My Account

    Chalkida

    Discover Chalkida, the city of bridges and tides, full of history, sea views, and vibrant local life.

    Chalkida, the capital of Evia, is a seaside city just one hour from Athens, famous for the unique tidal phenomenon of the Euripus Strait and its iconic bridge connecting the island to the mainland. With scenic waterfront promenades, a medieval castle, neoclassical mansions, and lively nightlife, it blends culture, sea, and a modern urban character. The nearby beaches, seafood tavernas, and cafés by the water make Chalkida an ideal year-round destination for short escapes, offering relaxation, culture, and authentic local experiences close to the capital.

    Highlights

    The Euripus Tides

    Stand on the old bridge above the Euripus Strait and watch the famous “waters of Chalkida” phenomenon, where the current reverses direction every six hours—one of the city’s most fascinating natural sights.

    Walk to the Lighthouse

    After Papathanasiou Beach, follow the coastal path toward Kaki Kefali. The walk runs alongside the sea and ends at a small park near the lighthouse, offering benches, kiosks, and panoramic views over the Evian Gulf.

    Karababa Castle

    This Venetian castle, dating back to 1204, still preserves large sections of its walls. From the top, enjoy breathtaking views over the Euripus Strait and the city of Chalkida.

    For Ouzo & Meze

    Fresh fish, shellfish, tsipouro, ouzo, and sea breeze await you in Nea Artaki to the north and Nea Lampsakos to the south. There are also excellent local spots within the city, known mainly to locals, serving top-quality seafood and ouzo.

    By the Seafront

    A stroll along Chalkida’s central seaside promenade is a must. Along the way, you’ll encounter elegant neoclassical buildings, museums, and uninterrupted views of the sea that define the city’s unique character.

    Search destination

    IDEAL DESTINATION

    Sea, flavors, and vibrant life just one hour from Athens

    Chalkida lies on the western edge of Evia and is connected to mainland Greece by the Euripus Bridge. Known for its rare tidal phenomenon and strategic location between island and mainland, it combines island charm with urban elegance. With its seaside atmosphere, lively pace, and rich cultural heritage, Chalkida is ideal for short escapes from Athens, offering history, coastal experiences, and excellent gastronomy in a friendly, accessible setting.

    Gastronomy – Local Flavors You Must Try

    Chalkida is renowned for its seafood, with ouzeries and fish tavernas lining the waterfront. Be sure to try grilled octopus, shrimp saganaki, fried calamari, and local meats from tavernas in the surrounding countryside. Pair your meal with Evia wine or tsipouro and finish with spoon sweets or loukoumades. The city’s meze bars and restaurants also offer creative cuisine that highlights Evian products, blending tradition with contemporary gastronomy.

    Best Time to Visit

    Thanks to its close distance from Athens, Chalkida is a popular destination year-round, especially for short getaways. The city is particularly charming in spring and autumn, when the mild climate and pleasant temperatures create ideal conditions for walks, sightseeing, and seaside dining.

    How to get around in Chalkida

    Transportation options to/from the airport

    Access to the city is by road and is easy from both Northern and Southern Greece, either by private car or by KTEL bus. From Athens, reach the city via the Athens–Lamia national road. From Thessaloniki, travel by road via the Thessaloniki–Athens national road.

    Public Transportation

    Choose to travel by your private car, by urban bus services, or by taxi.

    Questions / Answers

    Q&A

    By car from Athens via the Athens–Lamia National Road (about 1 hour) or by train from Larissis Station.

    The Euripus Bridge, Karababa Castle, Kanithos area, and nearby beaches.

    Yes. Agios Minas, Lefkandi, Alyki, and Vathi are among the most popular nearby beaches.

    Absolutely. Its short distance from Athens makes it perfect for a day excursion.

    Seafood by the harbor, ouzo with meze, local cheeses, and fresh fish with views of the Euripus Bridge.

    TRAVEL BLOG

    Travel Inspirations

    Αthens :  The Ultimate City Break Guide to Greece’s Timeless Capital

    Ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, authentic food, and easy day trips—everything you need to experience Athens like a local Athens is...

    Enjoyable escape in Thessaloniki: Flavors, wine, and urban explorations

    The ultimate city break destination for strolls, culture, and gastronomic delights.

    Three unique excursions from Grevena

    Discover three enchanting routes that will take you on a journey through the unparalleled mountainous charm of the region.

    10 Amazing Greek Castles That Stand Out

    Τhe Castles of Greece: Monuments of History and Culture

    Discover the luxury of the top 7 spas in Europe.

    The tradition of thermal tourism has deep roots in history and continues to captivate visitors even today.

    They said about us...

    2025-11-11
    Voyage Fit Cyclades
    Oui nous avons très satisfaits de votre accompagnement et support . Le voyage et les hôtels étaient super! Vous pouvez publier notre avis sur votre site !
    FIT Atenas
    2026-06-22
    FIT Atenas
    El cliente ya he llegado a Portugal y nos hay llamado a dar feedback de su visita/traslado.
    Hay ido todo muy bien, tanto el motorista como la guia fueren muy amables y el servicio fue muy bueno.
    Gracias por todo y hasta una próxima.
    École française
    2025-12-11
    École française
    Je n'ai pas encore eu l'occasion de vous remercier pour ce voyage. Le voyage et les hôtels étaient super !Nous n'avons pas été mouillés et nous avons eu tout ce que nous souhaitions. Nous avons organisé des jeux de type olympique au stade.Tout était parfait.La visite du Parlement était fantastique. Les élèves sont ravis et vous remercient.
    Verhoeve group
    2026-06-09
    Athens 4 days Group Tour from Germany

    Thank you very much for the group to Athens! They had a great time. They were very enthusiastic about the trip & guide Jason. he swimming/beach stop after Corinth was a big plus. They enjoyed the nature as addition to the city and culture. Always good to add that when visiting Corinth.

    The location of the hotel was very good, so a bus transfer in the evening was not always necessary. They could have easily come back via the metro to the hotel. That would have saved us real money.

    Thanks again and looking forward to all the coming groups!

    Group De Lange
    2026-04-30
    Τοur to Greece
    Group De Lange returned from Greece and they were very happy with the tour. Iris was a great guide, programme went very smooth, first driver was very nice. Group is very satisfied about the tour.
     Savita
    2025-07-21
    Αthens, Santorini and Corfu
    My Kids and I loved the trip except for our lost baggage from the Aegean airlines upon arrival at Athens at the start of the trip.Loved all the sightseeing. Tour guides and Pick up services were awesome!! Tour guides were very knowledgeable in their area and history of the city and my kids and I loved that. They answered all our questions. Pick up services were always on time.I just wish I had a little more time in Corfu to do the boat tour as I had planned. Wasn’t able to accomplish that. Loved the wine tasting, Oia and Fira in Santorini. Thank You so much for helping me plan this trip. Great memories made on this trip!!Savita
    2025-05-09
    Group from India
    Thank you so much for your flexibility and support throughout the past weeks – the group ended successfully and we truly appreciate your efforts.
    During the trip, we also received very positive feedback from the tour leader regarding the hotels, restaurants, and the quality of your transportation service. We’re very happy with the overall arrangement and sincerely hope to continue working with you on upcoming groups.
    2024-03-27
    BDA - Scientific meeting
    Mata/ChristineThe feedback from all delegates was very positive about all the arrangements provided by the hotel and your good selves. Accommodation, meals and overall satisfaction from the hotel was very good. The renovated rooms help to bring the best of the hotel – the gala dinner room location was fantastic. Please give this feedback to the hotel too. All the transfers, excursions, the drivers, guide etc were performed professionally and all delegates again had something good to say about your services and the way you have handled the management of these activities. Overall well done. This is a genuine feedback and hope that makes you feel satisfied for a job well done
    ESPA 2021-2026