Halkidiki is a unique part of mainland Greece due to its three-legged peninsula offering three different experiences. The one of the largest regions in mainland Greece, Halkidiki boasts a 500-mile coastline. Halkidiki holidays are perfect for all families. If you want a relaxing Greece beach holiday, Kassandra is the peninsula for you. Sithonia is perfected if you want a mix of sandy beaches and pine forests. Finally, but definitely not least, Athos, where the famous Mount Athos towers filled with rich history of the byzantine church.
Destination Profile
Halkidiki is famous for its diverse natural beauty, which ranges from lush pine forests to pristine beaches with turquoise waters. It is a popular holiday destination spot for the locals, as Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, isn’t far away.
Kassandra, the westernmost peninsula, is the most developed, offering vibrant resorts, lively nightlife, and sandy beaches. Luxury all-inclusive resorts are scattered around Kassandra, an Olympic favourite being Sani Beach Resort.
Sithonia, the middle peninsula, is less popular and developed than Kassandra. It is ideal for escaping the hustle of heavy tourist areas. It is a heaven for nature lovers, with a blend of forest and beeches providing a peaceful atmosphere.
The eastern leg of the peninsula lies Athos, home of the famous Mount Athos. Towering over the peninsula, Mount Athos features 20 monasteries and 1,400 monks and is the preserve of the Orthodox Church. Women were banned from going there more than 1,000 years ago, and men need permission to visit, but everyone can enjoy seeing its rugged beauty. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a must-visit.
Best Time to Visit Halkidiki
Celebrations come at the double on Halkidiki during July and August, with the Kassandra and Sani festivals of music and arts. Kassandra is set in a 3,500-seater amphitheatre at Siviri, and attracts leading Greek and international musicians, while Sani celebrates the arts on a hillside topped by an eight-metre 16th century tower.
Halkidiki Travel Advice
Bus: Buses are frequent, punctual and cheap although not always air-conditioned. The KTEL Bus service provides local links to numerous towns and villages on the Kassandra peninsular and Halkidiki as a whole, as well as longer distance journeys further inland to Thessaloniki and to the region's administrative capital, Polygyros.
Boat: In the Kassandra peninsular from Nea Moudania, there are speed boat itineraries during the summer to Thessaloniki and the Sporades.
Taxi: Even the smallest of villages in the Halkidiki region generally have one or two taxis, and of course the tourist areas have many more on offer. All taxis are on meter, but it might be a good idea to ask the driver for a rough idea of the price before you set off.
Car: An excellent way of getting around during Halkidiki holidays, car hire gives you complete flexibility as well as the ability to see more of the region.