19 Incredible Things to Do in Hydra, Greece [2024 Locals Guide]

There are plenty of things to do in Hydra Greece. This little island is surrounded by the Cerulean waters of the Saronic Gulf and is less than an hour’s ferry ride away from Athens.

Quaint Hydra may be one of the last few remaining sleepy Greek island idylls. Despite the island’s ever-increasing popularity among tourists, Hydra has not become gentrified nor over-developed to accommodate tourism.

Lovely Hydra provides travellers with a journey back in time. Here, there are no cars or vehicles and people get around by horses and donkeys.

Stone houses, artist’s workshops, ramshackle antique stores, and traditional Greek tavernas line the narrow streets that are so neatly intertwined in a labyrinth-style network of alleys and passageways. Hydra provides a glimpse into life in Greece before modernity.

Falling in Love with Beautiful Hydra

Hydra is often referred to as being Athens’ answer to Italy’s Capri. The island certainly has an elegant air to it that feels deserving of the title.

Home to one of the most picturesque ports in Greece, Hydra also played an important role in Greek history. It was here where many of the battles between the Greeks and the Ottoman Turks took place during the 1820 war of independence.

Things to do in Hydra, Greece

Whether stopping by for a few days or simply visiting Hydra on a day trip from Athens, Hydra makes a lovely addition to any Greece itinerary.  A selection of the best things to do in Hydra during your time on the island is detailed below.

Explore the Port Area

A lot of Hydra’s charm is simply found in embracing the laidback Greek island lifestyle. Spend your first day here allowing yourself to get lost among the narrow passageways and cobbled alleys.

Wandering around the port, occasionally ducking into the eclectic stores of local designers, and exploring the quintessentially Greek blue and white painted streets and plazas is a nice way to while away the day in Hydra. There are a lot of great shops here where you can pick up wonderful souvenirs from Greece.

Hydra is a classy island. The stores here sell gorgeous one-of-a-kind apparel items, handmade pottery, jewelry, and art pieces.

You will not find any tourist tat here. Some of the clothing stores right on the waterfront are a little pricey but they sell some gorgeous resort wear and boho-chic clothing.

Head across to the sunset restaurant (Sunset, Eparxiaki odos Hydra) as the evening approaches. Here, you can join well-heeled Greeks and tourists for exquisite cocktails prepared by acclaimed mixologists.

The restaurant is perched right on the waterfront and offers breathtaking views over the sea at whatever time you happen to stop by. The view is particularly special at sunset when the sun dips behind the clouds and the skies are illuminated in hues of pink and orange.

Visit the Museum of Hydra

Where: Miaouli 454, Idra 180 40, Greece

Did you know that the little island of Hydra played an incredibly important role during the war of independence against the Turkish? It was on these shores in 1821 that the Greeks engaged in one of their most ferocious battles against the Turks.

The cannons scattered around the port area today were once used to defend Hydra’s people and fleet. You will see them as you meander around the port.

The Museum of Hydra (Miaouli 45) provides an interesting glimpse into the island’s history and culture, including the War of Independence. Artifacts including traditional dress, military uniform, marine maps, and weaponry are displayed in chronological order to tell the history of Hydra island.

Entrance to the museum is charged at €5 per person, although concessions (€3pp) are available for children and elderly visitors. The museum is open daily from 09.00 am until 16.00 pm in the winter, and from 09.00 am until 19.30 pm in the summer.

Visit the Fishing Villages of Kamini and Vlychos

A pleasant walking trail leads beside the sea and runs from Hydra port to the adorable fishing villages of Kamini and Vlychos. The trail is easy enough to find.

From the main port of Hydra turn left, past the sunset restaurant, and continue walking until you reach the two villages. Kamini and Vlychos are both incredibly picturesque.

It seems that most tourists that visit Hydra are day-trippers from Athens that simply linger around the port. As such, you won’t find crowds here.

The ambiance of the villages is altogether more authentic also – there are no stores selling tourist tat and souvenirs. Instead, you will find local fishermen preparing their boats for a day at sea, Greek Yia Yia’s doing their grocery shopping and other scenes of authentic Greek island life.

Watch the Local Fishermen

If you can wake up early and head down to the port area, you will witness Hydra at its most tranquil before all of the tourist day-trippers arrive. Between around 6 and 8 am, the only people around are the local fishermen.

Watch on as they try their luck in the clear waters, or prepare to take their boats out to sea. This is also a great time to take photographs, as the sun just starts to glimmer over the horizon. 

Hike Through Some of the Best Nature in the Saronic Gulf

People don’t really associate Greece with hiking and nature holidays which is a shame. The natural scenery of Greece is breathtaking and some of the hiking trails here are among the best in Europe.

There are many hiking trails that run through the island of Hydra. The paths are generally clear, well sign-posted, and follow flat terrain so they are well-suited to hikers of all abilities.

Two of the easiest routes to find are the walk from Hydra port to Kamini and Vlychos or the ascent up to the Prophet Elias Monastery. The former takes you along the seafront. The latter leads to incredible panoramas over the island landscape.

Both hikes take approximately 3 hours round trip and lead through meadows, farmlands, and fields filled with fragrant flowers. Those who wish for a longer hike can continue onwards from Vlychos towards Palimdas and the church of Agia Marina.

Enjoy the Views from the Prophet Elias Monastery

If you decide to embark on the two-hour hike to Hydra’s Prophet Elias Monastery, you will not be disappointed. The 1813 Monastery is perched on the slopes of Mount Eros – the island’s highest peak. 

The interiors of Prophet Elias Monastery are just as spectacular as the panoramas around it. The site boasts a cobblestone courtyard, vegetable gardens, and interiors laden with vibrant frescoes. On your ascent to the monastery, be sure to stop by the small nunnery that is hidden in the trees (Monastery of Agia Efpraxia). 

Visit the Church of the Assumption

The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin is a little church in Hydra’s port area that dates back to 1643. It was originally built as a monastery and is worth a couple of minutes of your time as you explore the port. 

The former cells of the prison have been converted into a small museum. Today, they contain a mishmash of artifacts from Hydra island – including jewelry and traditional clothing.

Visit the Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion

The Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion is a bright yellow, grand 18th-century building on the west side of the port of Hydra. It is essentially an annex of the historical museum.

Lazaros Koundouriotis (1769-1852) was one of the island’s most prominent politicians. During the war for independence, he offered a lot of his finances and assets to the cause out of love for his country.

He donated his house to the historical society of Greece after his passing. Today, it exists as a living museum.

Even if you have never heard of Koundouriotis, it is worth stopping by if you have time to spare. The museum provides a glimpse into what life in the 19th century was like for the rich Hydra elite.

A lot of old family heirlooms and prized furnishings are situated on the ground floor. Now, the walls are decorated with pieces from acclaimed and upcoming Greek artists and painters.

The museum only operates during the Greek summer season. During this time, it is open between 10.00 am and 16.00 pm.

Go Horseback Riding

As horses and donkeys are still the main forms of transportation on Hydra island, there really is no better way to get around like a true Hydra-ite than by opting to do so on horseback.

Several reputable tour companies lead horse treks through the towns, villages, and mountains. It is prudent to check the reputation of the company before booking.

Though I personally did not do a horse tour and decided to hike everywhere, Harriet’s Horses is one local company with a good reputation. If you are concerned about ethics and the well-being of the animals. Harriet’s company is a good shout since the horses have been rescued from neglectful owners.

Climb the Bastions at Hydra Port

It is possible to climb the bastions at Hydra Port. From up here, you have incredible views across the Saronic Gulf and the Aegean Sea.

These bastions were originally created to hold cannons. They were used as defensive weapons against the Turkish in the 18th century.

Make a Pilgrimage to the Leonard Cohen House

Leonard Cohen’s house is perhaps something that you would not expect to find on a little Greek island in the heart of the Aegean. Did you know that Cohen lived here during the 60s?

There are several places around the island that he used to frequent. There is even a portion of the beach dedicated to him. 

Cohen’s former residence is not signposted as a tourist attraction (it’s now occupied by someone else). However, fans of the singer may want to stop by his house while in town. 

You should first head to the “Four Corners” grocery shop, and from there, turn right to see a three-story whitewashed building with a door knocker in the shape of a hand. If you struggle to locate the house, don’t hesitate to ask a local. You will not be the first tourist to seek it out!

Have a Greek Coffee Overlooking the Sea

If there were a national sport of Greece, drinking coffee would be it. Greeks will spend hours every day slowly sipping a strong coffee while they catch up with friends.

If you want to take your coffee like a true Greek, order yourself a traditional Greek coffee (Ellinikos kafes). This is strong, hot coffee that is served in a short espresso cup.

Ellinikos kafes could be compared to Turkish/Arabic coffee. It is typically served with a complimentary side of loukoumi (the Greek version of Turkish delight).

Today, it is mostly the older generations of Greeks that indulge in Ellinikos kafes. On a hot day, young Greeks will sip a Freddo (iced) espresso or cappuccino.

A Freddo cappuccino is simply a shot of espresso poured over ice with the addition of cold foamed milk and sugar. There are some gorgeous places to enjoy this in Hydra port.

You can also treat yourself to breakfast or a Greek pastry or two while you´re here. Isalos cafe, Hydras corner, and Rolói are all nice waterfront spots to add to your radar.

Take a Day Trip to Spetses

Spetses is situated just an hour away from Hydra by boat and the two islands make a nice travel pairing. While Hydra is quaint and picturesque, Spetses is altogether more rugged and wild.

Spetses boasts vast areas of a national park and numerous hiking trails that lead you to secluded beaches, ancient monasteries, and picturesque churches. If you don’t have time to dedicate a few days to Spetses, you can hop on the boat from Hydra in the morning and return again in the evening.

Like Hydra, there are no cars or public transport on Spetses. Your best option is to rent an ATV, a scooter, or a bicycle.

Visit One of the World’s Most Beautiful Pharmacies  

The Rafalias pharmacy in Hydra has the proud title of being considered one of the most beautiful pharmacies in the world. That sounds like a random, not-so-interesting feat but the pharmacy is so cute and particular that it is well worth stopping by to explore.

Rafalias pharmacy dates back over 400 years and its interiors have been excellently preserved in order to preserve their original charm. Here you can find ornate pinewood furnishings and products sold in old-fashioned little bottles.

It is easy to spot Rafalias as you are walking around Hydra. You can also purchase some very interesting skin and haircare items here.

Rafalias sells its own range of products that are based on Greek traditional pharmaceutical recipes from the 1890s to the 1920s. They are free from silicone, parabens, and other harmful products. These make a nice gift for your beauty-conscious friends back at home.

Best Restaurants on Hydra Island

At first glance, Hydra town may seem like a bit of a tourist trap. Truthfully, there are a lot of restaurants here that are overpriced and serve food that is not very good quality.

Unfortunately, that is something that happens anywhere where there are a lot of tourists. Among those places though, there are some wonderful hidden gems to discover.

Some of the best restaurants on Hydra island are detailed below. You should also consider asking your hotel owner/Airbnb host about the places that they like to eat on the island. That way, you will get some great insider recommendations.

Paradosiakó Restaurant

Where: Tompazi 8, Idra 180 40, Greece

If it is traditional Greek food you are after, Paradosiakó is the place to go. The sign is actually in Greek so the above is the translation.

You can’t miss Paradosiakó though, it is a charming little place decorated in blue and white. More locals than tourists were dining here which is always a good sign.

If you don’t eat seafood, you can also order other Greek favourites like Soutzoukakia (deliciously seasoned meatballs in tomato sauce), fresh Greek salads, and fava beans. Paradosiakó offers excellent quality food at a good value.

Oraia

Where: Ύδρα 180 40, Greece

Oraia translates to meaning “beautiful Hydra” and this homely taverna could not have a more fitting name. The restaurant sits right beside the port area where you can enjoy fresh seafood as you watch the sailboats bob along in the water, and waves lap against the shore. 

The taverna owners pride themselves on the freshness of their ingredients, and all of the fish and seafood dishes are prepared with the latest catches. Oraia has a reputation for serving up some of the best fish dishes in Hydra. The menu options showcase traditional Greek classics with a creative twist – e.g. fresh shrimp served with orzo pasta.

Il Casta Restaurant

Where: Il Casta, Tompazi, Idra 180 40, Greece

Hydra’s Il Casta restaurant boasts authentic Neapolitan Italian cuisine and is a nice palette change if you have been travelling in Greece for a while and are hoping for a change from the usual Greek dishes.

Think rich pasta dishes, warm chewy gnocchi, and flavourful pizzas, all to be washed down with a glass of limoncello and an iced granita. The restaurant is owned by the Corola family that relocated to Greece from Naples.

Taverna Christina

Where: Taverna Christina, Kamini Town, Idra, Greece

If you do decide to embark on the scenic walk from Hydra town to Kamini and Vlychos, Kamini’s Taverna Christina is a nice place to stop for lunch to break up the journey.

Situated in the sleepy fishing village of Kamini, Taverna Christina is a family-run restaurant that has been passed down through the generations. It is now managed by the children of the namesake owner Christina.

Taverna Christina is a true embodiment of the farm-to-table concept. The vegetables prepared in the dishes are grown in the restaurant’s own garden, and the fish dishes are served using the day’s catches by the local fishermen. As you dine, you have lovely views over the Kamini marina.

Taverna Gitoniko 

Where: Sachtouri 75, Idra 180 40, Greece

Taverna Gitoniko has been capturing the hearts of locals and travellers for more than 25 years. The restaurant is tucked away down a little side street in Hydra’s port area. where

You have to ascend a ramshackle staircase to get to Gitoniko’s terrace. When you arrive at the top, you are greeted with some of the best views on the island. 

All of your favourite Greek classic and meze dishes can be found here. There is everything from zucchini balls and saganaki to souvlaki and kokoretsi.

Vegetarian and vegan Greek food options are available, and the meat and fish dishes are prepared with quality ingredients sourced locally. Be sure to enjoy your meal with the wines sourced from local vineyards.

Techne Restaurant Hydra

Where: Epar.Od. Mandrakiou-Molou, Idra 180 40, Greece

Techne Restaurant provides a sophisticated dining choice just outside the centre of Hydra’s Port area. The menu here focuses on modern versions of classic dishes from across Greece and the Mediterranean. 

From Techne’s outdoor dining area, you have unparalleled views over the Aegean sea. Innovative cocktails prepared by the resident mixologists make a perfect accompaniment to your dinner.

Where to Stay on Hydra Island

There are plenty of charming boutique hotels and B&B-style accommodation choices in Hydra. Comfortable rooms in the centre of the town can be found at prices starting from 30 euros per night.

A selection of highly-rated hotels on Hydra island is discussed below for your consideration.

Athina Guesthouse

I stayed at the Athina Guesthouse for two nights and definitely recommend it. I had an incredible view of Hydra from my lovely little room and the owners were very friendly and even collected me from the boat port to help me with my luggage which I thought was very kind.

You can browse the latest availability and room rates at the Athina Guesthouse here.

Hydra Hotel

The Hydra Hotel provides the ultimate luxury getaway experience. The chic rooms are set inside an idyllic blue and whitewash building that is oh so quintessentially Greek. 

The decor is bright and modern, and the luxury ambiance comes without the luxury price tag – rooms at the Hydra Hotel start from just €65 per night including breakfast. Click here for the latest availability and room rates.

Hydrea Exclusive Hospitality Hotel

The Hydrea Exclusive Hospitality Hotel offers a travel experience fit for a King (or Queen). The five star hotel is set inside a renovated 19th century mansion, just a stone’s throw away from Hydra Port. Rooms are elegantly decorated, and the hotel’s terraces and private balconies offer breathtaking views over the water at sunrise and sunset. 

Rooms at the Hydrea Hotel start from around €240 per night. Click here for the latest availability and room rates. 

A Note on Booking Hydra Hotels

Hydra is popular during the summer months, particularly as a weekend getaway from Athens so if travelling between June and September it is advisable to try and reserve your rooms a week or two in advance of your intended arrival in Hydra.

The Best Beaches on Hydra Island

Hydra’s beaches may not have the same tropical island paradise feel like those on other Greek islands. However, they are a nice place to stop and relax in the midst of sightseeing.

A selection of Hydra beaches to add to your radar are detailed below. Some are accessible on foot, while others require the use of a water taxi. 

Agios Nikolaos Beach

Hydra’s Agios Nikolaos beach is perhaps the most idyllic on the island. It is nestled within a secluded cove and surrounded by translucent turquoise waters and pine trees. 

Agios Nikolaos beach is accessible on foot or via a sea taxi from Hydra port. The beach is serviced, and it is possible to purchase refreshments and rent umbrellas here. 

Spilia

“Spilia” is a nice place to relax close to the Hydra port during the summer months. This is not exactly a beach per se, but a rocky plateau that protrudes from the sea. While you cannot dig your toes into the sand here, Spilia is popular among locals for diving into the waters, swimming, and sunbathing.

Vlichos Beach 

Vlichos beach is the namesake beach of the fishing village of Vlichos. This pebbled beach is well-serviced and is perfect for families or those who want a beach that provides all the amenities. It is possible to rent sunbeds and umbrellas and Vlichos beach, and a plethora of tavernas and bars line the shores offering plenty of opportunities for refreshment breaks. 

Bisti Beach 

Bisti beach is a pebbled beach set inside a rocky cove. The rugged scenery that encompasses the beach feels wilder and more undisturbed than most Hydra beaches. 

The beach is commercialised, with refreshments and rentals served, but its location on the island’s west coast means that Bisti escapes the attention of tourists. The rocky pools beside the beach are filled with sea life and a popular place to search for crabs, starfish, and sea urchins. The dirt trail that runs behind the beach takes you to the little whitewashed chapel of St. George. 

Avlaki Beach

Avlaki beach can be found just a short walk away from Hydra town. If you continue walking along the coast from the rocky outcrop of Spila, you will find the secret cove of Avlaki. 

The best way to reach Avlaki beach is on foot. The clear, translucent waters of the beach are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It should be noted that you have to descend down several stone steps to reach the beach. 

Hydra Tours from Athens

It is best to stay overnight on Hydra island if your schedule permits. This allows you the chance to visit some of the secluded beaches and cute fishing villages that are only accessible by hike or sea taxi. 

If you are short on time, you may wish to consider the below Hydra tours that depart from Athens. It is also possible to book “island hopper” tours that allow you to cover several Saronic Gulf islands in one day.  

• All Day Saronic Island Tour from Athens
  
  
• Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra from Athens
  
  
• Full-Day Saronic Tour from Athens with an Archaeologist

Getting to Hydra by Boat from Piraeus

Hydra is easily accessible via a short boat journey from Athens’ Piraeus port. To reach the island, you will board the “flying dolphin” – a compact, speedy little boat that zips along the waves.

Boats from Piraeus to Hydra depart several times per day. You can check the precise schedule here as it is subject to seasonal changes.  

The journey from Athens to Hydra takes approximately two hours. You can typically pick your tickets up from the ticket office at Piraeus port on your intended day of travel.

However, if you are travelling during the summer season or you need to board a specific boat, it is advisable to purchase them online in advance. Check Ferryscanner for the latest prices and routes.

As of February 2022, a one-way Athens to Hydra ferry ticket costs €30.50 per person. You may prefer to book a return ticket to make things easier. Alternatively, you can purchase tickets back to Athens, or to the islands of Aegina, Agistri, Poros, and Spetses, from the ticket office at Hydra port.

Getting Around Hydra Island

No vehicles are permitted on Hydra island and locals tend to get around by using donkeys and mules. Your best options for getting around Hydra as a tourist are to either walk or take the water taxis.

Hydra Water Taxis 

It is possible to take a water taxi from just outside the Corner Cafe in Hydra’s port area. Hydra’s water taxis will take you to the villages of Kamini and Vlychos, and some of the secluded coves that are not accessible on foot (e.g. Saint Nicholas beach). 

Check the price before boarding. Ideally, speak to your hotel owner to clarify how much you should pay. If you are getting a water taxi to a remote area, you will need to book your return journey in advance, as there will be nowhere to do so on the other side. 

On Foot 

The port area of Hydra is so compact that you can easily explore its entirety in a few hours. Routes to nearby villages and beaches are well-signposted with black and yellow-painted signs. 

How Long to Spend on Hydra Island

Try to spend at least one night in Hydra in order to give yourself the opportunity to go a little off the beaten path and away from the main town.

Two nights are great for moving at a more relaxed pace. That said, it is wholly possible to take the first ferry from Athens in the morning and return in the evening.

There are also Saronic Gulf boat tours like this one that depart daily from Athens. These tours offer a “whistle-stop” tour around several Saronic Gulf islands which are great if you are limited for time.

That said, you should keep in mind that these tours will only provide you with one or two hours to explore Hydra. Additionally, you will be exploring with a crowd of other tourists that have just disembarked from the same boat and the ambiance will not be quite the same.

When to Travel to Hydra

It is possible to travel to Hydra between March and September each year. While it is technically possible to travel during the Autumn and Winter months, travellers should keep in mind that the boats tend to run on a more limited schedule. Adverse weather conditions during winter in Greece can often mean cancellations and disruptions.

If your main interest in visiting Hydra is for hiking or exploring the towns, consider visiting during the spring (March to early June). This enables you to enjoy pleasant temperatures that are not overbearingly hot.

Travelling at this time also means fewer tourists and lower travel costs. Summer is a nice time to visit Hydra if you want to enjoy the beaches and resorts. However, you should keep in mind that this is also the time that a lot of Greek locals take their vacations.

Final Thoughts

Have any questions about things to do in Hydra or Greece travel in general? I live in Pagrati, Athens, and would be happy to help with any questions you have.

Feel free to just drop me a comment below. Safe travels, Melissa xo

---