Kassandra and Sithonia: how do the Halkidiki peninsulas differ?
The two main resort peninsulas of Halkidiki, Kassandra and Sithonia, attract visitors with their golden beaches, azure waters and wide opportunities for holidays. Let's look at the main differences between the two parts of one popular holiday destination in Greece.
In general, Halkidiki is a region consisting of three charming peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos. Each of them has its own unique beauty and attracts travelers looking for the perfect holiday destination in Greece. The Athos peninsula is largely closed to the public as its territory is given over to monasteries and is also known as Agios Oros. Therefore, tourists usually choose Kassandra or Sithonia for their holidays, which are famous for their picturesque landscapes and hospitality.
In general, Kassandra is considered to be more lively, with many resorts, nightclubs and organized beaches with bars. Sithonia, on the other hand, is better known for its natural beauty, tranquility and secluded beaches.
The Greeks even joke among themselves when they say: “When you are young, you go to the first 'finger' of Halkidiki - Kassandra. When you get older, you choose the middle 'finger' - Sithonia. And when you are even older, you go to Athos.”
Nature and beaches
Both Kassandra and Sithonia are known for their magnificent landscapes. At the same time, Kassandra has more long sandy beaches that are well-equipped for relaxation. You can easily stop at one of the many beach bars and grab a sun lounger. For example, Polychrono, a popular beach holiday destination in Greece, has a long golden beach with a great choice of bars. Additionally, you can find a large inflatable park right on the water nearby.
Sithonia offers a little more secluded small beaches and bays. Take the blue Lagoon of Vourvourou with incredible azure waters, rocks and pine trees - ideal place for your nature escape. However, even Sithonia offers fewer bars, water activities and equipped beaches.
In this regard, Sithonia is more suitable for a quieter holiday, exploring the mountains and forest paths. The local hills and beaches on the eastern shore offer views of Athos, and the green heart of this Greek peninsula hides waterfalls and many hiking trails.
Infrastructure
Unlike many summer holiday destinations in Greece, the infrastructure in Halkidiki is one of the most developed. Taverns, museums, shops, bars and entertainment are scattered throughout both Kassandra and Sithonia.
At the same time, it is easier to be “in the center of life” in Kassandra - there is a large selection of resort villages with everything you need. You can choose Chaniotis or Kallithea and then everything for your vacation will be literally within walking distance. Or stay in Afitos, which combines the charm of a small traditional village with excellent service and convenience for tourists.
If we talk about Sithonia, there will also be no problem stopping for a Greek lunch at a tavern or finding a large supermarket. However, there are fewer tourist villages and towns. The largest are Nikiti and Nea Marmaras, where there are also beach bars, large supermarkets, museums and pharmacies. Other places will likely have smaller shops or require a car to get to livlier areas.
Bars
The same situation applies to bars and nightlife. Kassandra has no problems with this at all - the peninsula can even be called one of the centers of attraction for beach parties in Greece. Therefore, if you want to diversify your vacation with night activities, then this is definitely the place for you.
Sithonia in this regard is quieter and calmer. Beach parties are less common here, but this part of Halkidiki also has good beach bars. For example, the famous Ergon with good cocktails and a summer cinema for children is located near Nikiti.
Accomodation: hotels and villas in Greece's paradise
What you definitely won’t have any problems with when booking a holiday in Halikidiki is accommodation. There are many options for every taste - from camping to five-star hotels.
Both Kassandra and Sithonia offer good hotels, as well as a variety of seaside villas for a more independent and private holiday. We wrote about the comparison of hotels and villas for rent in a previous article. If your choice is a luxury hotel, then in Kassandra there is a new luxury resort called Sani with its own tennis courts and swimming pools, and in Sithonia, for example, the five-star The Danai.
The best option for a holiday in Greece would be your own villa. In any part of Halkidiki, it is not a problem to find your own house by the sea, equipped to suit your ideal holiday style. Some villas are suitable for families with children, while others are perfect for large and cheerful groups.
For example, the Anemi Beach Villa cottage is located next to the popular resort village of Kassandra Chaniotis, just 50 meters from the sandy beach. There is another attraction nearby - the healing springs of Agia Paraskevi, and the house itself is ideal for a family. There is a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, living room with TV and its own terrace for shared gatherings.
And the two-story Afitos house with its own fireplace is perfect for having fun with your friends. Nearby are all the necessary shops and cafes, and the cottage itself is completely new inside and equipped with everything necessary. And you can spend time with friends in your own cozy green yard.
Bottom line
Both Kassandra and Sithonia will be excellent holiday destinations in Greece, where you won’t have any problems renting a house or going to a tavern or bar. The main difference is that Kassandra is more lively and touristy, while Sithonia is more about nature and tranquility.
Therefore, the choice is yours, taking into account your holiday style. And in order not to make a mistake, you can contact Aktis Group specialists who will help you decide on the best destination, housing, and even organizing excursions and car rental for your great Greek experience.
