Halkidiki, a mountainous and green peninsula near Thessaloniki, is an excellent destination for a varied holiday. Whether it's a family trip, a romantic getaway or beach parties, there's room for everything. The main thing is to choose the best location for your vacation style. That's what we are about to discuss in our article.
What are thr best places for holidays with kids in Halkidiki?
Taking a holiday to Halkidiki with kids is a great idea for a few reasons. The sea there is calm and shallow, making it safe for young swimmers. You won't have to worry about big waves or sharp rocks that could hurt them. Just make sure to pick spots that fit these criteria, and you'll have a relaxing trip without any stress. Plus, the kids will have a blast and remember the vacation fondly.
Several towns are especially suitable for holidays with children.
Nikiti is the biggest town on the second peninsula of Halkidiki, called Sithonia. It's a charming place with a rich history, located by beautiful beaches that are perfect for families. There are playgrounds for kids to enjoy, and on the southern part of the beach, there's even an inflatable water park. Along the coastline, you'll find plenty of cafes, and during the summer, Ergon Agora hosts outdoor cartoon screenings for children. The area is pretty flat, so it's easy to stroll around with a stroller. If you have older kids, you can explore Nikiti's historical side with ancient ruins like a basilica and churches, or visit the local historical and folklore museum. Accommodation options include many hotels. Optionally, you can rent a charming seaside house, and there are also several supermarkets nearby for added convenience.
Siviri, a quaint fishing village nestled on the first peninsula of Halkidiki, Kassandra, is another gem for families with kids. Besides the beach, there's a refreshing pine forest nearby, enhancing the air quality for a healthier atmosphere. Kids can have a blast at the arcade machines in the main square, and cultural evenings and performances by Greek singers often grace the Siviri Amphitheater.
For a family-friendly retreat, certain parts of picturesque Vourvourou, Sani with its lavish resorts, and Polychrono boasting a lengthy sandy beach are ideal options.
For some child-centered excitement, head over to Chaniotis and Pefkohori. These neighboring towns on Kassandra not only offer stunning landscapes and sandy beaches but also feature parks with inflatable trampolines and other attractions tailored for kids' enjoyment.
The main thing is to choose where to stay so that the place suits the needs of your holiday. For example, in Chaniotis you can choose the house two minutes from the central square, or you can stay in a quieter place on the outskirts, but the walk to the center will take only 15 minutes.
Nea Flogita is another excellent option for families. It boasts a long sandy beach that's perfect for kids, as there are no sea urchins to worry about. You can opt to rent a house here for a tranquil family getaway. For instance, there is a fully equipped cottage available, with enough space for eight people, ensuring a comfortable stay for the whole family. This home come with their own fenced terrace, allowing children to play safely outdoors. Plus, being located right by the beach and not far from the airport means that the journey won't tire anyone out.
Calm family holiday
For a peaceful family vacation surrounded by nature and fresh air, consider quiet villages or cottages nearby.
One such option is Kriopigi, a cozy village on the shores of Kassandra offering a welcoming atmosphere. It boasts one of the finest beaches in Halkidiki, characterized by its golden sands and gentle entry into the water. Within the village, you'll find well-preserved 19th-century houses, along with all the essential amenities. Plus, the lively resort area of Kallithea is just 5 km away, offering additional entertainment options.
Siviri and the neighboring fishing village of Nea Skioni are also excellent choices for family holidays. Nea Skioni is renowned for its lagoon and the largest man-made estuary on the peninsula, providing a picturesque setting for family strolls. Thanks to the special microclimate, enduring the heat in July and August is a breeze here, and you can settle into a cozy cottage for the whole family. Perfect for those who cherish tranquility and ample space, it's just a stone's throw away from the sandy beach.
Exploring the coastal regions near the traditional village of Paliouri is also worthwhile. Here, you'll discover secluded beaches with easy access to the sea, surrounded by scenic cliffs. This region is renowned for its plethora of villas available for rent, ideal for nature enthusiasts and seekers of serenity. Take, for instance, Villa Agnandi—a distinctive retreat nestled along the coastline, boasting breathtaking sea vistas.
Vourvourou is another area worth considering, offering a range of vacation homes amidst beautiful bays, pine forests, rolling hills, and the imposing Mount Itamos.
Romantic holidays in Halkidiki
For couples, Halkidiki will be a special holiday destination thanks to its incredible nature, beach bars and beautiful places for trips and adventures.
The vibrant resort of Pefkohori, known for its lush greenery, offers a bustling atmosphere with numerous restaurants, beach bars, and an extensive coastline. Accommodation options range from modern spacious studios directly facing the beach to comfortable apartments featuring private pools with hot tubs.
Neos Marmaras in Sithonia is a picturesque destination, captivating visitors with its rocky bay, plenty of bars and taverns. In addition to beach and culinary delights, couple can enjoy hiking. Various trails go through the pine forest towards Mount Itamos, offering panoramic views of two of Greece's iconic peaks - Athos and Olympus.
Afitos, one of the oldest and most charming villages in Kassandra, provides an ideal setting for a romantic escape. Its cobblestone streets are lined with century-old stone houses, earning it the nickname "Stone Balcony" of the peninsula due to its elevated position. From here, you can enjoy the views of Sithonia and the Toroneos Gulf, while numerous restaurants serving authentic Greek cuisine dot the area.
For those seeking an active holiday, Chaniotis is the place to be. Its sandy beaches offer opportunities for renting motorboats, jet skis, and water skis.
The Paliouri region, situated in the southern part of Kassandra, is a hidden gem brimming with romantic natural wonders. From beautiful beaches and secluded bays to rugged slopes and even caves, there's no shortage of scenic spots to explore. To fully enjoy travelling throughout local gems, we recommend to rent a car.
Bars, fun and beach parties
For those seeking beach parties, lively bars, and vibrant clubs, Halkidiki offers many options for fun.
Leading the pack is Kallithea, surrounded by picturesque scenery and boasting numerous bars and clubs catering to every taste. The liveliest parties typically take place in August, the prime holiday month for Greeks and Europeans alike.
Other hotspots for nightlife include Chaniotis, Pefkochori, Afitos, and Neos Marmaras, drawing in young crowds and party enthusiasts from across Europe. Expect bustling crowds, pulsating music, and lively clubs hosting various events practically every day. You can easily organize bar-hopping adventures each evening, offering ample opportunities to mingle and make new friends amidst the vibrant atmosphere.
How to make the right choice?
Halkidiki is a dynamic destination offering a diverse range of regions suitable for both families and nightlife enthusiasts. The key is finding a location that aligns with your preferences and vacation style.
Explore each region of Halkidiki in depth with our comprehensive guides. To pinpoint the perfect spot for your relaxation needs, we recommend reaching out to our consultants for personalized assistance. Simply share your preferences, whether it's a tranquil retreat or a lively area close to main streets, and they'll suggest suitable options for you.
Additionally, you can browse through the extensive selection of apartments and holiday homes offered by Aktis Villas to find the ideal accommodation for your stay. Moreover, Aktis Group provides services for renting cars, yachts, and organizing excursions, allowing you to enhance your Greek holiday experience to your liking.
