Hydra - Discovering Greece

Travelling to Hydra

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Hydra, a pretty good destination in Greece (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Hydra and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Hydra, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Greece, here's everything to know about Hydra for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Hydra

Hydra is a Greek island located in the Aegean Sea, just off the coast of the Peloponnese peninsula. It is known for its picturesque harbor, stunning architecture, and lack of motorized vehicles, making it a popular destination among travelers seeking a tranquil and authentic Greek island experience. The island is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and cultural events throughout the year. Its rich history can be traced back to ancient times, with evidence of Neolithic settlements, while its strategic location made it an important naval center during the Greek War of Independence. Today, visitors to Hydra can enjoy a range of activities including hiking, swimming, and exploring the island's well-preserved historic sites.

What to visit in Hydra

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Hydra, Greece and some information about each of them: 1. Hydra Town - The quaint and charming town of Hydra is the main tourist attraction. It has a beautiful harbor, cobbled streets, and traditional stone houses. This town has picturesque narrow alleys, beautiful museums, historic mansions, and plenty of shops and restaurants.
2. Hydra Cathedral - The Hydra Cathedral is located in the heart of the town and is a beautiful church with a magnificent marble bell tower. The Greek Orthodox cathedral is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.
3. Hydra Harbour - The Hydra Harbour is picturesque and is home to traditional fishing boats along with bigger yachts that dock there during the summer months.
4. Mount Eros - Mount Eros is the highest peak in Hydra and offers great hiking opportunities for nature lovers and hikers. It is also a great spot to watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea.
5. Poros Island - Poros Island is located just off the coast of Hydra and is a fantastic day trip destination. It offers stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and a beautiful port town.
6. Old Windmill - The Old Windmill is perched on a hill above the town of Hydra and offers breathtaking views of the island and the sea. It is a popular spot for photographers and hikers.
7. Hydra Museum of History and Archives - This museum houses the history of Hydra island, from ancient times until today. It has collections of old portraits, manuscripts, naval and civilian documents, maps and charts, magnifying glasses, radios, coins and ancient items that attest to the naval history of the island.
8. Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion - This historic mansion is now a museum that showcases the life and times of the Koundouriotis family, who played an important role in Greece's history. The mansion has been beautifully restored and features original paintings, furniture, and art items.
I hope this information helps you plan the perfect trip to Hydra, Greece!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Greece, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Hydra

The best time to go on holiday to Hydra in Greece is during the months of April to October. The temperatures are warm and pleasant, and the island is not too crowded. July and August can be very busy, with many tourists, so if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, it's better to avoid these months. September is also a great month to visit as the temperatures are still warm, but the crowds are thinner, making it an ideal time to enjoy the island's beautiful scenery and beaches. It's important to note that some shops, restaurants, and accommodations on Hydra may close during the low season, which is typically from November to March.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Hydra

To get to Hydra, Greece, you will need to take a ferry or hydrofoil from the Port of Piraeus in Athens. Here are the steps to get to Hydra: 1. First, you need to get to the Port of Piraeus in Athens. You can take the metro (Line 1) or a taxi to get there.
2. Once you get to Piraeus, go to Gate E8 or E9, which is where the hydrofoils and ferries to Hydra depart. You can buy your ticket at one of the ticket booths at the port or online in advance.
3. The trip to Hydra takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the type of boat you take. Hydrofoils tend to be faster, but they are more expensive.
4. When you arrive in Hydra, you will disembark at the port and either walk or take a mule (there are no cars or motorbikes on the island) to your hotel or accommodation.
It's important to note that ferry and hydrofoil schedules can change depending on the season, so be sure to check the schedule in advance before making your travel plans.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hydra, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hydra

Hydra, Greece is known for its traditional cuisine featuring fresh seafood and locally grown vegetables. Here are some typical foods you should try when visiting Hydra: 1. Astakomakaronada: A delicious pasta dish made with fresh lobster and tomato sauce.
2. Fava: This is a yellow split pea puree, usually served as a dip with warm pita bread.
3. Psarosoupa: A traditional Greek fish soup made with a variety of fresh seafood and vegetables.
4. Tiganita: A dish of fried zucchini, eggplant, and other vegetables, served with tzatziki sauce.
5. Batsaria: A popular local dish made with roasted pork and potatoes, seasoned with garlic and herbs.
6. Kolokithokeftedes: This is a popular appetizer made with grated zucchini mixed with herbs, onion, and feta cheese and then fried.
7. Souvlaki: This is a popular Greek dish consisting of small pieces of meat (usually pork) grilled on skewers and served with pita bread.
8. Spanakopita: This is a savory pie made with spinach and feta cheese, baked into a crispy pastry crust.
9. Taramasalata: A creamy dip made from smoked cod roe and mashed potatoes, flavored with lemon and olive oil.
10. Gemista: This is a dish of stuffed bell peppers or tomatoes, usually filled with rice and cooked in a tomato sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Greece here.

Is Hydra an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Hydra is generally considered an expensive destination for tourists. The prices for hotels, dining, and activities tend to be higher compared to other destinations in Greece. However, it is also considered a very beautiful and unique destination, so many tourists find that the extra expense is worth it for the experience. Additionally, there are ways to save money while visiting Hydra, such as staying in accommodations outside of the main tourist areas or opting for budget options for meals and activities.

Where to find accomodation in Hydra

The most popular areas to find accommodation for visiting Hydra, Greece are: 1. Hydra Town (or simply "Hydra"), which is the main port and the commercial center of the island. It has a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments for rent, as well as tavernas, cafes, shops, and other amenities.
2. Kamini, a quiet and picturesque village located about 1km south of Hydra Town. It has a few hotels and holiday homes, as well as a small pebble beach and a few tavernas.
3. Vlychos, a small bay located about 2km south of Hydra Town. It has a few hotels, rooms to let, and traditional houses for rent, as well as a long sandy beach and a few tavernas.
4. Mandraki, a secluded bay located about 3km north of Hydra Town. It has a few hotels and villas for rent, as well as a small beach and a couple of tavernas.
All of these areas are easily accessible by water taxi or on foot, and offer a peaceful and scenic base from which to explore the island.
You can check hotel prices at Hydra here:
Booking.com

Is Hydra a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Hydra, Greece is generally a safe place for tourists. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and crime rates are relatively low. However, like any tourist destination, it is important to take reasonable precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Keep your valuable items close to you, especially in crowded areas, and be aware of your surroundings. Also, it's always a good idea to make copies of essential documents and keep them in a secure location. Overall, Hydra is considered a safe and peaceful place to visit, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and cultural attractions without worrying too much about safety concerns.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Greece here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Hydra.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hydra the most?

Hydra, Greece is a stunning destination that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. It is particularly popular with couples and families looking for a serene and scenic getaway. Hydra's romantic setting, picturesque views, and traditional architecture make it a perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway.
If you're the type of traveler who loves history and culture, Hydra has a lot to offer. The island's museums and galleries offer visitors a chance to explore its fascinating past and vibrant arts scene.
Families with children will enjoy Hydra's many outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and sightseeing. The island's relaxed pace, warm climate, and delicious food make it a great destination for family travel.
Young people looking for fun and adventure will also find plenty to do in Hydra. The island's vibrant nightlife scene, water sports, and lively cafes and restaurants make it a popular destination for those seeking high-energy entertainment.
Whether you're traveling with your significant other, family, or friends, Hydra offers something for everyone.

How to get around Hydra

The island of Hydra in Greece is a car-free zone, so the most common mode of transportation is by foot or by donkey. However, you can also use water taxis or hire a boat to explore the island's coasts. Bicycle rentals are available as well.

What to see around Hydra

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Hydra, Greece: 1. Poros Island: A picturesque island known for its neoclassical architecture, beaches, and panoramic views.
2. Spetses Island: A charming island known for its high-class mansions, cobbled streets, and crystal-clear beaches.
3. Nafplio: A beautiful town with a rich history, ancient castles, and fortresses. The town is surrounded by stunning beaches and traditional Greek villages.
4. Epidaurus: A UNESCO world heritage site famous for its ancient theatre, which is still used for performances to this day.
5. Methana Peninsula: A volcanic peninsula located across from Poros Island, known for its thermal hot springs, for the adventurous to soak in, and hiking trails.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Greece you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.