Picturesque Chalkidikí

Route

You start in Thessaloniki before heading into the Halkidiki peninsula, with its 'three distinctive fingers’. From lively city life to beaches, villages and quiet coves, the sea is always close by.

Pace

Pleasant and varied. Culture and nature alternate, as do exploration and relaxation.

Highlights

Thessaloniki and its Byzantine heritage, the beaches and archaeology of Kassandra, the green calm of Sithonia, and a boat trip along the sacred Mount Athos.

Accommodation

You stay in carefully selected Caractère hotels by the sea, comfortably and quietly located.

Profile

For travellers who enjoy a mix of beach, culture and nature. Ideal for those who love to explore.

Day 1: Departure to Thessaloniki

Once you have arrived in Thessaloniki, your journey can begin. After picking up your rental car at the airport, you'll get your first taste of Thessaloniki. Here you will stay two nights in one of our hotels.

Day 2: Trendy Thessaloníki

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

Day 3: To the beautiful shores of Chalkidikí

Today you set sail for the beautiful coasts of Chalkidikí. You head towards Kassandra, Sithonia or Athos, the 3 peninsulas of Chalkidikí. Here you will stay five nights in one of our Caractère hotels, we will be happy to help you choose a suitable hotel for you.

Day 4: The Kassandra peninsula

On day 4, exploring Kassandra is on the programme. You'll head via Néa Fókea, with its Byzantine tower, to the temples of Amon Zeus in Kalithéa. You then head to the ancient fishing port of Mendi near Kalándra. The Poseidon temple and Possidi lighthouse lead you to Síviri beach under the rocky cliffs.

Day 5: The Sithonía peninsula

Silent bays and deserted beaches mark Sithonía, the headland with the most beautiful vegetation of Chalkidikí. Via the fishing village of Pórto Koufó, 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. End your day beautifully with a boat trip around the stunning Diaporos Islands.

Day 6: The peninsula of Áthos

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

Day 7: Breathtaking views or relaxing at the beach

Start day 7 on a good note, in other words, with stunning views. For this, the Profítis Ilías Mountain is the place to be, offering breathtaking views over the three headlands of Chalkidikí. After a visit to the sixth-century basilica with unique mosaics in picturesque Nikíti, you will return to your Caractère hotel satisfied.

Day 8: Going home

Your trip is unfortunately at an end, today you return to Thessaloniki. After returning your rental car, you'll be ready to catch your plane back home. Feel like extending your holiday? Caractère will arrange that for you!

What budget should you expect?

For this journey, expect an indicative price from €5,000 for 2 people. This price includes international flights, car rental, and accommodation in a room with breakfast and depends on your travel dates, hotel selection, and any extras such as excursions or extensions.