About Olympiada
Why Olympiada?
Olympiada is a small town on the northwestern coast of Halkidiki, near the birthplace of Aristotle (Stagira). A quiet coastal area with sandy beaches, a fishing tradition and gentle hills inland, Olympiada offers an alternative to the touristic Kassandra–Sithonia. An Olympiada holiday in 2026 is for travellers who want authentic Halkidiki without the crowds.
The character is dramatically calm. Olympiada has around 700 residents, a fishing harbour, one main street with a few tavernas and the small Aristotle Park. Not developed for tourism - and that is the main draw.
Position: 100 km from Thessaloniki, 15 km northwest of Stavros, 25 km north of Ierissos.
Beaches and the sea
The main Olympiada beach is sandy, about 2 km long, with pines behind. The water is clean and calm. Blue Flag on the central section.
Beaches nearby:
- Stratoni (5 km south) - similarly quiet
- Stavros (15 km east) - sandy beaches with jetties
- Ierissos and Nea Roda (25 km east) - long sandy beaches
Where to stay
Olympiada centre along the harbour - family apartments in stone houses.
Hills above the village - villas with views.
Browse all current Olympiada and area listings.
Getting there
Olympiada is 100 km from Thessaloniki:
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Belgrade–Thessaloniki flight, then a 100-minute transfer by car.
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By car from Belgrade - 810 km, 9 to 11 hours.
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Bus from Thessaloniki - KTEL Halkidikis, 2.5 hours, 11 to 14 €.
Best time to visit
May–June - cool.
July–August - peak, but quiet.
September - excellent.
Things to see and do
Aristotle Park in Stagira - 2 km west, a museum dedicated to the philosopher's birthplace with interactive exhibits.
Old Stagira (archaeological site) - an ancient city on a hill, the remains of a Hellenistic settlement.
Athos cruise - from Ouranoupoli (40 km east).
Stratoni Monastery - Byzantine.
Stavros and Halkidiki day trips.
Pricing - what to expect
Accommodation: a four-person apartment is 35 to 75 € per night in shoulder, 50 to 105 € at peak.
Weekly cost per person: 230 to 380 € shoulder, 360 to 540 € peak.
Restaurant prices: main course 7 to 11 €, fresh fish 12 to 18 €, glass of wine 3 €.
Frequently asked questions
Is Olympiada on Mount Olympus? No, Olympiada is unrelated to Mount Olympus (further south, in Pieria). The name comes from Alexander the Great's mother - Olympias.
Is the Aristotle Park worth visiting? For travellers interested in philosophy or history - definitely. A small but well-curated museum.
What is the difference between Olympiada and Stavros? Olympiada is smaller and quieter with the Aristotle Park. Stavros is slightly more developed for tourism. Both are family destinations.
Is renting a car worth it? Yes, for exploring the Athos finger and northern Halkidiki.