Halkidiki is a sweet and irresistible slice of heaven on earth. Shaped like Poseidon’s mythical trident, this Mediterranean paradise will wow you with sparkling turquoise waters and snow-white sands.
But actually, Halkidiki is home to some of the finest and most spectacular beaches in Europe. Billed as Greece’s best-kept secret, this heavenly destination also features stunning archaeological sites, human-made masterpieces, underrated natural wonders, and famed Christian monuments.
Unfortunately, finding a place to stay in Halkidiki can be overwhelming, especially for first-time travelers. But, guess what? I’m going to make things a whole lot easier on your end by the end of this where to stay in Halkidiki guide.
Whether you’re a luxury traveler or a solo budget backpacker, these words of advice will surely help you experience a blissful and epic escape on this magical peninsula!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Halkidiki?
- Halkidiki Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Halkidiki
- Halkidiki’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Halkidiki
- What To Pack For Halkidiki
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Halkidiki
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Halkidiki
- Buy Us a Coffee!
From first-class beach hotels to a verdant hideaway, Halkidiki has no shortage of options for accommodations. And with a tourist-friendly transport system and streets, getting around this Mediterranean nirvana won’t be an issue for travelers.
If you don’t mind which region you’ll be staying in, book at any of my recommended lodging options.
Danai Beach Resort & Villas | Upscale Hotel in Halkidiki
From a kids’ club to watersports, this chic and lavish hotel has an infinite medley of options for entertainment. With its exceptional service and deluxe accommodations, this resort also ensures that you’ll get a good night’s sleep in Halkidiki.
Add in elegant touches and a beachfront location, and you’ve got the ultimate recipe for the best hotel in Halkidiki.
Agramada Treehouse | Stunning Cabin in Halkidiki
Escape your urban woes and indulge in a rejuvenating retreat at this easygoing and scenic hideaway. With its rustic accommodations and verdant scenery, this cabin is a wonderful place to commune with nature and relax after a day of non-stop beaching in Halkidiki.
Amazingly, this hideaway also has tons of modern amenities, including complimentary WiFi. I really think it’s one of the best Airbnbs in Greece!
Barabella Country House | Best House in Halkidiki
This epic home is located in Paralia Sikias and is perfect for the entire family as you have the entire house and backyard to yourself! A lovely beach is just 5 minutes away, and the abode has everything else you need for a perfect stay. Set in a charming seaside town, the interior design is simply stunning and you can even see the stars from the yard at night! With room for up to 6 guests, it’s THE perfect choice in Sithonia for families.
Kassandra Peninsula
They don’t call Kassandra the “holiday central” of Halkidiki for nothing. With a prolific bus system and a plethora of attractions, Kassandra is also the ultimate home base in Halkidiki for first-time visitors.
Central Halkidiki
Central Halkidiki is often deemed a “transit region” for visitors headed to the monasteries of Mount Athos and beaches of the peninsulas. But Central Halkidiki isn’t just a gateway to the wonders of this paradisiacal destination.
Sithonia Peninsula
Home to a cornucopia of pristine beaches, Sithonia is a haven of beauty and tranquility. Offering a more relaxed vacation, this Greek peninsula is a superb and wondrous retreat for nature lovers and families.
Halkidiki’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
For decades, Halkidiki has captivated the hearts of millions of travelers around the world. If you’re backpacking Greece, this hidden gem should be on your itinerary. With emerald waters and pine forests merging on sugar-white sands, this destination is the epitome of a Mediterranean paradise.
While it’s not as popular as Santorini, it’s beginning to unravel its beauty and full potential. Luckily, that also means that you won’t get hit by the increasing Greece prices which you can find on other popular islands.
Kassandra is the epicenter of activity and fun in Halkidiki. From a vibrant nightlife scene to remarkable beaches, this region oozes with excitement and amusement for everyone. Options for lodging are abundant, too, ranging from seaside resorts to quaint apartments. Perfect for first-timers, this region is indeed a terrific home base in Halkidiki.
A lot of people think Central Halkidiki is a mere gateway to the exciting peninsulas and regions of the area. But Central Halkidiki is a destination in itself packed with activities and accommodation options to satisfy everyone. And the best part is, everything seems so affordable in this part of Halkidiki.
Sithonia has a more serene and relaxed pace than Kassandra and Central Halkidiki. A godsend for sun-seekers, this quiet location also teems with untouched beaches and enticing nature spots. In addition, it offers countless mind-blowing water sports for thrill-seekers and adventurers.
On top of it all, it has a myriad of family-friendly luxury hotels for your seaside holiday.
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1. Kassandra Peninsula – Where to Stay in Halkidiki for Your First Time
They don’t call Kassandra the “holiday central” of Halkidiki for nothing. With a prolific bus system and a plethora of attractions, Kassandra is also the ultimate home base in Halkidiki for first-time visitors. It’s busy in the summer, the best time to visit Greece in terms of temperature.
What’s more, this peninsula has splendid beaches that seem to never end, from Paliouri in the South to Kallithea in the North.
For party animals, you’ll be pleased to know that this region has a burgeoning nightlife scene. There are even visitors who stay in Thessaloniki come here just to dance and go on a drinking spree.
And did I mention that it has plenty of fabulous seaside resorts?
Casa La Bohema | Best Hotel in Kassandra
It really doesn’t get cooler than this – where else will you find a hotel that’s a refurbished stone house? You be within walking distance from not one but two beaches and also get to enjoy a nice courtyard on site. I really loved the host and how close it was to restaurants and shops too. You truly can’t find a more authentic place to stay in town.
Mediterranean Apartment | Best Apartment in Kassandra
This modern and minimalistic Kassandria apartment is perfect for anyone looking for some peace and tranquility during their trip! With room for up to seven guests, the home is located a bit outside of the main tourist area. The fully equipped kitchen and terrace are perfect for a cup of coffee or a glass of wine to finish off a day. You’ll need a car to get around most of the Western Coast, but nothing will be far with one!
Apartment on the Beach | Best Villa in Kassandra
Who says you need to spend a fortune to enjoy beachside accommodations in Greece? At this epic beach house, you get all the perks of a fantastic luxury resort without the hefty price tag. As a bonus, you’ll have striking sunset views of the Aegean Sea at this apartment.
There’s also a cleaning lady who visits every three days to ensure the apartment remains spotless and cushy.
Things to See and Do in Kassandra Peninsula
- Unleash your inner Indiana Jones by exploring a bunch of archaeological and historic sites, including Gerani, Sani Tower, Poseidon Sanctuary, and Byzantine Tower.
- Spend a day scuba diving in the amazingly blue water.
- With Instagram-worthy stone houses and sea views, the charming old village of Afitos makes a great stop in Kassandra.
- Be mesmerized by the pristine white beaches and crystal clear waters of Chelona Beach. Of course, it’s also an excellent place to go for a dip if you’re in the mood for swimming.
- For a one-of-a-kind beach experience, check out the breathtaking pebble beach of St. Georgios.
- Have the best day of snorkeling on this epic tour
- Check out both Kalithea Beach and Hanioti Beach.
- After a day of non-stop beaching or sightseeing, head to Loutra’s SPA Center and enjoy the therapeutic qualities of sulfur water. From its swimming pool to whirlpools, this spa complex will soothe your jaded muscles and spirits.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Central Halkidiki – Best Place to Stay in Halkidiki on a Budget
Central Halkidiki is often deemed a “transit region” for visitors headed to the monasteries of Mount Athos and beaches of the peninsulas. But Central Halkidiki isn’t just a gateway to the wonders of this paradisiacal destination.
As you explore Central Halkidiki, you’ll find scores of charming tavernas, mountain hideaways, and beautiful villages. For active travelers, the region also offers ample scenic driving, cycling, and hiking opportunities.
There’s even a cave and an archaeological site worth a visit in Central Halkidiki. More importantly, food and accommodations here are pretty affordable, compared to the other regions in Halkidiki.
Antigoni Beach Resort | Best Hotel in Central Halkidiki
Antigoni Beach Resort lures guests with its beachside comfort and sophistication. An oasis for fun-loving travelers, the resort has swimming pools and a host of exciting activities. From water sports to horse riding courses, the resort can entertain guests in a multitude of ways.
As for the accommodations, the hotel offers spacious family suites and rooms with all the amenities and beds.
Agramada Treehouse | Best Cabin in Central Halkidiki
Want to escape the beach crowds? Why not book a stay at the extraordinary Agramada Treehouse? Serene and surrounded by verdant landscapes, this unique hideaway offers a refreshing nature retreat for visitors who want to savor the beauty of Halkidiki.
And don’t worry about your internet connection – this getaway has WiFi.
Psakoudia Holidays | Best Apartment in Central Halkidiki
Psakoudia Holidays is a dream come true for beach bums. From this apartment, you’ll have instant access to several gorgeous sandy beaches in Halkidiki. Even better, it’s extremely affordable, making it an excellent choice for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.
There’s also a kitchen where you can cook your own meals, which will help you save money on food.
Things to See and Do in Central Halkidiki
- With an impressive elevation of 1,165 meters, Mount Cholomontas rewards hikers with awe-inspiring panoramas of Halkidiki.
- Travel back in time and glimpse the area’s wondrous past with a visit to Olynthos.
- Want to experience something unique? Petralona Cave is a beguiling cavern where the oldest known man in Europe was discovered. Furthermore, tons of animal fossils have been uncovered inside this ancient cave.
- Experience a hip and fun-filled escape at Yerakini and Psakoudia.
- Spend a few hours exploring the picture-perfect balconies, tavernas, and cobbled streets of Arnaia.
- Add a dose of adventure to your Halkidiki vacation by taking a mountain bike tour on Cholomontas Mountain.
3. Sithonia Peninsula – Best Neighborhood in Halkidiki for Families to Stay In
Home to a cornucopia of pristine beaches, Sithonia is a haven of beauty and tranquility. Offering a more relaxed vacation, this Greek peninsula is a superb and wondrous retreat for nature lovers and families. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Greece.
Truthfully, you won’t find a lot of bars and clubs in this part of Halkidiki. But trust me, the captivating seaside and sounds of the crashing waves combined with the murmurs of the woods nearby will make your vacation supremely pleasant.
For thrill-seekers, Sithonia offers a wide range of water sports to get your adrenaline pumping. On top of it all, the region overflows with luxury accommodations suitable for families.
Danai Beach Resort & Villas | Best Hotel in Sithonia Peninsula
Danai Beach Resort is hands down, one of the best hotels in Halkidiki. With its world-class service and superior luxury rooms, this resort will surely put you in a state of pure bliss.
Not to mention it bursts with fun, thanks to its exceptional amenities, which include water sports and a tennis court. There’s even a kids’ club packed with lively activities for the little ones.
Small Karidi | Best Villa in Sithonia Peninsula
Small Karidi has all the hallmarks of a pleasant stay in Halkidiki. Nestled in a safe and serene village, this villa is just 30 meters away from a sandy beach with tempting, crystal clear waters.
And guess what? The villa also offers picturesque views of Mount Athos and Vourvourou islands.
Barabella Country House | Best House in Sithonia Peninsula
This epic home is located in Paralia Sikias and is perfect for the entire family as you have the entire house and backyard to yourself! A lovely beach is just 5 minutes away, and the abode has everything else you need for a perfect stay. Set in a charming seaside town, the interior design is simply stunning and you can even see the stars from the yard at night! With room for up to 6 guests, it’s THE perfect choice in Sithonia for families.
Things to See and Do in Sithonia Peninsula
- See the mesmerizing underwater treasures of the Aegean Sea by taking a bucket-list-worthy diving tour.
- Join an incredible island cruise to the Blue Lagoon and more from Ouranoupoli
- Go on a fabulous glamping retreat at the recently developed and tantalizing Manasu Beach.
- From building sandcastles to sunbathing, you can enjoy a slew of classic beach activities at the enclosed bay of Karydi.
- Discover the Mount Atmos monasteries.
- Explore the stunning Kavourotrypes Beach, filled with stunning azure water and plenty of cool beach bars.
- Soak up the dramatic and untouched beauty of Fava Beach. Just make sure to bring some food and drinks, as you’re likely to spend the entire day here.
- Check out some inhabited islands or spend your day on sun loungers at Vourvourou Beach.
- Take a break from the non-stop splashy adventures with a tour of the historic remote village of Parthenonas. Besides its awe-inspiring panoramic vistas, the village is also home to the Original Folk Art Museum.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Halkidiki
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Halkidiki and where to stay.
What To Pack For Halkidiki
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Halkidiki
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Halkidiki
Halkidiki has the perfect recipe for a memorable Greek adventure. From gorgeous beaches to colorful quaint towns, Halkidiki offers endless Instagram-worthy sights and fantastic experiences. From luxury villas and private beaches to small cottages, this peninsula has something for everyone.
All the regions I have mentioned in this guide are ideal for anyone visiting Halkidiki. If I’m pushed to pick one, though, it has to be Central Halkidiki.
Not only does it feature a slew of options for accommodations and entertainment, but it also offers easy access to the three peninsulas of Halkidiki.
And best of all, it’s a cheap place to stay. Superb, right?
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Greece.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Greece.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Greece instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Greece.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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