Start your foodie adventure in Kassandra, the western branch of Halkidiki. Begin with a visit to the Polyhrono Beach, which offers plenty of water sports and relaxing sunbeds. Have a late lunch at the Taverna Ouzeri Kymata, where you can indulge in fresh seafood meze and sip your ouzo by the beach. In the late afternoon, take a short drive to the Canava Giannikos winery for a wine tasting of local wine varieties. End the day with a stroll around the scenic village of Afytos and have dinner at Tsaros Kokoretsi, where you can try some of the best grilled meats in Northern Greece.
Head to the scenic peninsula of Sithonia, widely known for its beautiful beaches and virgin forests. Start the day with a visit to the Paralio Beach Bar, a popular spot where you can have breakfast while enjoying the mesmerizing views of the Aegean Sea. Drive to the nearby village of Nikiti and wander around its picturesque alleys, which boast some of the best traditional bakeries in the area. Don't forget to taste the famous Sithonian honey and moussaka at the Taverna Ostrako. In the afternoon, visit the Domaine Porto Carras winery, which is one of the largest organic vineyards in Greece, for a wine tasting. End the day with a seafood dinner at Amouliani Restaurant, which offers a great variety of fresh fish, while you enjoy the stunning sea views.
Begin the day by taking a scenic cruise around Mount Athos, which includes a visit to the monastic state and its orthodox monasteries. After the cruise, have a late lunch at The Ariston Bakery in Ouranoupoli, offering mouth-watering pies, pastries, and delicious ice cream. Take a stroll at the village's charming center and have a coffee with a view of the sea. If you prefer a more adventurous activity, you can visit the hidden waterfalls at the Holomontas Nature Park. End the day with dinner at Istos Restaurant, famous for its traditional meat dishes and cozy ambiance.
In Halkidiki, a car is recommended to move around the various locations. Car rentals are available at the Thessaloniki International Airport, which is located about 30 min from the city center. Prices start at €25 per day. Moreover, there are local taxis available, and prices vary depending on the destination.
If you have more time, you can explore more of Halkidiki's hidden gems, such as the picturesque village of Arnaia, the beautiful village of Olympiada, or the ancient city of Stagira. You can also take a day trip to Thessaloniki, one of the most charming cities in Greece, located only 1 hour from Halkidiki. If you have less time, you can cut down on some sights or choose a shorter cruise around Mount Athos.
The Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG) is the main airport serving Halkidiki. It is located about 30 min from Thessaloniki and offers direct flights to numerous European cities, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Moscow. The airport code is SKG.