The cosmopolitan Chalkida, Evia’s capital, is an ideal destination for short breaks from Athens. The city lies on both sides of Euripus Strait, with one part being on Evia Island and the other one on Central Greece.

In its continental part, Karababa’s Venetian castle dominates, offering magnificent views over the city, the sea and the Euripus Strait! In Evia’s side, the reference point is the paved promenade. This pedestrian area is ideal for relaxing walks amongst the sea anglers and the training canoe-kayak athletes. Here you will find beautiful cafés, restaurants and taverns, famous for their delicious seafood which ideally accompanies ouzo drinks.

As you walk along the promenade, your eyes will be caught by three beautiful neoclassical buildings; reminding of the architectural richness and charm of bygone eras: the imposing Kochika’s Palace, which houses the City Hall, the "Red House" and the "Statues’ House”.

Apart from the fascinating seafront of this beautiful city, Chalkida also hides charming “inner corners". At the "heart" of the city, small original shops are scattered, while on Sundays, at the Market Square, a small bazaar is been set. In the neighborhood stretching around Agia Paraskevi’s Church, poor, yet picturesque houses digging up memories of the past cause a feeling of nostalgia to the visitor! In the nearby square of Fallen Soldiers, there is the impressive mosque of Emir Zade, while in the city center the imposing building of the Court House predominates.

Chalkida is famous for its "crazy waters"; a peculiar phenomenon of change in the direction of the sea water flow at the Euripus Strait every six hours with intervals of stagnation. You can admire the unique phenomenon from the old bridge. The view there is spectacular!

Chalkida, although is a modern city, it manages to maintain a special "character" that captivates every visitor: the castle, the majestic temples and neoclassical mansions give Chalkida a unique identity while they reveal a city "trapped" between the past and the present!