Lonely Planet Says Halkidiki Best Place to Unwind in 2023

Halkidiki. Photo source: Visit Halkidiki.

The Halkidiki peninsula in Northern Greece is among the world’s best places to relax and unwind, according to international guidebook publisher Lonely Planet, which selected the region among 30 other destinations for its “Best in Travel 2023” list.

This year’s revised “Best in Travel” features 30 unique locations in the world through travel itineraries focusing on five categories: eat, learn, journey, unwind and connect.

According to Nitya Chambers, executive editor and senior vice president of content at Lonely Planet, the perfect destination is “expected but unexpected”.

Photo source: Lonely Planet.

“Whether you’re into camping and exploring or sightseeing and partying, Halkidiki has it all, with each of its three ‘legs’ boasting its own vibe,” reads the feature in Lonely Planet, which takes readers on a virtual tour of the region through a handpicked, four-day itinerary of includes beaches, clubbing, gastronomy, wine and honey tasting, hiking, and local traditions.

Photo source: Lonely Planet.

“This peninsula of stunning coastal scenery – think lunar-like rock formations, shore-touching pine forests and pristine beaches with powder-soft sand – is made up of three smaller peninsulas (which Greeks call “legs”)… often eclipsed by the islands… Halkidki offers blissful beaches that are an idyllic setting to relax and unwind”, said Lonely Planet.

Halkidiki brand is getting stronger

“We are excited that Lonely Planet acknowledges that ‘there’s nowhere like Halkidiki’. The ranking placing Halkidiki among the world’s top destinations is an honor not only for the destination but also for the country. The Halkidiki brand is getting stronger,” said Halkidiki Tourism Organization (HTO) President Grigoris Tasios.

“So Greece is once again leading the way thanks to Halkidiki,” said Tasios.

Citing feedback collected at the World Travel Markert (WTM) in London this month, the HTO said demand for Halkidiki from UK travelers was strong with bookings for 2023 on the rise and pre-bookings for 2024 already started.

The HTO’s “systematic work” is paying paid off and is reflected in Jet2’s decision to start its flight program earlier than ever before on April 1 and British Airways as of March 27, said Tasios.