What are the Greek fingers called? Three fingers in Greece. Middle finger - Sithonia. Mythology and history
Halkidiki is one of the most famous Greek resorts. Located in the northern part of the Aegean Sea, the Halkidiki peninsula stands out for its unusual shape, resembling a trident or three outstretched fingers, each of which is an independent peninsula:
- Cassandra
- Sithonia
- Athos. Agios Oros
Halkidiki is a resort offering a comfortable, relaxing holiday in hotels of any star rating, among the greenery of its gardens and nearby pine and plane tree forests.
Each peninsula of Halkidiki boasts something special.
So, Cassandra proud of the Byzantine observation tower in Agios Pavlos, the monastery in Nea Fokia, the old traditional village of Afitos, the thermal spas in Agia Paraskevi.
Parthenonas is the most beautiful mountain village of Sithonia. Photo from the site - www.ethnos.gr
On Sithonia you can visit the excavations of ancient Olynthos, where the oldest mosaic in Greece was discovered (5th century BC), and also drive through the old villages of Parthenonas, Sykia and Nikiti, visit the ancient ruins of Toroni and the old harbor of Porto Koufo.
Holy Mount Athos. Halkidiki
Famous throughout the world with 20 Orthodox monasteries and numerous hermitages, it is not accessible to everyone, but you can take a boat trip to its shores.
Geography
Chalkidiki is a peninsula that borders Thessaloniki in the north and northwest, and is washed by the Aegean Sea on other sides.
District: Central Macedonia
Capital: Poliyiros
Square: 2,918 km²
Climate
Seaside. The average air temperature in summer is +28..+30 °C, water +24..+26 °C.
The sea is calm and warms up well, since the peninsula is protected by mountain ranges. During the summer the climate
Population and tourism
Population: 104,894 (2001)
Language: Greek, but they will understand you if you speak English, German, Russian.
Tourist season: from May to September inclusive.
Swimming season: from June to September inclusive.
Suitable for leisure: beach, calm, family, educational.
Mythology and history
There is a legend that explains the strange shape of the Halkidiki peninsula. The Titans Athos and Siton had an argument over a beautiful mermaid, which angered their father, the god Poseidon. He threw his trident into the ground, and thus three peninsulas were formed, which were named after the main characters of this legend: Athos, Siton and
Palini. The third “finger” was renamed in the 6th century - in honor of King Cassander.
Another legend says that the Titans settled in these places and were at enmity with the ancient Olympians. Once the Titan Athos, fighting with Poseidon, threw a stone at him, which turned into Mount Athos. So, the name gave the name to the mountain, and from the name of the mountain came the name of the Athos peninsula.
All three “fingers” of the Halkidiki peninsula have a rich history. Many ancient cities played an important role in trade during antiquity, had their own sanctuaries of Zeus and Dionysus, as well as military fortifications that have survived to this day.
Dry and well tolerated by holidaymakers. It is hottest (up to + 35 °C) in July and August
Traditions and customs
In Halkidiki, Greek customs and traditions are carefully preserved, which is facilitated by the unification of local residents in numerous cultural organizations. Initially, the culture and traditions here were formed under the influence of the ancient Byzantine history of the region. Numerous churches now remind us of this. Later, the years of Roman and Ottoman rule, as well as the culture of refugees who arrived here from Asia Minor, left their mark on the culture of local residents.
In Halkidiki, festive and religious games with “wigs” are especially supported, which are held before the feast of St. John. Another old custom - "kotsmanos" - has taken root in the Arnea region. Local men in national costumes were supposed to hit a symbolic target with their weapons. After such competitions, a general feast begins, those gathered sing songs and dance.
Craft traditions are also alive in Halkidiki. The peninsula is famous for its unsurpassed weaving, embroidery, icon painting and wood carving.
Attractions
In Halkidiki there are hotels of all categories, villas and apartments.
Capital Halkidiki, Poliyiros, is located in the center of the region. This provincial town, built on the top of a mountain, is known for its picturesque narrow streets, old houses, architectural monuments and museums.
Numerous cultural events are organized throughout the year in the capital of the peninsula.
The major tourist resorts of Kassandra are located mainly on the east coast, along the coastal strip from Kallithea to Pefkohori.
Nea Potidea- the most popular tourist village 60 km from the city of Thessaloniki, loved by tourists for its beaches, beautiful nature and nightlife.
There is a town just below Nea Fokea, where the ancient church and tower of the Apostle Paul are located.
In the town Kallithea you will visit the Sanctuary of Zeus and the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, in Cassandria you will see an abandoned windmill and the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin.
There are also many hotels and campsites in Sithonia. Town Nikiti has beautiful sandy beaches and traditional stone houses. Nikiti is one of the oldest settlements in Halkidiki.
Ormos Panagias with a picturesque small harbor from where cruises to Mount Athos are organized.
At the southern tip of the peninsula there is a bay Porto Koufo, which is almost completely surrounded by green hills.
Town Neos Marmaras, surrounded by pine forests with a beautiful harbor, is considered one of the most famous resorts in Sithonia.
All the few tourist resorts of Athos can be found around the city Ouranoupolis and on the islet of Ammouliani.
The natural beauty and views of Saint Athos attract numerous tourists here every year. Ouranoupolis is home to the Byzantine tower of Prosphori, built by monks in the 14th century. It was around this tower that the city was formed.
The ruins of the temples of Zeus Ammon and Dionysus can be found in the cities of Afitis and Kallithea.
Also don't miss the opportunity to take a cruise to Mount Athos or see Olympus and the ancient cities of Dion, Vergina and Pella.
Beaches
The beaches on the Halkidiki peninsula, as in the rest of Greece, are municipal. They are known for their perfect white sand and the unsurpassed purity of the sea, which has all shades of turquoise.
Sometimes there are beaches with sand and small pebbles, but it is always warm, clear water, a clean shore and a pleasant bottom.
On the peninsula you will find a large number of wild beaches with charming nature in secluded beautiful bays.
Entertainment
No one will be bored in Halkidiki! There are so many opportunities for active recreation that it’s even difficult to choose - from walking and cycling to jeep safari. Karting in Kallithea, Kriopigi, Neos Marmaras, Nea Moudania, kayaking in Sithonia, golf club in the Porto Carras resort, diving in almost any resort, jeeping in the mountains and forests of Kassandra and Sithonia, horse riding….
An hour's drive from the Halkidiki peninsula is the Waterland water park. And don’t forget that the real fun begins at sunset; the nightlife in Halkidiki is in full swing!
Shopping
Anywhere on the Halkidiki peninsula you will find a huge number of shops and even shopping streets where you can find everything you want.
However, what you can buy at home is not so interesting. But handicrafts, hand-made textiles, embroideries, souvenirs made from olive wood, jewelry - this is what you should pay attention to.
In the center of Kassandra, where the famous resort of Sani is located, there is the Sani Marina shopping area with exclusive boutiques and shops. Here you can buy designer items and original goods from Greek brands, as well as jewelry and children's products.
Brand shopping awaits you in the shopping centers of Nea Moudania or Thessaloniki.
The Mediterranean Cosmos shopping center in Thessaloniki is the largest center with about 200 galleries. During the summer discount season, which begins in mid-August, things can be bought at half the price.
Transport and movement
You can get around Halkidiki and outside the peninsula by taxi, bus or rental car. Deluxe hotels offer free shuttle buses to the nearest resort towns.
Regular buses run regularly; at stops you need to “vote” so that the bus does not pass by.
Kitchen and food
Did you know that some of the best Greek dishes can be found in Halkidiki? All tourist areas of the Halkidiki peninsula can boast of local taverns.
At first glance, Greek cuisine may seem simple, but it will be very different from what you have already tried in Greek restaurants in Russia or other foreign countries. The thing is that only fresh fish and meat are used here, and vegetables and herbs are served from the nearest garden. The cooks do not skimp on seasonings and olive oil.
A traditional lunch in Halkidiki, as in other parts of Greece, begins with meze appetizers. Usually they serve small fried meatballs, seafood dishes, cheeses, olives, grape leaves stuffed with rice, tzatziki, eggplant caviar, sausages, and beans. For dinner at the tavern you can order national dishes of meat or seafood, various salads, and you will be treated to desserts or seasonal fruits as a farewell treat.
Halkidiki also produces jams and marmalades, which have already conquered the whole world thanks to their natural ingredients.
In addition to the mainland, Greece includes hundreds of islands, many of which have become famous resorts. In their shadow, cities and regions on the mainland get a little lost, although sometimes they are no less popular among tourists than Crete or Rhodes. And one of the pearls for which mainland Greece is famous, Halkidiki is a peninsula with a legendary history dating back to ancient times. Modern Halkidiki is both a tourist resort, where you can have great fun and spend a beach holiday, and a center of Orthodoxy, to which thousands of pilgrims flock, and a bright representative of the heritage of ancient Hellas. We will talk about the features of this region of Greece in the article.
Brief history and legends of Halkidiki
The first inhabitants of the Greek peninsula of Chalkidiki were the Thracians and Pelasgians, who settled on these lands as early as 4 thousand BC. And in the 8th century BC. Settlers from the island of Euboea move here, and the colony of “Chalkidiki in Thrace” appears. Subsequently, it constantly expanded, and eventually the entire peninsula received the name Chalkidiki.
Halkidiki is adjacent to the famous Olympus, so it is not surprising that this area often appeared in ancient myths. The peninsula was considered the birthplace of giants, with whom the Olympian gods fought for a long time. As a result of battles, military cunning and remarkable strength, Zeus and his comrades nevertheless destroyed the giants, but the memory of them has survived to this day.
Various legends are told about the origin of the “fingers” of Halkidiki. According to the first of them, the giant Aphos, while fighting, tore off a block of rock and threw it at Poseidon so hard that the stone split into 3 parts - this is how the modern peninsulas turned out. According to another version, on the contrary, an angry Poseidon threw a trident at the giants, as a result of which Halkidiki received this shape. And finally, the third story tells that the goddess Athena threw stones, and a giant was walled up under each of the blocks. Allegedly, when an earthquake occurs, it is the giants who are trying to get out from the seabed.
Be that as it may, the origins of local folklore are also visible in the names of the islands. Cassandra, formerly called Pallini, was named after the daughter of the giant Alcyoneus, who tragically committed suicide after the death of her father. Much later, the peninsula was renamed in honor of the Macedonian king Kassander. Sithonia is a derivative of the name of the Thracian king Siton, son of Poseidon. And the third “finger” of Athos even received the name of the giant Athos, the legendary “founder” of the Chalkidiki peninsulas.
general information
As can be seen on the world map, Chalkidiki is located in Greece, on the northeastern edge of the country. The province, named after the peninsula, also includes part of the mainland, and its borders are closely adjacent to the “northern” capital of Greece - Thessaloniki. From this large policy all transport links between the cities and resorts of Halkidiki on the map of Greece are laid. But we’ll talk about this in detail a little later.
The total area of the territory is 2,900 km 2, and the coastline is 850 km. If we talk about what kind of sea washes the shores of Halkidiki in Greece, then there is only one answer - the Aegean, in whose waters the peninsula is located. The coast is a ridge of sandy beaches with cozy bays and lagoons. Moreover, sometimes lush vegetation approaches the shores: pine forests, oak and beech groves, maquis thickets.
The southern part of the Halkidiki peninsula is “cut” by the sea into 3 small peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos, also known as Aion Oros. Let's talk about each separately.
Cassandra
The westernmost “finger” and tourist center of Halkidiki: here are the most hotels, entertainment, equipped beaches, party places and nightclubs. Also on Kassandra is the largest resort of Halkidiki - the city of Nea Moudania. Lovers of parties, shopping and entertainment will not find another “paradise” like this on the peninsula. Greece and Kassandra deservedly receive positive reviews from tourists for thoughtful leisure activities and well-established tourism infrastructure.
Sithonia
The middle “finger” of Halkidiki is a picturesque and cozy place for a relaxing holiday. There is a sense of regularity, tranquility and unity with nature in everything here. If on the Kassandra Peninsula the map of hotels in Greece contains dozens of offers, then Sithonia offers tourists a more modest choice. Therefore, it is not crowded here, there are no noisy parties and excursion fuss. But there is beautiful nature, azure sea, and golden sand - so Sithonia is an ideal place for a beach holiday.
How to get to the resorts by bus
But the road from the airport to the booked hotel depends on the distance of the resort. According to reviews, for most travelers Greece and Chalkidiki are primarily the Kassandra Peninsula, because its resorts are located closest to Thessaloniki (approximately 60 km). You can get to Kassandra from the airport by bus, but this will require a couple of transfers.
- Take bus route 79 from the airport to Thessaloniki.
- Get off at the IKEA station and transfer to bus number 36, which will take you to the KTEL Halkidiki city bus station.
- Get off at Halkidikis Bus Station and take a bus to the desired resort.
- From the station at the resort, walk to the hotel or take a taxi.
Check the bus schedule and ticket prices on the official website of the carrier.
Rent a Car
The resorts on the Halkidiki peninsula are not connected by bus routes, and you have to travel around the island through Thessaloniki. This is not very convenient, so many people prefer to rent a car, especially since there are dozens of rental offices and bureaus here. Renting a car costs on average 45-60 euros per day.
Halkidiki on the map of Greece
We offer you to plot a detailed route to the resorts of Greece in Halkidiki on an interactive Google map. It will also help you get to any point on the island and give you coordinates for your navigator. But anything can happen with technology, so don’t forget to purchase or print a map of roads, attractions and hotels for traveling around Halkidiki in Greece. It is desirable that the map of Halkidiki be detailed and in Russian.
Greece, Halkidiki – attractions of the peninsula
Local lands are rich in historical and cultural heritage, as well as natural attractions.
This is not just a rocky shelter with bizarre stalactites, but the oldest discovered dwelling of the first people. It was here that a unique find was discovered in the middle of the 20th century: the skull of a man who lived about 700 thousand years ago! Later, scientists explored the cave in detail and found many more ancient artifacts. Thanks to them, the local anthropological museum was founded.
Today, both organized excursions and independent tourists can visit here. The cave is located near the village of Petralona, just north of the Kassandra Peninsula.
Almost every tourist from Halkidiki makes a trip to the Meteora monasteries, which are located nearby. This is a ridge of steep rocks on which ascetic monks managed to build snow-white temples. Today, out of 24, only 6 monasteries remain, and 2 of them are no longer considered religious monasteries, but tourist museums.
From the northern capital of Russia to the northern capital of Greece. Thessaloniki – historical ups and downs. The heyday of Ancient Greece and Great Rome, then five centuries of Turkish yoke. Very close is the Halkidiki peninsula. These are luxurious beaches, marked with the Blue Flags of the European Community for the cleanliness of the sea and coast, and also the world famous Holy Athos!
- Good morning! Maria Sukhova is with you. With a whole bag of impressions.
Sun, sea, Mediterranean climate, history and culture of a country that dates back no less than five thousand years. So, today's story... is about Greece.
There is a humorous expression that in Europe everyone is busy with their own business - the Germans make cars, the Poles grow potatoes, and the Greeks bathe everyone in the sea. There is some truth in every joke, as they say. But as for Greece, this is completely true - the bright sun shines here 300 days a year, and you can swim from May to October.
We will also set off along the route beloved by tourists from all countries. Our path lies from the northern capital of Russia to the northern capital of Greece. Thessaloniki. The city is amazing, beautiful and ancient. 315 BC is the year of its foundation. Thessaloniki witnessed the heyday of Ancient Greece, experienced the strength and military might of the Roman Empire, and experienced the splendor and greatness of Byzantium. There were also five centuries of Turkish rule in its history.
Those ancient times left the city with many architectural and archaeological monuments, which are so interesting to lovers of antiquity. And which modern residents of Thessaloniki are proud of. It’s not for nothing that this city is called an open-air museum.
A stunning view opens from the walls of the Fortress. Once upon a time, the houses of the townspeople were close to these walls. But in 1917 there was a big fire in the city that destroyed most of the historical quarters. So residential buildings in Thessaloniki are considered new compared, for example, to the ruins of the Roman Forum or the Arc de Triomphe, which has stood here since the third century. From the times of Turkish rule, the White Tower has been preserved on the sea embankment. Now this is the main attraction of Thessaloniki and its symbol.
Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki is considered the Christian patron of Thessaloniki. One of the largest cathedrals in Greece stands on the very spot where the Romans executed the Saint for his refusal to renounce his faith.
Thessaloniki is located in Greek Macedonia and it is quite natural that it was simply necessary to erect a monument to Alexander the Great here. This place is extremely popular with tourists who like to take pictures in front of the equestrian statue of the famous commander.
The embankment in Thessaloniki is located, like the city itself, on the shores of the Thermic Gulf. It is famous for its exceptionally clean water. By the way, many of the local beaches are marked with the Blue Flags of the European Community for the cleanliness of the sea and coast. This fully applies to the Halkidiki peninsula. Magic word. Mesmerizing pictures. Indescribable feelings. The air is filled with the aromas of flowering plants. By the way, it is this smell - the smell of flowers and the smell of the sea - that is the first thing you notice right away, even on the plane. And believe me, you have to feel it for yourself.
Chalkidiki greets everyone with peace and tranquility, thick lush greenery, an emerald sea and an unusual landscape. The amazing outlines of the peninsula resemble in its shape the mythical trident of the god of the seas, Poseidon, who pierces the waters of the Aegean Sea with it. The peninsula itself seems to consist of three peninsulas called fingers.
One of them is the world famous Holy Athos.
Here it is, holy Mount Athos. This is the center of Orthodoxy throughout the Christian world. There are now twenty active monasteries on Mount Athos. There is also the Russian St. Panteleimon Monastery, which is said to be one of the most beautiful. But women, unfortunately, are not allowed there.
The most popular part of Halkidiki for tourists is Kassandra. This is truly a piece of paradise. Here, among the picturesque nature, are the main resort towns of the peninsula and centers of nightlife.
The middle finger is Sithonia. Here the places are more secluded and calm. That is why, probably, many famous people - presidents, members of royal families, famous artists - choose such magnificent places for their vacation. Sithonia has many stunning little coves, many pine trees, vineyards and olive groves. All around is silence, tranquility and magnificent views.
- The collection of geographical maps is named after the titan Atlas. Europa was the name of the girl who was kidnapped by Zeus, who turned into a bull. The Aegean Sea is named after the father of the mythological hero Theseus. So even world geography did not escape the influence of ancient Greek myths.
Sithonia, the middle “finger” of the Halkidiki peninsula, is considered the greenest due to the abundance of coniferous forests occupying quite large areas. The name "Sithonia" comes from the name of the son of Poseidon and, concurrently, the king of Macedonia, Siton. The nearest airport is located approximately 90 kilometers from this part of the peninsula - in Thessaloniki. The western coast of Sithonia is washed by the Toronic Gulf, the eastern coast by the Singitikos Gulf.
The resorts of Sithonia attract many tourists, especially during the beach season - those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of big cities, recuperate, find harmony and replenish their baggage of pleasant impressions come here.
But you shouldn’t think that Sithonia in Halkidiki is suitable only for pensioners and families with children; lovers of active recreation will also find something to their liking here - the peninsula has all the conditions for diving, boat trips, and sports games. Fans of gambling in Sithonia will find a casino, and real gentlemen will find a golf club.
Sithonia is the middle “finger” of the peninsula, considered the greenest in Halkidiki
Sithonia in Halkidiki successfully combines modern tourist infrastructure and untouched natural landscapes, fishing villages coexist with comfortable hotels, and well-maintained beaches coexist with picturesque secluded bays.
By the way, there are practically no large hotel complexes in Sithonia; small, cozy hotels located on the coast are more common. And recently, in order to preserve natural landscapes, the construction of hotels is generally prohibited.
How to get to Sithonia
Although the closest airport to Sithonia is located 90 kilometers from the peninsula - in Thessaloniki - it is not difficult to get to.
The easiest and cheapest way to get to Sithonia in Halkidiki is by regular bus. From the airport you need to take regular bus No. 79A to the KTEL Halkidikis bus station and there you can purchase tickets to the city you need. The schedule is worth studying in advance on the official website of KTEL Halkidikis, and more details about this method of travel on Grekoblog.
Although the closest airport to Sithonia is located 90 kilometers from the peninsula, getting to it is not difficult
A taxi is a slightly more expensive, but much more convenient and comfortable way to get to Sithonia, especially since in Thessaloniki (by European standards) it is inexpensive. If you wish, you can try to find a car on the spot (relying on the honest eyes of the Greek driver) or order it in advance for the arrival of your flight via the Internet.
The second option is more preferable if your flight arrives early in the morning or late in the evening, you are burdened with significant luggage, small children, or are not very inclined to trust taxi drivers at the airport even with very honest eyes.
Order a taxi to Sithonia in Halkidiki online. As a rule, the driver meets his passengers at the exit from the baggage claim area, holding a sign with their names in his hands. All details regarding the trip are sent by email immediately after ordering.
The main advantages of this method of travel are the known price of the trip in advance (it can be calculated without even making an order), the ability to pre-order a car with a spacious trunk or child seats, and the absence of the need to pay extra in case of a flight delay or cancellation. The company itself monitors the aircraft arrival board and sends the car to the terminal on time.
Grekoblog wrote in more detail about the service in the article.
The beach season on the peninsula lasts from May to September
The third way to get to Sithonia from the airport is to rent a car. Thus, you can not only get to the hotel comfortably, but also subsequently explore local attractions on your own.
The easiest and most convenient way to rent a car in Greece is with the help of the popular European service – Rentalcars.
The system, which has common roots with the famous hotel portal Booking.com, is a car rental price comparison service with instant booking capabilities. Thus, you can find the best offer among local car rentals in a matter of seconds.
The only “But” is that car rental prices tend to change very often and significantly during the season. Therefore, if you find an offer that suits you, it is better not to put off your reservation. In just half an hour it can “go away” to a more determined traveler.
Climate and weather
The weather in Sithonia is typical for Greek resorts: summers are dry and quite hot, and winters are warm and humid. The hottest months are July and August, at this time the air temperature often reaches +35C, but the heat is easily tolerated due to the proximity of the sea.
In summer, the water off the coast of Sithonia warms up to +24+26C and remains warm until mid-autumn. The beach season in Sithonia, thanks to the Mediterranean climate, lasts here from May to September, and in especially warm years - from mid-April to mid-October.
The beaches of the Sithonia Peninsula are considered among the cleanest in the world
Sithonia Hotels
Although the construction of new hotels remains a big question, the infrastructure of the peninsula is capable of satisfying all tastes: from the most demanding to the unpretentious. On Sithonia itself and in the vicinity of the peninsula there are more than 200 hotels of the most diverse star ratings and pricing policies.
Their most successful selection with photos of rooms and reviews from real guests.
Excursions
There are few attractions in Sithonia, so setting aside time to explore them will not be difficult. Undoubtedly, the Church of St. Athanasius in Sykia, built in 1814 and then restored several times after fires, deserves attention.
The town of Nikiti is very interesting, standing on the site of ancient Galipsos - a powerful city that flourished in the 8th-7th centuries BC. That’s probably all for Sithonia itself... But not all for Greece. Moreover, new places worth visiting are just a stone’s throw from Sithonia.
An excursion to Olympus includes not only climbing the mountain, but also visiting other local attractions
About 40 kilometers from Sithonia is the ancient city of Stagira - the birthplace of Aristotle, a little further - the second most important city in Greece. For those who travel without a car, a trip to Thessaloniki seems more interesting because, in addition to sightseeing, it also allows you to taste all the delights of cheap European shopping and entertainment for which the city is so famous.
The sacred mountain on which, according to legend, lived the Greek gods led by Zeus, is also very popular. An excursion to Olympus includes not only climbing the mountain, but also a visit to the ancient monastery of St. Dionysius, a traditional Greek lunch in one of the Olympic villages, as well as a trip to the Tembi gorge, where a healing spring named after St. Paraskeva gushes out of the ground.
Meteors make an indelible impression on every traveler
If time permits, be sure to visit the unique monastery complex, located on high cliffs scattered throughout the Thessalian Valley.
Six monasteries of the former monastic republic are still in operation and make an indelible impression on everyone who decides to make this trip. On behalf of Grekoblog, all we can say is that Meteora is the most interesting and impressive place in this part of Greece, although the trip here can be a little tiring.
You can request details about any of the excursions or sign up for it through the guide Maribel, whom we wrote about in articles and. You can also find her contacts there. Maribel is a very nice girl and speaks excellent Russian, so I highly recommend her.
The Cave Temple of St. Paraskeva and the healing spring gushing from an underground lake are the main places of pilgrimage in the Tempi Valley
Beaches
The beaches of Sithonia are considered among the cleanest in the world, many are awarded the European Blue Flag. Most of the beaches of Sithonia are sandy, there are also pebbles, but the pebbles are so small that the difference is almost not felt.
There are large beaches with water attractions and all the necessary equipment - umbrellas, sun loungers, changing rooms, and picturesque secluded beaches located in small bays that dot almost the entire coast. The coast is protected from strong winds by mountains, so big waves are no less rare here.
The so-called “first finger” is closest to Thessaloniki, and therefore Kassandra is the most populous and visited cape of Halkidiki. On the eastern, inner side it is washed by the calm waters of the Toroneos Gulf, on the outer, western side - by the waters of the Thermic Gulf.
6 km from Moudania there is the “gate” of the peninsula, the village of Nea Potidea, built on the site of an ancient settlement. There is a canal connecting the two bays. The first mention of the canal dates back to the 1st century BC. e. The advantage of Potidea is its proximity to Thessaloniki and the opportunity to swim in both bays. Along the road leading to the Kassandra Peninsula, there are hotel complexes such as Portes Palace Hotel, Istion Club Luxury Resort. The village itself is on the right side of the road, and on the left is the beach (Paralia) of Potidea with many small hotels and apartments.
Sled
On the Thermaikos Gulf side is the most elite place of Halkidiki - Sani. The entire fashionable village of Sani Resort awaits guests here. A wonderful marina with luxury yachts, modern hotels, a spa center, clothing and jewelry stores, restaurants and bars. And around all this there are snow-white sandy beaches and a piercing turquoise sea.
From July to September, the famous Sani Arts Festival takes place against the backdrop of the medieval tower.
Along this side of the coast is the resort village of Siviri, organically combining mountains and sea. Many people try to attend the performances of the Kassandra Festival in the famous Siviri Amphitheater and admire the unique beauty of the sunsets.
The next resort is Scala Furcas, a beautiful beach surrounded by pine forests and olive groves. Two kilometers from the beach is the old village of Fourka, with chapels decorated with frescoes from the 16th century.
The quiet town of Nea Skioni, built on the site of ancient Skioni, founded by soldiers returning from the Trojan War and settling in this wonderful land.
Luthra
The settlement of Loutra, 5 km from the village of St. Praskeva, famous for its hot thermal springs and modern Spa center.
At the southernmost point of Kassandra is the quiet village of Paliouri, a favorite place for fishing enthusiasts.
There are also many popular resort towns on the east coast:
Pefkohori. Pevko means pine in Greek, and this picturesque village is truly surrounded by fragrant pine forests. The pride of Sosnovka is its clean beaches with modern tourist infrastructure.
Hanioti is a large, very picturesque resort village offering its guests excellent conditions for recreation. Many hotels, various water sports, horseback riding, many taverns, bars and cafes. At the end of summer, a traditional folklore festival is held in Hanioti.
A seven-kilometer sandy beach, a mass of hotels, a mountain lake lost among coniferous forests with a rare species of turtles attract many tourists to Polychrono.
Kallithea
A modern resort that lives up to its name - “beautiful view”. In addition to the wonderful beaches, Kallithea is famous for its nightlife: discos, clubs, and bars are open until the morning. For archeology lovers - the ruins of the ancient temples of Dionysus and Zeus.
Afitos
Narrow cobbled streets, interesting architecture, fountains create the unique flavor of Afitos. In the central square you can visit the Church of St. Demetrius and the Folk Art Museum.
A former fishing village, and now a comfortable resort village. The attraction is the tower of the Athonite courtyard of the monastery of St. Paul. From the chapel there is an underground passage to the miraculous spring, where the Saint secretly baptized the inhabitants.
Unlike the noisy, crowded Kassandra, Sithonia offers a more relaxing holiday in truly paradise. There are many wild, stunningly beautiful beaches, secluded coves, secluded between mountain slopes covered with pine and juniper trees.
On the way from Kassandra to Sithonia there are the resort villages of Metamorfosi - quiet and calm, and Nikiti, where you can visit ancient churches and taste the best honey in Macedonia.
The most popular town in Sithonia, a neat amphitheater descending to the emerald sea. Opposite you can see the small uninhabited island of Kelyfos (Shell). The largest tourist complex of Porto Carras is located here, which is essentially an independent tourist town. Fashionable hotels, shops, casinos, entertainment centers, a luxurious marina, golf courses, the famous Porto Carras Domaine winery - everything for an unforgettable vacation.
Visitors to this village are attracted not only by the golden sands and crystal clear waters of the beaches, but also by the preserved evidence of ancient history: the ruins of the acropolis in Lycinthos, the remains of a fortress. Part of the ancient settlement is under water. Near Toroni is the picturesque bay of Porto Koufo, the largest natural bay in Northern Greece.
On the side of Sithonia facing Mount Athos is the colorful traditional village of Sykia, founded by sailors and pirates. You can enjoy a relaxing holiday on the beautiful Krioritsi beach, visit the ruins of the old settlement, the historical church of St. Athanasius.
There are many well-maintained campsites in the area around Sikya and neighboring Kalamitsi.
A small cozy village with the famous Orange Beach. On August 15, three-day festivities are held dedicated to the feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.
A popular holiday destination among Russian tourists. The sea is of extraordinary purity, changing color from azure to aquamarine. The nearby islet of Diaporos shelters Vourvourou from the waves. On the eastern side of the island there is the beautiful Blue Lagoon.
Agios Nikolaos is 30 km of coastline with many amazing coves and bays with blue water, framed by centuries-old pine trees. The village is an excellent example of traditional architecture, thanks to local masons. Of interest are the ancient acropolis on Vetrino hill, the monastery of St. Nicholas, and the chapel of St. George.
Near the village there is the harbor of Ormos Panagias (Bay of the Virgin Mary), from where you can take a boat trip along the coast of Athos.
Saint Athos
The third “finger” of the Chalkidiki peninsula is an amazing place, the only monastic republic in the world, the earthly destiny of the Mother of God. Athos retains its pristine nature, untouched by civilization. There are 20 monasteries on Mount Athos, one of them is St. Panteleimon, Russian. Orthodox relics - icons, books, manuscripts - are carefully preserved in monasteries.
Visiting Saint Athos is allowed only to men and requires a special pass - diamonitirion. There are two types of it - general, allowing you to visit all monasteries, and private, for staying in one of them. You need to order a pass in advance, agreeing on the date of your visit, since 110 pilgrims are admitted per day, and only 10 of them are foreigners. You can order it at the Athos pilgrimage center in Thessaloniki (109 Egnatia St.) or call directly one of the monasteries. You can receive the ordered pass at 7.30 am at the pilgrimage office in Ouranoupoli, paying a tax of 25 euros. Then purchase a ticket for the ferry, which leaves at 9.45 am. Clothes must be appropriate - trousers and a long-sleeved shirt. Video filming is prohibited, photographs are prohibited with the permission of the abbot.
Women are not allowed to enter Athos. There is even a 12 month prison sentence for violating this rule. You can only admire the Holy Place from a cruise ship. 
Ouranoupoli translated means “heavenly city” - a quiet resort town, the connecting link of the mainland with Holy Athos. In the center, at the pier from which ferries depart to Mount Athos, there is the ancient Prosphoria tower. On the border with Athos there is a Frankish castle. Intercity buses run to Ouranoupoli from Thessaloniki.
From Ouranoupoli, as well as from the neighboring village of Tripiti, you can get to the only inhabited island of Halkidiki, Ammouliani.
Climate of Halkidiki
The climate on the peninsula is Mediterranean subtropical. The average air temperature is 28 degrees, in the hottest months - July and August it rises to 35C, but the dry climate makes it easy to tolerate the heat.
The peninsula is well protected from the wind by mountains, so the sea is usually calm, with a water temperature of about 25 degrees. The holiday season begins in May and ends at the end of September.