Greece is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the planet. That iconic vision of whitewashed stone houses set against a jaw-dropping blue ocean continues to tempt tourists in their droves. But while the stunning coastal scenery and the non-stop party islands are, indeed, a well-deserved drawcard, there’s also another side of Greece to love: that of the countless small towns and villages dotted around the country, which, despite the passage of time, retain the authenticity of their long and storied culture.
The northern region of Halkidiki, is home to Afytos, a traditional village elevated on a hill, with charming narrow streets, well-preserved stone buildings, and quiet, picturesque nearby beaches. It’s certainly not a place for anyone looking for adventure or dance parties, but if you want to get to know the “real” Greece, and if you’ve got two days, you’ve got a lovely surprise coming to you…
Spend Two Relaxing Days in Afytos
First things first: yes, your stay in Afytos will be relaxing, because while it’s not exactly “sleepy”, you’ll definitely notice a change of pace from some of the other more touristy towns in the area. But really, that’s what the famously laidback Greek lifestyle is all about, isn’t it?
DAY ONE
Visit the Folklore Museum: After a leisurely breakfast head to the town’s most important cultural highlight. Set in a beautiful stone building located in the main square, the Folklore Museum is compact in size but packs a punch in terms of its scope. Many of the exhibits have been donated by locals, and they’ve been thoughtfully curated to deliver an authentic depiction of life through the ages. Displays include household utensils, agricultural tools, pottery, ceramics, furniture, puppets, paintings and a wonderful reproduction of the interiors of a traditional house.
St Demetrios Church: Dating back to 1858 (but set on the site of a much older church), the Orthodox St Demetrios Church is a neat, well-preserved, three-nave basilica, with a belltower and a dome. It’s straight opposite the museum, and while it’s lovely to sit for a while and enjoy the ambience of the small garden, you shouldn’t miss the interiors, which feature beautiful floral paintings, a carved wooden iconostasis, and a statue of the Virgin Mary which dates back to the fourteenth century.
Take in Views from the Stone Balcony: The locals often call Afytos “the Stone Balcony”, as its steep elevation offers spectacular views of the coastline and the Gulf of Toroneos. Not far from the central square there’s an observation deck, from which to get the best vantage, but you can also just settle into one of several tavernas for a drink, dinner and a truly memorable sunset.
DAY TWO
Having taken in the delights of the village itself, on the second day you might like to explore a little further afield to get some important cultural context. It’s a short, pleasant 40 minute drive to Petralona, and if you set off early you can be back before lunch.
The Anthropological Museum in Petralona: This well-curated museum offers a fascinating insight into the prehistoric culture of Greece. Along with a huge collection of artefacts from the famous Cave of Petralona, there are many hundreds of other displays, including murals, primitive tools made of bones and stones, and relics from the oldest traces of fire, from a million years ago. You’ll also be able to see well-constructed replicas of the Cave of Petralona, and the mausoleum of Archanthropus Europeus Petraloniensis. The museum is a brilliant and authentic showcase of Greece’s palaeoanthropological journey.
It’s definitely a very interesting and fulfilling way to spend a morning and, the good news is, on the way back, all roads lead to a beach…
Where to Stay
Afytos by the Sea: Close to the beach and offering delightful garden and ocean views, this lovely house provides the perfect base to relax and explore the wonderful surroundings. With spacious interiors, high quality appointments throughout, and a fabulous terrace on which to dine and enjoy the outlook, it’s located just a five-minute walk from the town centre.
Dandelion Afytos: Set in the heart of town with everything at your fingertips, this sustainable, air-conditioned apartment has a well-equipped kitchen, a private bathroom, a fantastic terrace with sea views, and a pool in the complex. With its relaxed ambience and friendly, helpful owners, you’ll feel right at home – only better!
Aegean Blue Studios: The name says it all for these fantastic studios situated high on a hill overlooking the ocean, offering views to the horizon. The generous rooms open out to take in the views, and have well-appointed interiors, modern furnishings and air-conditioning. The hotel features a pool with sun loungers, umbrellas and a bar. Simply stunning location and hospitality.
How to Get There
Getting to Afytos to begin your relaxing holiday is a simple matter of booking a flight into Thessaloniki Airport (SKG). Flights take about 3.5 hours from the UK, with Jet2, British Airways, Ryanair, and EasyJet (to name a few) offering around 51 flights that service the route every week.
As soon as you’ve booked your flights, the best idea to ensure your onward journey is smooth is to get back online and pre-book your airport transfers with Shuttle Direct. One of our transfers is the most hassle-free way of getting from Thessaloniki to Afytos as quickly as possible.
Overview
UK to SKG Flight Time: 3 hour 29 minutes
SKG to Afytos Distance: 74 kilometres
Shuttle Direct Transfer: 1 hour approx.
Types of Transfer
No matter what the size of your budget, or whether you’re travelling alone or with a group, at Shuttle Direct, we have an appropriate service that will get you from Thessaloniki Airport to Afytos with ease. Pre-book one of the following options and start your holiday in the right way.
Nobody should spend time standing in a queue when they could be getting on with their holiday. Pre-book an airport taxi transfer with Shuttle Direct and there’ll be no lines for you. You’ll travel on your own with a friendly local driver, and be delivered straight to the door of your accommodation. A great option for those who don’t like sharing.
Getting from the airport at Thessaloniki to Afytos is super easy and affordable on one of our shuttle bus services. Because you share the ride with other passengers it’s cheaper than a private transfer, but doesn’t mean compromising on comfort and safety. You’ll meet at a designated airport pick-up point and be taken to a central drop-off at the destination. Easy and economical!
A minibus transfer from Thessaloniki Airport is ideal if you’re on holiday with a group of friends or extended family. Because of the generous capacity, everyone (and their associated luggage) can travel in the same vehicle right to the door of your accommodation.
For anyone who likes a touch of luxury and doesn’t mind paying a little extra for it, our private Ayftos transfers are the ultimate ride to the door of your hotel or apartment. When your flight lands, a professional driver will be waiting for you in the terminal to show you to your comfortable vehicle. Then you’ll head off to your accommodation, with no delays, no hassles and no logistics to worry about.
Choosing the Right Transfer
Deciding which Afytos transfer suits you best is something only you will ultimately know, but the two main factors that will influence your choice are cost and convenience. Whichever is more important will guide you.
Cost: For some people, getting the lowest price for their transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Afytos is vital. If this is your priority, as well, one of our shared shuttle buses will give you the economy and comfort you’re looking for. You’ll pay less because the cost is shared by other passengers, and you’ll be taken to a central drop-off point rather than right to the door of your accommodation.
Convenience: On the other hand, if you don’t mind paying more for the benefits of not having to travel with other passengers, and a door-to-door service is non-negotiable, our luxury private airport transfers or a pre-booked taxi will suit you better.
About Shuttle Direct
Wherever and whenever you need onward airport transport, get in touch with us. Shuttle Direct is one of the most trusted providers of airport transfers, and whether you’re looking for an affordable shared shuttle ride or a luxury private transfer, we’ve got a service to suit you. Our professional local drivers will get you where you need to go (and back!) without delay, stress or hassle. Book today and start your holiday in style.
