Are you traveling to Halkidiki this summer and wondering what activities you could do? Fear not, here you can find the top 5 things you can do in your summer holidays!
Located in the northern part of Greece, Halkidiki is famous for its three peninsulas known as “the three legs,” Kassandra Peninsula, Sithonia Peninsula, and Mount Athos.
The Kassandra peninsula is the main tourist destination, while Mount Athos is a World Heritage Site and one of the holiest places in Greece. Sithonia peninsula in Halkidiki features some of the best beaches in the region.
Halkidiki may not be as famous as Greece’s islands or big cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, but it is an incredible region with stunning beaches, nature, traditional villages, and rich history.
Let’s look at the top 5 things you can do in Halkidiki.
Visit the Byzantine Tower of Nea Fokea
The Tower is located in the village of Nea Fokea and dates back to 1407. It stands 17 meters high, and originally it was built to protect the farmers of St. Paul. When visiting the Byzantine Tower, make sure to visit Agioi Apostoloi, built in 1868.
Look for the 20km underground corridor, one of the more unique places to visit in Halkidiki. It is said that St. Paul felt that his life was in danger, so he created and moved underground.
Take a cruise to Mount Athos
Mount Athos is home to many monks and more than seven monasteries. The easier way to see Mount Athos Monasteries is on a cruise. The cruise starts in Ormos Panagias, Sithonia, and the boat takes you as close as you can get to see one by one the gigantic monasteries. The ship also stops in Ouranoupolis, a beautiful village with old houses and a white tower guarding it.
Unfortunately, women are not allowed on that territory, so if you are traveling as a couple, hence if you are a mixed group, it is better to cruise around Mount Athos rather than visit.
Enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
Halkidiki is considered to have the best beaches in Greece. Every beach has beautiful azure waters and incredible landscapes. In Sarti, there is a perfect view of Mount Athos, and in the southern part of the peninsula, you can find secret beaches. For crystal-clear waters, go to Vourvourou or Kalogria beach, and both have soft sand and emerald green water. For a faster lifestyle, enjoy the beach at the resorts of Kallithea, Kriopigi, or Hanioti. If you wish to visit a beautiful isolated beach, visit Paliouri, a beach near the top of Kassandra.
Explore Petralona Cave
Just outside the village of Petralona, you will find a fascinating cave that houses fossils that are 700,000 years old. In 1959 the remains of a prehistoric man were found by villagers. It also houses other fossils of elephants, rhinos, and panthers. Take a tour and marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Visit traditional villages
Around Halkidiki, you will find beautiful traditional villages. A popular destination is the village of Afitos. Stroll through Afitos old town built on a cliff above Toroneos bay. It offers a breath-taking view of the sea.
You can wander the narrow streets, admire the traditional houses built from stone and have lunch at a local restaurant with a view. Other villages you could visit around Le Grand Reve are Arnea, Agios Nikolaos, Parthenonas, and Olynthos.