How to get to Halkidiki
Getting to Halkidiki is not as difficult as you might think. You can either hop on a plane and arrive in a short time, or get behind the wheel and enjoy the road. Both ways have their own pleasures.
Getting to Halkidiki by plane
The closest airport to Halkidiki is Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG). It is possible to find direct flights to Thessaloniki from Istanbul and occasionally from Izmir. The journey takes 1-1.5 hours on average. After landing in Thessaloniki, you can go to Halkidiki by land.
You have several alternatives here:
You can rent a car. This allows you to visit the region according to your own plan.
You can get a transfer service. If you book in advance, it is possible to reach your hotel directly from the airport.
Taxi is also an option, but it can be a bit more expensive than the others.
Traveling by plane is ideal, especially for those who are pressed for time and like comfort.
Getting to Halkidiki by Your Own Car
Driving from Turkey to Halkidiki is a very pleasant route, but it is a bit challenging. It is an average 7-8 hour drive for someone leaving Istanbul.
The route is usually as follows:
Istanbul → Ipsala border crossing → Alexandroupoli → Kavala → Thessaloniki → Halkidiki
There are a few details you need to know before you set off:
You need green insurance (international compulsory traffic insurance) for your car. You can also get it at the border.
If the vehicle is registered in the name of a company, a power of attorney and signature circular may be required.
If you have insurance, it is useful to get an addendum to cover Greece.
Your driver's license must be a new type. If you are traveling with an old license, you need an international driving license.
Along the way, it would be nice to stop in Alexandroupoli or Kavala and have something to eat by the sea. It may also be a good idea to split the trip by staying overnight in Thessaloniki.
Getting from Thessaloniki to Halkidiki
After arriving in Thessaloniki, there are various ways to get to Halkidiki:
If you want to go by bus, you can take the regional bus KTEL to many points in Halkidiki.
If you rent a car, you will be very comfortable both in terms of transportation and sightseeing.
Transfer services offer a comfortable and hassle-free journey. You will be picked up from the airport or city center and dropped directly to your hotel.
Small Notes
- Consider a day in Thessaloniki in your vacation plans.
- Halkidiki consists of three large peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos. Transportation time may vary depending on your destination.
- Don't forget to complete the Schengen visa process before departure. The application process can take time, it is better to apply early.
For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Halkidiki Hotels page.
