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 | Corfu | Crete | Halkidiki | Kalamata | Kefalonia | Kos | Lefkas | Lesbos | Mykonos | Olympius Riviera | Parga | Rhodes | Santorini | Skiathos | Thassos | Zante