Getting from Thessaloniki to Halkidiki

If you are heading to Halkidiki from Thessaloniki you are making your way from the second largest city in Greece to a three-pronged peninsula just to the southeast, with Kassandra in the west for long sandy beaches, Sithonia in the middle for quieter waters and the monastic peninsula of Athos in the east. It is one of the most natural and effortless connections from Thessaloniki given the geographic proximity of the two.

Take the train, bus or drive

Halkidiki is connected to Thessaloniki by road, taking around 1 to 1.5 hours to Kassandra and around 1.5 to 2 hours to Sithonia depending on which part of the peninsula you are heading to. The KTEL bus from Thessaloniki runs frequently to the main towns of Halkidiki throughout the day in summer. Having a car is essential for getting around Halkidiki comfortably as public transport within the peninsula is limited.

Take the ferry

There is no ferry to Halkidiki. It is a mainland peninsula with no island ferry connections.

Getting there by air

Halkidiki has no airport. The nearest airport is Thessaloniki, around 60 to 90 kilometres from the various parts of the peninsula. Flying is not a practical option for this short connection.

Your best option

Drive from Thessaloniki to Halkidiki. At around 1 to 1.5 hours to Kassandra and 1.5 to 2 hours to Sithonia it is the most natural and effortless connection. Having a car is essential for getting between beaches, villages and the different peninsulas. The KTEL bus from Thessaloniki is a good alternative if you are traveling without a car, though it limits your flexibility considerably once you arrive.