8-Night Road Trip from Bucharest to Halkidiki with Snorkeling and Historical Exploration

Day 1: Drive and City Exploration

Bucharest, Romania to Thessaloniki, Greece on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bistro Ateneu

Start your day in Bucharest with a delicious breakfast at Bistro Ateneu, offering fresh croissants and coffee to fuel your drive ahead.
RON40, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Bucharest to Thessaloniki

Begin your scenic 6-7 hour drive crossing through Bulgaria into Greece, aiming to reach Thessaloniki by late afternoon.
Fuel cost approx. EUR60, 7h0m

5:00pm

Explore Thessaloniki Old Town

Stroll around Thessaloniki’s Ano Poli district, famed for Byzantine walls and traditional architecture offering a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Enjoy authentic Greek flavours in this popular deli-style restaurant known for cured meats and local cheeses.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Travel to Sarti and Beach Time

Thessaloniki to Sarti, Halkidiki, Greece on June 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Blue Cup Coffee Co.

Grab a light breakfast with excellent coffee and pastries to prepare for a shorter 2.5-hour drive to Sarti.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Sarti

Enjoy the scenic road towards the eastern leg of Halkidiki peninsula, reaching Sarti by lunchtime.
Fuel cost approx. EUR15, 2h30m

12:00pm

Check-in and relax

Make yourself comfortable at your accommodation in Sarti and freshen up after the drive.
Already paid, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Akrogiali Taverna

Enjoy fresh seafood with sea views on the Sarti beachfront, trying local specialties such as grilled octopus.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Snorkeling at Sarti Beach

Head to the crystal-clear waters along Sarti’s beach where you can enjoy a relaxing snorkeling session exploring marine life.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at O Nikos Taverna

Dine at this traditional Greek taverna known for its warm hospitality and dishes like lamb with herbs.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 3: Beach and Historical Exploration

Sarti, Halkidiki, Greece on June 29, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at your accommodation or local bakery

Start with fresh pastries and Greek coffee from a local bakery in Sarti to prepare for a day of adventure.
EUR8, 1h0m

10:00am

Day trip to Ancient Stageira

Visit the archaeological site of Ancient Stageira, birthplace of Aristotle, exploring ruins and the small museum open from 8:00am to 3:00pm.
EUR6, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Taverna O Milos in Sarti

Relax with traditional Greek meze and fresh salad in a family-run taverna near the town square.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Snorkeling and swimming at Armenistis Beach

Drive or take a taxi to Armenistis Beach, known for its clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Return to Sarti and relax

Enjoy some downtime at your accommodation or a café by the beach.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Paradiso Restaurant

Treat yourselves with Mediterranean cuisine paired with fine local wine while enjoying sunset views.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Beach Relaxation and Local Culture

Sarti, Halkidiki, Greece on June 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Niko’s Bakery

Enjoy traditional Greek sweets such as bougatsa with coffee before a relaxed day.
EUR8, 1h0m

10:00am

Relax at Sarti Beach

Spend your morning on the sandy beach swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Restaurant Melathron

Sample hearty Greek dishes including fresh fish and homemade desserts in a pleasant atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit to nearby Porto Koufo

Drive 20 minutes to Porto Koufo, the largest natural harbour in Greece, enjoy boat watching and seaside charm.
Fuel approx. EUR5, 2h0m

6:30pm

Return to Sarti for sunset stroll

Walk along the beachfront promenade enjoying the peaceful seaside ambiance and local shops.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Karidi Tavern

Dine on fresh seafood with a splendid view of Mount Athos in the distance, with a cosy atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 5: Excursion to Mount Athos Viewpoints

Sarti and Surrounding Halkidiki on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast to prepare for a half-day excursion.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Boat Tour with Mount Athos View

Take a boat tour from Sarti harbour offering views of the autonomous monastic state of Mount Athos, a highlight for culture and scenic beauty; tours operate 9:30am - 1:00pm.
EUR45 per person, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at To Porto

Taste fresh seafood and Greek classics near the port after your tour.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Afternoon snorkelling at Kalamitsi Beach

Drive 15 minutes south to Kalamitsi Beach, known for calm waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming.
Fuel approx. EUR3, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ouzeri Elia

Enjoy traditional ouzo and mezedes in a lively atmosphere back in Sarti.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 6: Ancient Cities and Relaxation

Sarti, Greece on July 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Sarti

Light breakfast and coffee at a popular local cafe, perfect for people watching.
EUR8, 1h0m

10:00am

Day trip to Ouranoupoli and Mount Athos Shore

Drive 1-hour west to Ouranoupoli, the gateway to Mount Athos, explore the Byzantine Tower and enjoy local beach area; open all day free.
Fuel approx. EUR10, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Aiolis Taverna, Ouranoupoli

Enjoy freshly caught fish and traditional Greek salad at a charming taverna.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return to Sarti and relax at accommodation

Afternoon rest by the pool or beach to recharge after your excursion.
Included, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Blue Bay Restaurant

Dine on freshly prepared Mediterranean dishes in a comfortable beachside setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 7: Full Day Snorkelling and Leisure

Sarti, Halkidiki on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local fruits and pastries.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Snorkelling and Beach hopping

Spend the day snorkelling at several nearby beaches including Kalamitsi, Armenistis, and the quieter Platanitsi beach, known for excellent underwater visibility.
Free, 5h0m

2:30pm

Lunch picnic at the beach

Prepare a light picnic or grab takeaway local delicacies to enjoy on the beach, soaking in the sun and sea breeze.
EUR15, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax and stroll Sarti town

Explore shops, cafes and the village centre at a relaxed pace.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Pelagos Restaurant

Celebrate your last night in Sarti with fine dining specialising in fresh seafood and Greek specialities.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 8: Relaxation and Local Culture

Sarti, Halkidiki on July 4, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at local bakery

Enjoy fresh bread and local jam with coffee to start your day.
EUR8, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Sarti Archaeological Site and Village Museum

Discover local history at the small archaeological site and museum within Sarti village, which offers cultural insight; open until 3pm.
EUR3, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at To Steki tou Giorgi

Savour traditional Greek dishes with homemade recipes in a family-friendly tavern.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at beach or local park

Spend your afternoon enjoying the last moments of your trip with a peaceful walk or swim at the beach.
Free, 3h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Stelios taverna

Finish with a warm meal featuring grilled fish or souvlaki at this welcoming taverna.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 9: Drive Back to Bucharest

Sarti, Halkidiki to Bucharest, Romania on July 5, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at accommodation

Prepare for your drive with a nourishing breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive from Sarti to Bucharest

Embark on the approximately 8-hour drive back, planning breaks at rest stops across Greece and Bulgaria to keep refreshed.
Fuel approx. EUR60, 8h0m

4:00pm

Arrival in Bucharest

Arrive home safely after an enriching trip combining history, sea and culture.
Free
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