Halkidiki has been an integral part of the Greek holiday programme for decades and yet the peninsula with the three fingers is constantly reinventing itself for its guests. After 15 years of traveling to Greece, it was finally time for us to discover the three faces of the peninsula extensively.
»The fingers of Halkidiki: Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos are each a world of their own and attract beach vacationers, camping enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.«
For four weeks we traveled the green peninsula of Greece from east to west and enjoyed the scenic diversity of Halkidiki (spelled “halkidikíe”). Imposing mountain backdrops are surrounded by dense pine forests that extend to fine sandy beaches with crystal clear waters.
Athos, the Holy Mountain on the eastern headland towering over everything and is visible from almost every point of the peninsula, like a vigilant protector of the region. Athos is a world of its own, a fortress of faith and gives Halkidiki a special spiritual touch.
The combination of dream beaches, lush nature and spirituality makes Halkidiki a place that can inspire and so many holidaymakers return to the peninsula near Thessaloniki year after year. Whether a holiday is worthwhile for you and which places to visit in Halkidiki, you will find out in this article:
Halkidiki Map: This map includes all Halkidiki Highlights, 109 Places to Visit & Insider Tips, 38 beaches & bays, as well as personal recommendations for 69 restaurants & cafes. Ideal for holiday planning and local navigation. Can be used for smartphone, tablet and PC/Mac. Click here and start using it right away: To the Halkidiki map
Halkidiki sights in the east (Athos)
#1 Monastic Republic of Athos
The 2,033 m high mountain on the eastern finger of Halkidiki is visible from many places and its power can be felt by every visitor. For more than 1,000 years, Athos has been home to the autonomous Monastic Republic of Greece, in whose monasteries fabulous treasures are guarded and which is only accessible to adult men.
This means that Athos is the religious guardian not only of the Halkidiki peninsula, but of all Orthodox Greece. But don’t worry, women and children can also convince themselves of the spiritual power of the sacred Mount Athos (Greek: Agion Oros) by taking a boat trip along the coast.
The trips are entertaining and yet spectacular, if a bit abstract, as you always drive at a distance from the coast. The Athos Tours are, among other things, directly bookable on GetYourGuide* (View tours here*). Secretly, Tom felt the desire to be received personally by the Athos monks in a monastery. It might work out the next time we visit Halkidiki…
The gateway to Athos is the coastal town of Ouranoupoli, which has grown uncontrollably fast due to the strong (pilgrim) tourism. The Tower of Ouranoupoli located directly on the sea is undoubtedly the highlight of the place. In Byzantine style and always surrounded by pitch-black jackdaws, it gives an idea of the magic of the monasteries, which are unfortunately inaccessible to many.
- Café tip in Ouranoupoli to stop for a bite to eat: Ammos Bar
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Acropoli
- Halkidiki insider tip near Athos: Zygos Monastery at the Athos border fence
#2 Varvara Waterfalls at Olympiada
In the hidden hinterland lies a true natural treasure of Halkidiki: the Varvara Waterfalls, about 20 minutes drive west of the resort of Olympiada. The two waterfalls also tumbled down the slope with plenty of water during our visit in September.
They are embedded in the densely overgrown and almost fairytale-like Forest Dasos Varvaras. This is the perfect place for nature and hiking enthusiasts. The two waterfalls can be reached from a parking lot in less than 10 minutes each in a northerly and southerly direction.
We personally found the upper waterfall, Pano Katarraktis Varvaras, most impressive. From a height of five meters, the water falls over several cascades into a natural basin, surrounded by large river stones and unspoilt trees, we almost felt transported to Indonesia.
A visit to the waterfalls can be combined very well with the archaeological site of Stageira. Located above Olympiada, you can walk in the footsteps of the famous ancient philosopher Aristotle. There is not much left to see of the ancient city, but the magnificent views of the turquoise blue sea and the lush green coast have awakened the typical Halkidiki feeling in us.
- Café tip nearby to stop for a bite to eat: Perroquet Beach Bar (Olympiada)
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Mygdos (Varvara)
💡 In Aristotle’s footsteps: Aristotle is probably a household name. The famous philosopher and naturalist was born in 384 BC in Halkidiki, in Stageira. No wonder that many places on the peninsula adorn themselves with the scholar. From house-sized graffiti to statues and museums, traces of Aristotle can be found everywhere. We have particularly fond memories of Aristotle Park, as it shows the scientific achievements of the universal genius that impress young and old.
#3 Ammouliani: Halkidiki’s little island dream
Ammouliani Island (also Amouliani) is located in the bay of Athos, just a stone’s throw from the peninsula and is considered a popular day trip destination. The island, which is only 12 km² in size, offers holidaymakers from Halkidiki an insight into the Greek islands. We had great expectations, secretly hoped for a Greek idyll like on the island of Trizonia, the Greece Insider Tip in the Gulf of Corinth.
But no way! Already on the crossing from the Port of Tripiti the ferry was full to bursting at the beginning of October. Ammouliani with the main town of the same name presents itself in a touristic position and unfortunately a bit too artificial for us personally. During a short round trip (including by bike) across the island, the visitor magnet par excellence is revealed, the truly paradisiacal beaches.
Especially the dune-like Alykes Beach in the west of the island, is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Halkidiki. We preferred the much quieter Megali Ammos Beach in the southeast. If you can, you should stay one or two nights on Amouliani, because when the day tourists have disappeared, peace returns and you can enjoy the island idyll you desperately desire. 😉
- Accommodation tip for Ammouliani: Archontiko Hotel (Watch on Booking.com*)
- Café tip on Amouliani: Aelia Cocktail Bar, Punto Loco
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Bongo Restaurant
#4 Visiting Pirgadikia
On the lonely coast between Athos and Sithonia, the eastern and middle finger of Halkidiki, lies Pirgadikia (also Pyrgadikia), a village hardly visited by international holidaymakers. Admittedly, we didn’t have the village of 280 souls on our radar either, but we ended up here through a recommendation and were thrilled by the scenery.
On a hill above the sea stands a colorful ensemble of houses, in front of which sailing and fishing boats bob in the harbor of Siggitikos Bay. Even though there are now some holiday homes in the village, Pyrgadikia looks authentic and is one of the most beautiful coastal villages in Halkidiki.
But that’s not all, despite the small size of the place, you will find several traditional taverns and original cafés that will make the heart of every Greece fan beat faster.
And when large parts of Halkidiki are already in hibernation in autumn, some restaurants are still open here, because Pirgadikia enjoys a good reputation among Thessalonians as a weekend destination.
Around Pirgadikia there are also some beautiful beaches, such as: Ladhario Beach, Irini Beach or Ahladomilia Βeach. The village is also suitable as a retreat for a relaxing beach holiday.
- Café tip in Pyrgadikia to stop for a bite to eat: Ethos Food Bar
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Kouros Mezedopolio, Gia tous Fílous
- Insider tip nearby for explorers: Agios Athanasios waterfall
Even more highlights and numerous travel tips for the eastern finger of Halkidiki can be found in this article: Athos
Halkidiki Sights in Sithonia
#5 Vourvourou: Bahamas of Greece
Although there are numerous dream beaches around the middle finger of Halkidiki, one region stands out in particular: Vourvourou. The place with the unusual name is surrounded by many islets and offers Caribbean-like bays and fine sandy beaches. The top attraction on Sithonia is referred to by some tour operators as the Greek Bahamas.
Vourvourou itself consists of only one street, where hotels and apartment complexes alternate with cafes and restaurants on the left and right. Karydi Beach, which is characterised by its semicircular bay surrounded by unusual rock formations and where the sky-blue sea meets white sand, is the most popular place for a swim.
The area around Vourvourou is best explored by motorboat from the sea, which is an exciting experience. This is even possible without a driver’s license, e.g. with the provider Queen boat rent a boat (To the website). You can go around the offshore island of Diaporos and stop for a swim at countless bays, including the Blue Lagoon.
- Café tip in Vourvourou to stop for a bite to eat: Ikaros Bistro, VCAFE
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Anchor Foodbar
- Insider tip in the area for explorers: Livari Lagoon
Our recommendations for great swimming spots on the peninsula can be found here: Halkidiki beaches
#6 Time out in Parthenonas
Greece connoisseurs who visit Halkidiki for the first time will be surprised: Truly traditional villages and picturesque settlements are rare, and there are historical reasons for this (see box). The mountain village Parthenonas, which nestles on the western slope of the Itanos Mountains, is a novelty: Pretty stone houses in traditional Macedonian style with colorful balconies and windows.
💡 Halkidiki and the Asia Minor Catastrophe: The end of the decades-long war between Greece and the Ottoman Empire triggered a gigantic refugee exchange in 1922. Almost one million Greeks were forcibly resettled from Turkey to Hellas. In return, about 400,000 Turks returned to Asia Minor. In Halkidiki, Athos and the church sold lands and numerous new villages were created with the abbreviation Nea or Neo (for new) and the old place name from the former homeland. The settlements grew quickly and uncontrollably, so that today, unfortunately, many places on the peninsula lack charm.
The history of the place is very old, probably the city of Parthenopolis was located here in ancient times. After the port city of Neos Marmaras was founded in 1922, many residents moved from the mountains to the sea, a distance of only 6 km. The village was extinct for several decades until the first buildings were extensively restored in the early 1990s (mostly as summer residences).
A café and two taverns provide for the physical well-being of individual excursionists in the summer months, and overnight stays are also possible. It is fun to stroll through the cobblestone alleys, always accompanied by the magnificent view of the Toronean Gulf and Kassandra, the western finger of Halkidiki.
- Café tip in Parthenonas to stop for a bite to eat: Parthenopoli, Brunch Brothers (Neos Marmaras)
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Deluxe Pizza (Neos Marmaras)
- Insider tip in the area for explorers: Old watermill between Parthenonas and Neos Marmaras
#7 Sarti beaches: Platanitsi Beach, Kavourotrypes & Co.
Sarti is the holiday resort par excellence on Sithonia, the scenery inspires with a kilometre-long, wide sandy beach and Mount Athos always in sight. We had hoped a lot from Sarti and were a bit disillusioned in the end. You have to be able to get involved in the wild ensemble of apartments and hotels, peppered with all kinds of bars, cafés and taverns.
A bit too much of a good thing for us, but relaxing with a cool drink by the sea with a view of Athos. After all, the original village of Sartes was once founded by the monks opposite. The village of 1,100 inhabitants is ideal as a starting point for exploration, and campers will also find some places to go in this part of Sithonia (see box).
There are numerous beaches in the vicinity. A holiday alone is not enough here. Platania Beach and the small Agridia Beach a little further south as well as the northern beaches Platanitsi Beach and Kavourotrypes Beach or Orange Beach. The latter enchants visitors with its unusual rocks near the shore.
The drive from Vourvourou to Sarti and the many bathing bays is already a highlight: the panoramic road below the Mount Itanos with its views of the glittering sea and the holy Mount Athos remains in our best memories!
- Café tip in Sarti for a break: Zanzibar, Casablanca, Peponaki Karpouzaki
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Cielo Beach Bar, The canteen ANDROKLIS (Panorama Road)
💡 Camping in Halkidiki: The peninsula is a popular destination for campers. Between 15 and 20 organised campsites are available and most of them offer a good standard. From our own experience, we can say that camping is especially fun on Sithonia. You can find our favorites among the campsites further down in the article. All information about camping in Hellas: Camping in Greece
#8 Kriaritsi: Ghost Village of Sithonia
There is a very special place on Sithonia that Lost Places fans should not miss. Known as the Kriaritsi Project, the Greek government began decades ago to build a rehabilitation resort for civil servants and former military personnel on an area of 13.2 km².
A complete road network, bridges, building plots with existing electricity and water lines were created in a short time, until a construction stop was imposed out of the blue. Since then, the site has been fallow as a ghost town without houses and has been left to decay.
Goats, sheep and cows graze in the wasteland. Here and there are old buildings and broken cars at the side of the road. It’s an interesting backdrop that is reminiscent of the video game Fallout. On the coast there are a good dozen beautiful beaches, the most famous are Kriaritsi Beach, Klimataria Beach and Tigania Beach, where beach bars take care of the physical well-being of bathers in summer.
For some time now, the construction company has been trying to Grekodom Developmentto breathe new life into the region. Greek friends told us that they also bought land in Kriaritsi years ago. 3.000 houses are planned, hardly anything has been built. Presumably, the Greek bureaucracy will be up to mischief here. Until then, the ghost town will remain a welcome destination for individualists.
- Café tip near Kriaritsi for a break: Tigania Beach Bar, Bakery Hatzis
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Taverna Zambakos
💡 Halkidiki Travel Guide: The travel guide of the Michael Müller publishing house was a faithful companion for us on the Halkidiki peninsula with its numerous excursion tips and background information: View on Amazon*
#9 Toroni and Porto Koufo
In the south of the peninsula it is still quite quiet until August. We liked the village of Toroni and the neighbouring town of Porto Koufo very much in the low season. Toroni was one of the richest cities in Halkidiki in ancient times. The strategic location attracted many conquerors, and the city was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt.
Today, only 250 people live here, and the last historical remains of the former trading town are located on a promontory in the south, known as Lekythos Fortress. From here, the view sweeps over the village with its long bay and the bright beach. In the vicinity there are other attractive beaches with sonorous names such as Ema Beach, Bogi Beach and Luka Beach.
Just a five-minute drive further south is Porto Koufo, a lagoon-like natural harbour that is very popular with sailors because of its sheltered location. Porto Koufo, known for its good fish taverns, we visited several times during our Halkidiki trip because of its idyllic harbor flair. From here, by the way, a charming, approx. 4 km long hike leads to the southernmost point, Cape Sithonia.
- Café tip in Toroni for a break: Dark Paradise Bar
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Taverna Tzitzikas (Porto Koufo)
- Insider tip in the area for explorers: Hike to the Kanonia artillery bases
Even more highlights and numerous travel tips for the middle finger of Halkidiki can be found in this article: Sithonia
Halkidiki Sights in Kassandra
#10 Canal of Kassandra (Potidea)
Kassandra already offers a curiosity at the entrance, because actually the left finger of Halkidiki is an island. The Canal of Potidea at the village of the same name, separates Kassandra from the rest of Halkidiki. The approximately 1,200 m long artificial canal was first mentioned in the 1st century AD and is believed to have been built 400 years earlier by King Cassander to facilitate navigation around Halkidiki.
In the Byzantine Empire, the ditch, which was up to 5 m deep, was dug again and fortifications were built along the waterway and at the entrances. It was not until 1970 that a bridge was built over the Kassandra Canal. Today, some good restaurants have settled on the west side near the medieval fortification wall.
Here you can linger wonderfully and let your gaze wander over the sea and canal. By the way, at lunchtime, the Potidea canal glows in the most beautiful emerald green. As you walk along the canal, you can watch fishing boats and small sailboats travelling between the Thermaic and Toronean gulfs.
- Café tip in Potidea for a break: La Maison Cafe Bistrot
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Ta Kastra, To Kritamo
- Insider tip in the area for explorers: Agias Mamas Wetland
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#11 Sani Beach: Between luxury and dunes
To the west of Kassandra, on Cape Sani, there is a 7 km-long beach of fine, snow-white sand, with metre-high dunes and an extensive pine forest adjoining it. The natural beauty is only broken by the Sani Resort, the most famous luxury resort in Halkidiki, which offers several hotel complexes, 35 restaurants & cafés, various wellness and sports facilities and much more on 400 hectares.
The Sani Beach Resort (Watch on Booking.com*) was the first climate-neutral resort in Greece in 2020. Even if you don’t get to enjoy an overnight stay at this luxurious retreat, you can still relax on the stunning beaches of Sani and a little further north at Stavronikita Beach. During our walk on the beach, we immediately felt transported to the Baltic Sea coast.
It should be emphasized that the luxury resort also pays attention to the environment outside its complex, so garbage cans have been set up directly by the sea and many well-maintained nature trails have been created in the area. The Sani Walk, which runs above the sea, is recommended south of the resort. The hike through the fragrant pine forest to Golden Beach (Olympos Beach) is a path for the senses and offers magnificent views of the coast.
#12 Walk through Afytos
It is thanks to the former mayor Vassilis Pavli that the original charm of the village has been retained. Afitos (also known as Afithos, Athytos or Afitos) has remained almost entirely unchanged to this day. In contrast to other settlements on the east coast of Kassandra, which were built criss-cross in a concrete look, the houses in Afitos are kept in a traditional style.
Today, the village of 1,200 inhabitants enjoys great popularity and for many holidaymakers it is even the Halkidiki highlight par excellence. Typical Greek photo motifs on every corner such as dozing kittens, climbing bougainvillea on house facades, blue windows and doors and everywhere it is green and blooming. Everything seems authentic, nothing artificial.
In addition, Afitos is about 50 meters above sea level, the promenade invites you to stroll and the view is always directed towards the sea. There are a few steps to overcome until you reach Afitos Beach, so bathing is not the main attraction here. The traffic-calmed town centre also offers enough opportunities to linger and especially in the evening the special magic of the small village is revealed.
- Café tip in Afytos for a break: Notos All Day Bar
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: To Palio Rementzo, Vouka
- Insider tip in the area for explorers: Cave Church of the Apostle Paul in Nea Fokea
Even more highlights and numerous travel tips for the western finger of Halkidiki can be found in this article: Cassandra
Halkidiki Attractions in the Hinterland
#13 Arnea: Halkidiki’s most traditional village
Arnea, located in the northern highlands, is considered by many holidaymakers to be the most beautiful village in Halkidiki. The picturesque village is surrounded by lush coniferous forests at an altitude of 600 m at the foothills of the Cholomondas Mountains. Arnea impresses with its Macedonian-style architecture with traditional stone houses and beautifully decorated, colorful balconies and bay windows.
The village of 2,000 souls inspired us from the very first minute. A walk through the narrow cobblestone streets is like a journey through time and is a must on a Halkidiki holiday. Numerous photo motifs await in the maze of alleys of Arnea, and on several village squares you can take a coffee break and watch the everyday hustle and bustle.
Arnea has been known for its carpet making for centuries and even today you can buy some woven souvenirs in the local craft shops. A visit to Arnea is worthwhile at any time of the day, only the time-consuming journey from the coast should be considered.
We found Arnea particularly charming in the evening, when the alleys and village squares are atmospherically illuminated with nostalgic lanterns. If you wish, you can stay in the accommodation Mitsiou Traditional Inn (Watch on Booking.com*) and enjoy the atmosphere to the fullest.
- Café tip in Arnea to stop for a bite to eat: Αristotelous Cafe
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: O Platanos, Lanara Kafeneio
- Halkidiki insider tip nearby: Visit to the winery Akrathos Newland Winery
#14 Archaeological Site of Olynthos
Olynth, the most important archaeological site of the Halkidiki peninsula, is a must-see for all history buffs. Olynthos (also called Olynthus) was a glorious city in ancient times, but was razed to the ground in 348 BC by the Macedonian King Philip II and, unlike many other places, was not rebuilt.
Olynthus is located about 10 km northeast of Nea Moudania and a visit can be very well combined with an exploration of the hinterland of Halkidiki. The site stretches along a fertile valley over several hills. In addition to temple columns and house ruins, the impressive floor mosaics and the ancient water pipe system are particularly remarkable.
From the excavation hill, there is also a magnificent view of the landscape dominated by olive trees. During our visit, we were even lucky enough to see several tortoises along the way, a highlight for our daughter. Since the ruin field seems quite abstract, a multimedia room has been supplementing the archaeological site with interesting information and video material since 2024.
- Café tip near Olynthos for a break: La farine Bakery ‘n Coffee (Kalyves)
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Stis Tsoukkas (Nea Moudania)
- Insider tip in the area for explorers: Byzantine Tower of Mariana
#15 Petralona Cave
In the north of Halkidiki, you can walk inside the Cave of Petralona on the traces of human civilization. In 1960, Ioannis Petrocheilos explored the stalactite cave and found animal bones as well as a very well-preserved human skull. To this day, scientists do not agree on the age of the fossil remain, but it could be between 160,000 and 300,000 years old.
After years of disputes between archaeologists and the Greek state, as well as temporary closure, the Petralona Cave is open to the public again. In small groups, it goes deep into the mountain, several illuminated halls are wandered through, the bizarre stalactite formations are a highlight for young and old.
The visit is rounded off by the compact but worth seeing Petralona Museum in the neighboring building. It was redesigned in September 2024 and features Stone Age tools and prehistoric animal skeletons as well as a copy of the hominid skull. Multimedia elements explain the evolution of humans in a vivid way.
- Café tip near the Petralona Cave: Kafeglykopoleio Gynaikeiou Agrotikou Synetairismou (Agios Antonios)
- Restaurant tip for lunch or dinner: Ev Zin II (Krini)
- Insider tip in the area for explorers: visit to Alpha Lavender
Hotel tips for Halkidiki
The range of accommodation in Halkidiki is almost inexhaustible. From the simple guesthouse for the tight purse to the luxurious 5-star hotel, everything is available. For individualists, there are numerous holiday homes, apartments and villas to rent.
If you are travelling with a motorhome, caravan and the like, you will find numerous campsites, some of which have fantastic beach locations. Enclosed we have put together a personal selection of beautiful accommodations on the three fingers of Halkidiki and also tell you where we stayed.
Here we stayed in Halkidiki
Akrolithos Luxury Suites, Flogita
This charming boutique hotel with pool is located in the north of the Kassandra peninsula, just 45 minutes from the airport. The 9 modern suites can accommodate up to 4 people and due to the elevated location of the hotel you not only have a beautiful view of the sea, but also of the sunset with Mount Olympus in the background.
The entire team around the wonderful host Giannis immediately makes you feel at home and has conjured up a delicious breakfast for us every morning. The location is also ideal for exploring the peninsulas of Kassandra and Sithonia in Halkidiki by rental car.
➲ To book Akrolithos Luxury Suites*
Recommendations for accommodation in Kassandra:
Recommendations for accommodation in Sithonia:
Recommendations for accommodation in Eastern Halkidiki & Hinterland:
- Aristotelous Alexandrou Historic Inn, Arnea
- Ayia Marina Suites, Ouranoupoli
- Villa Almira Luxury Apartments, Ouranoupoli
Recommended Halkidiki campsites (self-tested!)
- Ouranoupoli Camping (Athos Region)
- Camping Stavros (Sithonia)
- Ouzoni Beach (Kassandra)
Restaurant tips for Halkidiki
There are countless restaurants and cafes throughout the Halkidiki peninsula. However, the quality of the restaurants varies greatly. Quite a few establishments near the sea stand out more for their high prices than for their quality. Our experience has been that the further away from a tourist spot, the more authenticity.
The best place to eat is in the mountains. Enclosed is a small selection of recommendations for restaurants in Halkidiki:
- Anchor Foodbar, in Vourvourou
- Metoxi Restaurant, in Kassandria
- Myky Coffee, in Nea Roda
- Αristotelous Cafe, in Arnea
- …
Want more restaurant tips for Halkidiki?
→ In our Google map you will find all recommended cafes and taverns in Halkidiki: To the Halkidiki map
Halkidiki Excursions & Tours
Whether by water or land, Halkidiki offers countless excursion options that you can book from the comfort of your own home. We have put together the most beautiful tours for you here as a recommendation. By clicking on the links of our partner GetYourGuide* you can get more information and book directly if necessary:
➲ To the Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Island cruise*
➲ To the diving course for beginners on Kassandra*
➲ To the boat tour Mount Athos*
➲ To the day tour Sithonia from Thessaloniki*
How to get to Halkidiki: How to get there
There is no airport on the Halkidiki peninsula, so holidaymakers use the nearest airport in the city Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) is served from Germany all year round. A direct flight from Germany to Thessaloniki takes around 2.5 hours and can be booked via Skyscanner*:
➲ To cheap Thessaloniki flights*
At the airport of Thessaloniki you can get a car hire for Halkidiki and start your exploration. For two people, a small car for the three fingers is perfectly sufficient. You can find cheap car rental offers for Halkidiki e.g. with our partner Discover Cars*:
All information about travelling to Greece with your own car or camper, we show you in our separate article: Getting to Greece
The drive from the airport to the Kassandra peninsula takes about 45 minutes (60 km), to Sithonia just over an hour (90 km) and to the east to Ouranoupoli just under two hours (120 km).
Not only for camping enthusiasts there is the possibility to travel with your own vehicle from Germany or Austria or Switzerland to Halkidiki.
Travelling overland through the Balkan states is particularly suitable for holidaymakers who want to spend a long holiday in Halkidiki or elsewhere in Greece.
Our personal conclusion about Halkidiki
After four weeks in Halkidiki, we were disillusioned. Yes, Halkidiki has a concentrated load of enchanting beaches and bays, the water is crystal clear in places and the nature in the hinterland is also very charming. But on closer inspection and often only when driving past quickly by car, many downsides reveal themselves. Roadsides as garbage dumps with discarded leftovers of all kinds from coke cans to refrigerators, quite a few stretches of beach littered with cigarette butts and plastic bags, next to the overpriced beach bar that is not interested in it. In some places, deck chairs are lined up next to deck chairs, sales near the seaside resorts are not uncommon, true to the motto: “Beach, sun, party”. The fact that Greek islands have major problems with environmental management due to their geographical remoteness is one thing. However, there should be solutions for a mainland region near Greece’s second-largest city. After the trip, we wondered where the peninsula would develop in the future. We don’t know, only this much can be said, the former insider tip Sithonia (Middle Finger), is already feeling the influence of (mass) tourism. So who is Halkidiki suitable for: The peninsula is an inexpensive holiday destination, the taverns offer good cuisine, often dessert is served on the house. Among the numerous accommodations, everyone will find something for their wallet. The hinterland invites you to discover and here you can still feel the original soul of Halkidiki. Sun worshippers and water rats will feel at home here right away, as I said, if you turn a blind eye or two.
→ More articles and numerous Halkidiki travel tips can be found here:
- Halkidiki Blog – The region at a glance
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