One of the ten oldest cities in Europe is known for its unique daily tidal phenomenon and its central location in Greece. The city’s history stretches back centuries, with the earliest mention in Homer’s Iliad around 762 BC. Chalkida was believed to have been founded by the Ionians before the Trojan War, between the 12th and 13th centuries BC.
Historically, it was a significant centre of trade and culture in antiquity, known as the historic port of Negroponte under Venetian rule. The philosopher Aristotle spent many years here, and legend has it that he drowned in the waters of the Euripus Strait, unable to solve the mystery of its tidal currents.
A notable feature of Chalkida is the Euripus Bridge, where visitors can witness the strait’s “crazy waters.” Here, the channel’s waters change direction every six hours, alternating between northward and southward flows.
The town is also renowned for the bridge that connects the island to mainland Greece, symbolising the link between the present and the rich culture, history, and memory of antiquity. Located just 80 km from Athens, it is the capital of Greece’s second-largest island and a year-round tourist destination.
The city offers a wealth of attractions, including archaeological museums, fortresses, historic bridges, mosques, picturesque churches, traditional taverns, and charming shops in Lampsakos and Nea Artaki. Small wineries and more make Halkida an ideal destination for year-long getaways.
The surrounding areas of Nea Artaki, Lampsakos, and Agios Minas are known for their excellent gastronomy, which reflects the region’s beauty and history. Seaside taverns and ouzeri have become popular spots for fish lovers, and many travellers make a special trip to dine at the renowned establishments in these areas.
Gastronomy
The local speciality is unquestionably shellfish. The gourmet flavours of the sea are truly exceptional. Here, you can savour a variety of shellfish found nowhere else in Greece—and perhaps in all of Europe—including scallops, oysters, clams, mussels, whelks, razor clams, and fresh fish. The people of Evia take quality seriously and never compromise.
Evia, the island, has become a destination for exploring the Routes of Wines and Spirits. Significant efforts in recent years have boosted the island’s wine industry, with vineyards in both mainland areas like Ritsona, Avlida, and the Lilantio Plateau, and in the northern and southern regions of the prefecture. Oenophiles will find the region’s wines gaining recognition both domestically and internationally.
