Sithonia

Even if you don't usually like resort-filled seaside resorts, the beauty of Sithonia will force you to put that aside. Sure, there's no denying Sithonia's beaches are overrun with tourist crowds, but let the landscape work its magic.

To discover the most beautiful beaches of Sithonia, we recommend that you proceed by "coast", east and west.

Beaches on the east coast of Sithonia

The beaches of the east coast are more lively and the accommodations more elegant, especially in Vourvourou . Further south the landscapes become wild, with magnificent campsites hidden in secluded coves. The only flaw: the hill along the peninsula puts the beaches of this side in shadow in the summer. Here the beaches are very crowded.

Armenistis beach

Sandy beach, equipped, with emerald waters located on the east side of the peninsula. The beach is well organized with numerous amenities including sun beds, umbrellas, water sports facilities and beach bars. On Armenistis beach there is also one of the most organized campsites in Greece.

Kalamitisi beach

Sandy, Equipped. It is a long beach with turquoise waters located on the southern side. Kalamitsi is a place of exceptional beauty . Rocks and low vegetation are dominant. But there are also trees. The sea is a green-blue color and the beach is embraced by white rocks. The natural environment is reminiscent in its own way of the islands of the southern Aegean Sea.

Karagatsi beach

Sandy, Unequipped. It is a beach with emerald waters located right in front of the islet of Diaporos, next to Vourvourou. not very comfortable: there is just a patch of sand, always very humid, between the sea and the gardens of the villas overlooking the beach.

Karidi beach

Sandy, Semi-Equipped. It is an exotic and rocky beach with turquoise waters located in the eastern part of Vourvourou. Surrounded by lush pine trees , Karidi is considered one of the precious jewels of Sithonia, a must to visit in the Halkidiki peninsula.

Kavourotrypes beach

Sandy, Semi-Equipped. It is a long rocky coast located on the east side of the peninsula. Interrupted by tiny enclaves of well-hidden sandy beaches , Kavourotrypes has a surprising natural environment, especially when explored by boat. Keep in mind that access is difficult from the road as there are no signs. There is a little beach bar for some snacks and cool drinks; we also recommend that you go to the beach by nine in the morning to be able to swim without too many crowds. Then maybe move to nearby Livari or Planitsi.

Lagonisi beach

Sandy, Equipped. It is a sandy beach with emerald waters located near the village of Ormos Panagias. Listed as one of the most beautiful in Sithonia, boasts a splendid bay surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. It is an organized beach with numerous services including sun beds, umbrellas, water sports facilities and bars. Those wishing to explore the beauties of the Sithonian mountains can hike on the trails of the pine forest on the mountains.

Beach of Livari

Sandy, Semi-Equipped. It is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located north of the village of Vourvourou. Livari beach starts from the mainland and slips into the water as if it were a peninsula . Be careful because there are many sea urchins on the Livari seabed.

Planititsi Beach

Sandy, Equipped. It is a sandy beach with blue waters located near the village of Sarti. It is a wonderful beach divided by a stream. The beautiful green and blue waters and the view of Mount Athos (right in front) will leave you speechless. The nearby campsite also offers excellent organization at all levels to fully enjoy your stay.

Sarti beach

Sand, Equipped with on turquoise waters located in the village of Sarti. It is one of the longest beaches in Sithonia, well organized with sun beds, umbrellas, bars, restaurants and much more. Sarti beach offers panoramic views of the spectacular scenery of Mount Athos.

Vourvourou beach

Sandy, semi-equipped. The beautiful Vourvourou beach is one of the busiest tea of ​​Sithonia. With its small islets, shallow water and fine sand, it ranks high in family preferences. From here you can easily reach the islet of Diaporos by boat, for a trip to a less crowded beach. Behind it is the homonymous fishing village.

Trani Ammouda beach

Sandy, not equipped . Also known as Livroho, it is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located in the village of Ormos Panagia. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sithonia which stands out for its fine and smooth sand and its crystal clear waters. At the northern end there is a small promontory with the remains of an old Byzantine tower . Trani Ammouda beach is ideal for nature lovers. Make sure you have food and drinks with you as it is not equipped.

Beaches on the west coast of Sithonia

Along the west coast you'll find a number of popular beaches including Paradisos, Kalogria and Lagomadra. Let's see in detail which are the most famous of Sithonia.

Agios Ioannis beach

Sandy, not equipped . It is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located in the village of Nikiti, organized with numerous services including sun beds, umbrellas, water sports facilities and bars. Recommended for families, there will soon be a new resort on the beach that could profoundly change its landscape.

Azapiko Beach

Sand, pebbles, Not equipped. It is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located in the nearby village of Neos Marmaras. It is an isolated beach ideal for those seeking tranquility and relaxation. Be sure to bring all the necessary supplies.

Diaporti beach

Sand, pebbles, Not equipped. It is a sandy and pebble beach with crystal clear waters located near the town of Porto Carras. It is one of the quieter beaches of Chalkidiki, ideal for those seeking relaxation. If you are a lover of adventures, visit the isolated beaches of the Gerochristo Islands. Be sure to bring all the necessary provisions in terms of food and drink.

Toroni beach

Sandy, Equipped. It is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located in the Toroni region. It is one of the longest beaches of the peninsula which stands out for its sandy bottom and its clear waters. It is well organized with sun beds, umbrellas, beach bars and restaurants.

Spathies Beach

Sand, not equipped . It is a sandy and rocky beach with turquoise waters located near the village of Nikiti. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sithonia which stands out for its nature and its clear waters. An ideal destination for those seeking tranquility.

Porto Koufo beach

Sandy, Equipped. It is the largest and safest natural bay in Greece located on the peninsula. Protected from currents and winds, it is the best refuge for fishermen and visitors with boats. Turquoise waters and fine sand dominate this long bay. The view is even more fascinating due to the colors of the sea due to the depth of the sea.

Elia Beach

Sandy, Equipped. It is a sand and pebble beach with blue waters located a few km from the village of Nikiti. It is one of the quietest beaches in Halkidiki, ideal for those looking for relaxation. A forest of alternating pine and olive trees descends from Mount Itamos and meets the sea of ​​Elia. The trees spill over the coast creating a landscape with spectacular features. Be sure to bring all the necessary supplies.

Paradisos Beach

Sandy, Equipped. It is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located near the village of Neos Marmaras. Paradisos beach has been awarded the European Blue Flag . It is well organized with numerous amenities including sun beds, umbrellas, water sports facilities and bars. This is a true paradise with long stretches of golden sand, blue waters and low mounds wrapped in lush greenery that gives the place an exotic touch.

Kalogria Beach

Sandy, Equipped. It is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters located near the village of Nikiti. Surrounded by a dense pine forest, at the foot of Mount Itamos, Kalogria beach is considered one of the most beautiful on the Sithonia peninsula. On the north-west side trYou have two bars offering cool drinks and snacks.

Lagomandra beach

Sandy, Equipped. It is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located near the village of Neos Marmaras. It is one of the most famous in Sithonia which stands out for its austere natural beauty. Along the beach there is a pine forest which offers its shade during the warm months. If you are keen on exploration you will discover some mysterious stone ruins in an olive grove in the larger part of the two points.

Koviou Beach

Sandy, Semi-Equipped. It is a sandy bay with turquoise waters located near the village of Nikiti. The moment you immerse yourself in the water you will feel embraced by this enchanting place. The low-growing rocks and sporadic pine trees match perfectly with the beach and calm waters. The secluded beach is quite ideal for those seeking relaxation and tranquility, where you can enjoy a splendid sunset in the late afternoon.

Kastri beach

Sandy, Semi-Equipped. It is a small sandy beach with emerald waters located on the outskirts of the village of Nikiti, on the Sithonia peninsula. Kastri is distinguished by its untouched natural beauty and its relaxing atmosphere. The sunset of Kastri beach is not to be missed. Spectacular colors and views will welcome you. If the weather is clear you may even be able to see Mount Olympus on the horizon.

Kassandra or Sithonia? This is often the dilemma of those who want to visit Halkidiki for the first time. And among the options on the choice of the two paradisiacal peninsulas, the question of what to do in Sithonia is looking for a fundamental answer.

Sithonia, the richest in nature and attractions

Moreover, Sithonia, among the peninsulas of Chalkidiki, is the richest in nature and attractions. The beaches are the real main attraction, but after a few days or a week of sun and sleep, you will want to have a little more in Greek land. Therefore?

A visit to Parthenonas

Among the most interesting places to visit in Sithonia is the Parthenonas village. Located on the slopes of Mount Itamos, it houses stone houses, pleasant taverns, a museum, sea views and particularly beautiful sunsets. A perfect stop for mountain hikers.

Porto Koufo

It is the largest natural harbor in Greece. Porto Koufo village is the ideal place for a memorable gastronomic experience. Located about 25 kilometers from Neos Marmaras to the south, it is where you can dine freshly caught in its tavernas.

The ghost town of Sithonia

A place that had been prepared for the construction of a village, but its construction never came to an end. It now consists of a labyrinth of paved roads, bridges and underpasses but without buildings. Driving through the ghost town you can reach three magnificent beaches. Klimataria, Kriaritsi and Tigania.

Other activities in Sithonia

If you are a trained athlete and a party enthusiast, you could plan to participate in the Toroneos Swimming Marathon dedicated to professionals of the discipline, which starts in Kallithea (Kassandra) and ends in Nikiti (Sithonia). When the 26-kilometer marathon ends, the two-day celebrations begin.

If you are an amateur sportsman, it is better to opt for the splendid sea of ​​Vourvourou. Through kayaking, diving or boat rental you can explore nine islands (known as the 9 islets of Vοurvourоu) and rich underwater fauna, with the nearby mountain covered in dense forest as a backdrop.

In addition, there are no day cruises from Neοs Marmarаs to Kassandra in summer. The most popular are the сruises from Ormоs Раnagias аi mοnasteri оf Mount Athоs.

If you are planning your holiday in Sithonia, one of the first things you will do after getting informed on how to reach it, will surely be the search for information on how to move: this information will help you decide if it will be necessary to invest in a rental vehicle, use a own vehicle, take advantage of the local bus network, or other opportunities available locally. The alternatives are many, and they are related to the type of vacation you are planning. But now let's see in detail what are the different options that you can find in Sithonia to move around the peninsula.

Getting around Sithonia by bus, bicycle and taxi

We start from the assumption that as often happens in many places in Greece, even in Sithonia it is better to have a car: in this way you can move comfortably between the numerous beaches and villages of the Peninsula. But this does not mean that your car is essential to spend a holiday in Sithonia: there are other valid alternatives.

Getting around by bus

The internal bus network in Sithonia is not so widespread: in the sense that the main towns, Sarti, Nikiti, Neos Marmaras, Toroni, Vorvourou, are included in the local bus route. While all the rest of the small villages or enchanting beaches far from the inhabited centers, are excluded from the passage of buses. It therefore depends on the holiday you are looking for: for example you can choose to stay in Nikiti and spend your holidays only going to that beach, and maybe take a ride to visit the other most important places: in that case the choice of the bus is the most suitable. Otherwise it is better to decide for a more "independent" medium.

Cycling through the streets of Sithonia

Nice idea to travel by bicycle around Sithonia: it is an ecological vehicle, it allows you to move independently and any parking problem is eliminated. Of course, you must therefore carefully choose where to stay: the peninsula has a coast about 100 km long and that the connections of the two coasts are possible only to the north (Nikiti for example) and to the south (Toroni).

The taxi, a valid alternative for long journeys

The taxi is the solution that can be combined well with the bike and the bus. As it allows you to reach every point of the island, from an economic point of view it is not a commitment as it could be to rent a car or scooter, and can be activated when needed. Taxis are numerous and available in Sithonia: you can also think of making an agreement on the spot with a telephone number when needed.

Renting a vehicle in Sithonia: a holiday with more comfortable and faster movements

Of course, being autonomous is the most comfortable solution. Renting a car or a scooter in Sithonia will allow you to discover all those hidden corners of this corner of the Halkidiki peninsula, without having to limit yourself to timetables or taxi availability, or the somewhat prohibitive distance to cover by bike under the summer sun. (which could even reach 40 °). But how and where to rent? The two alternatives.

Rent a car at Thessaloniki airport

It is certainly the most convenient solution: you land in Thessaloniki, collect your rental car and reach Sithonia (in just over an hour), and then move for the entire period of the holiday until the day of departure when you return the car to the agency near the airport before departure.

Rent a car directly in Sithonia

If, on the other hand, your choice is not to have a rental car for the entire period of the holiday, perhaps it is better to reach Sithonia by bus or with a transfer, and on the days when you decide to explore the island or those beaches a little farther from your accommodation, rent a car. This could certainly be a viable alternative.

Scooter rental in Sithonia: a holiday for two
Then there is always the possibility of two wheels. Renting a scooter in Sithonia is recommended but of course, you have to take into account the cost for the transfer to and from the airport (or the bus), and the long distances to cover sometimes: if you are not used to staying in sell a scooter for some time, it could be annoying, for example, to cover the Nikiti-Sarti route: about 45 minutes in the saddle.

How to get to Sithonia? The main entrance to Sithonia is definitely the Thessaloniki airport. Once landed, it will be very easy to reach the beaches of the second finger of the Chalkidiki Peninsula. The quickest is certainly with a rental car at Thessaloniki airport, the most inconvenient, but still efficient, is to take advantage of the bus network that connects Thessaloniki to Sithonia (but also to Kassandra and Mount Athos).

The car is by far the best way to reach and explore the Sithonia Peninsula. The coastal road goes around the peninsula. Keep in mind that it often takes longer to travel through the wooded hinterland than walking along the coast. Considering the transfers and traffic, plan to take a long trip from Thessaloniki to the Halkidiki peninsula by public transport. Buses to the peninsula depart from Thessaloniki's Halkidiki terminal served by city buses 45A or 45B.

Reach Sithonia by bus

Buses serve Nikiti (10.60 euros - 1h 15 minutes - 3 trips a day), Neos Marmaras (13 euros - 2h - 3 trips a day), Sarti (17.40 euros - 3h minutes, 3 trips a day) and Kalamitsi (€ 17.40 - 3h minutes, 3 trips a day). Find out at the bus station about the other villages along the route. The return ticket is discounted and is valid for 15 days.

To reach Sithonia from Kassandra by bus you need to change at Nea Moudania located on the northern slopes of Kassandra. Buses serving the Halkidiki Peninsula do not continue east towards Kavala. The only alternative to continue the journey is to return to Thessaloniki.

This peninsula is very big and most accommodations are located close to the region’s main coasts: one close to Kassandra in the west and Mount Athos in the east. As there are many pine and fir woodlands in the eastern coast you will receive sunlight from early in the morning but that will only last until early in the afternoon.

Where to find an accommodation in Sithonia

The western coast instead receives sun almost all day. So when you are planning on where to get an accommodation in Sithonia remember that in the eastern coast you will find Sarti, Vourvourou and Ormos Panagia while on the western coast you will find Nikiti, Neo Marmaras, Port Carrs and Toroni.

In the two coasts you will find many beaches and creeks even during the months when most tourists “invade” the island. The eastern coast is usually is always the most crowded as it is the area where you will find the biggest and nicest beaches.