Location
History and Culture
Old Village of Nikiti
The Old Settlement of Nikiti in Halkidiki is a picturesque destination that enchants visitors with its traditional Macedonian architecture. Strolling through the narrow cobblestone streets, you'll encounter renovated stone houses with tiled roofs and wooden balconies adorned with flowers. At the heart of the settlement stands the Church of Saint Nikitas, built in 1867, while the old primary school houses the Folklore Museum of Nikiti. The central square, with its ancient plane tree, offers moments of relaxation in traditional taverns where you can savor local cuisine. The history of the settlement dates back to the Byzantine period, when inhabitants of coastal areas moved inland to escape pirate raids.
Ancient Olynthos
Ancient Olynthos was a significant city in Halkidiki, built on two hills near the shores of the Toroneos Gulf. It flourished particularly in the 5th century BC and became the center of the Chalcidice Federation. The city was destroyed in 348 BC by Philip II of Macedon. Excavations have revealed an exceptional urban planning system, known as the Hippodamian grid, with regular building blocks and impressive mosaic floors. Today, the archaeological site offers visitors a unique touring experience, unveiling the daily life and architecture of the classical period.
Monastery of Saint Arsenios
The Holy Monastery of Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian is located in Vatopedi, Halkidiki, approximately 95 kilometers from Thessaloniki. It was founded in 1986 with the blessing of Elder Paisios, who had a close spiritual relationship with Saint Arsenios, as the Saint was his godfather. The monastery follows traditional monastic architecture and offers a serene environment for prayer and contemplation. It celebrates its feast day on November 10th, honoring the memory of Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian.
Water Activities
Diving schools in Nikiti to discover the underwater world.
The area of Nikiti and the municipality of Sithonia in Halkidiki offer excellent opportunities for diving, attracting both beginners and experienced divers. The crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, impressive underwater formations, and rich marine life make the region ideal for underwater exploration.
In Sithonia, there are many diving centers with specialized staff, offering lessons and organized dives at various points of interest. For example, in the area of Lagomandra, the pristine waters reveal a rich seabed with countless species of fish, octopuses, crabs, and corals.
Additionally, Nikiti, as one of the most popular destinations in Sithonia, combines beautiful coastlines and a traditional settlement, offering a comprehensive holiday experience.
For those wishing to experience diving, there are “Discover Scuba Diving” programs that include training and guided dives, allowing participants to safely discover the beauty of the underwater world.
Explore hidden beaches and nearby islands, like Diaporos Island.
The area of Nikiti and the municipality of Sithonia in Halkidiki offer excellent opportunities for boat rentals, allowing visitors to explore the enchanting coasts and crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Many local businesses provide boats for rent, with or without a skipper, catering to both novice and experienced sailors.
Renting a boat in Sithonia allows access to secluded beaches, hidden coves, and picturesque islets, offering a unique experience of exploring the natural beauty of the area. Moreover, visitors can enjoy water activities such as swimming, fishing, and diving, making boat rental an ideal way to discover the charms of Halkidiki.
Activities
Culinary Experiences
Enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies at seaside taverns
Nikiti and the wider area of Sithonia in Halkidiki offer rich gastronomic experiences, satisfying both seafood and grilled meat enthusiasts. Seaside restaurants serve fresh fish and seafood, while traditional taverns in the old settlement of Nikiti offer exquisite grilled meats.
In the old settlement of Nikiti and the nearby village of Metamorfosi, visitors can find restaurants and traditional taverns serving authentic dishes and grilled meats in a picturesque setting.
Exploring Sithonia, visitors can enjoy a variety of flavors, from fresh seafood to juicy grilled meats, in restaurants and taverns that combine traditional Greek cuisine with the enchanting view of the Aegean Sea.
Visit wineries such as Porto Carras for wine tasting.
The area of Nikiti and the wider municipality of Sithonia in Halkidiki boast a rich winemaking tradition, offering unique wine tourism experiences. On the western side of Sithonia, on the lush slopes of Mount Meliton, lies the largest organic vineyard in Greece, covering 4,500 hectares. Here, visitors can tour the vineyards, learn about the wine production process, and taste select varieties.
Additionally, Halkidiki hosts the "Wine Route of Halkidiki," part of the Wine Roads of Northern Greece, which traverses picturesque spots of the viticultural zone, offering wine enthusiasts the opportunity to discover local wineries and enjoy their products.
Overall, Nikiti and Sithonia are ideal destinations for those wishing to combine their holidays with exploring the area's wine tradition, savoring local wines in a stunning natural setting.