What to do in Chalkida

Mystery tide, crazy water

Below the old bridge linking Chalkida with the mainland, you’ll witness something that happens nowhere else in the world. Every six hours, the currents swell up and change direction. This weird behaviour is somehow due to the moon’s gravitational pull and the difference in sea level between the north and south parts of the Gulf of Evia but the details remain a little murky.

South of the old bridge, the new bridge (1993) is a marvel of modern technology: a cable suspension bridge, 694.5m long, of which 215m are 35.5m above the sea. Impressive though this may be, the old bridge still retains its charm as a signature landmark of Chalkida, leading straight to the heart of the town’s social life.

She sells seafood by the seashore

Chalkida’s lively seaside invites you to walk amongst fishermen, wandering artists and itinerant sellers and then sit down for a coffee or a drink amid groups of happy friends. The waterfront is lined with tavernas, each with its own trademark style. Choose the one that attracts you and dig into delicious freshly-caught seafood. At night, the city’s lights illuminate the sea while you have a cocktail at one of the music-bars along the shore.

Karababa’s Castle with a sea view

Time to pay a visit to the one remaining castle of the two that guarded Chalkida until the 19th century. The castle of Kanithos, or Karababa if you prefer, tops the green hill of Fourka and is one of the most impressive attractions in the area. It was completed in 1684 and proved vital in preventing Francisco Morosini from conquering Chalkida during the Turko-Venetian war raging at the time. It no longer protects the city but it still has the best view of the gulf and the mainland opposite.

Dirfis, in Evia

A magical place, just 1½ hours from Athens. The most impressive towns are Steni Dirfis and Stropones. Enjoy rare natural beauty, gushing water, a mouth-watering choice of food and a wealth of outdoor activities

Source: https://www.discovergreece.com/