on the west, it is a stunning resort destination.
Halkidiki features three distinct “legs” extending into the Aegean Sea: Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos, each with its unique characteristics.
Where to Stay in Halkidiki
There are numerous hotels and villas along the coast offering accommodation options. Rooms in 2 or 3-star hotels are quite affordable, while there are also several excellent 4-star hotels.
Choose your stay based on these areas in Halkidiki:
- Kassandra is ideal if you enjoy lively resorts, beach music, shopping, and nightlife.
- Polychronos boasts one of the busiest beaches in Halkidiki. It’s a pebbled beach with pebbles inside the water, narrow, and filled with sunbeds, making it a practical choice for families with young children and ample luggage.
- Sithonia is perfect for those seeking nature, quieter settings, or families with young kids.
- Porto Koufo offers an isolated spot to stay in Sithonia, featuring a lengthy narrow beach with only 3-4 visitors, a few tavernas, and some hotels and villas.
- Athos is an area accessible only by the borders between Macedonia and Mount Athos, thus offering limited accommodation options.
- Ouranopolis is the central resort town in Halkidiki, boasting a chic atmosphere with cozy boutique hotels and family-run villas.
- Search for accommodation in Halkidiki on Booking.com.
Most 5-star hotels are located within the exclusive resort of Porto Carras, designed for affluent visitors, featuring yachts and high-end boutiques.
What to eat in Halkidiki?
Halkidiki is a fantastic destination for dining out. The restaurants typically consist of family-run local tavernas serving traditional dishes. If you love Greek cuisine, you will relish the options available here, all at very reasonable prices.
- Gyros (the Greek version of donner, using tzatziki sauce instead of mayonnaise)
- Souvlaki (spicy pork and chicken skewers), pastitsio (a traditional lasagna)
- Kleftiko (lamb and vegetables cooked in the oven—Greeks know the secrets of lamb cooking)
- Fresh fish and seafood will challenge your choices every time you look at the menu.
- For dessert, try the delightful yogurt topped with honey and walnuts.
- If you’re curious about local beverages, Ouzo offers a bold experience, so brace yourself for a fiery flavor upon your first taste.
- Be sure to order the Greek frappé, a refreshing blend of coffee and ice cubes, which is perfect under the sun at the beach.
When to go to Halkidiki?
Situated in northern Greece, temperatures in Halkidiki do not reach the extremes often found in the southern parts of the country.
- June is an excellent month for sunshine and beachcombing. It’s my personal favorite time to work on my tan.
- July and August can experience extreme heat, though the water remains ideal for swimming.
- September was my top choice, as it tends to be warm without the stifling heat of the earlier summer months.
- April and October are lovely months; resorts are almost empty, providing wonderful opportunities for nature hikes or biking.
- From November to March, the weather can be too chilly for beach activities, and many hotels may not be open.
- The high season in Halkidiki spans from June to September. During this timeframe, numerous activities and attractions are available. While prices may be slightly elevated, they often remain more reasonable than in other tourist-heavy regions of Greece.
Give Halkidiki a chance—it’s a destination you won’t regret choosing. You’ll only experience remorse when it’s time to return home, as you will yearn to revisit for many days thereafter.
