Attractions Halkidiki – 25 most interesting places
One of the most unusual in form and mysterious in origin, the peninsula of Halkidiki is a real pearl of resort Greece. The port jutting out into the Aegean Sea is divided into 3 “fingers”, each of which is a wonderful corner of the paradise tropics, with amazing beaches, cozy bays and healing air, saturated with the aroma of pine needles. The names of the “fingers” are associated with ancient Greek mythology, which tells of giant heroes waging a long-term war with the gods of Mount Olympus. Huge stones served as a tool for them, which later formed three ledges. Let's talk about the most popular attractions of Halkidiki.
Cave of Petralona
Despite the huge difference in the territories of Greece and China, Greece is the second country after China in terms of the number of limestone caves. One of the largest and most amazing in beauty is the Petralona Cave, located on the slope of Mount Katsika, 270 meters above sea level, not far from the village of the same name. It was opened in 1959 by one of the villagers, who explored the mountain for a source of water and stumbled upon a deep crevice.
When the risky young people, who expressed a desire to go down into it, found themselves in a spacious dungeon, they were shocked by the peculiar beauty of the cave. Bizarre formations of stalactites and stalagmites, intertwined in fantastic patterns, created a special, uniquely beautiful natural design. Since that time, a serious examination of the unique dungeon began, as a result of which the bones and skulls of people and animals that lived in these places hundreds of thousands of years ago were discovered.
Now all these exhibits are exhibited in the showcases of the cave, being irrefutable proof of many scientific theories about the development of life on Earth. The dimensions of the cave are impressive: if you add together the length of all its halls and corridors, you get at least 2 thousand km. An excursion through the mysterious cave labyrinths is a journey into the world of beauty and mystery. Before descending into the cave, you need to remember that this is a dungeon where the temperature is not summer (17 degrees), and you should dress warmly.
It is very interesting to visit the Anthropological Museum, located nearby: its expositions are a visual aid for studying human life.
Monasteries of Meteora
In the popular tourist region of Greece – Thessaly, there are phenomenal mountain cliffs, located in a vertical bulk above the city of Kalambaka. Their almost absolute perpendicularity is surprising, but even more striking is the presence on the tops of these rocks of monasteries erected by ascetic monks in the 14th century. It remains only to guess how much effort it took to build Meteora monasteries in such hard-to-reach places.
“Meteora” in translation from Greek sounds like “soaring in the air.” Indeed, one gets the impression that white-stone buildings under red roofs are hovering in the heavenly heights. Of the 24 monasteries, only 6 have survived, one of which is female, now only 4 have preserved their monastic status, the rest have become original museums. Due to the influx of tourists, many monks left their habitats so as not to tempt themselves with worldly fuss.
Now a steep paved road leads to the foot of the holy objects, which is quite extreme to drive on. But the opportunity to plunge into the monastic life, to understand and feel the spirit of the people who created such a miracle under heaven, is worth it. The Transfiguration Monastery – the most majestic and grandiose – is located in a valley located at an altitude of 623 m above sea level. It was founded in the 14th century.
Athanasius and began to prosper, thanks to the funds invested in him by the emperor of Serbia Uros, who decided to change the rank of ruler to a monastic one and donate his treasures to the development of the Great Meteor (another name for the monastery). The entrance to the monasteries has its own requirements: you can't bare your shoulders and legs here. Long skirts and trousers are provided to tourists by the services of the monastery. There is something to see here: ancient books, manuscripts, manuscripts, household items made by monks – everything that takes modern people into the distant past.
Uranopolis
A cozy resort town, located on Cape Aion Oros, is shrouded in numerous legends. The gentle waters of the Aegean Sea, washing the city, beautiful beaches, comfortable climate attract thousands of tourists here. It is no coincidence that the city was founded here in prehistoric times (315 BC). Only in such a blessed place, according to its founder, the philosopher Alexarchus, could multilingual people live, absolutely equal in rights.
An attempt to unite in Ouranopolis (“the city of heaven”) inhabitants speaking different languages was unsuccessful, but the legend about this remained. Probably, it is impossible to reliably state that the current resort of Ouranoupolis is the place where they tried to create a new type of linguistic statehood. But the name stuck, the city developed, thanks to the proximity of the monastic republic to the city of Athos. It has all the conditions for a wonderful relaxing family holiday, providing for various types of beach and cultural activities.
Mount Athos
If Mount Olympus is the abode of the gods, then Mount Athos is a world-famous monastic republic, a stronghold of world Orthodoxy, uniting under the shadow of holiness male monks from different countries of the planet. 20 monasteries, located at an altitude of 2200 m above sea level, are located on the peninsula of the same name among the fertile subtropical nature. For 15 centuries, Byzantine culture and the highest spirituality have been preserved here, attracting millions of pilgrims here, including great, famous personalities, male royals (for women, this is a taboo).
Mount Athos is considered the abode of the earthly stay of the Mother of God, which is associated with many beliefs and legends that tell how this place was chosen by the Holy Virgin. Here, it seems, the very air is saturated with the purity of holiness, Orthodox prayers and the sinlessness of thoughts. It is no coincidence that famous movie and pop stars come here to feel this atmosphere of holy purity. The monastic republic lives according to the Charter, established in 1924, according to which all monasteries are under the spiritual jurisdiction of the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Cassandra
The western “finger” of Halkidiki – Kassandra bears the name of the king, whose father-in-law was the famous Alexander the Great. Active life began here in the 4th century BC, as evidenced by the results of archaeological excavations. Truly heavenly nature, the proximity of the sea, the purest air, the extraordinary beauty of the surrounding landscapes attracted the first settlers here, who happily settled in the enchanting area.
Here, in relic caves, drawings on the rocks were found, indicating the presence of primitive people on Kassandra. The archaeological complex-museum “Olinth” presents exhibits illustrating the antiquities of Kassandra. A fascinating journey can be made through the churches of Kassandra, each of which is associated with the names of ancient Greek gods and saints: the Temple of Zeus-Amon and Poseidon, the Sanctuary of Dionysus, the Acropolis of Antigone, the Church of St. Demetrius and other religious sites.
Modern Kassandra is a territory of resort towns and villages, with a well-developed network of hotels, beach infrastructure, a comfortable climate and uniquely beautiful views. Among them, Neo Moudania, Nea Potidea, Kallithea, Pefkohori, Afytos are very popular. Healing sea air, clean beaches, amazing landscapes of the peninsula make it the most attractive place for recreation and tourism.
Lutra Pozar
The nature of Halkidiki is immensely generous and rich, it endowed the inhabitants with real treasures, one of which is the natural spa resort of Loutra Pozar. It is located in a cozy place, under the reliable protection of two mountain peaks, blocking the path of cold winds. You need to come here for health: hot thermal springs, mountain air infused with the aromas of mountain herbs, calm serenity of nature, natural products, without exaggeration, will cure many diseases.
Bathing water has a beneficial effect on the improvement of the respiratory, nervous and circulatory systems, bones and joints, and skin. Drinking water helps in the treatment of gastrointestinal problems, dissolves excess salts in the body, improves kidney function. You can take water procedures here all year round. In Loutra Pozare there are many cozy hotels, apartments with relatively low prices. Staying at this resort will give you the maximum pleasure from water treatment, from walking through amazingly picturesque mountain landscapes, from the hospitality of local residents and delicious local cuisine from the freshest natural products.
Afitos
This town is extremely well located – in the very center of the Kassandra peninsula. It is convenient to get out of it for small excursions throughout Halkidiki. Afitos was chosen not only by travelers, but also by artists. Amazing architecture and wonderful views just ask for the canvas. Afytos has been known since antiquity. Aritostel, the father of history Herodotus, and Thucydides wrote about him. They even used their own coins.
In the 19th century, Greece was on fire with the national liberation struggle, and the town was abandoned for some time. Residents took refuge in quieter places. In 1827, Afitos experienced a revival – its inhabitants returned. Walking along the streets, paved with stone, you can feel that time has stopped here.
In this town there is a unique temple, which is the only one of its kind in Halkidiki – the temple of St. Demetrius. It is a domed basilica. Beautiful mansions – families Katsanis, Galani, Aletra – invariably attract tourists. All guests must visit the Vrachos observation deck, from which you can admire the most beautiful views. The Acropolis of Koutsomilo also deserves attention.
Mount Olympus
The famous mountain, or rather, the mountain range, is the highest point in the northeastern part of Greece. Olympus is familiar to everyone since childhood as the abode of the all-powerful ancient Greek gods, who have chosen for themselves an inaccessible place under the clouds. How many myths have been built about their life, how many plots have been invented for movies and cartoons about the amazing, mysterious Olympus!
The top of the mountain consists of 6 high peaks that have their own name: Mitikas (the highest – 2917 m), Skolio, Stephanie, Skala, Agios Antonios, Profitas Ilias (Ilya the Prophet – the lowest – 2803 m). Surrounded by the mythical snow-capped peaks of the Plateau of Muses and beautiful alpine meadows located just below. According to legend, people from ancient times tried to climb Mount Olympus in order to be closer to the gods, although mere mortals were strictly forbidden to enter there. The doorkeepers of the ora (goddesses of the seasons) vigilantly guarded the approaches to the mountain.
To frighten those who aspired to Olympus, they thickened clouds over it, sent howling hurricane winds. Then people erected at one of the foothills the city of Dion in honor of the main Olympic god Zeus. In reality, its ruins were discovered in 1806, and this once again confirms that not all myths arise from scratch. Now a historical fact is the stay in Dion of A. Macedon, from where he began to perform his first feats.
Another evidence of a person’s desire to be closer to the divine peaks is the ancient monasteries of St. Dionysius (at a height of 820 m) and the Holy Trinity, built here in the 14th century. Olympus with all its surrounding environs has been declared a national park in order to preserve the unique ecology, flora and fauna in its original form.
Nea-Fokea
This small town officially dates back to 1924, but people have lived in these places since antiquity. Near Nea Fokea was the village of St. Paul. It was destroyed in the 15th century. The village got its name not by chance. According to legend, the apostle Paul once preached here. On the outskirts of the town, a cave has been preserved, where he hid from his pursuers, and a spring, near which local residents gathered for sermon and baptism.
In front of the cave, there is now a small chapel, from which a narrow passage leads deeper into the cave. Now this place is often visited by tourists and pilgrims. In the 15th century, the site of the monastery of St. Paul was located on the territory of the town. Metokh is a church or a small monastery that is subordinate to a larger monastery.
To protect the monks in the turbulent Middle Ages, a Byzantine Tower was erected on an open high spot on the coast, which still adorns the landscape. Below it is a very interesting church, consecrated in honor of the twelve apostles. In the town you can find old houses where the monastery workers used to live.
Nea-Potidea
In the narrowest part of the Kassandra peninsula, the ancient town of Nea Potidea is comfortably located. Even before our era, there was an important policy here, which played an important role in Halkidiki. Centuries later, in 1430, the territory was captured by the Turks, who razed most of the city to the ground. Now tourists can feel the charm and power of antiquity, examining the ruins of an ancient fortress.
Parts of the wall, which was built under Justinian, have also been preserved. She protected the town from the canal that connects the Kassandra peninsula with the mainland. Previously, Nea Potidea bore the proud name of Cassandra's Gate. Like many Greek cities, this place boasts a large number of churches. Travelers do not bypass the Church of the Blessed Virgin, the Church of St. Nicholas and St. Eustathius.
The chapel of the Archangels is very interesting. It was built in the 19th century, and materials from the ancient city were used for the construction. Now Nea Potidea is a popular resort, which is famous for its picturesque views, the azure sea and the hospitality of the locals.
Aya Paraskevi
A small village, located at a distance of 5 km from the sea and surrounded on all sides by a picturesque pine forest, is widely known in Greece and is popular among tourists. The secret is that there are amazing thermal springs here. Now here is a spa resort, which is visited by many people. Ayia Paraskevi is sure to be appreciated by lovers of a calm measured rest and hiking.
Over the years, several popular routes have developed here. On the cozy streets of the village you can admire the authentic old houses. Then visit the church of St. Parskeva, which gave the name to the village. It is located on top of a hill overlooking the surrounding landscapes, full of peace and tranquility.
There is also a Folklore Museum, where visitors can get acquainted with many ancient household items. A staircase leads down the hill to the coast. Going down it, tourists find themselves in an interesting cave. It was here that mineral springs were first discovered. There are stalactites and stalagmites in it. Diving enthusiasts will especially appreciate Aya Paraskeva. The coast is dotted with underwater caves, very curious to explore.
Nea Moudania
Travelers who are looking for lively places filled with music, entertainment and nightlife are sure to visit Nea Moudania. This is the second largest city in Halkidiki, it is also a commercial center, where there is a great variety of shops, markets and shopping centers. Young people will definitely like nightclubs with famous DJs, and lovers of refined relaxation will delight themselves with a visit to the theater. Performances are held in the open air on the seashore.
The main attraction of this place is a beautiful church. This building can be seen from anywhere in the city. The temple consists of two parts. The first is the basement, consecrated in honor of Nicholas, Irina and Raphael. The second is the main one and bears the name of St. George. A magnificent building made of pink brick, surrounded by columns, is the hallmark of the city.
Guests of the city who are interested in educational recreation can visit the ethnographic museum. Another interesting place is the Museum of Fisheries. Fishermen settled here for a long time, so this occupation leaves an imprint on the city. So, in mid-July, residents and guests of the city celebrate “Sardine Day” on a grand scale.
Caliph
This sonorous word translates as “beautiful view.” The name of the town is completely true. This is one of the most famous resorts in Halkidiki, attracting many tourists from year to year. Kallithea is an ideal place for families with children. The entrance to the water here is gentle, and the sea is extremely calm.
Numerous hills protect from strong winds, so there are no stormy waves here. Young people will appreciate the rich nightlife, and older people will be happy to devote time to excellent shopping. Among the attractions of particular interest are the ruins of ancient temples dedicated to Zeus and Dionysus. They were built before our era, when paganism triumphed in Greece, giving the world unsurpassed masterpieces of architecture. It is worth visiting Christian churches.
One of them is consecrated in honor of St. Panteleimon, the second bears the name of St. Nicholas the Pleasant, who is very revered in Greece. Those wishing to admire the wonderful landscapes and take unique photographs can visit the observation deck.
Hanioti
This resort village is located just an hour's drive from the noisy and bustling Thessaloniki. Arriving here, tourists are immersed in the atmosphere of a calm and unhurried holiday. Families with children will have a particularly good time here. The town appeared in the ancient era, which is confirmed by numerous archaeological surveys. There is practically nothing left of the ancient city, much was destroyed due to the strongest earthquake in 1935.
The inhabitants of the city moved a little closer to the sea, but did not want to completely leave these fertile places. And no wonder, because the climate here allows you to grow olive trees, and graze goats, and fish. The new settlement quickly increased in size and became a famous seaside town.
Tourists here can not only soak up the beach, but also visit the most interesting places. In the old days, Christian pilgrims often came here, because there are many amazing temples here. From this town it is convenient to get to nearby settlements, where there is also something to see.
Suroti
The cozy village of Suroti is located 20 km from Thessaloniki. All the locals and many tourists appreciate this place for its amazing mineral water. She is considered one of the most famous in Greece. But this place is not only famous for its water. Christian pilgrims often come here. There is an old nunnery in Suroti, consecrated in honor of John the Evangelist. It was here that Paisius the Holy Mountaineer, revered by all Christians, found his last refuge, whom the church honors as a reverend.
He was born in Cappadocia in 1924 and became a monk after the war. Near Suroti, Paisius founded a convent, where he lived until the end of his days. The thoughts and reasonings of Paisius were carefully recorded and preserved by the sisters to this day. The Orthodox honor the Monk Paisius, and, as a rule, there are always pilgrims from Russia in the monastery. The monastery crowns the top of a huge hill, from where magnificent views of the olive groves that belong to the monastery open up.
Ierissos
The town traces its history back to the 7th century BC. Previously, it was a significant policy that is part of Macedonia. Its glorious past has left a rich historical heritage to the descendants. Very interesting for visiting the shipyard of the city. The inhabitants of Ierissos have been considered excellent shipbuilders since ancient times.
The secrets of the building were carefully kept in families and invariably passed down from generation to generation. Until now, boats are made here using ancient technologies. For their construction, high-quality pine logs are used. Walking around Ierissos, it is worth seeing the ruins of an ancient fortress wall that protected the city and its inhabitants from military incursions.
On the embankment, the Aquarium, which holds 40 cubic meters of water, is of interest. It is inhabited by inhabitants of local waters. In addition, it is the only Greek city where you can enjoy watching a 3D movie. The amphitheater where the screenings take place is equipped with special stereoscopic equipment. Films about Mount Athos and the mysterious underwater world are especially popular.
Poligyros
The full panorama of the city can be seen from the chapel of Elijah the Prophet. It is easy to get here from the north side of the city, walking tours are organized along the trail. Below the city are olive fields. Poligyros is one of the many cities that attract tourists with its architectural diversity. It organically combines ancient buildings with modern buildings.
One of the attractions of the city is the Archaeological Museum, located on Iroon Square (Heroes' Square) in the city center. Excavations are presented that give an idea of the life and social activities of man since the Bronze Age, as well as the archaic and classical periods: weapons and jewelry.
Also in the museum you can see statues, the marble head of Dionysus. Thanks to the rich exposition, the museum attracts the attention of tourists. In the square next to the museum there is a spring from which you can draw water. The city is rich in temples and small churches. The Church of St. Nicholas is located in the central part of the old city.
Agios Nikolaos
Snow-white houses topped with red roofs, fragrant air filled with the scent of pine trees and almost 30 kilometers of pristine sandy beaches – all this pleases tourists who come to rest in this ancient village. Since prehistoric times, people have chosen this picturesque area with an excellent climate. The inhabitants of the village have long been famous as unsurpassed masters of working with stone. That is why almost every old house here can be considered as a landmark.
On the coast, an ancient tower stops the eye. Archaeological research of the famous ancient city of Singos was also carried out here. Tourists can see this ancient monument. The remains of the ancient acropolis have also been preserved. Pilgrims and travelers interested in the spiritual life will not miss the opportunity to admire the monastery of St. Nicholas and the chapel of St. George.
Also here is the courtyard of one of the famous monasteries of Athos – the monastery of Xenophon. It’s good to come here at the end of July, then you can admire the fun holiday dedicated to St. Paraskeva and take part in folk festivals.
Stagira
This city is famous throughout Greece, and it is not surprising, because one of the greatest philosophers, Aristotle, was once born here. The park, named after the thinker and philosopher, is the most significant architectural monument of Halkidiki. The park is equipped with interactive areas where all the most important inventions of the scientist are presented: a lens, a telescope, a sundial, a kinetic pendulum, a musical instrument and much more.
Here, in Stagira, the great philosopher, scientist and mentor of Alexander the Great found his last refuge. Until now, the Greeks remember and honor him by organizing the Aristotelian festival, which every year gathers a lot of spectators. Every summer, holidays, seminars, and cultural events dedicated to the scientist are held in the park.
From the mountain where the park is located, there is a magnificent view of the bay. This place, securely hidden behind the hills, will reveal to guests amazing monuments of antiquity – the remains of defensive walls, the foundations of ancient houses. In addition, the bathhouse built by Ishak Pasha, the ruins of the Madem-aga fortress, the Madema ditch in the place where the ancient mines once stood, the statue of the philosopher Aristotle in the central square deserve attention.
Gerakini
This town is not distinguished by its ancient origin. Initially, it was built due to the fact that deposits of white stone were discovered nearby. This wonderful building material was distributed not only throughout Greece, but also exported to other countries. Now the city has been renovated, but in the old part there are mines and settlements of miners. In the second half of the 20th century, the city was discovered by tourists. It is rightly called one of the most beautiful in the whole country.
The simplest and at first sight inconspicuous attraction is the streets paved with stone and decorated with beautiful benches and lanterns. These details convey the true spirit of the city. An obligatory point of the tourist program can be called a visit to the monastery “Meteora”. It was built in antiquity and is located at a great height, on a rocky ledge.
Unfortunately, the buildings have survived to this day already quite badly destroyed, but the beautiful view from there will not leave anyone indifferent. And, of course, travelers are called here by wonderful beaches, crystal clear sea and mild climate.
Vurvuru
In the northeast of the peninsula of Sithonia is the coastal village of Vourvourou. Its beaches are rightfully considered one of the best for families with children. The sea is turquoise, warm and calm. The beaches are quite narrow, but long and rather sparsely populated. There are places where it is impossible to approach the sea, as there are private properties.
Vourvourou is an old village whose inhabitants have been fishing for many years. And now, walking around the town, you can buy fresh fish from sailors. Tourists invariably visit with interest the small town where the teachers of the Aristotle University live. The unusual space planning and spectacular architecture are considered a curious local attraction.
In the north of this area is the so-called Great Wall. Once upon a time in ancient times, the inhabitants tried to protect the entire peninsula with its help. Only a small part has survived to this day, about 50 meters long and about three meters high. It is noteworthy that the thickness of this structure is 2 meters. The wall is made of stones that fit snugly together and are held together without any bonding material.
Kavourotripes beach
Sithonia is rich in beaches – one of the most popular can be safely called Kavourotripes, better known to the people as Orange Beach, although the name itself is translated as “Crab Holes”. The name of the beach was not accidental. The rocky shores were subjected to a strong impact of water, which carved bizarre holes in them, resembling burrows.
The beach is located 5 km north of the city of Sarti, 23 km from Vourvourou. Getting there by car is easy and fast, but it is possible to get there by regular bus or by boat. Photographers will find atmospheric nature and a riot of colors – turquoise sea, rocks that turn orange in the sun at sunrise and green pine trees.
But there is no need to look for solitude here – many vacationers are located in sun loungers, and wild tourists stay for several days and live in tents. Music plays, many families with children, as the sea is shallow here. The descent to the beach is not the most convenient, but walking along the coast, you can find many tiny coves for 2-3 people.
Glarokavos beach
The beach is located near Sithonia, 114 km from Thessaloniki. This place can truly be called the pearl of the peninsula. Perfectly clean lagoon, light sand, smooth entry into the water – all this attracts vacationers. The weather here is always calm, because the air currents are restrained by tall trees. Calm water without strong waves will not interfere with a relaxed serene holiday.
Until relatively recently, the beach was wild and undeveloped, but such a delightful place could not remain unnoticed by people for a long time. Now both locals and tourists who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle come here. This place is ideal for families with children. You can often meet couples, campers, divers and young people.
It can be reached both by car, along the country road, and by boat, which go in season from Sithonia. It is possible to leave the car in the equipped or spontaneous parking. The best time to visit is late spring or September-October. Summer here is very hot and can cause discomfort for unaccustomed tourists.
Armenistis beach
One of the cleanest beaches in Greece. The owner of the prestigious international award – the Blue Flag, confirms his title twice a month, successfully passing inspections. This title is awarded to the most environmentally friendly corners of the planet. Finding the beach is very easy. There will be a sign along the Sithonia road between Sarti and Vourvourou.
The beach is very large and wide, about two kilometers long. There was also a place for volleyball courts, fishing boats, shops and sun loungers with umbrellas. There are no towns and villages nearby, but there is a campsite, which is caravans with terraces, Wi-Fi throughout the territory, there is even an ATM.
The beach has excellent views. Clear turquoise water, white sand, a shore bordered by greenery and a landscape with the famous Mount Athos attract many tourists. The entrance to the water is gentle, but after walking just a few meters, you can get to a deep place. Divers will really like the beach – the rocks descend in ledges and under water are a bewitching sight.
Waterfalls Varvara
The peninsula of Halkidiki always surprises tourists. Here you can relax on the beach, listening to the lapping of the waves, walk along the ancient streets of local villages, or find picturesque places that are truly natural landmarks. These unexplored places include waterfalls located near the villages of Olimpiada and Varvara.
It is worth preparing for the trip in advance, as there will be obstacles along the way. A dirt road leads there, so it is better to order a 4×4 jeep, especially since you have to wade across the river. The path is picturesque and not easy, but the place itself is equipped with gazebos, and paths have been laid for convenience. Two wonderful waterfalls open up before the eyes of travelers, falling measuredly from a small rock.
Very interesting flora and fauna. Nature will delight you with birds, butterflies, salamanders, crabs, turtles, and you can also meet snakes and bees with which you need to be on your guard. Sitting on the observation deck, you can relax surrounded by huge beeches, wild hazel, lindens and alders.