Sithonia is favorably distinguished from Cassandra by its greenery, mountainious landscape and spectacular views on the whole coast.
The tourist infrastructure is concentrated around several main settlements and does not create "tourist zone". The unspoiled nature of Sithonia combines the traditional way of life of local residents and creates an unforgettable Greek idyll, allowing the traveler to feel completely different reality. A lot of beaches with golden sand are surrounded by pine trees, reaching directly to the water - this is a kind of natural umbrella, which protects holidaymakers from the hot Greek sun.
The Annunciation Monastery of Ormylia
There is the convent of the Annunciation, known as the Monastery of Ormilia founded in 1974, located in the northern coast of the Gulf of Cassandra, in the midst of the green of olive groves and vineyards, between the towns of Vatopedi and Ormilia. One of the largest monasteries in Greece with a population of over 120. There are iconic workshops, including the restoration of ancient Byzantine icons which also can be found here. The medical center of cancer prevention and treatment, which is called "Panagia Philanthropini, is just a few kilometers away from the monastery of ", which refers to the monastery, which translates as "The Theotokos".
Monastery of St. Arseny of Cappadocia
It is located a few kilometers from the convent of Ormylia. The monastery of St. Arsenius of Cappadocia was founded in 1986 by the efforts and prayer of the Monk Paisios of Athos. Saint Arseny was in some case, the spiritual instructor of St. Paisius, baptizing him in Asia as a child, and predicting the baby the monastic path of holiness. Today, 18 monks are working in the monastery. The monastery is opened for visitors daily, except Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Nikiti
Nikiti is one of the central settlements of Sithonia, and it is located on the western coast of the peninsula more than 100 kilometers away from Thessaloniki. Nikiti existed as a settlement since the 14th century as a part of one of Athos monasteries. Archaeologists discovered the remains of the early Christian Basilica of Sophronia on the territory of the settlement, with significant mosaics that adorn the floor of the temple.
Todays, Nikiti is the largest center of honey production in northern Greece. Here you can taste and purchase various kinds of "sweet gold of Sithonia": forest, pine, flower and heather honey.
Ormos Panagias
There is a small village Ormos Panagias, which is 43 km from the capital of Halkidiki, Poligiros,. It is surrounded by really magical landscapes and the green surroundings. Ormos Panagias is known as the port from which excursions along the coast of Halkidiki are made to the island of Amuliani and to Saint Athos. In Ormos Panagias you can visit the Byzantine temple and relax in the taverns located at the harbor.
Neos Marmaras
Neos Marmaras is a lively city with everything necessary for the convenience of tourists: stylish bars, traditional taverns, hotels of any category, shops and promenade for walks. A developed tourist center is built on the site of the ancient and Byzantine settlement. You will never get bored in Neos Mamaras. You can go for a walk on the trails in the vicinity of the city and go to the survey points, visit the monastery, dive or take a boat trip to the small island of Kelifos.
Porto Carras
Several decades ago the appearance of the hotel complex Porto Carras forced the development of the whole Sithonia. Since then, more and more tourists have been able to visit these protected places. Porto Carras is a legendary resort with a 9-meter beach, high-level hotels, dozens of restaurants and bars, its own winery, casinos and pristine forests, which are pleasant to have long walks. You can reach Neos Marmaras from Porto Carras within a few minutes.
Island of Kelifos
The outlines of the Kelifos island are perfectly visible from the banks of Neos Marmaras and Porto Carras. In ancient times it was as a hiding place for the inhabitants of Halkidiki. From afar, Kelifos looks like a turtle, that’s why the locals call it Turtle Island. Daily ships from Sithonia sail to Kelifos. On this island you can relax from the bustle, surrounded by steep rocks and pines, diving (underwater caves hide many interesting things) and see the only inhabitants of Kelifos - wild goats.
Parthenonas
The village of Parthenon is called the most beautiful on Sithonia. It is difficult to argue with this statement: with the development of tourism in Halkidiki, Parthenonas was abandoned by local residents, but thanks to this the historical buildings were perfectly preserved. In the past, Parthenonas was considered a prosperous village - the production of olive oil brought a good income. Today everyone who is here can admire the traditional houses and mansions, go to the ethnographic museum, enjoy the sea view from a height of 350 m and buy honey - the main product of this area.
Toroni
Toroni is 23 km distance from Neos Marmaras - a resort that is famous for its coast. It disposes to rest without unnecessary noise. There are equipped and wild plots on the spacious sandy beach of Toroni. the complete absence of waves is one of the most remarkable features of the bay. And all this is complemented by the beauty of the lush forests which are considered to be the traditional landmark of Sithonia. However, in Toroni you can not only sunbathe on the beach, but also get acquainted with its sights: the remains of the ancient acropolis, towers and an ancient Byzantine fortress, the temple of St. Athanasius and fragments of the early Christian basilica.
Porto Coufo
Tiny villages have a great charm. This can be seen in Porto Kufo - a beautiful place with a natural estuary and huge rocks. Thanks to this natural "lake" there are no waves or storms here. Many people come to Porto Kufo to have some rest on a clean beach, make a hike along one of the routes, enjoy the quiet flow of life of this village. And many people get to Porto Kufo from far away to taste fish in local taverns. For those who enjoy water walks, they organize out-of-bound fishing trips or trips around the bay.
Vourvourou
Tourists always respond with delight about Vourvourou - the landscapes can not leave anyone indifferent. You can admire this area, the beauty of clean beaches and green hills, and the sea which is always calm.The whole families go to Vourvourou, but there is enough space for everyone - it's not too noisy and crowded here. The main attraction of Vourvourou is its very unique nature with picturesque bays and islets. In addition to them, there are old monasteries, a university village and good taverns in the area, where you can taste the best Greek dishes.
Sikya
A large village of Sikia is 155 km from Thessaloniki. The place is known for its long history - there were settlements in the Neolithic times, and in the Byzantine era the territory of Sikya belonged to Athos. The modern village managed to preserve the historical architecture and sights. Here you can see the old houses and the school building, the church of St. Athanasius, the remains of the Byzantine church, prehistoric fortress and windmills of the XIX century. In addition to architectural wealth, Sikya is famous for its excellent 2-kilometer sandy beach.
Sarti
There is one of the largest resorts of Sithonia - Sarti 142 km away from Thessaloniki. The secret of its popularity is simple: impressive mountains, calm bays, clear sea and sparkling fine sand in the sun. In Sarti, you can spend time actively while skiing. And you can make a leisurely walk by ship, enjoying the views of the sea. Among several attractions which should definitely be visited in Sarti is farmstead of the XIX century, belonging to Athos monastery Xiropotamu. And you can also climb the hills of Sarti, from which you can see the Mount Athos.
