Best Sights and Landmarks in Halkidiki

Mount Athos is a self-governed part of the Greek State, famous for its old Byzantine monasteries. Women are not allowed to enter the area, while men need special permission to go. There are frequent boats from Ouranoupolis that go around Mount Athos.

The Cave of Petralona is located on the western side of Mount Katsika. It is rich in stalactites and stalagmites, and, in 1960, a 700,000-year-old human skull was discovered there. Fossils of lions, panthers, bears, deer, bats, and other animals have also been found there.

In the village of Stagira is a park dedicated to the life and works of Aristotle, the famous ancient Greek philosopher. Created in 2004, the park hosts a series of important instruments that show the phenomena of nature.

This archaeological site was discovered in the 1930s and includes archaeological findings of Ancient Olynthos, which used to be the capital of Halkidiki in antiquity. In the village of Olynthos, an archaeological museum hosts the findings from the excavations.

The town of Olympiada, named after King Alexander's mother, is mostly famous due to the historically significant ancient site of Stagira. This was the birthplace of Aristotle, one of the most influential philosophers ever.

This Byzantine tower is the symbol of Ouranoupolis. Standing at the edge of the beach, it has suffered much damage over the centuries. Right next to the tower is the Christian Collection of Halkidiki.

Archaeological evidence places the founding of the ancient city of Acanthus around 655 BC. The city's name is believed to derive from the acanthus plant, which grows abundantly in the region.

Nestled at the edge of Possidi Beach, this historic lighthouse stands as a picturesque reminder of yesteryear. Built in the 19th century, it remains a quiet sentinel beside ancient ruins and timeless seascapes.

The Tower of Stavronikita was built around the early 15th century BC, and a big part of it has been preserved in relatively good condition. It is found on the premises of the Sani Beach Hotel.

The church of Agios Dimitrios (Saint Demetrius) is found on the square of Afitos. It was built on the remains of another church dedicated to the saint and today houses beautiful icons and murals.

The sanctuary of Ammon Zeus is located near Kallithea village, 100 km from Thessaloniki and 50 km from Polygiros. Around the 5th century BC, people began worshipping Ammon Zeus.

Dated to 1407, the impressive Byzantine Tower of Saint Paul sits atop a hill overlooking the beautiful port of Nea Fokea. It is considered one of the most impressive sights in Halkidiki.

The Monastery of Zygos is an important 10th-century religious site with ruined walls, defensive towers, and an old katholikon. Since it is a few meters from the boundary line of Mount Athos, women can visit it.

The Archaeological Museum of Olynthos provides an unprecedented tour through the history of Ancient Olynthos through augmented reality presentations, 3D reconstructions, and animations.

This sanctuary is the oldest sanctuary dedicated to Poseidon in Greece. Purposely built on the cape of Possidi, it was built by the Eretrians to ensure the god's sympathy.

Located in the western peninsula of Halkidiki, the magnificent site of Ancient Mende holds major historical significance. It is believed to have been a colony of Eretria during ancient times.

The Anthropological Museum of Petralona is located next to the Cave of Petralona. It hosts a representation of the cave and showcases prehistoric tools, fossils, fire traces, and other fascinating artifacts.

Diaporos is a lush, uninhabited islet off the coast of Vourvourou, only accessible by boat. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and overall pristine beauty.

The Historical and Folklore Museum of Arnea is housed in a two-story mansion that dates to the 18th century. It showcases traditional tools, household items, utensils, and a 200-year-old fire engine.

The Folklore Museum of Afytos is housed in the traditional house of Alevra. It hosts traditional tools of craftsmen, household items, old photographs, and works of art. In the summer, there are painting and sculpture exhibitions.

The small lake of Polychrono is a lovely place surrounded by pine trees. It constitutes a natural reserve for three species of Testudinata turtles.