Pov sitonia greece. Open the left menu of Sithonia. Entertainment and attractions of Sithonia

The second of the three small peninsulas of Halkidiki is picturesque Sithonia. The mountainous terrain, combined with well-groomed coastlines, creates a beautiful picture that fascinates even experienced tourists. The peninsula, famous for its pine groves, borders the Gulf of Singitikos (eastern side) and the Gulf of Kassandra (east side). The highest point of Sithonia is Mount Itamos - 800 meters above sea level. The peak is located in the central part of the peninsula.

The surrounding beauty of Sithonia attracts all those who love nature, as well as travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The diversity of the coastline provides a variety of recreation options. Fishing villages, bays and harbors of incredible beauty, deserted beaches surrounded by lush vegetation - the peninsula will paint your holiday with blue-green shades. The sea is so close to the sky that they seem to merge, and the rich colors of the trees seem to dissolve in the azure water.

Sithonia will meet the expectations of various groups of travelers, because the peninsula harmoniously combines tradition, hospitality, privacy and, at the same time, the ability to satisfy the needs of modern people thanks to the variety of services provided here.

Tourism is developing in a balanced manner, so Sithonia allows you to choose a place to stay, from large hotel complexes that can really surprise you with their service, to small cozy hotels or villas rented out to tenants.

Where to go?

The capital of the peninsula is Nikiti city, located in the western part of Sithonia. For history buffs, the place provides a variety of monuments: prehistoric settlements, temples from the era of early Christianity, cultural monuments. Old Nikiti was built in 1830. This small mountain village is a village of historical significance. You can fully explore the capital from the Church of St. Nikita, the highest point. Nearby is the Chapel of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Here, a painting created in the 17th century, as well as a wooden iconostasis, have been preserved to this day.

A new village, where the inhabitants of old Nikiti eventually moved, was built along the coast. It offers the traveler many entertainment options: taverns, restaurants, cafeterias where you can try local dishes, various types of accommodation - campsites, hotels, rooms.

Nikiti is famous for its honey production, which is considered one of the first in Europe. Local residents have been engaged in beekeeping for more than five centuries, keeping old traditions and creating new technologies that improve the process of obtaining delicacies. The main part of the product is pine honey.

Reserved Parthenonas village was built in the century before last. Among the organized beaches and luxury hotel complexes, the village stands out for its unique beauty. The 17th century St. Stephen's Church is located here. The tranquility of Parthenonas is destroyed only by the stunning views of the village.

The largest city in Sithonia is Neos Marmaram. This is the main trade and economic center of the peninsula. The city owes its appearance to immigrants from Asia Minor, who built a settlement in 1922. The western part was gradually occupied by people from Parthenonas. Since then, the once quiet fishing village has become a powerful tourist center not only in Sithonia, but also in Halkidiki as a whole. The center of Neos Marmarama is occupied by the fishing port and the Church of the Taxiarchs. The shrine houses unique icons brought here by settlers. On both sides of the town there are magnificent coastlines: Paradisos and Neos Marmaras.

Also, the central part of the peninsula is known for the coasts of Azapiko, Tristinika, Caracas, Marafias, Kalamitsi, Kriaritsi. The opposite side of Sithonia is worth a visit to see the village of Sykia, partially covered by mountains, famous for its promenade, the favorite tourist destination of Sarti, Vourvourou, and the beautiful bay of Panagia.

The largest bay of the peninsula is Porto Koufo. The name of the port is mentioned by Phykididis. The landscape of Porto Koufo is endless vineyards and pine trees. The place is famous for its beautiful bay, protected by two rocks, the passage between which is only 300 meters wide. For a long time this bay had the name Toronic. It is considered the largest and safest among the bays of northern Greece. Now Porto Koufo is a fishing town, there are always a lot of boats and boats. The word "kufos" means deaf. This name was given to the bay because, being outside the rocks, the sound of the sea is completely inaudible. Locals even joked about those who cannot hear that they are even more deaf than “Koufos”.

The right side of Porto Koufo preserves the memory of the Second World War. Firing points, underground shelters, cannon platforms - everything remained exactly as it was in those difficult years for Europe. The coast of Porto Koufo is a favorite holiday destination for families with children. The sandy shore is suitable for everyone who wants to soak up the Greek sun, feel the coolness of sea water, and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday work. Nearby you can find many taverns that warmly welcome guests. Tourists are offered fish dishes, seafood delicacies and pasta, as well as delicious wine made from local grapes.

Beaches of Sithonia

Among the best beaches in Sithonia, Orange Beach is worth noting. It is located on the eastern part of the second “finger” of Halkidiki. The remoteness of roads and tourist spots makes the beach a great place to relax quietly, away from prying eyes. It’s not easy to find, you need to look carefully at the signs (they are located on both sides of the road from Sarti).

Orange Beach includes several beaches located in small coves. Stone landscapes surrounded by pine groves stretch along the cozy coast.

The beach gained its fame about a century ago. Then nudists noticed this place. Afterwards they were replaced by hippies, lovers of wild recreation, who placed numerous tents among the pines. Nudists still relax on Orange Beach, but now they are allocated a certain part of the beach, marked with a special sign.

The emergence of organized tourism has brought some comfort. The extreme part of the beach provides changing rooms, dry closets, and the opportunity to purchase soft drinks. You can also find several cantinas, that is, mobile trailers, where tourists can easily refresh themselves until the next full meal.

Over time, the period of package tourists began. They are brought here by boats, selling excursions. However, there is no need to purchase an expensive trip, because the journey from Sarti by car will take no more than 10 minutes.

Orange Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Sithonia. The places with sun loungers are packed throughout the tourist season. By sunset the seats at the bar are filled to capacity. But the wild sections of the beach allow you to connect with nature, far from other travelers.

For an exotic holiday, head to Kavourotripes Beach. White sand, turquoise sea - the contrasting colors of this place will be remembered for a long time. The rock where the artist, who wished to remain anonymous, carved a mermaid attracts attention.

Families will appreciate Toroni. The two-kilometer space, covered with sand and small pebbles, attracts with the comfort of relaxation. Some areas are equipped with umbrellas, sun loungers, you can rent sea bikes, canoes, and along the shore, tourists have access to numerous shops, bars, taverns and places to stay.

Armenistis is famous among young people. Organized camping allows you to relax inexpensively, which is why younger tourists choose this beach. In addition, travelers have access to minimarkets, a bar, a restaurant and other necessary establishments.

Tristinika is a large sandy beach. The surrounding area not only provides places to stay and eat, but also a beach bar known for its magnificent views, modern music, and vibrant atmosphere. After driving a little from the beach, you can find yourself at the Aretes complex. The beautiful bay will captivate travelers with its landscapes. The nearby bay of Krifos Paradisos is a favorite place for nudists, so you need to be a little careful there.

Akti Kovyu is a place that will remain in the memory for its incredible color palette of sea water. It’s as if an artist walked through here, spilling jars of blue-green shades of paint. The frame of pine trees descending to the water makes the beach truly fabulous. Here you can take umbrellas and sun loungers, but you will have to leave your transport by the road.

When deciding to travel, you need to take into account many important details of the trip. Mouzenidis Travel organizes tours to Greece based on the needs and wishes of the client. Specialists will select a convenient departure time, a comfortable place to stay, and plan an excursion and cultural program. The wide geography of the tour operator's offices provides maximum support to travelers wherever they are.

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Attractions

Neos Marmaras

The young settlement of Neos Marmaris dates back to the 20th century. However, archaeological excavations confirm that earlier there were ancient and Byzantine settlements on this site. All that remains of the ancient cities are the ruins of fortress walls and the foundations of buildings.

During its short period of life, the town rapidly developed and became a tourist center. A hotel was built not far from it, which houses restaurants, cafes and many other entertainments.

The main attraction of the village is the courtyard of the Gregoriata Monastery, located on Mount Athos. Ancient church

St. Athanasius once belonged to Gregoriate.

The Karras estate, famous for its wine cellar, is located in Neos Marmaras. Visitors are invited to taste the most unusual drinks of the island. For many millennia, the island was dotted with olive plantations and vineyards. At the end of the 20th century, Janis Karras turned the settlement into a major winemaking center.

Opposite the village lies the small, beautiful, picturesque island of Kelifos. You can visit it by going on a boat trip.

Neos Marmaras, despite its young age, resembles a colorful Greek settlement. Taverns, markets, cafes create a wonderful spiritual atmosphere.

Nikiti

Nikiti is a town that has preserved the centuries-old history of the island. During archaeological excavations, scientists discovered traces of an ancient city and prehistoric settlements, as well as an Iron Age cemetery. Here, in ancient times, the powerful city of Galipsos, mentioned by Herodotus, flourished.

Despite the fact that the area was inhabited in ancient times, the official date of construction of Nikiti is considered to be the 14th century.

Initially, most of the territory of the settlement belonged to the monasteries of Athos. Confrontation with the Turks in the 19th century forced residents to flee, leaving their homes. Nikiti was abandoned, but gradually the inhabitants returned. The town was rebuilt and developed again.

Nikiti is divided into 2 parts - Old and New. Old Nikiti has preserved its history and identity. The quarter is considered a historical place in which attractions are concentrated. The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was founded here in the 14th century. The church is a cultural and religious object revered by the city's residents. Many beautiful ancient icons have been preserved inside the temple, and a mosaic icon of the Virgin Mary hangs at the entrance. A holy spring flows on the territory of the monastery.

New Nikiti is a modern resort village equipped with the necessary infrastructure. All cafes, taverns, hotels and apartments are located here.

Sarti

The village is founded on the site where the ancient city of Sarti used to stand. Today Sarti is a popular tourist village, decorated with picturesque mountains, cozy bays and clear sea.

The coast of the town is especially popular among lovers of active water activities and boat trips. Tourist boats and ships sail along the coast of the Republic of Athos.

The main attraction of Sarti is the Xiropotamou Monastery, built at the end of the 19th century. The village has several galleries, folk art centers and a Folklore Museum. All these places immerse visitors in the life and culture of the population of small Sarti.

Many of the village's attractions are of natural origin. The picturesque beach offers extraordinary views of Mount Athos and a tiny chapel.

The infrastructure of the village is well developed. The picturesque embankment is lined with cafes and taverns, and in the center of the town there are hotels, inns and campsites.

Porto Koufo Bay

The bay of Porto Koufo is the largest and safest bay in all of Northern Greece. Due to its location, the bay has long been used as a reliable shelter. Here stood the ships of the Toroneans, Romans, Turks and submarines of the German fascists.

Today the bay is filled with fishing boats and tourist boats. Vacationers go on an unforgettable excursion around the bay, which includes fishing and diving.

In the quiet fishing village you can always buy fresh fish. There are several clean beaches with white sand. Restaurants and hotels are located nearby. Porto Koufo becomes popular in September. There is a tuna festival here, which attracts many guests.

The quiet bay is surrounded by rocks. One of them preserves a cave in which the ancient Greeks worshiped the gods and made sacrifices. Later Christians consecrated this place. The entrance to the cave is closed, but everyone can admire the rocks and immerse themselves in the past.

Sykya

Sykia is an extraordinary village, captivating with its picturesque nature and ancient history.

People lived on this place back in the Neolithic era. In the 14th century the village was called Longos. During the Byzantine rule, Longos was a courtyard of the Athos Monastery. Orthodox residents of the settlement, sailors and military personnel constantly participated in uprisings. A terrible merciless battle took place near the monastery of St. Anastasia. In this battle, many village residents died.

Nowadays, tourists stroll through the narrow streets of Sikya, admiring its ancient architecture and culture. In the village there is the Church of St. Athanasius. Next to it stands a stone old school building dating from the 19th century.

Halkidiki is a popular resort located in the northeast of mainland Greece, near the city of Thessaloniki. The elongated trident-shaped peninsula is famous for its three “fingers” that form cozy bays. Halkidiki's middle finger is Sithonia, a picturesque peninsula with pine forests and sandy beaches.

Holidays in Sithonia mean not only lying on the beach and contemplating natural beauty, but also rich cultural and entertainment programs for tourists. In today’s article we will tell you how to get to the resort and which beaches are better, and also highlight popular attractions, hotels and restaurants in Sithonia.

Description

Washed by the waters of the Aegean Sea and two bays of Greece, the Sithonia Peninsula is a favorite holiday destination for tourists and the Greeks themselves.

As you can see, Sithonia on the map is located on the mainland of the country and is the central “finger” of the Chalkidiki Peninsula. Located in the middle between two bays, the peninsula is reliably sheltered from the Mediterranean winds and bad weather. In summer, dry, sunny weather prevails here with daytime air temperatures of +28-30 °C and night temperatures of +22-24 °C. Washing the coast of the island. Sithonia waters warm up to +26 degrees.

The resort is small in size: 50 km long and 25 km wide. But the peninsula has something to impress. People love to come to the hotels and beaches of Sithonia because of the beauty of nature, convenient infrastructure and relaxing tranquility: unlike neighboring Kassandra, you can always find a calm and secluded place here.

The map of Sithonia does not feature large cities, but is rich in beach resorts. These are small villages and towns of the peninsula with a wide and beautiful coastline. Despite the small size of the towns, there are many apartments and hotels of different categories. A tourist map of Sithonia in Greece with hotels in Russian will help you understand this diversity. But we'll examine it a little later.

Where is Sithonia and how to get there

The resort of Halkidiki with its three “fingers” is located in the northeast of the country. As the map of Greece shows, Sithonia is located right in the center of Halkidiki, and Thessaloniki is the closest major city to the peninsula.

Almost every trip to the resorts of Sithonia passes through Thessaloniki International Airport (Macedonia). The distance from the air harbor to the peninsula is about 90 km. You can get to the desired resort in Sithonia by public transport, taxi or rented car.

Halkidiki in Greece is the mainland - the peninsulas of Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos. The weather and climate in Halkidiki are mild, and the beaches are some of the best in Greece - sandy with a gentle slope. A map of resorts and beaches in Halkidiki will help you choose the best place for a sea holiday, find attractions and popular hotels. Vivid photos of beaches and nature, hotels, entertainment in Halkidiki.

The beautiful peninsula of Halkidiki, until the 10th century AD was called the Trident of Poseidon. This name was given to this peninsula due to the fact that it consists of three peninsulas of “teeth”, “fingers” or “legs”: Kassandra, Sithonia and New Athos. The Chalkidiki peninsula is washed by the waters of the Aegean Sea: The Thermic Gulf in the west, Toroneos Gulf - between Kassandra and Sithonia, and the Holy Gulf - between Sithonia and the New Athos peninsula. The capital of Halkidiki is the small city of Polygeros, whose population is only 10 thousand people.

Halkidiki on the map:

In order to explore a specific resort, beach or other section, you can click on the title of the section of the Halkidiki guide and you will immediately be taken to the right place. To plan your trip to Greece to the Halkidiki peninsula, quickly decide where to go on vacation and how much it will cost, I recommend studying the sections of the guide in order.

Guide sections

Flights

To fly to Halkidiki on vacation, you need to buy air tickets to the airport in Thessaloniki. The nearest point on Kassandra, the village of Nea Potidea, can be reached from the airport in just 40 minutes (about 60 km); the drive to the village of Nikiti on the Sithonia peninsula takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The journey to the New Athos peninsula takes the longest - almost two hours (116 km).

The average cost of air tickets per person per season (May-September) is 12-15 thousand rubles. The minimum cost of air tickets Moscow-Thessaloniki-Moscow is 8,200 rubles per person.

The most expensive tickets are in July-August, the price reaches 25 thousand rubles. per person.

To find the best cost of air tickets to Thessaloniki and decide on your vacation dates, I advise you to study different air ticket search engines.

Hotels in Halkidiki

The most diverse base of hotels in Halkidiki is located on the Kassandra peninsula. In Sithonia, campsites or separate beach bars are mainly common. On the New Athos peninsula, the tourist area is very tiny, extending to Ouranoupoli, then there is a closed zone of monasteries, which only men can enter, and for this you need to obtain prior permission.

Again, in Halkidiki you can always rent an apartment with a kitchen, or book an all-inclusive hotel. The most common type of food in hotels in Greece is half board (two meals a day - breakfast/dinner).

Also, in this section, I would like to clarify important information about the tourist tax in hotels in Greece. From January 1, 2018, all tourists vacationing in hotels or apartments must pay a tourist tax. The tourist tax is paid by tourists personally, directly at the accommodation facility upon arrival (at the reception).

The tourist tax depends on the category of hotel/apartment:

5* hotel – 4 euros per day per room

4* hotel – 3 euros per day per room

3* hotel – 1.50 euros per day per room

2* and 1* hotel - 0.50 euros per day per room

apartments 4* – 1 euro per day

apartments 3* - 0.50 euros per day

apartments 2* and 1* - 0.25 euros per day.

Insurance

In order to go on any trip abroad, including to Greece, you must take out medical insurance. Insurance is very inexpensive, but treatment in the eurozone costs a lot of money. Therefore, there is no need to save on yourself and the health of your loved ones; it is better to pay 400 rubles. (average price per person for a week), rather than then paying 1000-3000 euros for treatment without insurance.

In addition, medical insurance is a prerequisite for obtaining a Schengen visa.

Visa to Greece

A Schengen visa is required for Greece. The Greek Schengen visa is considered the “simplest” and fastest to obtain. The Greeks are very loyal when issuing visas - even to newcomers who have never had a Schengen visa, consuls issue visas valid for six months or even a year.

To apply for a Greek Schengen visa, you need a minimum package of documents: photographs, financial guarantees - certificate of employment / certificate of bank account, proof of residence, air tickets and insurance.

You can read more about how to independently apply for a Schengen visa to Greece in the article:

Last minute tours

Greece is the country where you should book your holiday (tour, hotel, air tickets) in advance. On the other hand, those who already have Schengen visas can fly to Greece very profitably and cheaply on a last-minute ticket.

You and I know that last-minute tours are tours for which the price is reduced in 10-3 days. Due to unsold charter tickets, or an unredeemed quota of hotel rooms. Since a Greek visa takes at least 4 days to process, it is quite possible to get it done in time by purchasing a last-minute tour. However, you should soberly assess all the risks; you need to be sure that you will be given a visa and that there will be no delays in issuing it.

Resorts and beaches of Halkidiki:
Kassandra, Sithonia and New Athos - what to choose?

New Athos

The New Athos peninsula amazes with its picturesque rocky bays and sandy beaches. The peninsula of Sithonia and New Athos is separated by the Holy Gulf of the Aegean Sea. The tourist area ends at the borders of the town of Ouranoupolis. Next begins the pilgrimage zone - the territory belongs to an independent monastic state, Mount Athos is included in the list of UNESCO cultural heritage sites.

Women are prohibited from visiting the state of New Athos (there is an "avaton" - ban), and in order for men to get there, they must obtain a special permit - diamonitirion, in other words, the blessing of the Ecumenical Patriarch. The cost of registering a diamonitirion varies from 25 euros to 100 euros, depending on how you arrange it - yourself or through specialized travel agencies.

You can only get to New Athos by water - by ferry. And the path to the peninsula from Thessaloniki itself is not the easiest - a serpentine road. The distance from Thessaloniki airport to Ouranoupoli is 120 km and the travel time takes about 2 hours.

Thousands of pilgrims depart from the port of Ouranoupolis on small excursion ships to the western coast of the peninsula to see the coastline of the Holy Land and the monasteries where dedicated monks live, at least from afar. Sometimes, the Father of one of the monasteries sails on a boat to a ship with tourists to give his blessing.

Resorts and beaches on New Athos

The main resorts of New Athos are Ouranoupolis, the most popular and closest to the borders of the monastic state, Nea Roda and Tripiti on the isthmus. The beaches of Athos are sandy, with a smooth, gentle slope. The road to the beaches leads downhill, across the road.

The hotels themselves are located on the other side of the road from the sea. After spending half a day at sea, it can sometimes be difficult to walk up the hill to the hotel for lunch.

New Athos is an ideal place for a relaxing beach holiday. To leave the hotel premises, you will most likely have to take a taxi and get to Ouranoupolis.

In Ouranoupolis, also known as the "heavenly city", you can see the tower of St. Andronikos, rising above the crystal clear sea. The main street of Ouranoupoli originates from the port itself. Walking along this street you will come across a large number of souvenir shops, trading stalls, as well as several excellent fish taverns.

Sithonia

The Sithonia Peninsula simply amazes with its untouched nature, azure sea shimmering in the sun. 90% of beaches boast a blue flag. The Sithonia Peninsula has been recognized as a protected area since 2004; new buildings and structures cannot be erected here, only renovation of what has already been built.

There are practically no hotels on the eastern side of Sithonia, all the beaches are wild, birds are singing all around, nature is untouched by man. On the eastern side of the Sithonia peninsula, there are often campsites on the beaches. For example, the cost of renting a tent and the possibility of using a shared kitchen, without amenities - 5 euros/person. in a day.

Also, there are often so-called beach bars - where for a drink you can rent a set (umbrella + two sun loungers) for at least the whole day. The minimum cost of one drink is 3 euros.

Let's take a closer look at the resorts and beaches of Sithonia.

Resorts and beaches of Sithonia

1. Gerakini

Gerakini is located 80 km from Thessaloniki, practically between Kassandra and Sithonia. It is the best place for those who want to explore the surrounding area and attractions of the entire peninsula, visit Thessaloniki, Mount Olympus, the Monastery of Anastasia the Pattern Maker or Meteora.

In the north of Gerakini there is Mount Holomontas, in the west - Kassandra, in the east - Sithonia. Gerakini is a developed tourist resort, with numerous hotels, apartments and a campsite.

In the evenings, you can stroll along the streets of Gerakini or along the embankment, have a leisurely meal in a tavern, and enjoy a glass of Greek wine. There is no vibrant nightlife at this resort.

But Gerakini, in fact, like most of the beaches of Halkidiki, boasts sandy, albeit not very wide, sandy beaches.

2. Metamorphosi

Located 98 km from Thessaloniki, the tiny town is just a few small winding streets and a small central square with souvenir shops and traditional Greek taverns.

The first children's camp was opened in Metamorfosi, and the most expensive hotel, Donai beach resort, was built.

Wonderful beaches with small pebbles and sand, as well as crystal clear seas - everything you need for a quiet and relaxing holiday.

3. Nikiti

The village of Nikiti is located 110 km from Thessaloniki - a small village that was once destroyed by the Turks. Nikiti is conventionally divided into two parts - the old city, where locals live, and the new city, with tourist infrastructure and entertainment.

In the village, a weekly Friday market is organized for local residents and tourists (open on Friday mornings), where you can buy products from local craftsmen and artisans, fresh fruits and vegetables grown right there on the peninsula, as well as the famous Nikitsky honey.

20% of Greek honey is produced in Nikiti, there is even a beekeeping school.

Nikiti is one of the few places on the Halkidiki peninsula where the local population lives all year round.

Nikiti beaches have an open coastline, but the sea is always almost calm. A narrow beach strip (about 10-15 meters), with a gentle entry into the sea. Even during peak season, the beach is rarely crowded.

Along the beach there is a promenade with taverns, playgrounds and supermarkets.

In some areas of the beaches there are sea urchins, so it is better to swim in “corals” - special shoes or flip-flops.

4. Neos Marmaras

The largest village of the Halkidiki peninsula is the economic and commercial center of Sithonia. The village of Neos Marmaras is located 120 km from the city of Thessaloniki. Neos Marmaras has a large number of shops, souvenir shops, and fish taverns. The embankment of the village is literally dotted with nightclubs, so young people can safely come to this resort - they definitely won’t be bored! Also, in Neos Marmaras there is a large casino at the Porto Carras hotel complex.

Located on the east coast 140 km from Thessaloniki. Tourists like it due to its good infrastructure, relaxing holidays and low prices. Mostly families with children vacation in Sarti.

The beaches in Sarti are wide with fine sand and a gentle slope into the sea, overlooking the majestic Athos (Holy Gulf), sometimes there are waves. There are equipped beaches, beach bars and wild beaches. On the southern side of the beach the sand is fine, closer to the north it is coarser.

6. Toroni

Located at a distance of 155 km from Thessaloniki airport. It is the most ancient settlement of the Kassandra Peninsula.

This resort is also suitable for a relaxing holiday for nature lovers and connoisseurs.

The beaches of Toroni stretch for 2.5 km. The purest, “fluffy sand”, turquoise sea, free beaches - what else is needed for relaxation!

7. Vourvourou

Located on the east coast of Sithonia, 120 km from Thessaloniki airport. Like Toroni, Vourvourou is suitable for a relaxing beach holiday, without active nightlife. Therefore, young people rest here quite rarely. The peculiarity of this place is that from the coast you can see New Athos and the islands adjacent to this peninsula.

Cassandra

The Kassandra Peninsula is separated from the mainland by a small, artificially created isthmus. In fact, Kassandra is an island, with a part of the land filled up on which a road bridge was built, connecting the peninsula with the mainland in the area of ​​Nea Potidea.

Everyone in Kassandra will find a beach and resort to their liking. Let's now go into detail about each resort and beach of Kassandra.

1. Nea Moudania

People go on vacation to Nea Moudania not for the sake of gorgeous beaches and tranquility; this place is interesting to tourists for the following reasons: shopping (large supermarkets Masoutis, Arvanitidis, Galaxias, LIDL, Carrefour), nightlife, entertainment.

The main city beach, equipped with umbrellas and sun loungers, in Nea Moudania is located to the right of the seaport. There is even a children's playground next to the beach and all types of water activities are available.

2. Nea Potidea

As I said earlier, the resort of Nea Potidea is located in the narrowest place of Kassandra. Nea Potidea is located close to Thessaloniki airport - only 55 km, and the travel time takes a maximum of 40 -45 minutes. From Nea Potidea, as well as from Nea Moudania, it is convenient to go on excursions to Thessaloniki, Mount Olympus, and the Monastery of Anastasia the Pattern Maker.

Nea Potidea is suitable for both families with children and young people - sandy beaches with a gentle slope combined with active nightlife nearby. Even if you stay at some distance from the village of Nea Potidea itself, for example, in the hotels Potidea Palace 5 *, Pomegranate 5 *, along the beach, you can walk to the village without any problems.

3. Nea Focaia

80 km from Thessaloniki airport. Nea Fokea is a small fishing village with only 1,500 people.

Nea Fokea (or Nea Fokia) has excellent infrastructure for tourists: from luxury hotels to budget apartments, campsites, restaurants, taverns, traditional wine glasses, cafes with live music.

The main attraction of Nea Fokia is the Tower of Apostle Paul, which was built in 1407. From this tower there is a wonderful view of the Sithonia peninsula.

The beach strip of Nea Fokea is narrow; not everywhere there is a good entry into the sea. A holiday in Nea Fokaia is suitable for a relaxing holiday, with the opportunity to go on excursions, including to the neighboring “fingers” of Halkidiki, since this resort is located at the very beginning of the peninsula.

4. Afitos

Afitos is located 85 km from the city of Thessaloniki. Afitos (from the ancient Greek “afitis” - “abundance of greenery”) is a village built in the national Greek style. Indeed, Afytos amazes with a riot of greenery and colors, surrounded by pine trees that majestically lean towards the golden beaches and turquoise water of the Gulf of Toroneos.

A very calm resort, without discos and noisy parties. For those who suddenly want to have fun, the town of Nea Kallithea is 5 km away, but more on that a little later.

The area of ​​Afitos is hilly, most of the resort is located on the mountain - offering wonderful views of the sandy beaches.

The road to the beach is a descent along paths and stairs; please note that you will have to walk back uphill.

The beach strip in Afitos is narrow, on the beach itself there is sand, and at sunset there are pebbles in places. The entry into the sea is gentle.

Sometimes sea urchins come under your feet in the sea, so it is better to swim in special shoes.

Kallithea (translated from Greek means “beautiful view”) is located 90 km from Thessaloniki.

A little history - Kallithea was founded in 1922 on the site of the ruins of the Temple of Zeus Ammon, some of which have survived to this day.

Kallithea is one of the main resorts of Kassandra and is popular, primarily among young people, thanks to the “active” infrastructure of the resort: a string of beach bars along the beaches, a large number of taverns, restaurants and nightclubs.

2 kilometers from Kallithea to the south there is a large entertainment complex, including the most popular nightclubs Ahou, Perl, Angels Club, as well as Space Bowling.

In Kallithea there is the Macedonian Sun shopping center - there are goods of various brands and brands in different price categories, a pizzeria, taverns, restaurants.

Kallithea is loved not only by young tourists, but also by families with children - this resort is valued for its gentle, sandy slope. Kallithea has a calm sea, which is protected from the winds by numerous hills.

Kallithea beach is equipped with everything you need: umbrellas, sun loungers, showers. In some places, the beach in Kallithea is very narrow.

6. Kriopigi ("cold spring")

2.5 km south of Kallithea, Kriopigi Beach is a more secluded place, surrounded by coniferous forests, eucalyptus and palm trees. There are wild beaches, not improved by any beach infrastructure, and there are beach bars - where for a drink you can “rent” an umbrella and a sunbed, even for the whole day. Also, camping is organized in Kriopigi.

The village of Kriopigi itself is removed from the beach deep into the peninsula. Kriopigi is located 93 km from the airport from Thessaloniki.

Kriopigi is popular among vacationers due to its clean and free (which is important), blue flag beach, gorgeous nature and proximity to Kallithea, where you can always go on an excursion to the ruins of the Temple of Ammon Zeus, go shopping in a shopping center or have fun in a nightclub.

7. Polychoric

Located 90 km from Thessaloniki. The village of Polikhorno is located near the coast, has a long (7 km) and narrow beach strip, with sandy and small pebbles.

Along the beach, across the promenade, there are taverns, cafes and hotels. During the season, it is quite crowded here. Having bought a drink for 4-5 euros at the beach bar, you can rent a set - an umbrella and two sun loungers, or come with your own towel and umbrella for free.

Not far from Polikhorno, 3 km, there is the forest lake Mavrobara - two rare species of aquatic turtle live there.

Polikhorno is suitable for a relaxing holiday. In your free time from visiting taverns and swimming in the sea, you can visit the sights: the Acropolis, the sundial of the Greco-Roman period, the Church of St. Athanasius, the museum, the ancient cemetery, Christ Square with the Church of the Nativity (1863).

8. Hanioti

Hanioti is located 100 km from the city of Thessaloniki. This village is popular for its developed infrastructure: it is suitable both for a relaxing family holiday - a varied hotel base, and for young people - there are several bars and discos, mainly live music in cafes.

During the day it is very pleasant to stroll along the quiet and narrow streets paved with stone, visit supermarkets to buy souvenirs, and also buy fresh fruit in greengrocers. In the evening, the main street seems to come to life, turning into a tourist center: a night market for clothing from Turkish brands, cozy cafes where you can sit and listen to live music.

As for the beaches of Hanioti, the entry into the water is not always perfectly sandy or “small-pebble”, as they say in many guidebooks. For example, entering the sea at the Elinhotel Appolomare 5* hotel is simply terrible: huge stones and a slab overgrown with mud and sharp pebbles. I don’t want to go into the sea again. The beach itself is covered with fluffy sand, the hotel is of fairly high quality, good rooms and a good location.

Hanioti itself left me with a positive impression; there is no feeling that you are in a forgotten wilderness, but there are no attractions in this village as such.

9. Pefkohori ("pine village")

Pefkochori is located 100 km southeast of Thessaloniki. The village is surrounded by pine groves and boasts good recreational infrastructure for different categories of tourists.

For couples and children, there are several clothing stores and many grocery stores. Also, in Pefkohori there is an amusement park with attractions for children. Beach bars are popular among young people, where the fun continues from morning to night, and daytime feasts turn into discos on the beach.

Pefkohori is a small, colorful village with a promenade (promenade), along which there are many taverns, bars and souvenir shops.

The beaches in Pefkohori are mostly sandy beaches, in some places sandy and pebbly. The narrow beach strip stretches for 3 km. On the left side of the pier, there are mainly hotel beaches. On the right side is the municipal beach, which is the most crowded during peak season.

10. Sit down

Possidi is located 105 km from the city of Thessaloniki to the southwest of the Kassandra peninsula. The name Possidi comes from the Greek God Poseidon. The colorful fishing village is located on the cape of the same name, in the protected area of ​​the Kassandra Peninsula, from which there is a wonderful view of the famous Mount Olympus, or rather the mountain range called Olympus. According to ancient Greek myths, the god Zeus sat on this mountain.

Did you know that Olympus is not one mountain, but an entire mountain range.

Possidi has all the necessary infrastructure for recreation: fish taverns, fragrant coffee shops, souvenir shops.

The Possidi beach strip is narrow and sandy. The entry into the sea is gentle and sandy. Some beaches are equipped with umbrellas/sunbeds, while there are wild, undeveloped beaches. There is a promenade along the beach, along which vacationers enjoy strolling on warm evenings.

11. Siviri

Siviri is one of the most beautiful places on the Kassandra Peninsula - an abundance of greenery, a wide sandy beach, mountains and sea. Located 95 km from the city of Thessaloniki, the road from the airport to this place takes about 1 hour 20 minutes.

Siviri is a small village on the western coast of Kassandra, has all the necessary infrastructure for recreation. In addition to taverns, bars, restaurants and supermarkets, there are shops that sell folk art goods (greek art shops), as well as meat and bakery shops and an open-air cinema.

However, like Possidi, Siviri is more suitable for a relaxing beach holiday. As already mentioned, in Siviri the beaches are quite wide, with a gentle sandy slope. There is a promenade along the beach strip.

12. Sleigh

It is impossible not to talk about the Sani resort, on the coast of which there is an elite complex of hotels, villas and apartments Sani Resort, surrounded by a pine forest.

The Sani resort complex consists of five hotels:

Sani Beach 5* - the most popular, Sani Club 5* - quiet and family-friendly, Porto Sani 5* dlx - a hotel with its own yacht port and promenade in the center of the resort, Sani Dunes 5* dlx - located on the shore near Sani Asterias 5* dlx - where famous people and the richest people from all over the world like to relax there.

You can get to Sani Beach in just an hour by taxi/individual transfer, and a group transfer will take 20 minutes longer.

The hotel complex is located on the territory of an ecological reserve with an area of ​​1000 hectares. The length of sandy beaches is 7 km and all have a blue flag.

In addition, this complex has everything, even its own harbor, where guests and hotel residents can dock.

Weather and climate in Halkidiki

Current weather in Halkidiki:

The climate in Halkidiki is mild, Mediterranean, without sudden changes in temperature and humidity. In summer the weather is dry and hot, rain is rare. In winter, on the contrary, the air is humid and moderately cool. The average air temperature in Halkidiki in December, January and February is +7 degrees, during the day in the sun up to +16 degrees. It is very rare for winter temperatures to drop below 0 degrees.

In April, in Halkidiki, the sun warms the air more and more, up to +24 degrees. Throughout April, you can observe the rapid flowering of fruit trees such as cherry and quince.

Officially, the swimming season in Halkidiki begins on June 1. However, a large number of vacationers can be found on the endless sandy beaches of the peninsula, already from the beginning - mid-May. The main contingent of tourists at this time are Europeans who do not like the sultry heat and large numbers of people in hotels. The Aegean Sea warms up to a comfortable temperature by mid-June, the weather “settles down”, and the thunderstorms end.

The average water temperature during the season in Halkidiki varies from +26 to 28 degrees. In May and early June, the water in the sea barely warms up to +21-22 degrees. By the end of the beach season - starting from mid-September, the sea is still warm, with a comfortable temperature of +24 -25 degrees. The weather begins to gradually turn into a humid mode, it rains more and more often, and instead of a sunny morning and a clear sky, from the window of your hotel room, you can see the sky covered with gray clouds. Despite cloudiness and precipitation, the air temperature in mid-September - early October remains at +22-24 degrees.

Money and prices for food, entertainment and shopping in Halkidiki

In Halkidiki, in cities and large towns, cards are accepted for payment, almost everywhere - in shops, supermarkets, cafes and taverns, gas stations. Also, money can be withdrawn from accounts at all partner ATMs. Greek banks are open Monday to Thursday from 08:00 to 14:30 and Friday from 08:00 to 13:30, excluding holidays.

For non-cash payments, your money from a ruble card is converted at the current bank rate, again it all depends on the type of payment system: mastercard or visa. You can avoid double conversion (ruble-dollar-euro) by using a Mastercard payment system card.

Prices in Halkidiki

Let's start with the most important: beach set (umbrella plus two sun loungers) - 5-7 euros/day, or for a drink at the beach bar.

Prices for food in stores in Halkidiki

Bread - 0.5-1 euro

Olive oil - 6-8 euros

Wine (750 ml) - 3.6-10 euros

Retsina (Greek resinous white wine with an alcohol content of 11.5% vol.) - 1.36-1.4 euros

Greek yogurt - 2.5-4 euros/1 kg

Cheeses - 7.5-14.5 euros/kg

Feta (1 kg package) - 8-10 euros

Spaghetti 500g - 0.75 euro

Rice - 1.4-3 euros/kg

Minced beef - 7-8 euros/kg

Minced pork -0 4-5 euro/kg

Chicken fillet - 6.1 euro/kg

A dozen eggs - 1.6-2 euros

Milk - 1.1-1.3 euros/liter

Prices in Greek taverns

Prices in Greek taverns depend on the location of the tavern and the distance from the embankment and tourist area.

Meat hot dishes

Steak (beef / pork / chicken) - 7.5-8 euros

Kebab - 7.5 euros

Traditional Greek dishes:

Moussaka - 6.5 euros

Consists of baked layers: a bottom layer of eggplant with olive oil, a middle layer of lamb with tomatoes and a top layer of bechamel sauce. Sometimes zucchini, potatoes or mushrooms are added to moussaka.

Pastitsio - 6.5 euros

This is pasta baked with minced meat and bechamel sauce.

Traditional salads and appetizers served in a Greek tavern in Halkidiki:

Tzatziki - 3 euros

Tzatziki is a sauce made from fresh cucumbers, Greek yogurt, olive oil and garlic. Dill and olives are also often added to the composition.

Mussels with rice - 6 euros

Grilled octopus - 9 euros

Fried feta - 3.6 euros

Greek salad - 5-6 euros

Salad with tomatoes and cucumbers - 3-3.5 euros

Drinks in Greek taverns

Greek wine - 10 euros/bottle.

Retsina (resin wine 0.5 l) - 3-3.5 euros

Beer 0.5 l - 2.5-3.5 euros

Carbonated drinks (cola, Fanta, lime, tonic) - 1.5 euros

Still drinking water - 1.5 euros per 0.5 l bottle

Coffee - 2-2.5 euros

Entertainment and shopping in Halkidiki

The water park can be reached from Thessaloniki in just 15 minutes by car or by free shuttle bus. The bus departs from several points in the city at 09-00, 11-00 and 13-00 and back 30 minutes after closing. The water park starts operating from June 1 until the end of the season, opening hours from 10-00 to 18-00/19-00/20-00.

Cost of visiting Waterland water park:

Children under 4 years old - free
Children 4–14 years old - 11 euros
Children over 14 years old and adults - 14.5 euros

Special rates (Smile price) for those who arrive two hours before the park closes:

Children 4–14 years old - 9.5 euros
Children over 14 years old and adults - 11 euros

An equally popular place for entertainment in Kassandra is the Ahou nightclub; next to the club there is a bowling alley. Ahou Nightclub located 1 km from the village of Kallithea towards Kriopigi. Open from the end of April to the end of September, from 23-00 until the morning. The entrance fee is 10 euros on weekdays and 12 euros on weekends.

Popular place for shopping in Halkidiki - shopping center Meditteranean Cosmos, located near the city of Thessaloniki. This shopping center presents clothes, shoes and accessories from world brands from A to Z, in addition, you can find a boutique with locally produced and handmade clothes and cosmetics. Toys, books, cafes and much more are sold in this huge multi-story complex. If you go to a seasonal sale, you can buy quality items at indecently low prices, even taking into account the exchange rate of the euro against the ruble.

Sithonia is one of the branches of the “trident” of the Chalkidiki peninsula, named after the son of the god of the seas - the Titan Sithon. According to ancient Greek myth, it was in the picturesque groves of Sithonia that the ruler of the underground kingdom, Hades, managed to lure the beautiful Persephone to himself.

The peninsula is washed by the waters of the Toroneos and Siengitiko bays and ends at Cape Drepano. Here, hotels of all classes are available to vacationers, including the largest Porto Carras complex with a golf course and the only casino in Halkidiki. And you can taste the nightlife here in the village of Neos Marmaras.

The ancient cities of Sithonia are Galipsos, Toroni, Singos, Sarti and Derra.

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How to get to Sithonia

Getting here is not at all difficult, regular buses run constantly from the nearest airport in Thessaloniki, so after covering a distance of seventy to one hundred kilometers, depending on which resort you choose, you will find yourself in a quiet harbor where no one is in a hurry or late, and life goes on as usual.

Search for air tickets to Thessaloniki (the closest airport to Sithonia)

Main resorts of Sithonia

The western shores of Sithonia, from Nikiti to Neos Marmaras, are considered the best on the entire peninsula.

Metamorfosi and Nikiti are villages with beautiful sandy beaches and pine groves. At the same time, Nikiti stands out with its special chimneys and bright red roofs of old houses.

Also worthy of special attention is the Vourvourou Bay with its beach of the same name, considered the most exotic on the peninsula.

Maps of Sithonia

Beaches

The beaches of Sithonia deserve special attention; they are among the cleanest in the world. And thanks to the presence of a huge number of small bays, there are practically no storms here, the water is always calm and surprisingly clear.

If you go into the sea and remain motionless, then in less than half a minute you will be attacked by a school of tiny fish, which will immediately swim to a safe distance as soon as you move.

Soft sand or small pebbles are conducive to sunbathing for many hours, and discourage sunbathing on a sun lounger. If only in the first few days you are completely absorbed in happy idleness, and then you want to have fun, there will certainly be something for your taste - all kinds of slides, water skis, jet skis, boat trips, yacht or catamaran trips and much more. The coastal waters of the Aegean Sea will not leave diving enthusiasts indifferent.

Entertainment and attractions of Sithonia

Among the architectural attractions of the peninsula, the most significant and popular are the ancient fortification of Likif and the Christian shrine - the Church of St. Athanasius. In addition, there are ruins of a city founded in ancient times.

In addition to an endlessly pleasant and comfortable holiday, Sithonia can also entertain you with authentic Greek festivities, the traditions of which are still observed in some villages. In addition, along the shores of the Aegean Sea there are numerous tiny villages of hereditary fishermen who will be happy to introduce you to their simple way of life and even treat you to delicious seafood. It is here that you can better get to know the character of the Greeks and experience their cordiality and hospitality.

Nature of Sithonia

The Sithonia Peninsula is distinguished by its unique natural resources, incredibly beautiful landscapes and an indescribable atmosphere of peace and tranquility. Those who are tired of the noisy and fast-paced life of big cities come here and want to take a short break to restore strength, find inner harmony and simply get a lot of wonderful impressions.

The small territory of Sithonia contains mountain ranges, coniferous forests, olive groves, golden sandy beaches and shores covered with small white pebbles. The air here is thoroughly saturated with the smell of the sea and perennial pine trees, and the silence is broken only by the light sound of the surf and the cries of white-winged gulls - nothing will interfere with your secluded, but not devoid of comfort and all the benefits of civilization, vacation.

Urban motifs would not fit into this idyll, created by nature itself, which is why there are no cities on the peninsula, only small villages with winding narrow streets, where villas in the traditional Greek style are surrounded by greenery.

Despite all the peace and comfort of the local landscapes, it was in Sithonia that the first Greek gambling house was opened many years ago, the scale of which has not been surpassed by more than one casino for quite some time.