Camping in Halkidiki is one of the lesser-known aspects of the area, even though it boasts some of the best-organized campgrounds in Greece. With pine forests reaching the sea, large sandy beaches, and a mild climate from May to October, the conditions are ideal. This guide presents the main campgrounds in Halkidiki, what they offer, and what you need to know.
Camping or free camping?
Important note: in Greece, free camping (wild camping outside organized areas) has been illegal since 1976. On the sandy beaches of Halkidiki, the police patrol especially during the summer months, and fines can range from 200 to 1,500 euros. If you want to camp, go to an organized site.
The main campgrounds in Halkidiki
Sithonia
Camping Armenistis (between Sarti and Platanitsi): The most famous campground in Halkidiki and one of the largest in Greece. Located right on the beach of the same name, surrounded by a pine forest. It offers:
- Spaces for tents, caravans, and motorhomes
- Mini market, restaurants, bars
- Showers, toilets
- Its own section of the beach
- Animation and DJ events during summer evenings
Prices: 12-25 euros per person/night + 10-15 euros for a tent spot, or 40-70 euros for a caravan/motorhome. Without a reservation in August, you may not find a spot.
Camping Platanitsi: smaller, quieter, on the beach of the same name. Fewer facilities but a more "natural" experience. Prices 10-20 euros per person.
Other smaller campgrounds: in Syki, Nikiti, Vourvourou.
Kassandra
Camping Paradisos (Paliouri): Organized, on the beach, surrounded by a pine forest. Popular with families.
Camping Areti (Siviri): Good infrastructure, tranquility.
Other smaller campgrounds in Chanioti, Nea Fokaia, Kallithea.
Athos side
Camping Ouranoupoli: On the waterfront of Ouranoupoli, with a view of Mount Athos.
Camping Tristinika: On Tristinika beach, quiet and secluded.
What an organized campground includes
All serious campgrounds in Halkidiki offer:
- Spaces: for tents, caravans, or pre-installed bungalows
- Electricity supply: 220V for caravans/motorhomes
- Drinking water
- Sewage connection for caravans
- Shared showers and toilets
- Coin-operated washing machines
- Shared kitchens (usually)
- Mini market with basic supplies
- Restaurant or bar
- Playground
- Wifi (in more places)
- Their own section of the beach
The larger campgrounds also have pools, mini golf, bicycles, and hiking trails.
What to bring
- Tent or caravan: if you don't have one, some campgrounds rent them out.
- Sleeping bag: lightweight for summer (15-20°C night temperatures)
- Mattress: self-inflating or inflatable
- Headlamp: essential
- Water bottle
- Portable charger: if you want 24-hour power
- Coffee pot: for waking up
- Insect repellent gel: mosquitoes can be bothersome in the evenings
- Hat, sunscreen, swimsuit
Best time for camping
- June-September: the main season. All campgrounds open.
- May and October: only a few open, less crowded, lower prices
- November-April: almost all closed
Best: June for a combination of warm sea + tranquility. September for warm sea after the peak season.
Prices
Indicative costs:
- 2-person tent: 25-45 euros/night total
- 4-person tent: 40-65 euros/night
- Caravan/motorhome: 40-70 euros/night
- Bungalow: 60-120 euros/night depending on size
In peak August: +30-50%. In premium campgrounds (Armenistis): +20-30% throughout the season.
Practical tips for camping in Halkidiki
- Reservations: for August, 2-3 months in advance. For June-September, 2-4 weeks.
- Payment: usually cash or card upon arrival
- Dog: many campgrounds accept dogs for a small fee (3-5 euros/day). Check in advance.
- Nighttime: after 11:00 PM, noise is usually prohibited (sound systems, etc.)
- BBQ: allowed only in specially designated areas — not freely within the site
- Fire: ABSOLUTELY prohibited to use fire outside organized areas. Fines are very high.
Glamping — an alternative for those who don't want "real" camping
In recent years, some glamping (luxury camping) options have appeared in Halkidiki — furnished tents with beds, showers, and electricity. They combine the "outdoor" feel with hotel comfort. Prices range from 80-200 euros/night.
Who is camping in Halkidiki suitable for
- Young couples or groups on a low budget
- Families who love the outdoor experience
- Nature lovers
- Caravan owners on a road trip
- Visitors coming with one or two dogs (easier than hotels)
Who is it not suitable for
- Those who can't stand heat and mosquitoes
- Those who require privacy and quiet (peak August is noisy in popular campgrounds)
- People with back problems who need a proper bed
- Those traveling with a lot of luggage and demanding children