Halkidiki holidays

Halkidiki holidays

Deals from £270 per person

To the north of Greece’s mainland, Halkidiki holidays are celebrated for their little-known resorts bursting with traditional charm. Made up of three peninsulas - Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos - each has something different to offer. Relax on beautiful bays fronted by serene waters in Sithonia. Get lost in coastal villages hiding historical must-sees in Kassandra. Or discover the UNESCO beauty of Mount Athos and its 20 monasteries. 

Some of the best beaches in the Med

Over 500 kms of coastline sprinkled with 70 Blue Flag beaches - you won’t struggle finding a place to lay your towel in Halkidiki. Sani Beach is a Kassandra favourite with its long strip of sand and nearby facilities, while Kallithea is the perfect spot for a swim thanks to its bath-warm shallows.

Over in Sithonia, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto a paradise island when you arrive at Karydi Beach. The whitest sand spilling into emerald water - It’s pretty photogenic!  Kavourotripes (or Orange Beach) is another must-visit. Not only are its waters jaw-droppingly beautiful, but its views stretch all the way to Mt. Athos, which are made all the more beautiful by the surrounding white rocks and pine trees. 

A treasure trove of history & culture

You may not be able to stay on Mt. Athos, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay it a visit. It's the second-most important religious place of pilgrimage, after Jerusalem with only 100 orthodox pilgrims and 10 non-orthodox visitors allowed per day (excluding women and children). Want to tick it off your bucket list? Boat tours are the most popular way to see these beautiful monasteries. 

Close to the shores of Toroneos Gulf, Ancient Olynthus is a historical must-see for its amazing mosaic floors dating back to 5th century BC. But you can’t come all this way without discovering the birthplace of Aristotle in Stagira. Nearby, you’ll also find Aristotle’s Park, which is home to 12 interactive instruments including a solar clock. 

Halkidiki’s long history is also on show in its beautiful time-stamped villages. Found on Kassandra peninsula, wander the seaside village of Afytos admiring its stone-built houses and 18th-century church, before taking in its amazing Gulf of Toroneos views. Or head to Parthenonas on Sithonia. High up on the slopes of Mount Itamos, walk along its pretty paved streets in search of its Folklore Museum. 

The hidden beauty of Northern Greece

Holidays to Halkidiki also promise plenty of natural wonders too. Keen hikers will be in their element with tons to choose from including Mount Itamos Trail with its pretty pinewoods, Varvara Waterfall Trail with its cascading water, and Petralona Cave Trail with its Stalactites and stalagmites.

If you’ve come to Greece to spot the wildlife, the Agios Mamas and Sani Wetlands are home to over 200 species of birds. Head here during spring to see flamingos splashing in the water. If bird-watching isn’t your thing, we’re pretty sure you’ll love the Thermal Spa Agia Paraskevi - perfect for spa lovers seeking a natural pampering session. Dip in its thermal springs celebrated for their healing properties as you enjoy clifftop views over the Aegean. 
 

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Athens | CorfuCrete | Halkidiki | KalamataKefaloniaKos | Lefkas | LesbosMykonos | Olympius Riviera | PargaRhodes | SantoriniSkiathos | ThassosZante 

 

Map of Halkidiki

world_map
9℃ - 33℃

Halkidiki weather is made up of hot, dry summers and mild winters. 

View live forecast

Around 3 hours
The closest airport is the International Airport of Thessaloniki (SKG), and takes around an hour to reach Halkidiki.

Halkidiki is best for...

Foodies: Sample a taste of Northern Greece with tavernas serving the tastiest locally-caught seafood, from grilled octopus to fried calamari, and the most delicious seafood pastas. 

Watersports fans: Whether it’s a relaxing kayak ride, some snorkelling fun, or an exhilarating windsurfing trip - there’s so many wet activities at your fingertips. 

History buffs: Explore Greece's oldest mosaics or discover Aristotle’s birthplace and its fascinating fortifications. 

Fast facts for Halkidiki

Language: The official language is Greek, although English is widely spoken across the main tourist regions. If you plan on venturing off the beaten track, it might be a good idea to have Google Translate to hand. 

Currency: The currency used is the Euro (€).

Local time: Halkidiki is 2 hours ahead of GMT/UK time.

Fly to: International Airport of Thessaloniki (SKG), which is around an hour from Halkidiki by car or taxi. It may take a little longer depending where in Halkidiki you’re staying. 

Flight time from the UK: The flight time to Halkidiki is around 3 hours and 20 minutes. 

Tourist information: Further tourist information can be found at the official website for tourism in Halkidiki.

Visa and Health: Before you travel, check the latest advice from The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Getting around Halkidiki

By bus: Travelling by bus is one of the most wallet-friendly ways to see the sights, while experiencing a taste of local life. You’ll find central bus stations in Polygyros, Nea Moudania, Neos Marmaras, and near the airport of Thessaloniki.

By hire car: If you don’t mind taking to the roads, a hire car is a great option not only for a quick airport transfer, but you can travel where you want when you want. Plus, it means you can hit those harder-to-reach spots, which often means fewer tourists too.

By taxi: If you’re not confident enough to drive in Greece but want to get from A to B as quickly as possible, then a taxi is the next best option. Although a little expensive, you won’t have a problem catching a ride in most main resorts.
 

Events in Halkidiki

Sani Festival: As one of Halkidiki most-loved summer festivals, head here from July to August to catch the many concerts, shows and art exhibitions. 

Feast of Agios Mamas: This religious event dates all the way back to the Byzantine era. Visit at the beginning of September for a week of plate smashing, fairground rides, traditional music, and plenty of yummy Greek food.

Halkidiki safety and security

For up to date advice on travelling to Halkidiki , please visit the FCDO website. 

Halkidiki weather


If you want to experience the best of the weather in Halkidiki, we suggest heading here between the months of June and September when you can make the most of its beautiful beaches. Love it hot? Then July is your month with highs often hitting a toasty 33°C and 12 hours of sunshine.

If you don’t mind it being a little cooler, it may be a good idea to head here during spring and autumn when the weather is still warm but the crowds are thinner. January and February are the coldest months with averages plummeting to a chilly 9°C. 
 

Best hotels in Halkidiki

Places similar to Halkidiki to visit