"? Why is Kallithea popular? What is the city's main archaeological site? What does the cave sanctuary contain? The beaches of Kallithea are a paradise for relaxation, and the shops are a delight for shopaholics. What can nightlife, clubs and taverns captivate sophisticated travelers?
When we say Kallithea, we are essentially saying “rest”. The same can be said about Cassandra, the most famous Chalcidian finger. It is here that numerous visitors and tourists flock.
In the town of Silonas, near Kallithea, early Christian basilicas were discovered, built at the beginning of the sixth century. The church was built on the site of an old building believed to have been the home of Christian martyrs.
Kallithea is located in a wild place, which is completely overgrown with wild trees that have not been cultivated. From the very edge of this finger we can observe the next process of Cassandra - Sithonia. If you manage to climb to the outskirts of Kallithea in good and clear weather, then you can easily see the famous Athos.
Of course, the wealth of Kallithea is not its geographical location or forests growing in disarray, but archaeological values, which, however, are sufficient throughout Greece. Here is an ancient temple that was dedicated to Amun, who later became known as Zeus. Also, next to the temple, a cave was found, in which, according to archaeologists, rituals dedicated to the god Dionysus were probably carried out.
To build the temple of Zeus Ammon, limestone was used, which was then covered with a layer of white marble, so over time, part of the temple had to be redone, replacing the limestone with marble. The Temple of Zeus measured 6 by 11 columns.
The Temple of Amun was most likely built around the 5th century BC, and was completed to its modern form already in the 4th century. Initially, it most likely consisted simply of an altar, and only then the temple itself was completed.
The name Kallithea itself is usually translated as “beautiful view”, and this is true. It is difficult to find species such as in this part of Kassandra anywhere else. Kassandria is the center of the peninsula, and Kallithea, located very close, is its decoration. If Kassandra is an economic and financial center, then Kallithea is a holiday for the eyes and hearts of the Greeks living there. In the summer it is impossible to find a single free hotel room there. And this situation with tourists occurs throughout the entire vacation period.
Viewers visiting the Cave of the Nymphs can see a wall about a meter high standing on a level platform above the entrance, which belonged to a Byzantine church dating back to 1000 AD.
The central streets are full of shops for tourists - souvenirs, summer clothes, accessories for water activities, sweets and much more can be seen in beautiful shop windows and on street stands. Nearby are shady outdoor cafeterias and taverns, from which the soothing melodies of national Greek songs flow. Kallithea beach is long, sandy and well equipped. It should be noted that the cleanliness of the beaches in Greek resorts is monitored very carefully. At the end of April, they must be cleaned and put in order for the upcoming season, and then maintained in this condition until the end of summer.
Kallithea has quite a large selection of real estate for sale and rent - from small apartments to spacious cottages near the coast, both in the town itself and at the entrance to it, for those who prefer some privacy. Kallithea is an international resort, like all other resorts in Halkidiki, and throughout Greece. Here you will meet English, French, Russians, Greeks and others in equal proportions. From Macedonia Airport to the town of Kallithea it is less than an hour's drive by car.
When the Romans captured the peninsula, they kept the sanctuary of Zeus, but built two more buildings next to the temple, located like an amphitheater. Of the Christian buildings, only one church, built in 1865, has survived to this day.
In the village itself, the beach is sandy and clean (awarded the “blue flag”), but it has one significant drawback - the descent and ascent from it to the center of the village takes place along a rather steep long staircase. The beaches adjacent to the village are located on the territory of hotels, one of the best is another blue flag holder, Kriopygy 2 beach, located 2.5 km south of the village and belongs to the Alexander The Great hotel. A well-maintained beautiful beach with white sand is surrounded by coniferous forests, palm trees and eucalyptus trees. The territory is free from sea traffic and water activities.
Large assortment and low prices presented in the Masutis supermarket chain. There are also souvenir shops and a couple of fur coat shops. The village has many inexpensive, tasty taverns, so choosing a place for lunch or dinner will not be difficult. But you won’t be able to have breakfast or drink morning coffee - cafes and restaurants open no earlier than 12.00. Tavern Diaz, just outside Kallithea, has good food, large portions and impressive views of the bay.
A sports competition is timed to coincide with the feast of St. Panteleimon, celebrated on July 27: on the last Sunday of July, a swim takes place in the Toronean Gulf from Kallithea to Nikiti (24 km). In the evening, a folk festival with national dances is held on Nikiti beach.
Kallithea has the status of the most party place in Halkidiki. The entertainment complex consists of several discos, the largest of which is Ahoy, and is located two kilometers from the village. Therefore, in Kallithea itself there is peace and quiet at night, but in hotels located nearby, music can be heard (especially in rooms facing the clubs). The most active and eventful month of nightlife is August.
An alternative to dancing until the morning can be bowling, karting, an equestrian club, as well as all types of water activities on the beach. History and archeology buffs can explore the ruins of the temples of Ammon Zeus and Dionysus. At 4 km is the town of Afitos, notable for its rich history, which can be found in the local ethnographic museum, and an excellent beach. On July 27, local residents celebrate a holiday dedicated to the patron saint of the village - St. Panteleimon. Since 1971, an international swimming marathon across the Toroneos Gulf has been held in July, starting in Kallithea and ending in Sithonia, in the village of Nikiti.
Kallithea (Chalkidiki) is one of those famous resorts that are offered in abundance to holidaymakers in mainland Greece. With the beginning of the swimming season, young people flock here in large numbers, attracted by a wide range of entertainment. Reputable tourists love Kallithea for its natural beauty and comfortable beaches. So, what is known about this fabulous place that you don’t want to leave?
Kallithea (Chalkidiki): location
Known for its “three-pronged” shape, the Halkidiki peninsula is located in the northern zone of the Aegean Sea. In fact, it consists of three elongated peninsulas that resemble fingers. One of them is Kassandra, which lures tourists with luxurious beaches and ancient sights that cannot be seen even in a month. The most popular place in Kassandra, attracting thousands of vacationers every year, is Kallithea. Halkidiki is a peninsula on whose territory there are many beautiful cities and towns, but it is Kallithea that is worth getting to know first.
Name settlement can be translated from Greek as “beautiful view.” Guests of the village have the opportunity to make sure that Kallithea lives up to its name by climbing onto the observation deck located in the center. The famous resort is located on the coast of the Gulf of Toroneo. Travelers staying on the territory of Kallithea will also be able to admire the top of Mount Athos, weather permitting, and enjoy the view of neighboring Sithonia, which opens from the beaches.
Kallithea is a small village located at a distance of 80 km from Macedonia Airport, located in Thessaloniki. You can get to this locality by bus, rented car or taxi. In terms of price, the first option is the most affordable.
A little history
Kallithea (Chalkidiki) is an amazing place whose history goes back centuries. Researchers are still trying to restore it by studying traces of ancient civilizations, which are constantly discovered during archaeological excavations. It is known that for centuries these lands were owned by the monks of the monastery, the exact date of its foundation still remains a mystery. By the way, the temple of the same name annually attracts crowds of people who want to see the ancient shrine. The Church of St. Nicholas the Pleasant is of equally great interest to travelers.
The construction of the village of Kallithea (Chalkidiki) began only in 1925. The credit for its foundation belongs to the Greek refugees who arrived here from Gradually, this place turned into a famous resort, which is famous throughout the world for its crystal clear sea and snow-white beaches. Of course, on the territory of Kallithea it was erected huge amount hotels ready to accommodate tourists with different financial capabilities.
Weather
Of course, tourists dreaming of a comfortable beach holiday are interested in the weather in Kallithea. Halkidiki is a peninsula best visited from May to September. During the holiday season, which opens at the end of April, the average air temperature is +27 degrees. The sea warms up to approximately +26 degrees. Of course, these indicators can rise even higher, depending on the month.
Kallithea is a settlement whose inhabitants know little about storms, since this place is reliably protected from gusts of wind by the hills of Sithonia and Kassandra. The rainiest months are February, March and November, so you should not plan a vacation during this time. It is known that Kallithea comes to life around mid-spring and goes into hibernation towards the end of autumn.
Which beaches to choose
Greece, Chalkidiki, Kallithea - words familiar to all party-goers who cannot imagine a holiday without an active nightlife. However, the main purpose of visiting the village is still a beach holiday. Tourists who want to combine working on their tan with admiring the natural beauty will love a place called Kriopigi. This beach is located approximately two kilometers from the center of the village. It welcomes guests not only with emerald-colored water, but also with a coniferous forest, close to the sea.
The Kriopigi beach is well-maintained, and vacationers can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, which are offered at affordable price. On its territory there is a shaded terrace from where you can admire the amazing views. Cold springs gushing from the seabed will help you cool down in hot weather; they contrast pleasantly with the warm sea water.
Where else can tourists relax comfortably when they find themselves in such a magical place as Kallithea (Chalkidiki)? Polychrono beach is comfortably spread along the embankment, its length is approximately two kilometers. There are coastal bars and cafes offering refreshing drinks and local cuisine. It is also possible to rent umbrellas and sun loungers. Of course, water activities are also offered, designed for representatives of different age groups.
Excursions
Sights are what Kallithea (Chalkidiki) is deservedly famous for. Excursions are offered to tourists in a wide range; you can find programs for every taste and budget.
If you find yourself among the guests of the Halkidiki peninsula, you cannot help but visit the legendary one, which, according to legend, is considered the home of the Greek gods, whose leader is the thunderer Zeus. During this excursion, tourists are taken to the ancient city of Dion, and they have the opportunity to see the legendary capital of the Macedonian kingdom. By the way, on the territory of the latter there is the tomb of Philip II, the father of the famous warrior Alexander the Great. The cost of this excursion is approximately 50 euros.
Vacationers with small children should definitely decide on a cruise to Sithonia, the cost of which does not exceed 35 euros. During the trip, guests of Kallithea are taken to the amazingly beautiful turtle lake Mavrobar. An excursion to Meteora is of interest to all tourists who dream of seeing the amazing places of ancient Hellas. A one-day trip will cost approximately 70 euros.
Holy Mount Athos
Not all of them are listed above interesting places, which can be seen by tourists who have chosen Kallithea (Chalkidiki) as a holiday destination. The attractions described above cannot compete with the famous Mount Athos, which is located on the Aion Oros peninsula. There is an international monastic republic here, which includes 20 monasteries. Among the inhabitants of the monasteries you can meet representatives of all regions of the planet.
Mount Athos was first mentioned in the works of the famous ancient Greek poet Hesiod. The Creator pays tribute to her in his work “Theogony,” describing the battle of the Titan Athos with the ruler of the seas, Poseidon. Legend says that it was Mount Athos that became the place where the powerful brother of the thunderer Zeus found his last refuge.
Unfortunately, representatives of the fair sex will be able to enjoy the beauty of the holy Mount Athos only from afar, since for more than a millennium there has been a law prohibiting women from visiting this place. Male representatives have the opportunity to set foot on holy ground. The approximate cost of a sea cruise is 50 euros.
Ancient city of Afitos
The town of Afitos is another mysterious place, thanks to which the settlement of Kallithea attracts tourists, which is difficult to explore in one visit. Travelers can join a tour group or visit this town on their own, using a taxi or a regular bus. Afitos is considered the most ancient settlement that can be found on the Halkidiki peninsula. The approximate date of its foundation is the seventh century BC.
During the reign of the famous Alexander the Great, the city reached its greatest prosperity; its residents even minted their own coins. The settlement was not abandoned even during the reign of the Romans. Unfortunately, the invasion that took place in 1821 led to the partial destruction of the city. However, already in 1830 Afitos was restored.
Ruins of ancient temples
The village of Kallithea (Chalkidiki) attracts travelers with other interesting attractions. For example, in 1969, an ancient temple dedicated to the thunderer Zeus himself was accidentally found on its territory. One of the main attractions of the village is located directly on the sea coast.
Continuing the excavations, scientists discovered another ancient sanctuary. It was a temple whose servants worshiped the god Dionysus. The temple is located in a picturesque cave, the approximate date of its foundation is the second century BC. The construction of the temple is attributed by historians to the ancient Euboeans. It is known that it was this civilization that exalted the god Dionysus, as well as some sea deities.
Where to stay
Where can travelers stay if they choose Kallithea (Chalkidiki) as their holiday destination? Apartments are a great solution for those who prefer a budget holiday. Fortunately, the locality offers vacationers a wide range of apartments that differ from each other in price.
For example, you can opt for the family complex Tzogalis Apartments. Its main advantage is its convenient location, the distance between the complex and the center of the village is no more than 150 meters. You will have to walk about 300 meters to get to the sandy beach. Guests can enjoy rooms with a kitchenette equipped with the necessary equipment. There are options with and without a balcony. The cost of apartments can vary, on average you can expect 50 thousand rubles per week.
By the way, you can save money by renting a room in a comfortable house after your stay in Kallithea. Offers are easy to spot by looking for signs that say “Rooms to let.”
Hotels
Hotels in Kallithea (Chalkidiki) are the choice of travelers who like to relax in comfort without worrying about food and cleaning. For example, the five-star Theophano Imperial Palace hotel, located approximately two kilometers from the center of the village, is popular among tourists. The hotel was restored relatively recently - in 2008. Vacationers are offered cozy rooms, some rooms have access to a personal pool. The hotel has three restaurants and several bars, offering various systems meals, including all inclusive. Of course, there is also its own sandy beach, located no more than a hundred meters from the hotel buildings.
Comfort is what tourists rightly associate with the words “Greece, Chalkidiki, Kallithea.” Hotels that are more affordable than the option described above also offer excellent conditions for vacationers. For example, you can pay attention to the three-star Macedonian Sun Hotel complex, which is located approximately two kilometers from the center of the village. The main advantage of the hotel is its vast territory; it is located on a picturesque hill. Guests of Kallithea are offered rooms in two-story buildings overlooking the sea; there is only one food system - half board. The distance to the beach is 400 meters, there is also a swimming pool.
Entertainment
Greece, Chalkidiki, Kallithea are names dear to the hearts of many tourists who value the opportunity to lead an active nightlife. Vacationers have several modern nightclubs at their disposal, which you can visit for about ten euros and receive a cocktail or beer as a gift.
For example, travelers can have a great time and get a boost of energy at the Pearl Club nightclub. This establishment is famous for its excellent music, and local talent regularly performs there. During the height of the holiday season, there is a high chance of catching a performance by Greek stars who visit the village with touring programs. The majority of Kallithea clubs are located outside the village, quite far from hotels. This allows tourists who prefer to sleep at night to enjoy their holiday in peace.
Of course, the range of beach activities is wide and affordable. Both connoisseurs of extreme recreation and travelers with small children can easily find something to their liking here. Those tourists whose vacation is planned for the end of July can be called lucky. After all, it is on July 27 that the village celebrates a celebration glorifying the divine patron of Kallithea - St. Panteleimon. All residents of the town traditionally participate in the celebration; guests of the locality can join the large-scale festivities without fear.
I’ll start with the fact that I’ve been living in Greece, in the city of Thessaloniki, for the second year now, and I want to share my impressions of travel, everyday life, language, cuisine, local features and beauty.
It is no coincidence that I decided to write about the resort village of Kallithea on the Halkidiki peninsula, in that part of it called Kassandra and located only 90 kilometers from Thessaloniki. The name Kallithea means “ nice view”, and there are several places in Greece with the same name (such as the area on the island of Rhodes), but I really like the views in Halkidiki, they are truly inspiring and enchanting.
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This village is the most cosmopolitan place in Halkidiki and the epicenter of the nightlife of the entire peninsula. The infrastructure here is very developed - you will find everything you need: many shops with a varied assortment (from souvenirs and traditional food products and cosmetics to fur coats), cafes, bars, snack bars, hotels and apartments of various types. price categories, nightclubs and dance floors. There are also very clean beaches with white sand.
A bit of history and archeology: in the vicinity of the village there was an ancient temple of Ammon Zeus (the Ammon Zeus Hotel 4* is named after him), dating back to the beginning of the 4th century BC and additional buildings of an amphitheater and an altar from the Roman Empire period, which were discovered during construction hotel in 1969. Throughout Greece, archaeological sites are often discovered this way, when constructing subways in larger cities, for example, since they are literally everywhere here. It can be surprising and paradoxical for a foreigner - how archaeological sites calmly fit in and coexist with modern ones and simply coexist with Greek everyday life. Also in Kallithea there is the ancient cave of Dionysus, where worship ceremonies were held even in more distant antiquity, and later Roman baths (1-2 centuries AD), which were something like spas with therapeutic procedures. Access to all archaeological sites is free, and there are signs and plans everywhere in Greek and English. Kallithea is also the former patrimony of the monks from the monastery of St. Panteleimon (the patron saint of these places), which was rebuilt in 1925. Each On July 27, a holiday dedicated to the Saint is celebrated here.Just 4 km away is the town of Afitos with an ethnographic museum where you can see interesting exhibits and stories of the area.
And now it's time to refresh yourself. Taverns, cafes and restaurants here are usually open from 11.00 - 12.00 until late in the evening. Most tourists have breakfast in hotels, early in the morning you can also drink coffee and have a snack in small eateries and bakeries, where they make very tasty pies (pitas) with different fillings (spinach, feta cheese, sweet cream), in which case you can spend on coffee and pie just a few euros (3-5).
Among the taverns, I would like to especially note the “Dias” tavern (as Zeus is called in modern Greek)) for its exquisite seafood and meat dishes, interior and exterior design (a cozy area surrounded by a garden and a wonderful view of the Toronean Gulf, there is also a children’s playground). The peculiarity of this tavern, which is in no way inferior to the status of a restaurant, but with more affordable prices (you can have lunch or dinner from 20 euros per person), has a special atmosphere; it is a family business of the spouses Antonis and Falia and their five children, which they founded back in 1991 , and since then they have carefully taken care of each of their guests. It has its own production of homemade products, such as wine, tsipouro (something like grape moonshine), honey, cheese and olives. While I was writing, I really wanted to go back there.
Another time you can look into “Taverna Elena” in the very center of the village, where signature recipes are prepared in a special way, at home, in a saucepan (this is original, since, generally, in taverns there is a lot of fried or baked food), you can also order a dish with a variety of meats or seafood to try them in variety. Pleasant atmosphere, summer terrace covered with grapes and delicious local wines (prices from 10-20 euros per person, depending on the number of orders and guests).
The youth “Cocktails Cafe Bar LAVA”, also in the center, will delight you with excellent service, drinks and cocktails. For example, you can enjoy a cup of Greek Helliniko coffee for 3 euros per person.
And very close to the beach there is the Coralie tavern, which also has many advantages: large parking, a variety of seafood and meat dishes, and by ordering any drink, you can freely use a sun lounger on the beach.
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Now I suggest you explore the local beaches. Kallithea beach is located in the bay opposite the second finger or toe of Halkidiki - Sithonia, which is why there are no strong waves here and you can admire the view of the holy Mount Athos. The beaches are very clean, sandy, there are no large stones; parents with small children will definitely like it.
In the areas behind the village, where hotels are mainly located, the adjacent beaches have been awarded a blue flag (this means that it is very clean, safe and beautiful), for example, Kriopigi beach is surrounded by pine trees, palm trees and eucalyptus trees that literally grow on the beach. Its t the area is also free from maritime traffic.
The beaches have changing cabins, sports grounds, and showers.
In addition to swimming (by the way, in July there is an international swimming marathon across the Toroneos Gulf), you can practice any sea sports with professional trainers, there is a separate diving school (“Triton”), as well as entertainment such as bowling and go-karting.
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A little about hotels. There is a really rich selection of them in this region. From the simplest 2-3* and apartments to luxury hotels, I especially like “Aegean Melathron”, where I once witnessed a fabulously beautiful wedding ceremony. Near Kallithea there is a popular hotel complex G-Hotels, in which “Athos Palace Hotel 4*” stands out for its high service and location (located on a cape among gardens and greenery) and the fact that it is suitable for any category of tourists. And for vacationers with children, this season a children's club "GREKOLETO" from Mouzenidis Travel has appeared. Qualified educators and trainers, animators (Russian and English languages), a variety of sports and creative activities, games and master classes for children of 2 age groups: 4-8 years old and 8-12 years old, and even evening entertainment show programs and mini-disco.
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It's already sunset, time to explore the adult nightlife that everyone has heard so much about. Let's start with the largest and most famous nightclub “Ahoy”, it has existed for 20 years, and accommodates more than 3,000 people, open from the end of April to the end of September (every day). There are always new dance music from all over the world and new items from the Greek repertoire; themed parties are held in different styles, with guest celebrity DJs.
It was not without reason that they called it “Kalithea” - “beautiful view”. The bright turquoise of the sea, a spectacular white-sand beach and rich green forests - this is what this resort town on the Aegean Sea looks like. However, not only its natural beauty attracts numerous tourists here every year - people also come to Kallithea, located in a rather picturesque place, to have the opportunity to have a good time and to see archaeological treasures, of which, however, there are many throughout Greece.
How to get there on your own
It is not for nothing that the Kassandra Peninsula is considered the most densely populated region of Halkidiki - there are 44 towns in an area of 50 kilometers. Kallithea, located in the eastern part of the peninsula, approximately in the middle, is considered one of the busiest resorts here. It is 90 kilometers from Thessaloniki and Macedonia Airport, and you can get to Kallithea in a little more than an hour. If you wish, you can take a taxi, or you can go by bus, the routes of which go here regularly.
Infrastructure
Kallithea has a well-developed infrastructure - there are many inexpensive taverns where you can always have a delicious dinner, there are shops and souvenir shops, there is a chain supermarket "Masutis", there are even a couple of fur shops. There are also plenty of hotels here, although most of them are located outside the village.
Beach
Kallithea beach is convenient, nice and cozy - it is located in the Toronic Gulf, so the sea here is almost always quiet, calm, transparent, at least there are almost no strong waves. Very often from here you can see not only the neighboring peninsula, Sithonia - if in clear weather you climb to the towering outskirts of the town, you can also see the more distant Athos. Clean sandy shore, sea without large stones; the beach is perfectly equipped for a comfortable pastime - sun loungers, umbrellas, cafes and bars. It is amazingly beautiful here - the sandy shore is beautifully shaded by the greenery of palm trees, eucalyptus and coniferous trees located immediately behind it. However, there is one “but” - Kallithea beach is also surrounded by small mountains, so you have to go down to it along a fairly steep staircase.
What to see?
Kallithea is a relatively small town, one might even say a village. It was founded not as long ago as most Greek cities - at the beginning of the twentieth century (it was founded by Russian monks from the monastery of St. Panteleimon), and therefore it has no rich history, no respectable historical monuments. However, there are still several attractions here - these are the excavations of the ancient temple of Zeus-Amon (which was discovered during the construction of another hotel in 1969 and, as scientists suggest, was built back in the 5th century BC), the temple of Dionysius, and also the so-called cave of the Nymphs. And in memory of the time when Christianity came to Greece, a small church remained, erected not far from the destroyed temples in 1865.
Young people like to hang out here - after all, in the vicinity of Kallithea there are many bars and nightclubs that will allow you not to get bored until dawn. The largest disco is Ahoy, it is located two kilometers from the Kallithea resort. The most active “club” month is August; at the height of the tourist season, Greek pop stars often come here to give concerts. However, due to the fact that all the clubs are located outside the city, Kallithea itself is quite quiet, so it is quite suitable for people who prefer a relaxing holiday - for example, you can rent a hotel in the center of the town. And an excellent (and less violent) alternative to dancing can be an equestrian club, karting or bowling.
Once upon a time, at this very place, the ancient inhabitants of the peninsula worshiped Zeus and Dionysus, monks lived here for just over a hundred years, but today the town of Kallithea is one of the most popular resorts on the Chalkidiki peninsula. He warmly welcomes visiting guests, offering them everything he can give - excellent beaches, hotels for every budget, delicious Greek cuisine, entertainment to their liking, and even archaeological sites - in a word, everything that for many tourists is synonyms for the word "rest".
