8-day tour of Halkidiki & Thessaloniki | taking in Kassandra, Sithonia and Mount Athos

Day 1: Departure for Thessaloniki

Once you arrive in Thessaloniki, your journey can begin. After collecting your hire car at the airport, you can get your first taste of Thessaloniki. You’ll be staying here for two nights in one of our hotels.

Day 2: Trendy Thessaloniki

Today you have a whole day to visit the city’s main attractions: the White Tower, the Archaeological Museum, the Turkish bazaar, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and more.

Day 3: To the beautiful coast of Halkidiki

Today you’ll head for the beautiful coast of Halkidiki. You’ll be heading towards Kassandra, Sithonia or Athos, the three peninsulas of Halkidiki. You’ll stay here for five nights in one of our Caractère hotels; we’ll be happy to help you choose the right hotel for you.

Day 4: The Kassandra Peninsula

On day 4, you’ll be exploring Kassandra; you’ll travel via Néa Fókea, with its Byzantine tower, to the temples of Amon Zeus in Kalithéa. You’ll then head to the ancient fishing harbour of Mendi near Kalándra. The Temple of Poseidon and the lighthouse at Possidi will guide you to Síviri beach beneath the rocky cliffs.

Day 5: The Sithonia Peninsula

Tranquil coves and deserted beaches characterise Sithonia, the peninsula with the most beautiful vegetation in Halkidiki. Via the fishing village of Pórto Koufó, you’ll continue your journey to the beautiful beaches of Armenistís and Platanítsi. Be sure to visit the ancient and Byzantine ruins of Toróni and the vineyards and marina of Pórto Carrás. Round off your day in style with a boat trip around the stunning Diaporos Islands.

Day 6: The Athos Peninsula

Last, but certainly not least: Athos. Passing the 14th-century monastery of Ágios Nikólaos Chrissokámaros, you’ll head to the unspoilt villages of Arnéa, Megáli Panayía and Gomáti. The adventure continues to Ouranoúpoli, the gateway to the mystical Mount Athos where only men are allowed, and from where you can take a boat trip around the ‘holy’ mountain.

Day 7: Breathtaking views or relaxing on the beach

Start Day 7 on a high note, namely with a stunning view. For that, Mount Profítis Ilías is the perfect spot, offering a breathtaking view over the three peninsulas of Halkidiki. After a visit to the 6th-century basilica with its unique mosaics in picturesque Nikíti, you’ll return to your Caractère hotel feeling satisfied.

Day 8: Return home

Unfortunately, your trip has come to an end; today you return to Thessaloniki. Once you’ve returned your hire car, you’re ready to board your flight home. Fancy extending your holiday a little? Caractère can arrange that for you!

What should you expect in terms of budget?

For this tour, you can expect a guide price starting from 5,000 euros for two people. This price includes international flights, a hire car and accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, and depends on your travel dates, hotel choices and any extras such as excursions or extensions.

Frequently asked questions about this Halkidiki tour

When is the best time to visit this region?

Choose May to September. Spring is ideal for culture in Thessaloniki and nature on Sithonia. The summer months are perfect for a beach holiday on Kassandra and boat trips along the coast.

What makes this tour unique?

This route combines the trendy city life of Thessaloniki with the three completely different ‘fingers’ of Halkidiki: the lively coasts of Kassandra, the unspoilt nature of Sithonia and the spiritual mysticism of Mount Athos.

Is a hire car necessary for this trip through Halkidiki?

Yes, a hire car is essential to reach the hidden bays of Sithonia and remote villages such as Arnéa. The roads are in good condition and offer spectacular panoramic views of the Aegean Sea along the way, which you would miss if travelling by public transport.