The Halkidiki prefecture consists of three peninsulas that cannot be more different, which form the unity that promises rich cultural, relaxing and nightlife experience. These peninsulas, from west to east, are kassandra, Sithonia and Athos.
While engaging nightlife can be found on West Halkidiki and Kassandra, wild natural beauty and relaxing vacation are best to be enjoyed on Sithonia and East Halkidiki.
Year by year, Halkidiki is visited by numerous tourists from all over the world, wishing to enjoy its beautiful nature, pristine beaches and tucked away bays with hills and mountains as a backdrop, cultural events and rich nightlife. By coming to Halkidiki you can’t miss the crystal clear sea, beautiful environment and diverse architecture, which is why you should rent a vehicle to perceive as much of its uniqueness as possible. Athos, known as the Monastic Communtiy, features various interesting monasteries in an engaging environment. While traversing Halkidiki, don’t overlook picturesque villages and settlements, each featuring appealing architecture and history. To witness one of the oldest human findings in Europe, visit Petralona Cave on West Halkidiki.
Ouranoupolis, a truly remarkable city that is located on the borders of the human with the divine, as it unites the Holy Mountain (Agion Oros) with the remaining part of Greece, is 120 km from Thessaloniki and amply rewards each visitor with its natural beauty, as it harmoniously combines the mountain with the sea.
It is a seaside region at the feet of Athos with a historic and architectural grandeur that also provides many opportunities for rest and peace.
The characteristic of Ouranoupolis is the peace that prevails generating exaltation of the soul even to the visitor who has been worn down by daily life.
Entrance to the Holy Mountain (Agion Oros) is permitted only to men (after obtaining a special permit) but the visitor may go on a sea tour around the Holy Mountain (Agion Oros) peninsula and observe from a distance, with the naked eye or with binoculars, its natural beauty and the exceptional architecture of the Byzantine monasteries.
The boats depart for cruises around the Holy Mountain (Agion Oros) every day, while there is frequent transportation from Ouranoupolis to Thessaloniki and all the other small villages of Halkidiki.
It is worth visiting the Tower of Prosforio, located next to the harbor. The tower is the largest and best preserved one in Halkidiki.