Thessaloniki Airport is a manageable arrival point for families. The airport is larger than the typical Greek island airport but still contained. The journey to Halkidiki — the main family destination from SKG — is a 1.5-2.5 hour drive requiring a vehicle large enough for your group.
At the airport
SKG is a standard medium-sized Greek airport. The walk from the plane to baggage claim is moderate but not excessive. Restrooms with changing facilities are available in the arrivals area. A cafe operates during flight times. Trolleys are available for baggage claim.
Baggage can take 20-35 minutes, particularly when multiple flights land together. Allow time for this before worrying about your transport.
The bus with children
Bus Line 01X to the city centre is cheap and reliable but not family-friendly for busy arrivals. It does not have luggage racks designed for large suitcases, and standing with children and bags is uncomfortable. If you are travelling to the city with modest luggage and older children, the bus is fine. For families with young children, strollers, and full luggage, a taxi or transfer is far more practical.
Car seats
Greek taxis do not carry child car seats as standard. If your child requires one — legally required in Greece for children under 135 cm or 36 kg — you must either bring a travel seat or book a private transfer and request the appropriate seat type at booking.
Specify the child's age and weight when booking. Confirm the seat has been arranged the day before travel. Child seats in rental cars should be booked in advance, not at the counter.
Vehicle size for Halkidiki
For families heading to Halkidiki, the journey is 1.5-2.5 hours. A cramped sedan with four people and luggage for a 90-minute drive is uncomfortable. A minivan makes the trip significantly more pleasant.
Pre-book a minivan transfer. Specify your group size (adults + children) and luggage count. The booking is confirmed; you are not hoping a suitable vehicle is at the rank when you arrive.
The Halkidiki journey with children
The drive from SKG toward Kassandra or Sithonia is mostly on a good dual-carriageway before the peninsula junction. The roads on the peninsula itself are more winding in parts, particularly in Sithonia. For motion-sickness-prone children, seat them where they can see forward and prepare with medication if needed.
Pack snacks and water for the car. Service stops on the Halkidiki road exist but are limited. A 90-minute drive after a flight is manageable with preparation.
Practical family recommendation
Pre-book a minivan transfer for Halkidiki arrivals. Request a child car seat if needed. This gives you a confirmed large vehicle, a driver who knows exactly where your resort is, and the ability to load and go from arrivals without delay. The cost difference over a taxi is small; the reduction in stress is significant.