Mistakes to Avoid

The Most Common Tourist Mistakes

A little preparation is the difference between a good holiday and an unforgettable one. Here is what to avoid in Halkidiki.

Planning & Getting Around

• Booking last minute: In August the good places sell out by spring — book from April. See the cost guide.
• Underestimating distances: Halkidiki is large — from the tip of Kassandra to the tip of Sithonia is over 2 hours. Check the driving distances.
• Not renting a car: Public transport is sparse; without a car you miss the hidden beaches. See the car rental guide.

Beaches

• Staying only in Kassandra: Sithonia has the most striking water (Kavourotrypes, Karydi).
• Only organised beaches: Free beaches are often more beautiful — just bring water and shade.
• Ignoring the meltemi: Exposed west and north shores get windy in the afternoon; sheltered coves stay calm.

Food

• Tourist traps: Avoid places right on the beach with menus in five languages and photos everywhere.
• Wrong dish, wrong place: Souvlaki at a fish tavern (or fish at a grill house) rarely works — pick the right restaurant.
• Not trying the local products: PDO Halkidiki green olives, Olympiada mussels, honey and tsipouro.

Mount Athos & Practicalities

• Mount Athos without a permit: You need a "diamonitirion" booked weeks ahead, and only men may enter. Women see the monasteries by boat cruise.
• Carrying no cash: Many tavernas and canteens are cash-only.
• Drinking and driving or speeding: Traffic police run frequent checks — drive carefully on Sithonia's narrow roads.