Halkidiki: a mini travel guide

If you are traveling to Halkdiki, check out this mini travel guide, where you will find all the must-knows regarding the region’s best things to do and places worth visiting.

Halkidiki peninsula is the most popular destination in Northern Greece, thanks to its gorgeous sandy beaches and pristine turquoise sea waters.

Halkidiki is divided into 3 smaller peninsulas, Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos. Kassandra is the most cosmopolitan, Sithonia is quieter with wild nature, and Athos is a secluded Orthodox monastic community.

Therefore, the Halkidiki peninsula offers versatile landscapes and diverse experiences. So, whether you want to have a relaxing holiday, a wild adventure in nature, or experience Greek culture, Halkidiki has everything accommodating to everyone’s preferences.

For your convenience, we have prepared a mini travel guide where you will find all the must-knows regarding the region’s best things to do and places worth visiting.

How to arrive at Halkidiki

The most convenient way to get there is by car or an organized tour from Thessaloniki. Or you can go by public transportation. Specifically, KTEL buses are cheaper and the best alternative. If you are arriving in Greece by plane, the nearest airport is Thessaloniki.

Best Things to Do

Scuba Diving:

The sea bottom of Halkidiki has many wrecks and reefs to explore while diving. Around the region, you will find many scuba diving centers providing lessons.

Watersports:

Many popular organized beaches in Halkidiki offer watersports and other activities for adults and children alike. It is the best way to enjoy Halkidiki’s gorgeous beaches in an entertaining way.

Paragliding:

Take a sea kayak tour in the sea of this beautiful region and admire Halkidiki’s crystal-clear azure waters, as well as the unspoiled beauty of the coastline.

Sailing:

A lovely area in Greece called Halkidiki provides a magnificent sailing experience. Halkidiki’s stunning shoreline and crystal-clear waters make sailing here a dream come true. Explore the turquoise Aegean Sea as you soar across it, stopping at remote coves and gorgeous beaches along the route. Sail with the soft breeze filling your sails while you enjoy the warm Mediterranean sun. Halkidiki provides an exceptional sailing experience in a stunning natural setting, whether you’re looking for adventure or pleasure.

Best Place to Visit

Aristotle Park:

Located in the village of Stagira, next to Ierissos, you will find a park dedicated to the life and works of Aristotle, the famous ancient Greek philosopher. Established in 2004, Aristotle Park hosts a series of activities that demonstrate nature’s phenomena.

Petralona Cave:

Located on the western side of Mount Katsika, the cave of Petralona is rich in stalactites and stalagmites. Furthermore, in 1960 a human skull 700,000 years old was discovered along with fossils of lions, panthers, bears, deer, bats, and other animals. It is an important site to learn about humans’ evolution.

Prosforio Tower:

This Byzantine tower is the symbol of Ouranoupolis. Standing at the edge of the beach, it has suffered much damage through the centuries due to erosion, as well as invasions. Right next to the tower, there is also the Christian Collection of Halkidiki.

Afitos village:

The little Greek town of Afitos enchants tourists with its timeless beauty. Afitos, which is perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, is known for its winding stone-paved lanes, whitewashed homes, and vivid gardens overflowing with bougainvillaea. Take a stroll through its charming streets, which are dotted with specialty stores, taverns and cafés serving regional cuisine. Discover the rich history of the community by exploring the Byzantine tower and historic ruins. As you unwind on its white sand beaches or explore the surrounding coves, Afitos also provides beautiful views of the coastline.