There are tons of things to do in Halkidiki, from cultural trips to sea kayaking and everything in-between.
There are over twenty archaeological sites in this area, including the remains of the 7th Century BC city-harbour at Akanthos, and the sanctuary at Nea Roda. You can even visit the birthplace of Aristotle, in the picturesque village of Stagira. A fine statue of the philosopher stands in the village, and the remains of the 16th Century 'Sultan's Mint' are nearby.
Petralona's Cave is another important historical and scientific site, with an anthropological museum located above the caves. And there is always The History and Folklore Museum in Arnia if you want to find out some interesting facts whilst escaping the heat.
One of the most famous places in the Halkidiki area is Mount Athos, a semi-autonomous monks' republic, home to Byzantine monasteries and art treasures. The monasteries are only open to males over the age of 18, and non-orthodox visitors need to apply for a permit in order to visit, from the Pilgrims' Bureau in Thessaloniki - only 10 non-orthodox visitors are permitted each day, and places can get booked up 6 months in advance. Women, or men unwilling to go through the application process, can take an offshore cruise from the resorts of Ierissos and Ouranoupoli to see Mount Athos and catch a glimpse of the monasteries.
If you're a water baby, you'll be glad to know there are plenty of opportunities to go splashing about in the sea whilst you're in Halkidiki. Rent kayaks, snorkelling gear or even a sailing boat to explore the beautiful blue of the Aegean. Want to try out a new experience whilst keeping your feet firmly on land? Book a visit to an organic agricultural farm or become a beekeeper for the day! Now that's something to write home about.
The three peninsulas give Halkidiki a diverse, snaking 550km coastline with scenic gulfs, busy resorts and peaceful bays. Here you will find dazzling white sands and pristine water; there are no major rivers or industry so the sea remains crystal clear.
Kassandra, the western peninsula, is the most popular and developed, with hotels to suit all tastes and a huge range of water sports available. There are also quieter spots to explore. Pefkohori is a resort with lovely beaches and wooded surroundings, various hotels and villas, and boat races take place during the summer. Some consider the village of Afytos to be the most picturesque spot on Kassandra, with cobbled lanes leading to cliffs and beaches.
The second peninsula Sithonia is more rugged and sparsely populated, so appeals to nature lovers and holidaymakers seeking tranquillity. Sleepy coves and hamlets join comfortable, modern resorts along the coast. Porto Carras is Greece's largest holiday complex, with a shopping centre, golf course, vineyard and hotels. In contrast the village of Parthenonas provides a glimpse of a traditional life on Sithonia, with its dilapidated stone houses.
The alluring wooded hills behind the coastline can be explored to discover the local wildlife, but you're never far from a beach in Halkidiki!
