Chalkida, the capital of Evia island, is a city that beautifully combines history with modern life, making it an ideal destination for outings and entertainment. The picturesque streets, the stunning waterfront, and the vibrant nightlife offer something for everyone, from relaxing strolls and fine dining to lively entertainment.
Popular Spots in the City Center
The center of Chalkida is bustling with life, especially in the squares and pedestrian streets surrounding Avanton Street, the main shopping area of the city. The shops in the center provide a wide variety of options for any time of the day. Start your outing with a relaxed coffee at one of the cafés along the city’s pedestrian streets. You’ll find both traditional coffee houses and modern café-bars serving unique drinks and desserts, perfect for a break while exploring the city’s sights or shopping.
For dining, there are plenty of restaurants and tavernas offering local delicacies, including fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. If you’re a wine lover, there are also wine bars in the city center with a rich selection of labels from Greece and abroad, paired with gourmet appetizers and cheeses. For a more casual experience, traditional meze taverns will give you the chance to enjoy authentic Greek recipes or “mezedes” accompanied by tsipouro or ouzo Greek beverages.
As evening falls, the center transforms into a lively hub of entertainment. Bars and clubs open their doors to those looking to enjoy a drink and dance. Most bars play modern music, but you can also find places with a more alternative or rock vibe. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, with locals creating a welcoming environment for all visitors.
The Seaside – Paralia
Chalkida’s seaside is the city’s most popular spot, not only for family outings and strolls but also for its vibrant nightlife. Right next to the sea, with views of the Evian Gulf and the iconic Evripos Bridge, the waterfront is a meeting point for those seeking moments of relaxation and lively fun.
Along the waterfront, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, tavernas, and ouzo taverns offering fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes. The flavors you’ll encounter here, often accompanied by ouzo or local tsipouro and wine, showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. Many restaurants also serve international cuisine, catering to all tastes.
When night falls, the seaside takes on a different atmosphere. The bars along the coast light up, and music fills the air. Here, you can enjoy your drink, listen to music, and dance by the sea until the early hours. The cocktails are refreshing and creative, and the atmosphere is perfect for both relaxation and fun, especially as you watch Chalkida’s magical sunset. If you're looking for something more energetic, clubs stay open late, offering a mix of mainstream and dance music.
The seaside in Chalkida also offers wonderful moments for those who love taking walks. As you stroll along, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the sight of ships passing through the Evripos Strait while witnessing the unique phenomenon of the changing tides. Nighttime walks along the waterfront, with the fresh sea air, offer a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation that’s hard to find elsewhere.