Not only are the numerous Greek islands a popular holiday destination, the Chalkidiki peninsula is also playing an increasingly important role with tourists. It is a region in the north of Greece known for its three finger-like headlands.
In addition to great beaches, there are also beautiful places and cultural highlights to discover on Chalkidiki. The sun-drenched region is an absolute trend destination in Greece and offers holiday delights for every taste.
In the following we present you the most exciting tours, the most beautiful attractions and the best sights in Chalkidiki.
1. Afitos village
Probably the most beautiful village on Kassandra is the village of Afitos. About 100 kilometers from Thessaloniki, Afitos is not only known for beautiful beaches. But the village center is also definitely worth a visit. Here you will find numerous well-preserved stone houses from the 18th century and the church with its wooden roof is a popular photo opportunity.
The child-friendly beach of Afitos is only a few minutes’ walk from the village center. Overall, Afitos is a small, but very idyllic holiday destination that is ideally suited for a relaxing holiday far away from mass tourism. Here you will only find a few hotel castles, but rather small and romantic hotels as well as children’s hotels.
2. Mount Athos
The 2,033 meter high Mount Athos is one of the tourist magnets in Chalkidiki for a reason. This mountain is located in the Athos region of the same name, which is the third and most easterly finger of the Chakidiki region. Athos is absolutely unique because it is an autonomous monastic republic. This region is particularly interesting for pilgrims, as you will find a large number of monasteries here.
A special feature: Mount Athos can only be visited by men; Women are not allowed here. Nevertheless, after Jerusalem, it is the second most important place of pilgrimage for millions of Christians. The oldest monastery in the region is the Megisti Lavra monastery; this was built in 962 AD. From this monastery, it is not far to the top of the mountain, where a fantastic panoramic view over the northern Aegean awaits you.
3. Sani Marina
Sani Marina is a marina that is not far from numerous popular hotel buildings. If you would like to discover luxury yachts up close, you’ve come to the right place. Of course, you can also book sailing excursions or motorboat excursions from here.
The port is also one of the sights of Chalkidiki because there is a noble promenade with numerous shops, bars and cafes. Here you will find more upscale cuisine and in the shops there are well-known designers such as Calvin Klein or Michael Kors waiting for more affluent customers.
4. Trani Ammouda Beach
Trani Ammouda Beach is another of the most popular attractions in Chalkdiki. It is a particularly large and long beach, so you can always find a quiet spot here. Trani Ammouda Beach is also very popular with locals.
Turquoise-blue and gently sloping water makes this beach very popular, especially with families, especially since there are parking spaces right on the beach. Equipped with the Blue Flag, Trani Ammouda Beach also promises first-class water quality. A few bars and cafés located directly on the beach take care of your physical well-being.
5. Lagomandra Beach
The beach of Lagomandra is a fine sandy bay and truly a paradise on earth. Located between Neos Marmaras and Nikitis, you will also find a beautiful pine forest here, which provides shade in summer. Fantastic white sand and crystal clear water are the two characteristics that make the beach of Lagomandra so popular.
It is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Chalkidiki, especially since it is also well developed for tourists. A beach bar, toilets and showers are available. It is also possible to rent motor boats or to practice various other water sports. This popular beach is about five kilometers away from the town of Neos Marmaras.
6. Agia Kyriaki Bay
If you visit the bay of Agia Kyriaki, you will discover one of the most beautiful beaches in Chalkidiki. Located in a small and sheltered bay, this beach primarily impresses with its white sand.
Here you almost feel like you are in paradise, especially since you can enjoy a unique view. When the visibility is good, you can see the island of Kelyfos, which is shaped like a turtle.
7. Excursion to Meteora
From Theassoloniki a trip to Meteora is worthwhile. This place is primarily known for its floating monasteries. There were once 24 of these monasteries in the region; today there are still six buildings that are inhabited by nuns and monks. The monasteries, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, seem to float on rocks and are truly impressive to look at.
The most famous monastery is the Agia Triada monastery, because a James Bond film has already been shot here. Most of the monasteries can be visited daily between 9 am and 6 pm; however, you should think of suitable clothing.
8. Neos Marmaras
Neos Marmaras is a small provincial town that extends over a total of four hills of the Itamo massif. You can definitely experience southern flair and the hospitality of the Greeks here, because the place is excellently developed for tourism. From the port of the small town you can not only take boat tours to the neighboring peninsula of Athos, the center is also not to be missed.
Here you can buy one or the other nice souvenir or dine in typical Greek style in one of the taverns. In and around Neos Marmaras you will find numerous beaches that ensure a relaxing day at the beach with their crystal clear water. The center of Sithonias is also suitable for everyone who loves water sports of all kinds.
9. Petralona stalactite cave
What many do not know: Greece is the country with the largest number of underground caves after China. You should definitely book a guided tour through the stalactite cave at Petralona during your holiday in Chalkidiki. With a total length of 2,000 meters and an area of more than 10,000 square meters, this is one of the largest in the country and is an important attraction in Chalkidiki.
The Petralona stalactite cave is located about 35 kilometers from Thessaloniki and is therefore ideal for a day trip from here. Inside you will not only discover the typical stalactites and stalagmites, but also very unusual stone formations. Furthermore, you have the opportunity to visit a stone age museum. The entrance fee for the cave and museum is around seven euros.
10. Orange Beach
The list of the most beautiful beaches in Halkidiki is certainly endless. It is essential to mention Orange Beach, which is located on the east coast of Sithonia in Chalkidiki. More precisely, there are several small sandy beaches that are lined up between individual rocky bays.
Here you can still find one or two quiet spots even in the main season. This beach not only impresses with its crystal clear water, you can also look directly at Mount Athos from here. This beach is also suitable for families with small children, as the water remains shallow for a long time.
