Occupying a narrow isthmus that connects to the Kassandra Peninsula, Nea Potidea is a lively beach town in the Greek region of Chalkidiki. It was originally founded around 600 BC as the ancient city of Potidaea and was dedicated to the god of the sea, Poseidon. It was re-founded as the settlement of Nea Potidea in 1922 by Greek refugees from Turkey.
Things to do in Nea Poteidaia
One of Nea Potidea’s most beautiful buildings is the Church of Agios Georgios, a Greek Orthodox house of worship filled with religious icons and frescoes. It features an elaborately decorated facade topped by a large dome and two soaring bell towers. Coincide your visit with a service to experience its majestic interior.
Stroll along the picturesque Potidea Channel, a centuries-old waterway that connects Toroneos with the Thermaic Gulf. You can admire the remains of the fortified walls that once protected Nea Potideaa and stop to read the information panels dotted throughout the Potidea Archaeological Site. At the western end is the Nea Potidea Canal Municipal Park and a rocky beach where you can swim in the warmer months.
Stretching along the eastern side of Nea Potidea is Anemoni Beach, a golden strip of sand that offers a wide range of water sports. It’s lined with restaurants and beach bars where you can dine throughout the day, with several transforming into lively nightclubs after dark. Kids will love the inflatable water park north of the Potidea Channel.
Getting around Nea Poteidaia
Nea Potidea is just under an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki and 40 minutes from Thessaloniki Airport Macedonia, which has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Buses connect to Nea Potidea and the town is compact enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the area.