The sun-kissed Halkidiki peninsula offers some of Greece’s most rewarding day trips. The standout experiences are water-based: I’m especially fond of the Kassandra Sunset Yacht Tour, which perfectly captures the golden Mediterranean light, and the West Sithonia Coves cruise, revealing hidden beaches unreachable by car. For active travelers, kayaking to Diaporos Island and stand-up paddleboarding provide intimate encounters with crystal-clear waters. The Thessaloniki City Tour efficiently covers the essential historic sites, while the glass-bottom boat excursion to Mount Athos offers a uniquely Greek Orthodox spectacle. Let’s explore my favorite tours in detail.
Key Points
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Halkidiki offers a variety of cultural and historical tours, including sailing experiences, water-based activities, and a comprehensive full-day tour of Thessaloniki.
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Sailing tours in Halkidiki range from 3-hour sunset sails to full-day private excursions, providing scenic views and opportunities for swimming and water sports.
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Water-based activities in Halkidiki include guided kayak tours and stand-up paddle board lessons, allowing visitors to explore the region’s crystal-clear waters and secluded coves.
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The full-day Thessaloniki city tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s history, with visits to key landmarks such as the White Tower, Galerius Arch, and Agios Demetrius Byzantine Church.
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Tours in Halkidiki generally receive positive reviews, with knowledgeable guides, flexible cancellation policies, and an overall enriching experience for history and culture enthusiasts.
3 Hours Kassandra Sunset Sailing Yacht Tour
When is the Hours Kassandra Sunset Sailing Yacht Tour? The tour is a 3-hour sailing experience that departs from Chrouso Beach in Pallini, Greece.
It’s available for a maximum of 11 travelers and is priced at $41.89 per person. The tour includes bottled water, coffee and/or tea, and all fees and taxes.
Travelers can contact the tour operator after booking to inquire about hotel pick-up and transportation options. The tour ends back at the Chrouso Beach meeting point.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. The tour may not be suitable for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical conditions.
According to reviews, the tour provides a relaxing boat trip along the coast with stunning views and the opportunity to watch the sunset on the way back.
Customers have recommended the tour for couples or families with older children.
Read our full review: 3 Hours Kassandra Sunset Sailing Yacht Tour Review
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Vourvourou: Guided Half-Day Kayak Tour in Diaporos Island
Although Halkidiki is renowned for its diverse array of activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to sailing and cruises, the Vourvourou: Guided Half-Day Kayak Tour in Diaporos Island stands out as a must-try experience.
Offered at €900.00 for a private group of up to 7 people, this 8-hour tour allows participants to explore the stunning Diaporos Island and its secluded coves by kayak. The crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscape provide the perfect backdrop for this intimate adventure.
With a rating of 4.6, this tour has proven to be a hit with customers, who rave about the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Whether you’re seeking an active day on the water or a chance to reconnect with nature, the Vourvourou: Guided Half-Day Kayak Tour in Diaporos Island is a fantastic choice for your Halkidiki itinerary.
Read our full review: Vourvourou: Guided Half-Day Kayak Tour in Diaporos Island Review
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Guided Stand up Paddle (Sup) Lesson and Tour
What better way to explore the serene waters of Halkidiki than with a guided stand-up paddle (SUP) lesson and tour?
Located in the picturesque Karydi Beach, this 5-star rated activity offers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s natural beauty from a different perspective.
Included in the tour are all necessary SUP equipment, life jackets, waterproof bags, and bottled water, ensuring a comfortable and carefree experience.
The meeting point is the wooden awning on Mikro Karydi beach, and participants are advised to arrive 20 minutes prior to the start of the tour.
The tour operates during the peak season, from April 10th to October 31st, on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with a schedule of 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour, the activity caters to those with a moderate fitness level, excluding individuals with specific medical conditions or limitations.
Booking is available with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Guided Stand up Paddle (Sup) Lesson and Tour Review
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Kassandra: West Sithonia Coves and Islands Sailboat Tour
Those seeking a more leisurely way to experience the stunning coves and islands of Halkidiki’s Sithonia and Kassandra regions can embark on the Kassandra: West Sithonia Coves and Islets Sailboat Tour.
Priced from €59 per person, this 5-hour excursion limits groups to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.
Highlights include swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding at Kelyfos Island and other secluded coves.
Travelers will enjoy sandwiches onboard and can bring their own fruits and beverages.
The itinerary may adjust based on weather and group preferences.
Onboard facilities feature a toilet, hot water, kitchen, and safety equipment.
Snorkeling gear and paddleboards are included.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 29 reviews, this tour provides an opportunity to explore Halkidiki’s natural beauty in a relaxed, uncrowded setting.
However, it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Read our full review: Kassandra: West Sithonia Coves and Islands Sailboat Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Private Day Tour Sailing Experience in Halkidiki
For travelers seeking a private, full-day sailing experience in the stunning Halkidiki region of Greece, the Full Private Day Tour Sailing Experience offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the area’s breathtaking coastline and islands.
This private tour, with a maximum group size of 9, provides a personalized and exclusive sailing adventure. Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding, all while taking in the stunning natural beauty of the Aegean Sea.
The tour includes bottled water, snacks, coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing experience. With a 5.0 overall rating from 2 reviews, this tour is a top choice for those seeking a high-quality, private sailing excursion in Halkidiki.
Priced at $619.45 per group, the tour offers excellent value and flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Full Private Day Tour Sailing Experience in Halkidiki Review
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Ouranoupoli: Mount Athos Sightseeing Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
This glass-bottom boat tour from Ouranoupoli offers travelers an exceptional opportunity to witness the stunning coastline and holy monasteries of Mount Athos.
During the 3-hour cruise, guests can enjoy scenic views of the ocean, with the possibility of spotting dolphins. The tour provides an onboard bar serving food, drinks, and traditional music entertainment.
While visitors can’t disembark on Mount Athos due to religious restrictions, the boat will pass within 500 meters, providing excellent views of the monasteries.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in multiple languages, including English, French, and German. With a price starting at $26.38 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this glass-bottom boat tour is an excellent value.
Reviews highlight the comfortable boats, friendly staff, and informative multilingual commentary. This tour offers a unique way to experience the stunning natural beauty and religious significance of Mount Athos from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat.
Read our full review: Ouranoupoli: Mount Athos Sightseeing Glass-Bottom Boat Tour Review
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Full Day Tour to Meteora From Halkidiki
Although located some distance from the coastal region of Halkidiki, the UNESCO-listed Meteora monasteries are a must-see attraction for visitors to the area.
This full-day private tour offers a hassle-free way to explore the monasteries built between the 14th and 16th centuries atop high pinnacles. The scenic drive through northern Greece, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, allows you to take in the stunning landscapes.
During the tour, you’ll visit select open monasteries like the Holy Trinity to view art and relics, and enjoy a break for lunch at your own expense beneath the towering rocks.
The tour includes all necessary transportation, with bottled water, fuel surcharge, and other fees covered. Keep in mind the dress code requirements, and that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Priced at $524.96 per group of up to 4 people, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private tour offers a convenient and immersive experience of Meteora’s religious treasures.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour to Meteora From Halkidiki Review
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Neos Marmaras: Sunset Coves and Islands Sailboat Tour
A delightful 3-hour sailboat tour departs from the charming port of Neos Marmaras, inviting guests to explore the stunning Aegean coves and islands.
Priced at Kč 985 per person, this semi-VIP experience accommodates up to 11 people and is available in both Greek and English.
Highlights include sailing to the picturesque Kelyfos Island, swimming in a secluded cove, and watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea.
The tour includes a professional skipper, snorkeling equipment, stand-up paddleboards, and complimentary water, coffee, and tea.
While food and drinks aren’t provided, travelers can bring their own packed lunch.
Travelers should note the tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 33 reviews, this tour offers a memorable sailing experience in Halkidiki.
Read our full review: Neos Marmaras: Sunset Coves and Islands Sailboat Tour Review
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From Halkidiki: Thessaloniki City Tour With Transfer
Departing from Halkidiki, travelers can embark on a captivating 9.5-hour city tour of Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city. Priced from Kč 707 per person, the full-day guided journey offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and landmarks.
The itinerary includes a panoramic drive through the Old Town, visits to the iconic White Tower, Galerius Arch, and Rotunda Monument, as well as the Agios Demetrius Byzantine Church and its underground crypt. Travelers will also have the opportunity to tour the Archaeological Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts from archaic to Roman periods.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by luxury bus, a professional guide, and entrance fees. Travelers can opt for a live tour guide in English, with French available upon request.
Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the overall enjoyable experience, though some suggest more time in the Old City. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this Thessaloniki city tour is a convenient and enriching way to discover the city’s history and culture.
Read our full review: From Halkidiki: Thessaloniki City Tour With Transfer Review
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Recap
Halkidiki offers a diverse range of tours and activities for visitors. From sailing tours and kayaking to glass-bottom boat rides and city tours, there’s something to suit every interest and budget. Whether you’re looking to explore the region’s natural beauty or experience its cultural heritage, these top tours provide an excellent way to make the most of your time in Halkidiki.