Introducing Halkidiki: Greece’s Best-Kept Secret

Halkidiki is Greece’s best-kept secret and is a hidden gem of blissful sun and sea. A holiday here offers an impeccable variety of amazing outdoor activities, stunning hotels, and immaculate beaches (which are said to be some of the best on the Med!). A direct flight to Thessaloniki and a short transfer will bring you to this amazing corner of the world and offer an unforgettable holiday.

Here are some of the top reasons why you should add Halkidiki to your list of must-visit destinations…

• The Different Areas
• The Villages
• The Beaches
• The Mount Athos Monastery
• The Water Sports
• Petralona’s Cave
• The Delicious Food
• Island Hopping
• The Nightlife
• The Hiking and Exploring
• Aristotle Park
• The Town of Thessaloniki

The Different Areas

Halkidiki is known as the “hand of Greece” because of its three peninsulas. This trident shape presents these three distinct peninsulas, Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos that stick out into the Aegean Sea. Kassandra is the most developed of the three with a buzzing social scene. Sithonia is a bit quieter but equally as stunning. Athos is a secluded monastic community and is extremely difficult to access. Visit Halkidiki and discover these beautiful areas all unique in their own way!

The Villages

It’s 100% worth it to explore the villages of Halkidiki as they often get forgotten! Halkidiki has many beautiful villages to explore as well as having a stunning coastline. Explore these villages with their stone houses, traditions, and local foods. From Arnea a traditional inland village, Nikiti with its beautiful beach and bustling town centre, to Afitos perched on a cliff with amazing views, there is just so much to explore! Make sure to visit at least one village during your time in Halkidiki to get the full experience.

The Beaches

Without a doubt, Halkidiki’s 550km of coastlines boast some of the absolute best beaches in Greece. There are over 70 blue-flagged beaches here and they are simply spectacular. Kassandra’s are often within resorts but Sithonia offers wilder and less touristy beach options that feature hidden coves perfect for camping. One of the most beautiful beaches in Sithonia is Kavourotripes where the fine sand is bordered by a stretch of pine trees.

Kallithea’s Beach which is located on the east coast of Kassandra is stunning and the ideal place for a swim with its crystal clear waters. The bars and restaurants that line the beach always have music playing with a great atmosphere!

The Mount Athos Monastery

On the most easterly peninsula of Athos, sits its namesake monastery. Athos is the only monastic state in Europe and access to it is extremely limited. The monastery only allows male pilgrims which involves a complex visa and permit application process. Women are not allowed to enter whatsoever. Therefore, in order to see the monasteries, your best bet is by boat. Tours often leave from Ouranopoli which is located in a strategic position near the monastic centre.

While there are some spectacular monasteries on the western side of the peninsula, there are also monasteries on the far eastern side. Most tours limit themselves to just the western side. However, some traverse the perimeter of the entire peninsula to see all 8 of the incredible monasteries.

The Water Sports

Kassandra is the place to try some exciting sports, including water skiing, diving, surfing, flyboarding, and sailing. For those feeling adventurous you can take a scuba diving course and explore the depths of the ocean! There is plenty of fun in Halkidiki and windsurfing and jet skiing are also popular activities to try out. So, if you are looking for some thrilling action, there is plenty on offer to peak anyone’s interest.

Petralona’s Cave

Fancy marvelling at 700,000-year-old stalagmites? You can do just that at the Cave of Petralona. It’s located in the western part of Mount Katsika which is north of the peninsula of Kassandra. The cave was accidentally discovered at the end of the 1950s. In 1960, the remains of a 700,000 year old female skeleton were found. These are thought to be one of the earliest human remains ever found in Europe. Plus, Mount Katsika offers great hiking and incredible views, including of Mount Olympus across the Thermaic Gulf.

The Delicious Food

Northern Greece is legendary for its amazing food. Their long history of culinary heritage continues to thrive and the food bursts with local produce. Sprinkled with authentic, traditional tavernas, you’ll instantly feel at home in Halkidiki from the local dishes to warm welcomes. Not only that, but it’s fantastic value with a typical Greek dinner for 2 only costing around €20-€30. The food in Halkidiki is mostly produced locally which means you have access to fresh and delicious foods. Halkidiki is famous for its seafood, apricots, almonds and its delicious honey!

Island Hopping

Make sure to pend a day exploring some of the beautiful islands that Halkidiki has to offer! Explore incredible beaches with clear waters and soft white sands. Visit Diaporos or Ammouliani which is Halkidikis only inhabited island where you can even spend the night and enjoy the peaceful setting!

The Nightlife

As surprising as it may sound Halkidiki has a buzzing nightlife scene. The area of Kallithea is particularly famous for having great nightlife. There are a range of bars and nightclubs with something for everyone. Enjoy drinks at a bar or spend the night at a luxury nightclub such as Ahoy for a night of fun and dancing!

The Hiking and Exploring

While the beaches are impressive they back right up to some remote wilderness. Sightseeing tours are available to see some of the more untouched corners of the peninsulas and reveal secluded mountain villages, including Agios Mamas Laguna. Sithonia is particularly picturesque and plenty of hiking trails are accessible. Plus, there is a beautifully quaint village called Parthenonas on the slope of Mount Itamos that is absolutely worth exploring. If you prefer exploring the region via mountain bike, that’s also an option. One of the best places to do so is on Mount Holomondas. You can check out this Halkidiki biking guide here.

Aristotle Park

In Stageira, on the very eastern part of Halkidiki, there is Aristotle Park. Here, there is a large imposing statue of the famous philosopher, Aristotle. Halkidiki is the birthplace of this great intellect of Western Civilization and this park was built in homage to him.

The Town of Thessaloniki

The town of Thessaloniki is a must-visit and is located under two hours from Halkidiki. This city, the gateway to Northern Greece, has a laid-back vibe and offers amazing sightseeing and shopping. There are several Byzantine monuments including the White Tower of Thessaloniki and impressively constructed churches including the Agios Dimitrios. Also, the nightlife offered is amazing, the cultural scene is class, and the food is unreal.

Overall, Halkidiki has so much to offer. It’s a refreshing and unique option to consider for your next getaway. Are you convinced that Halkidiki is worth a visit?