Holidays in Halkidiki are three "fingers" of a peninsula with pine-covered shores and turquoise sea. The season lasts from May to October: in June and September the water is warm and the beaches are less crowded. From Almaty, flights go with a transfer in Istanbul or Dubai, the journey takes from seven to twelve hours. The resorts differ: Kassandra is lively, Sithonia is quiet, Athos is secluded.
Visa and documents for a trip to Greece: what is needed for processing?
A trip to Greece begins with paperwork, and it is important not to rush here. Such holidays are planned in advance, because preparation takes time.
Schengen for citizens of Kazakhstan: timelines and processing procedure
Permission to enter Greece is processed before buying tickets. The application is submitted to the visa center in advance, several weeks before the trip. It is better to check the list of documents and exact timelines with the consulate before submitting. The form is filled out carefully, without corrections. Tours to Halkidiki often include assistance with processing, but you will still have to check the set yourself. The holiday will be calmer when the papers are already in hand.
Medical insurance and consulate requirements
A medical insurance policy is mandatory for a trip to Greece. It is issued for the entire period of stay, with coverage of at least thirty thousand euros. For active holidays in Halkidiki, it is worth taking an extended option that includes sports and sea entertainment. Copies of the hotel booking and tickets are attached to the package. Tours to Halkidiki usually already include insurance, but its terms need to be read. The Greek side rarely checks the policy at the border, however without it they may refuse processing.
Visa and entry rules change: check with the primary source — the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic, https://www.mfa.gr/en/visas/. The information on this page was verified on 10.09.2026.
How to get to the peninsula from Almaty: which routes to choose?
The journey from Almaty takes almost a day, and the route is chosen based on the convenience of the transfer. Greece is far away, so connections are planned with a margin.
Routes with a transfer: Istanbul, Dubai, Athens
There are no direct flights from Almaty to Thessaloniki, you will have to fly with a transfer. Via Istanbul, the journey takes about seven hours including the connection, this is the shortest option. Dubai offers convenient connections, but lengthens the journey to twelve hours. Via Athens fly those who want to stay in the capital for a day. The vacation in Halkidiki begins already at Thessaloniki airport, where all routes arrive. It is better to buy tickets as a single package, then if a flight is delayed, the connection will be rescheduled for free.
Transfer from Thessaloniki: KTEL bus and car rental
From Thessaloniki airport to the resorts of Halkidiki, people get there by bus or by car. KTEL buses depart from the central bus station, the journey to the beachfront takes about an hour. Car rental gives freedom, but costs more and requires attention on the winding roads. A taxi to the far resorts will cost a pretty penny, bargaining is appropriate. It is more convenient to build a trip here around one chosen town so as not to waste time on moving around.
Accommodation and trip budget
There are many accommodation options on the peninsula, and the price depends on proximity to the sea. The Greek side offers both modest rooms and luxurious complexes.
Hotels, apartments and campsites: what to choose
Apartments in Halkidiki are booked several months before July. Campsites by the sea are popular with Greek families, spots are taken quickly. A holiday in a beachfront hotel costs more, but the beach is nearby.
Resort fee, cash and currency exchange
The resort fee in Greece is paid separately on site, its amount depends on the category of accommodation. Cash euros are needed for taverns, shops and taxis, cards are not accepted everywhere. It is more profitable to exchange in the banks of Thessaloniki, and not at the airport. Small bills will come in handy for buses and tips. It is more convenient to plan a trip here with a reserve of cash for the first days.
Cuisine and everyday life at the resorts
Greek cuisine is built on olive oil, cheese and fresh fish. The everyday life of the resorts flows unhurriedly, adjusting to the heat.
Taverns, seafood and local drinks
A tavern by the sea is the main place of rest in Halkidiki. Fresh fish and octopus are served grilled, the portions are generous. Moussaka, souvlaki and Greek salad are on any menu. Among the drinks, it is worth trying ouzo and local wine, they are inexpensive. Lunch in a tavern for two costs less than dinner at a hotel. Greek cuisine is simple but filling, and this is felt already on the first day.
Tips, siesta and card acceptance
Tips in Greece are left at five to ten percent of the bill. In cafes they often just round up the amount, small change is pleasant for the staff. The siesta lasts from two to five, and in small towns the shops are closed. Cards are accepted in large hotels and supermarkets, in small shops they ask for cash. There are ATMs at the resorts, but the commission is higher than in the city. The holiday here goes at a measured pace, and it is easy to adjust to it.
Organizing a tour and independent travel
Some prefer a ready-made package, some assemble the route themselves. Each option has its own pros and its own cares.
What is included in the tour price and booking conditions
A ready-made tour to Halkidiki usually includes a flight, transfer and accommodation. Meals depend on the hotel, most often it is bed and breakfast or half board. Excursions and car rental are paid separately on site. An independent trip requires more time for preparation, but the route is flexible.
Car rental: license, insurance, mountain roads
The car is picked up at Thessaloniki airport or in the larger towns of Halkidiki. International driving permits and insurance are required for driving; without them the car will not be issued. Mountain roads are narrow, with sharp turns, so you should be attentive behind the wheel. Fuel at gas stations on the peninsula is more expensive than in the city. Parking near beaches is paid in summer, and spots are sought in advance. Renting gives freedom, but requires driving experience in unfamiliar terrain.
Briefly
- The peninsula is divided into three "fingers": Kassandra is lively, Sithonia is quiet, Athos is secluded.
- The best months for a trip are June and September: the sea is warm, and the beaches are less crowded.
- A flight from Almaty takes from seven to twelve hours with one connection.
- The budget depends on how close the accommodation is to the sea and the type of meal plan at the hotel.
- A ready-made tour covers the flight, transfer and accommodation, the rest is arranged on site.