Halkidiki

If you’re visiting in the summer, top of your list of things to do in Halkidiki will likely be finding your favourite beach. And with so many to choose from – organised or secluded – you’ll be spoiled for choice, whichever coastline you find yourself on. But Halkidiki is far more than a beach destination.

Traditional villages (both inland and coastal) offer a taste of authenticity and slow living. Arnea and Taxiarchis sit on the slopes of Mount Holomontas in Central Halkidiki, where forest trails, cool air and hearty mountain food are part of everyday life. In Kassandra, stone-built Afytos overlooks the Toroneos Gulf, while in Sithonia, Parthenonas and the old settlement of Nikiti blend natural beauty with traditional Macedonian architecture. All are among the best places to visit in Halkidiki. Many villages host summer festivals with music and dancing, as well as artisan workshops where you can see local pottery, weaving and woodcarving techniques.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are endless opportunities for hiking, cycling and water sports. You can kayak through sheltered bays and snorkel off rocky outcrops. And cultural experiences include Ancient Stagira, the birthplace of Aristotle. Nearby, Aristotle’s Park features interactive exhibits inspired by Aristotle’s work in physics and nature. Elsewhere, you can explore the Petralona Cave and visit the ancient city of Olynthos, which offers an insight into Classical-era urban planning. And from Tripiti, just before Ouranoupoli and the Mount Athos peninsula, you can visit Halkidiki’s only inhabited island, Ammouliani. The pace of life is even more laid-back than on the mainland, with a handful of tavernas and pristine beaches.

There are vineyards across Halkidiki, not just in Central Halkidiki but in the hills of Kassandra and on the slopes of Mount Meliton, in Sithonia. At the monasteries of Mount Athos, wine has been made for centuries. Aristotle himself mentioned Limnio, an ancient grape still grown in Halkidiki, alongside varieties like Assyrtiko, Malagouzia, Roditis and Xinomavro.

From Ouranoupolis, boat tours skirt the coastline of Mount Athos, offering views of its centuries-old monasteries. Back in Ouranoupolis, you can end the day with a seafood meal by the sea.

You can look forward to some of the most exotic beaches in Greece – sandy, pine-fringed and often lapped by the kind of turquoise water you’d expect to see in the islands. Whether you’re in the mood for a swimming spot with all the facilities for a full day by the sea or a tranquil cove, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches in Halkidiki.

Kassandra is home to some of Halkidiki’s most accessible and best-known beaches, ideal for families and anyone looking for a choice of beach bars, seaside tavernas and water sports. On Kallithea’s eastern coast, Hanioti and Pefkochori are popular for their amenities and buzzing summer vibe. Nearby, Glarokavos blends organised comfort with a more natural setting. And over on Kassandra’s west coast, Possidi offers long stretches of golden sand and views of Mount Olympus across the sea.

In Sithonia, the scenery becomes more rugged and unspoiled. The coastline here is dotted with pine-shaded coves and pockets of bright sand. Kavourotripes beach is followed by a series of small bays hidden among sculpted rocks and trees, and Vourvourou beach is another favourite, with shallow, blue-green water and the added bonus of boat hire to nearby Diaporos island, a quiet paradise of coves and lagoons. Other gems include Sarti, Kalogria, Karidi and Trani Ammouda – each with its own mix of soft sand, natural beauty and space to unwind.

Ammouliani island is home to beaches like Alykes, with powdery sand and calm, shallow water perfect for swimming. And on the eastern coast, Ouranoupoli offers quiet stretches of beach backed by olive groves and views across to Mount Athos.

Wherever you are in Halkidiki, there’s a beach that fits your mood—whether it’s sunlounger and cocktail, or towel in the sand with nothing but the sound of waves.

Discover the best beaches in Halkidiki

As one of northern Greece’s most popular summer destinations, Halkidiki is at its busiest in July and August, when the beaches, resorts and seaside towns are full of life. The weather is hot and dry, and the sea is warm – perfect for swimming, sunbathing and water sports. But if you’re after fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace, the best time to visit Halkidiki is in May-June or September-October, when the weather is still warm, the sea is inviting, and the landscape is lush and green.

Spring and autumn are also ideal for hiking and exploring villages and vineyards, especially in Central Halkidiki, where cooler temperatures and forested trails make outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Halkidiki is easy to reach, especially from Thessaloniki, northern Greece’s main city and transport hub.

• By Air: The closest airport is Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG), which receives year-round domestic and international flights. From the airport, it’s around 70km (40 minutes) to the Kassandra peninsula, 110km (1.5 hours) to the northern part of Sithonia, and 140km (2 hours) to Ouranoupoli, the gateway to Mount Athos.
• By Road: From Thessaloniki, Halkidiki is easily reached by car or intercity KTEL buses, with direct routes to popular towns and resorts across Kassandra, Sithonia and eastern Halkidiki. Hiring a car gives you the most flexibility and is ideal for exploring remote beaches and inland villages. Roads are in good condition, and the main resorts are all within easy driving distance.