Are you desperate to find a part of Greece that isn't overrun by tourists this summer? It feels like everyone and their mother is headed to the popular Greek Islands, but if you're someone who likes avoiding the crowds, I have the perfect solution. I have found the ultimate hidden gem – an island in Greece where there are no cars and it feels like you've stepped back in time. Where fluffy, well-fed cats snooze in the streets and the ocean laps against the stone harbour. Where you can walk in the creative footsteps of artists, musicians and actors, and walk the very streets that inspired their finest works.

Have you guessed where I'm talking about? It's the island of Hydra in Greece, and this is my ultimate guide to planning the perfect trip there – or even a day trip from Athens because you cannot skip this island. It might be my new favourite island in the whole of Greece.

The Greek island of Hydra is a haven of tranquility dipped in authentic Greek charm and far removed from the busier, more touristy islands known for their party atmosphere. Hydra is the perfect place to visit if you enjoy slower, more authentic travel, delicious Greek food and the cutest cats.

This blog post covers the following:

  1. Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Hydra, Greece
  2. Planning a Trip to the Greek island, Hydra
  3. Travelling to Hydra, Greece, from the UK
  4. The Best Hotels for every budget in Hydra
  5. The Best Things To Do in Hydra

 

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Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Hydra, Greece

Have I peaked your interest in the cobbled streets of Hydra? This tiny island is a mere 10 miles long and yet is home to around 300 churches which provide the soundtrack to your stay with their beautiful bell ringing. Donkeys stand patiently in the street awaiting deliveries of groceries to the harbour as without vehicles, the island is heavily reliant on them and prides themselves in caring for the creatures. During the baking summer afternoons, visitors to the island can be found either relaxing in one of the harbour bars overlooking the water, or at a nearby beach floating in the salty waves.

Is Hydra a good Greek island to visit?

Yes, 100x yes! Hydra is an amazing Greek island to visit is you are looking to step off the beaten track and discover something a little bit different. This island is like nothing I have experienced anywhere else in Greece, it's like the island time forgot. Located right next to Athens, it's the perfect place for a quick escape to Greece, but remains super quiet and undiscovered by so many. It really does feel like a hidden gem and is super quiet compared to other popular islands.

Is Hydra, Greece, a party island?

Absolutely not and that's the beauty of Hydra. It's peaceful, quiet, nature is the reason to visit this beautiful island in Greece. If you're looking for a party, head to Mykonos, Ios or Zakynthos for a lively nightlife. If you just want to escape that and experience something more authentic and charming, head to Hydra for a Greek experience you won't forget. Saying that, Hydra does have a lot of religious festivals, carnivals and events throughout the year which showcase it as a vibrant destination, if you're interested in Hydra events << click here.

What is not allowed on Hydra, Greece?

It is so rare these days that we can escape the fumes of busy rush hour traffic whenever we travel. But Hydra is one of a handful of car-free islands in the world and offers a real haven and escape from busier Greek islands. Here, the locals rely on donkeys to transport food and heavier items, they walk everywhere and the cobbled streets remain peaceful.

Why is Hydra so famous?

Despite Hydra remaining so unknown to so many travellers, it is actually a very famous island with a star-studded line-up of past visitors and even home-owners.The island became famous for it's shipbuilders in the 18th and 19th century. Then from the 50's to 70's it became a popular destination with celebrities like Sophia Loren, Richard Burton, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Pink Floyd, Joan Collins, Jackie O, John Lennon, Eric Klapton, the Rolling Stones, Rex Harrison, Peter Ustinov and Leonard Cohen. You may recognise the island more recently from featuring in movies and series including Daisy Jones and the Six, Boat Trip, Boy on a Dolphin, Phaedra and many more.

Planning a Trip to the Greek island, Hydra

There are two ways to visit Hydra – if you've really fallen for this island already (I can understand why!) then you could plan to visit and stay on the island at one of the many family-run boutique hotels and B&Bs. Or, if you are short on time, you could easily take a day trip to the island from nearby Athens.

Is Hydra a good day trip? How do I get there?

The island of Hydra makes the perfect escape and antidote to the busy city of Athens. Just 1.5 hours by ferry, you could easily catch an early ferry over to the island and have plenty of time to explore and enjoy before catching a late boat back to the city. Ferries from Athens start from 9.30am and ferries from Hydra back to Athens run until 7.15pm. The ferries cost between €36-52 depending on the ferry company you choose, and the time you travel. >> Click to compare ferry pricing.

How much time do you need in Hydra, Greece?

I could have honestly stayed on Hydra for a week or more enjoying the slower pace of live, delicious food and friendly, welcoming locals. If you can, I really recommend staying in Hydra for a few days to really experience it. You can see and do a lot on the Greek island within a day or 48 hours, but to really get a taste for the island, you need more time.

Travelling to Hydra, Greece, from the UK

If you're travelling from the UK, your best bet for reaching Hydra is to book cheap flights from London to Athens, then to catch a ferry over to the island. With around 139 flights per week, you can be in Athens within 3 hours and 39 minutes. Flight prices start from as low as £51 and the cheapest month to fly is November. Airlines flying to Athens from the UK include:

  • Ryanair
  • Jet2
  • British Airways
  • EasyJet
  • Aegean Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Japan Airlines
  • Wizz Air

Ferries from Athens start from 9.30am and ferries from Hydra back to Athens run until 7.15pm. The ferries cost between €36-52 depending on the ferry company you choose, and the time you travel. >> Click to compare ferry pricing.

The Best Hotels for every budget in Hydra, Greece

Hydra has such a wonderful selection of boutique and family-run accommodations from the budget guest-house and B&B style to the more luxury resort-style that is only accessible by boat. Whatever your budget, there is an option to suit you.

>> Read 11 Best Boutique Hotels in Hydra, Greece

Best budget hotel in Hydra:

Enjoy a boutique hotel stay at the beautiful Hotel Miranda in the heart of Hydra. A building that was originally a wealthy sea captain’s mansion built in 1810, set just 100m back from the port and just 200m from Hydra's main beach. You'll be welcomed like an old friend with fresh lemonade and stay in rooms that have previously homed artists, writers and creatives. Dine on a homemade breakfast in a shady courtyard filled with lemon trees and flowers (pictured above). The staff are so kind and welcoming, they don't hesitate to help you with whatever you might need, and don't forget to say hi to resident cat, Maria. >> Book Hotel Miranda in Hydra now

Best luxury hotel in Hydra:

If you're looking for world class service and the full celebrity treatment – you can't go wrong with Mandraki Beach Resort. Take a private boat from Hydra harbour over to the resort where you'll find it sits on a private beach with undisturbed ocean views and rooms with private pools overlooking the sea. Enjoy panoramic sunset views as you dine on the open terrace near to the ocean and hear the waves lapping at the shore. Just a five-minute boat ride from exploring the town of Hydra. >> Book Mandraki Beach Resort now

The Best Things To Do In Hydra

The beautiful thing about Hydra is the slower pace of life, so don't be in a hurry to fill your days. Instead, enjoy a leisurely and relaxing itinerary filled with great food, sunshine, history and ocean dips.

Best Places to Eat on Hydra, Greece

  • Enjoy a delicious iced coffee at Cafe Grande Hydra
  • A delicious seafood lunch with a view at Sunset Hydra
  • Catch a boat over for a sunset dinner at Mandraki Beach Resort

Best Activities on Hydra, Greece

  • Explore Hydra's picturesque town and port 
  • Take a walking tour with Maria of Hydra Walking Tours - learn about the island
  • Enjoy an afternoon swim at Kamini Beach, Hydronetta or Spilia
  • Hike Mount Eros for views of the Saronic Gulf and the Myrtoan Sea
  • Attend one of Hydra's festivals and carnivals
  • Go horse riding around the island
  • Go scuba diving in the crystal clear waters 
  • Cuddle the cute cats of Hydra and support HydraArk which looks after creatures on the island

Best Boat Tours From Hydra

 

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