Holidays on the Chalkidiki Peninsula - what you need to know. Holidays in Halkidiki: where is the best place to stay? Where to stay in Halkidiki

Chalkidiki Peninsula- the “highlight” of the Greek coast, washed by the Aegean Sea. These are not only comfortable hotels and beaches, excellent nature and landscape of the area, but also unforgettable sights and objects of mass tourism to Christian holy places.

The outlines of the Halkidiki peninsula clearly stand out on the Map of Greece and are easily recognizable - because they resemble in shape - "Trident". Holidays in Halkidiki is a pleasant combination of sunbathing on the beaches and excursion programs to the historical and natural attractions of Greece.

Halkidiki in Greece there are three peninsulas on which resort towns and cities are concentrated:

• Cassandra– the dynamic life of the peninsula sets the pace for an excellent holiday in Greece.
• Sithonia– a relaxing holiday in a picturesque corner of Greece.
• Agios Oros(Athos) is a monastic republic with monasteries on Mount Athos.

Sights of the Halkidiki peninsula photo.

While relaxing in the resorts of the Halkidiki peninsula you can visit the sights of Mainland Greece

• Petralona Cave, rich in stalactites and stalagmites.
• Byzantine Museum.
• Meteora monasteries (6 active and open to the public monasteries: 4 male and 2 female).
• Holy Mount Athos. The monasteries of St. Athos can be seen by everyone from a boat trip.
• Mount Olympus on the Greek mainland.
• Thessaloniki is the capital of the Macedonia region and the second most important port city in Greece.
• Tempi Valley
• City and Lake Orchid.
• Monastery of St. Panteleimon, which is the custodian of more than 800 icons dating from the 11th to 14th centuries.
• Ancient Dion (city of the Greek god Zeus).
• Platamonas fortress and Platamonas village in the resort region of Pieria (Olympic Riviera of Greece).
• The city of Kastoria is famous throughout the world for the production of fur coats.
• Thermal resort of Loutraki. City of Aridea.

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Meteora- it's built on the tops of steep cliffs reaching a height of more than 600 m above sea level, complex from once existing 24 monasteries. Meteora- translated from Greek means - "floating in the clouds", it truly reflects the nature and beauty of these amazing places. No wonder in 1988, Meteora monasteries were included in list of world heritage sites UNESCO. In search of solitude and protection, hermits conquered these rocks long before the 10th century. The first reliable mention is associated with the hermit Barnabas, who built the ancient monastery of the Holy Spirit in 950-970. The dawn of the monastic community and the construction of these ancient monasteries, their decoration and painting, occurred in the 14th-16th centuries. Currently six monasteries are open to visitors, 4 male (“Varlaam”, “Transfiguration of the Lord”, “St. Nicholas Anapavsas”, “Holy Trinity”) and 2 female (“Rusana or the Monastery of St. Barbara”, “St. Stephen”). Each Monastery is a separate work of art with its own history, unique architecture, inimitable paintings, frescoes, mosaics, iconostases, ancient manuscripts and icons. Meteors are located near the river Pinios, 1-2 km from the city. Kalambaka and 21 km from the city. Trikala, open to believers and tourists at designated hours and days, admission 2 euros, clothing must cover arms to wrists and legs (tourists in shorts, miniskirts and T-shirts are not allowed). Photo and video shooting is prohibited.

Holy Mount Athos. Monasteries of Saint Athos in Greece.

Mount Athos located on the eastern part of the Halkidiki peninsula, the altitude is 2033 meters above sea level, washed by the Aegean Sea, included in list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Athos is an autonomous Greek Republic, on whose territory there are 20 Orthodox monasteries(it is not allowed to build any more), 12 hermitages, as well as cells, kathismas, and hesychasteries. For Orthodox people, the mountain is revered as terrestrialThe lot of the Mother of God. Right of visit Mount Athos Only adult men with a special visa (diamonitirion) have access; women are not allowed to enter (for penetration they face 8-12 months of imprisonment). However, the monasteries can be seen during a boat trip along the coast of Mount Athos.

Olympus - the Mountain of the Gods.

Mount Olympus – Greece national park. The nature of these places is so enchanting, and the beautiful views are mesmerizing that it becomes obvious that this is the place of the Gods. Every tourist strives to visit Olympus. Organized here walking with a visit to waterfalls, cycling routes, for more prepared tourist athletes - mountaineering and ski slopes, and for extreme sports enthusiasts – parachuting.

The ancient city of Zeus is Dion.

Excavations of the ancient sacred city of the Macedonians - Dion (city of the Greek god Zeus). Sights of Dion: ancient stadium, theaters, temple of Olympian Zeus, baths, city ruins.

Place of pilgrimage to Halkidiki - Tempi Valley.

The Tempi Valley is located between Mount Olympus and Mount Ossa. Tempi Valley is a place of pilgrimage, the main goal is Cave Temple of St. Paraskeva, which is at the foot of Olympus. You can get into it by passing through the suspension bridge. Next to the temple there is an underground lake from which the spring of St. Paraskeva flows. The Tempi Valley is surrounded by greenery and centuries-old plane trees. It is rich in springs - healing springs, one of which is called “Aphrodite” and, according to legend, restores beauty and youth.

Platamon. Platamonas fortress.

There is a special attraction in the Platamon Valley - Platamonas castle-fortress, built in the Franco-Byzantine style in 1209. Its name translated means “Castle of Beautiful Women.” It is, along with the Dion Theater, the main center of the celebration Olympus festival, which takes place annually in the summer.

The city of Kastoria - shopping tours in Greece.

The city of Kastoria is a recognized world center for the production of fur products. Shopping tours are organized to this northern city of Greece. Here you can both look and buy amazing, inexpensive, high-quality fur coats!

Thermal Resort Loutraki. The city of Aridea in Greece.

Aridea city- a picturesque city in northern Greece, 13 km from which it is located wellness center (Loutra Loutraniou) with hot thermal springs in the open air, the temperature of which is +37 at any time of the year.

In a picturesque corner of wild nature, surrounded by green forests, deep gorges, rocky cliffs, rich in natural attractions and historical finds of caves, flows Thermopotamos river with healing water. The famous medical spa resort of Loutraki operates here with round-the-clock indoor baths and pools with thermal water and outdoor pools.
A stay at the resort can be combined with a trip to Edessa waterfalls and Voras ski center, as well as exploring the caves and sights of nearby Greek cities.

An exclusive holiday in Greek Halkidiki is presented in the seaside resort of Nea Potidea. Pomegranate SPA Hotel 5* in Halkidiki is located in the resort town of Nea Potidea on a narrow isthmus between two bays. An amazing view of the sea opens from its windows. The hotel began operating in the summer of 2013 and is itself perceived as an exotic attraction of the resort. On the territory of the hotel there are: SPA center “Aphrodite” with an area of ​​2 thousand square meters. meters with the largest Turkish bath in Greece (70 sq. m.); The only Russian bathhouse in the country. The hotel is suitable for business tourists, exotic lovers, newlyweds and families with children.

Washed by the Aegean Sea, its shape resembles a trident, consisting of three elongated narrow peninsulas, whose names are Athos (or Agion Oros), Sithonia and Kassandra. On the Greek mainland, Halkidiki is the main tourist and recreational area with a large number of excellent resorts surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation.

The resorts of the Halkidiki peninsula offer a wide range of services. Here you can relax in style in one of the five-star hotels with a full arsenal of services, or you can enjoy a quiet, peaceful holiday in inexpensive apartments. To get to the peninsula, tourists fly to the city of Thessaloniki, and then go to their resorts and hotels.

Being located in the subtropics, Halkidiki can delight holidaymakers with a fairly long holiday season. Already in May, tourists begin to come here, and by July-August, when the air temperature reaches +35 degrees, the tourist flow reaches its peak. Due to the fact that in the summer months the climate in Halkidiki is dry, the heat is tolerated calmly and does not cause any inconvenience to tourists. The sea water temperature at the height of the swimming season is on average + 25 degrees, and there are practically no winds or strong waves. The tourist season is coming to an end at the end of September.

The vast majority of beaches on the peninsula are sandy or consisting of a mixture of sand and small pebbles. In addition to municipal beaches, you can find fairly extensive wild beach areas with pristine natural landscapes and secluded seascapes.

As excursion routes on the Halkidiki peninsula, trips are organized to local attractions - to the birthplace of Aristotle Stagira, to the ancient city of Olynthos, to the ruins of the temples of Dionysus and Zeus Ammon in the cities of Kallithea and Afitis. One of the popular excursions is a visit to a cave in the vicinity of Petralona, ​​in which the skeleton of an ancient European was discovered, and to the Anthropological Museum located here.

No less exciting will be a trip to the city of Potidea, where there is an ancient canal created in the 1st century connecting the bays of Kassandra and Termankos.

One of the most unusual in shape and mysterious in origin, the Halkidiki peninsula is a real pearl of resort Greece. Protruding into the Aegean Sea, the region is divided into 3 “fingers”, each of which is a wonderful corner of the tropics, with amazing beaches, cozy bays and healing air, saturated with the aroma of pine needles. The names of the “fingers” are associated with ancient Greek mythology, which tells about giant heroes waging a long-term war with the gods of Mount Olympus. The tools used for them were huge stones, which later formed three ledges.

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A stone thrown by the giant Athos and falling into the sea formed the Athos mountain range. The second stone, which formed another “finger” protrusion, was called Sithonia; and the third received the name of King Cassander. The latter is associated with a legend about earthquakes - the goddess Athena, fighting with the giants, threw a stone that covered one of the giants of Engelados. For many centuries he has been trying to free himself from the stone, causing earthquakes with his powerful body movements.

Anyone who visits Halkidiki for the first time, sees the local beauty and feels the beneficial effects of the surrounding ecology, will readily believe in the divine origin of these places. All year round in Halkidiki you can have a wonderful holiday, combining staying on the beach and swimming in the azure waters with visiting unique attractions , of which there are many here.

Despite the huge difference in the territories of Greece and China, Greece is the second country after China in terms of the number of limestone caves. One of the largest and most amazingly beautiful is the Petralona cave, located on the slope of Mount Katsika 270 meters above sea level near the village of the same name. It was discovered in 1959 by one of the villagers, who was exploring the mountain for a source of water and came across a deep crevice. When risky young people who expressed a desire to descend into it found themselves in a spacious dungeon, they were shocked by the peculiar beauty of the cave. Bizarre formations of stalactites and stalagmites, intertwining into fantastic patterns, created a special, uniquely beautiful natural design.

From that time on, a serious examination of the unique dungeon began, as a result of which bones and skulls of people and animals that lived in these places hundreds of thousands of years ago were discovered. Now all these exhibits are displayed in the showcases of the cave, providing irrefutable evidence of many scientific theories about the development of life on Earth. The size of the cave is impressive: if you add up the length of all its halls and corridors, you get at least 2 thousand km. A tour of the mysterious cave labyrinths is a journey into the world of beauty and mystery. Before descending into the cave, you need to remember that this is a dungeon where the temperature is not summer (17 degrees), and you should dress warmly.

It is very interesting to visit the Anthropological Museum, located nearby: its exhibitions are a visual aid for studying human life.

In the popular tourist area of ​​Greece - Thessaly, there are phenomenal mountain cliffs, located in a vertical mass above the city of Kalambaka. Their almost absolute perpendicularity is surprising, but even more striking is the presence of monasteries on the tops of these rocks, erected by ascetic monks in the 14th century. One can only imagine how much effort it took to build the Meteora monasteries in such inaccessible places. "Meteora" translated from Greek means "floating in the air." Indeed, one gets the impression that the white stone buildings under the red roofs are soaring in the heavenly heights.

Of the 24 monasteries, only 6 have survived, one of which is for women, now only 4 have retained monastic status, the rest have become museums of sorts. Due to the influx of tourists, many monks left their habitats so as not to be tempted by worldly vanity. Now there is a steep asphalt road leading to the foot of the holy sites, which is quite extreme to drive along. But the opportunity to plunge into monastic life, to understand and feel the spirit of the people who created such a miracle under heaven is worth it.

The Transfiguration Monastery - the most majestic and grandiose - is located in a valley located at an altitude of 623 m above sea level. It was founded in the 14th century. Athanasius and began to prosper, thanks to the funds invested in it by the Emperor of Serbia Uros, who decided to change the rank of ruler to a monastic one and donate his treasures to the development of the Great Meteor (another name for the monastery).

Entrance to monasteries has its own requirements: you cannot be here to bare your shoulders and legs. Long skirts and trousers are provided to tourists (2 euros) by the monastery services. There is something to see here: ancient books, manuscripts, manuscripts, household items made by monks - everything that transports modern people to the distant past.

The cozy resort town, located on Cape Aion Oros, is shrouded in numerous legends. The gentle waters of the Aegean Sea washing the city, beautiful beaches, and a comfortable climate attract thousands of tourists here. It is no coincidence that the city was founded here in prehistoric times (315 BC). Only in such a blessed place, according to its founder, the philosopher Alexarchus, could multilingual people live, absolutely equal in rights.

An attempt to unite residents speaking different languages ​​in Ouranoupolis (“the city of the sky”) was unsuccessful, but the legend about it remained. It is probably impossible to reliably say that the current resort of Ouranoupolis is the place where they tried to create a new type of linguistic statehood. But the name stuck, the city developed, thanks to the close location of the monastic republic on Mount Athos. All conditions have been created here for a wonderful, relaxing family holiday, including various types of beach and cultural leisure.

If Mount Olympus is the abode of the gods, then Mount Athos is a world-famous monastic republic, a stronghold of world Orthodoxy, uniting male monks from different countries of the planet under the shadow of holiness. 20 monasteries, located at an altitude of 2200 m above sea level, are located on the p/ve of the same name among the fertile subtropical nature. For 15 centuries, Byzantine culture and the highest spirituality have been preserved here, attracting millions of pilgrims, including great, famous personalities, male royalty (it is taboo for women).

Mount Athos is considered the abode of the earthly residence of the Mother of God, which is associated with many beliefs and legends that tell how this place was chosen by the Holy Virgin. Here, it seems, the air itself is saturated with the purity of holiness, Orthodox prayers and sinlessness of thoughts. It is no coincidence that famous movie and pop stars come here to feel this atmosphere of holy innocence. The monastic republic lives according to the Charter established in 1924, according to which all monasteries are under the spiritual jurisdiction of the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Kassandra – a charming peninsula

The western “finger” of Chalkidiki – Kassandra is named after the king, whose father-in-law was the famous Alexander the Great. Active life began here in the 4th century BC, as evidenced by the results of archaeological excavations. Truly paradisiacal nature, the proximity of the sea, clean air, and the extraordinary beauty of the surrounding landscapes attracted the first settlers here, who happily settled in the enchanting area. Here, in relict caves, drawings on the rocks were found, indicating the presence of primitive people on Kassandra. The archaeological complex-museum "Olynthos" displays exhibits illustrating the antiquities of Kassandra.

A fascinating journey can be made through the churches of Kassandra, each of which is associated with the names of ancient Greek gods and holy saints: the Temple of Zeus-Amun and Poseidon, the Sanctuary of Dionysus, the Acropolis of Antigone, the Church of St. Demetrius and other religious sites.

Modern Kassandra is a territory of resort towns and villages, with a well-developed chain of hotels, beach infrastructure, a comfortable climate and uniquely beautiful views. Among them, Neo Moudania, Nea Potidea, Kallithea, Pefkochori, Afitos are very popular. The healing sea air, the cleanliness of the beaches, the amazing landscapes of the peninsula make it the most attractive place for recreation and tourism.

Loutra Pozar – spa resort

The nature of Halkidiki is immensely generous and rich, it has endowed its inhabitants with real treasures, one of which is the natural spa resort of Loutra Pozar. It is located in a cozy place, under the reliable protection of two mountain peaks, blocking the path of cold winds. You need to come here for health: hot thermal springs, mountain air infused with the aromas of mountain herbs, the calm serenity of nature, natural products, without exaggeration, will cure many diseases.

Bathing water has a beneficial effect on the health of the respiratory, nervous and circulatory systems, bones and joints, and skin. Drinking water helps in the treatment of gastrointestinal problems, dissolves excess salts in the body, and improves kidney function. You can take water treatments here all year round. There are many cozy hotels and apartments in Loutra Pozar with relatively low prices. A stay at this resort will give you maximum pleasure from water treatment, walks through amazingly picturesque mountain landscapes, the hospitality of local residents and delicious local cuisine made from the freshest natural products.

The village of Afitos - a symbol of ancient Greece

If you want to visit ancient Hellas in reality, you need to go to the traditional Greek village of Afytos (early name Afitis). Here you can see rare historical monuments of the Neolithic era. In ancient times, Afitis was an independent settlement that had its own currency, which is confirmed by excavations of the Temple of Zeus and the Sanctuary of Dionysus. Locals called Afytos the “stone balcony” for its location on a steep rocky slope jutting into the Aegean Sea.

Already approaching the village from the bay, you can be enchanted once and for all by the fantastic view of the original houses made of white stone, immersed in emerald tropical greenery, interspersed with bright spots of flower beds and lawns; white sand beaches and the Cote d'Azur. For those who are tired of the frantic rhythms of city life, this is a real Eden, where measured tranquility and the magical beauty of nature coexist.

Fans of antiquities can explore the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the sanctuary of Dionysus, and the ancient city of the Neolithic era. The main modern attractions of Afitos are the Church of St. Demetrius, the Ethnographic Museum, the House of the Artist of Parali, the Katsanis Mansion and other interesting objects.

Since ancient times, Halkidiki has been the home of vineyards and olive plantations, as evidenced by ancient manuscripts that mention the names of the first winegrowers and winemakers. On the slopes of Mount Meliton they grew grapes and produced wine. In the 60s of the last century, Janis Karras decided to revive the ancient traditions, and soon the wild vegetation gave way to vineyards.

Now the entire western slope of Meliton up to the Toronei Gulf is covered with the richest vineyards (400 hectares) of the best wine varieties of white and red grapes. The Karras winery produces signature wines under the Slopes of Meliton brand, the taste of which is highly appreciated by wine connoisseurs around the world.

The famous mountain, or rather the mountain range, is the highest point in the northeastern part of Greece. Olympus is familiar to everyone from childhood as the abode of the all-powerful ancient Greek gods, who chose for themselves an inaccessible place under the clouds. How many myths have been created about their lives, how many stories have been invented for movies and cartoons about the amazing, mysterious Olympus! The top of the mountain consists of 6 high peaks, each with its own name: Mitikas (the highest - 2917 m), Skolio, Stefanii, Skala, Agios Antonios, Profitas Ilias (Elijah the Prophet - the lowest - 2803 m). Surrounded by the mythical snow-capped peaks of the Plateau of the Muses and the beautiful alpine meadows located just below.

Location and description of the Halkidiki peninsula

The Greek resort of Halkidiki is located in northern Greece, in the administrative region of Central Macedonia and is washed by the waters of the Aegean Sea. Halkidiki is one of the most environmentally friendly resorts in all of Europe and is very popular among tourists all over the world.
We will talk about the reasons for this popularity in our article.

Important! Tours to Greece for holidays in Halkidiki attract people from year to year with their affordable prices and hold first place among popular beach destinations in Europe. And all kinds of hotel promotions, from early booking to special offers for family holidays from well-known hotel chains, allow our tourists to get a more than decent vacation for quite budget money.

Speaking about Greece, it is difficult not to remember the myths and legends of Ancient Greece, because the description of almost every corner of this country is associated with the names of the Gods of Olympus and the legends about their origin. According to legend, when the gods of Olympus entered into battle with the Titans, the formidable Poseidon lost his trident in the sea. This is how the Halkidiki peninsula arose, consisting of three “fingers” - the peninsulas of Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos - a fantastically beautiful place in Greece!

Traveling along the peninsula, a bewitching sight opens up to your eyes - on the one hand, the azure sea and golden sand, fluffy pine trees and ancient olive trees, on the other - the endless blue sky and snow-capped mountain peaks, shrouded in a light haze.

Olive groves

The Chalkidiki peninsula can deservedly be called a natural reserve and the “lungs” of the whole country. Here you can admire the centuries-old majestic pine trees, olive groves carpeting large areas (some trees here are about five hundred years old!), spreading palm trees and orange trees, and flowers, flowers, flowers...

And most importantly - the purest, transparent, incredibly shaded azure Aegean Sea.

How to get to the resort

It is most convenient to fly to the city of Thessaloniki, or more correctly Thessaloniki. In the spring-summer period, you can take advantage of not only regular flights of Aeroflot, Transaero, Greek Airlines, but also numerous charters. For tourists who prefer the most budget options, there is a choice of connecting flights, for example, through Istanbul.

Climate and natural features

You can come on holiday to Halkidiki from May. At this time it is sunny and warm, the air temperature can warm up to 25°C during the day and drop to 14°-16C at night. Therefore, it is advisable to take warm clothes for walks in the evening. The water temperature is about 20-23 °C and you can already swim. The weather in Halkidiki at this time is pleasant and mild. There are no strong winds, but there are light breezes. The velvet season in Halkidiki begins at the end of August. At this time, it is best to visit these beautiful places, since the sea has warmed up well during the hot summer, and the weather is still warm, but not extremely hot. True, from mid-October the number of rainy days increases, day and night temperatures gradually decrease. The hottest month is July. At this time, daytime temperatures can rise to 30-35*, water 28-30*. Simply amazing!

Features of the resort. Kassandra Peninsula

The Kassandra Peninsula is the most popular holiday destination. Here you will find many hotels for every taste, level and budget - from small and cozy to luxurious and expensive.

The resort of Kassandra Island is suitable for active recreation of young people, families with children, and cheerful and cheerful “pensioners” will have something to do. Hotels can be selected to suit any budget and level of comfort. And in no other place in Greece are there so many different apartments and cozy mini-hotels to accommodate a large family or company!

Here tourists will have many restaurants, shops, taverns and all kinds of entertainment at their disposal. It is especially fun and pleasant to spend time here in the evening among cheerful music, dishes from the freshest seafood and Greek sweets, and drinks, national songs and dances. And it’s especially pleasant - in Greece you won’t find intrusive animation, while cultural and entertainment programs are thought out to the smallest detail.

The nightlife on Kassandra is vibrant! But during the day, don’t forget about siesta - because of the hot weather, it’s customary to rest here from 13:00 to 17:00! In the evening, all the entertainment is at your service!

Features of the resort. Sithonia Island.

The Sithonia Peninsula is the greenest of the three islands. It is popular among tourists for the incredible beauty of its landscapes, luxurious pine trees, olive groves, azure bays, golden beaches and much, much more.

One of the few places in Greece where there are no harmful industries at all, and nothing reminds of scientific and technological progress. However, this does not affect the quality and comfort of the local hotels. This is where the most fashionable hotels with spas and sports and entertainment complexes are located. Many hotels are designed in the style of Greek villages and are perfect for rest and relaxation. And it should be noted that prices for holidays in Sithonia do not “bite” at all. Hotels of similar high level anywhere in Turkey will be much higher.

The Sithonia Peninsula is suitable for lovers of silence, measured relaxation and true connoisseurs of nature. It also seems that there is no time on Sithonia, you don’t feel it, you just get lost and dissolved in it. And sitting at a table in a cozy restaurant or tavern on the seashore, you feel complete peace and joy.

Features of the resort. Athos Island.

The Athos Peninsula is the most famous of the three islands. One of the main shrines of the Christian world since Byzantine times. There used to be forty monasteries here, but today only twenty remain. Visiting Athos is available only to religious men who have received special permission from the spiritual authorities of the city of Ouranoupolis.

Women are strictly prohibited from entering the monastic republic! Well, the laws must be respected and as the men themselves joke, this is the only place on earth that is not accessible to women.

But everyone can take a delightful boat excursion along the western coast of Mount Athos.

From the yacht you can admire eight important monasteries, including the Russian one - St. Panteleimon, as well as see caves, cells and monasteries.

In the city of Ouranoupolis itself and on the Athos peninsula there is all the necessary infrastructure for recreation and tourism. At your service are hotels of any level and comfort, and many taverns and restaurants with national cuisine, and souvenir shops. And yet, Mount Athos is not as noisy and crowded as Kassandra - this is due to the proximity of the monasteries and the specificity of the place.

Excursions

What excursions can you visit while relaxing on the Halkidiki peninsula?

From Kassandra Island you can go:

• To the Petralona Cave in Neo Moudania, where traces of prehistoric man (200,000 years old) were found.
• In the Archaeological complex "Olynthos Museum" - the ancient city of Olynthos
• To the Byzantine tower in Nea Fokia.
• At the Folklore Museums in Neo Moudania and Afytos.
• In the Sanctuary of Amon Zeus and Poseidon in Afitos.
• To the Acropolis of Antigone in Nea Kalikratia.

From the Sithonia Peninsula it is more convenient to see:

• Remains of ancient fortifications on the site of the ancient city of Toroni.
• Winery and wine cellars (get to know the production and aging technology of the best wines in Greece and, of course, go to a tasting).
• Archaeological and folklore museums in Polygoros.
• National evening at a tavern in Vourvourou.

And, of course, take an unforgettable trip to Meteora (we will talk about this amazing excursion in a separate article) and a fur coat tour to the factories of Kastoria, which are offered from any resort on the Halkidiki peninsula.

Managers of the Planet Travel company are always ready to advise our tourists in detail on holidays in Greece, choose a comfortable hotel, provide transfers, book convenient air travel and recommend interesting excursions.

We wish you an unforgettable holiday on the Aegean coast!

Resorts of the Kassandra Peninsula

Kassandra is the westernmost “finger” of the Halkidiki peninsula and, without a doubt, the most popular holiday destination, and thoroughly tours to hotels in Greece because of the three “fingers” Kassandra is closest to the city of Thessaloniki.

Many will undoubtedly be interested in spending part of their time in the town of Loutra (gr. baths), which is famous for its healing waters. It is located 5 km from the village of Aya Paraskevi.

The resort of Nea Moudania stretches approximately 57 km from Thessaloniki. About 6,500 people live here. This territory is distinguished by fertile lands and an abundance of apricot, olive and citrus orchards. The sandy beach of Nea Moudania also has everything you need for water sports.

Nea Potidea is located 60 km from Thessaloniki. The modern village appeared in 1922. The population is approximately 1,500 people. The large sand and pebble beach of the resort has the necessary tourist equipment.

The resort of Sani is located 70 km from Thessaloniki on the site of an ancient settlement. Today it is one of the most famous tourist areas in Greece, often called the Greek "Monte Carlo". In summer, the picturesque harbor of the resort is filled with expensive yachts arriving here on tours to hotels in Greece, namely its mainland. And since 1992, the annual Sani Festival has been held in Sani.

Many consider Afitos one of the most beautiful resorts on the Kassandra Peninsula. The ancient village with its cobbled streets overlooks the white sandy bay. The two long sandy beaches of Afitos are decorated with low cliffs and small coves where you can retire from the hustle and bustle.

Kallithea is one of the most popular resorts on the Kassandra Peninsula, located 80 km from Thessaloniki. The resort's population is approximately 500 people. The coast of the resort is bordered by pine trees. The beach is distinguished by light sand and shallow sea.

90 km from Thessaloniki is the resort of Kriopigi. The main attraction of this place is the long sandy beach. The shallow sea makes it a great place for a family holiday. In addition, the resort has everything necessary for water sports.

Hanioti is a very popular resort, located about 95 km from Thessaloniki. It enjoys well-deserved success among both couples and families. Here you can wander around the small squares and sit in one of the small parks. The long sandy beach of Hanioti also has facilities for various water sports.

The village of Pefkohori is located 100 km from Thessaloniki. Narrow streets connect the old village with the new resort. The sandy beach of Pefkohori stretches for 300 m.

Paliouri is the southernmost resort of the Kassandra Peninsula. The long sandy beach and shallow sea make Paliouri a good holiday destination for young people and families with children.

Resorts of the Sithonia Peninsula

If we compare the Sithonia and Kassandra peninsulas, we should note the more peaceful and calm atmosphere of the Sithonia peninsula. Lovers of a leisurely pace and a relaxing holiday will be pleased with the number of secluded beaches and picturesque coves.

Small, but no less attractive, the resort of Psakoudia is inhabited by approximately 120 people. The sand and pebble beach is set against a backdrop of pine forests and olive groves. Fans of a quiet and secluded holiday will be able to find a comfortable sandy cove hidden by rocks.

South of Psakoudia there is another small resort Metamorfosi. It is separated from Thessaloniki by 100 km. The village itself is built on a hill surrounded by greenery. Pine trees line the resort's sandy beach, which has facilities for some water sports.

The resort village of Nikiti is one of the oldest settlements on the Halkidiki peninsula. Its traditional houses are located in a pine forest. Pine trees also border the local beach with soft sand and a gentle entrance to the sea.

Porto Koufo is the southernmost resort of the Sithonia Peninsula, 140 km from Thessaloniki. Huge steep cliffs surround a natural cove and local sand and pebble beach.

120 km from Thessaloniki is the popular resort of Vourvourou, surrounded by pine forests and olive groves. The small beach with white sand and shallow sea has all the necessary amenities for a carefree pastime.

Sarti is located about 130 km from Thessaloniki, which is possibly located on the site of an ancient settlement of the same name. The wide, long sandy beach of Sarti is open to the wind, so surfers can often be seen here. From here a breathtaking panorama of Mount Athos opens.

Resorts of the Athos Peninsula

Athos is the third and probably the most unusual of the three “fingers” of the Halkidiki peninsula. Most of it is closed to the public and to get there you need to obtain a special permit. We are talking about the “Holy Mountain” (“Aion Oros”). Here is the world's only independent Orthodox monastic republic, numbering about 20 active monasteries. Among them is the Russian monastery of St. Panteleimon. Women's access to the mountain is strictly prohibited.

In the part of the peninsula that is open to the public, one can, first of all, highlight the resort of Ouranoupoli, which translated from Greek means “heavenly city”. It is separated from Thessaloniki by 130 km. It is from here that ships depart for the “Holy Mountain”. There are also several sandy beaches here.

Nea Roda is located in the narrowest part of the peninsula, approximately 125 km from Thessaloniki. Picturesque traditional houses, surrounded by flowers, line the narrow streets of the village. And the sandy beach has facilities for water sports.

The resort of Ierissos is one of the largest villages on the Athos peninsula with a population of about 3,000 people. Its beach is distinguished by a gentle entrance to the sea and delicate golden sand.