Hydra Town: Things To Do In This Greek Island City
Written By: Global Grit and Glam
April 2025
Picturesque Hydra Town and harbor (Greece)
Welcome to Hydra Town, the capital and main village of Hydra Island, one of Greece’s most picturesque and culturally-rich destinations. Hydra Town is that charming heartbeat you’ve been seeking – a small town that embodies traditional Greek island life.
As you meander through the narrow streets of Hydra Town, you’ll be enchanted too by its harbor, lined with fishing boats bobbing gently in the water and colorful cafes beckoning you to take a seat. The red-tiled roofs of the town’s stone buildings add to its timeless beauty, whilst pine trees dominate the backdrop, and the gently sloping hills provide a serene addition to the stunning views of the Saronic Gulf afforded from the town’s harbor.
So let’s get started! We hope you’ll love Hydra Town’s extraordinary blend of elegance, rich history, and warm Mediterranean hospitality, as much as we did. Because whether you choose to simply browse the boutique shops, wander without direction through the back streets (you know that’s what Beck did!), visit a museum or two, or simply enjoy a leisurely meal at a waterfront taverna, Hydra Town promises to leave you wanting more.
Quick Tips
View from the western side of Hydra harbor across to Kavos Castle and the Miaoulis statue
Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to Hydra Town, Greece.
Hydra Island is the perfect day trip from mainland Greece – but one can easily also wile away a few days of bliss here.
Getting to and from Hydra Island is easy: take a ferry, charter your own boat, or enjoy a day out as part of a larger Mediterranean cruise itinerary.
Hydra Town offers accommodation options for all types of traveler, from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels and luxury suites.
Hydra was once a major maritime power with a thriving merchant fleet: today life here moves to a slower, more reflective beat.
Hydra is a car-free island: to get around Hydra Town, you’ll have to either walk or take a donkey!
Hydra has a colorful, vibrant harbor – take some time to wander around the water’s edge and soak up the serene atmosphere.
Hydra Town itself is a picture-postcard perfect Greek village that has remained true to its heritage, with traditional stone buildings, boutique shops, quaint cafes and restaurants, and artisan galleries sprinkled throughout its cobblestone streets.
Head to the eastern side of the harbor to visit the Miaoulis Statue for your first taste of history and stunning views over the town, harbor and Aegean Sea.
Feeling energetic? Hike to the top of the rocky outcrop behind Hydra Town to touch the giant Greek flag and look down at all the teeny tiny people below.
Visit the Leonard Cohen House, once home to this legendary Canadian singer-songwriter.
Stroll by Hydra’s elegant Town Hall and then take the short walk through the back streets up to one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe: Rafalias.
History-lovers will rejoice in the variety of museums open to the public: the Historical Archives (Museum of Hydra), the National Historical Museum (Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion), and the Ecclesiastical Byzantine Museum of Hydra.
Outside of Hydra Town you’ll find plenty of opportunities to swim at beautiful pebble beaches, enjoy boat tours around the rocky coastline, hike mountains, visit other Saronic Gulf islands, and even experience the tranquility and beauty of Hydra on horseback.
Don’t leave Hydra without trying a traditional Greek delicacy: whether it be seafood souvlaki, moussaka, baklava, galaktoboureko, or Hydra’s own amygdalota.
There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping in Hydra Town – no matter what you’re seeking, you’re bound to find it here!
Hydra Town also boasts various options for entertainment and nightlife, albeit a tad quieter than the likes of the famous party-island of Mykonos!
Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to visit Hydra Town and Harbor, Greece!
Plan Your Trip
The stunning natural beauty of Hydra harbor (Greece)
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Hydra Island: An Introduction
Quintessential Hydra Town (Greece)
Hydra – also sometimes seen written as Ydra or Idra, and pronounced EE-dra (that one caught us non-Greek speakers off guard!) – is a gem of a Greek island in the Saronic Gulf (also known as the Gulf of Aegina). Just a short ferry ride from Athens, Hydra Island is one of those places where once you’re ashore, you may just not wish to leave!
Full of history, culture, natural beauty, and the vibrant colors for which the Greek islands are so well known, Hydra is something you don’t find too often in the 21st-century: it’s car-free! It’s also full of beautiful stone mansions and quaint villages, stunning 360-degree views, a lively harbor, crystal clear waters, and opportunities for visitors to partake in adventurous outings as well as a simple unwinding of the body and mind.
Over time, Hydra has become a popular haven for artists, writers, and celebrities, attracting the likes of famous Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen and renowned American author Henry Miller. The famed Italian actress Sophia Loren, and Maria Callas – one of the 20th century’s most influential and iconic Greek sopranos – were also captivated by Hydra’s spell.
In the 21st century, Hydra is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world throughout the year. Aside international tourism, its location in the Saronic Gulf has also helped the island form robust sponge fishing and shipbuilding industries.
Hydra Island is the perfect day trip from mainland Greece – but one can easily also wile away a few days of bliss here. If we’ve piqued your interest about this fascinating island, check out our detailed article on some of the top things to do in Hydra.
Island Life and Hydra’s Culture
Life moves a little more slowly here on the island of Hydra
Hydra Island’s rich history reads like an epic novel. Once a major maritime power with a thriving merchant fleet, today life on this beautiful Greek island moves to a slower, more reflective beat.
Hydra Town is rich with history, art, and a genuine sense of community. Locals take pride in preserving traditions and living in harmony with the island’s natural beauty — from the pine trees that dot the surrounding hills to the fishing boats that bob in the clear waters of the natural harbor.
Take a moment to dig a little deeper once you arrive. Look a little closer. Linger a little longer. You too will discover the true beauty that lies not only on the surface, but deeper within this magical place.
Getting To and From Hydra Town
Sea-faring vessels are the only way to get to Hydra Town
Getting to the island of Hydra – and then into Hydra Town itself – is part of the fun! There are several ways to get to Hydra, located just 34 nautical miles from Athens, the capital city of Greece.
Ferry from Athens. The most common – and perhaps easiest, if you’re travelling independently – way to get to Hydra is by ferry. Ferries depart from the bustling Port of Piraeus in Athens and the short, scenic journey across the Saronic Gulf can take anywhere from just over an hour to two hours, depending on weather conditions, the type of ferry you choose, the route the ferry takes, and the operator itself. Popular ferry operators along this route include Blue Star Ferries, Alpha Lines, Hellenic Seaways, and Magic Sea Ferries.
Small sailboats. It’s possible to charter small to medium-sized sailboats, either from Athens or other nearby Greek islands, to get to Hydra.
Cruise ships. Many cruise lines will include Hydra Island as a stop on a Greek Island cruise itinerary. If you are visiting Hydra on a cruise, note that your ship will likely anchor out at sea and you’ll be transported by tenders (smaller boats) into the harbor from there. Be prepared for a wait at times, as the incoming ferries always have right of way – and there can be a lot of them during peak season!
Once you’ve arrived in Hydra harbor, your new adventure begins!
Hydra Harbor
Stunning Hydra Town and harbor (Greece)
The very first thing you’ll notice when arriving on Hydra Island is its stunning harbor. The harbor is the heartbeat of Hydra Town and is, without question, a scene-stealer: colorful traditional fishing boats bob in the water, fishermen’s nets dry in the sun, inter-island ferries glide effortlessly through the water, and gleaming yachts anchor against the railings.
Hydra’s harbor is a vibrant, busy port indeed (especially when a cruise ship or two are in!): a waterfront hub fringed with art galleries, elegant mansions, boutique hotels and shops, inviting cafes and restaurants, and a plethora of museums, all perfect for people-watching and soaking up the waterfront vibe.
Sit here awhile: watch the fishing boats come and go whilst enjoying the local catch of the day and losing yourself in the beautiful scene that surrounds you. And don’t forget, there are no cars here – the lack of fumes and the addition of donkeys on every corner help add to the harbor’s unspoiled beauty and charm.
Okay, so you’ve wandered the waterfront and soaked up the harbor vibe for a wee while … let’s dig a little deeper into what else Hydra Town has to offer!
Getting Around Hydra Town
Hydra is a vehicle-free island: take a donkey or horse instead!
One of the things we loved most about Hydra (aside its stunning harbor, of course!), is that it’s a car-free island. Whilst you’ll still see small delivery trucks, the island’s police car and ambulance, and small garbage trucks navigating the narrow streets of Hydra Town, it’s donkeys and boats that serve as the island’s primary means of transportation (that’s right, you won’t even find bicycles here!). That is, of course, if you’re not choosing to walk everywhere (as we did!).
Hydra Town itself is compact and easily walkable, though with cobblestone streets and some steep stairways between laneways, it may pose some challenges for those with mobility concerns. Most of the main attractions for tourists are within walking distance of one another – think the harbor, shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums.
For something a little different – and certainly something quite traditional – consider taking a donkey ride to see the sights.
Discovering Hydra Town’s Charm
The red-tiled roofs of traditional houses (Hydra Town, Greece)
Hydra Town is a picture-postcard perfect Greek village that has remained true to its heritage. The majority of the island’s residents live within the town limits (close to 2,000 people at last count), enjoying life amongst the traditional stone-built houses with their bright red-tiled roofs, and the quiet, narrow alleyways that snake their way through the nearby hills. Many of the town’s homes – especially the mansions for which the harbor is perhaps most well-known – were built primarily by wealthy Italian merchants and shipowners during the 18th and 19th centuries. These impressive buildings serve as a reflection of Hydra’s prosperity during that time, as well as its strong connection to a maritime way of life, and today remain some of the island’s most defining features.
At every turn you too will discover the delight in these traditional stone buildings, as well as the boutique shops, quaint cafes and restaurants, and artisan galleries spread throughout the town … and you’ll no doubt also come across the occasional Greek cat lounging in the sun.
Exploring Hydra Town’s Attractions
Take a moment to wander the quiet back streets of Hydra Town
Ensure you allow at least a few hours to explore the main area that encompasses Hydra Town – there’s certainly plenty to see and do here!
Let’s take you on a walking tour of the town.
The Miaoulis Statue
Consider starting your visit to Hydra Town at the entrance to the Hydra port, where you’ll find a statue of Admiral Andreas Miaoulis (located on the far eastern side of the harbor, near Kavos Castle). A Greek admiral and politician, Admiral Miaoulis led the naval charge against the Turkish fleet during the Greek War of Independence (1821-1829).
Erected in the early 1990s, the bronze statue of Miaoulis looking out across the harbor lies atop his remains, and is surrounded by old cannons that once defended the island. The view from this part of the harbor is especially spectacular – some say it’s the best view of the area from the entire island of Hydra.
Before you start exploring the rest of the town, or perhaps on a day when you’re feeling energetic early and the sun hasn’t yet reached its peak, the next stop you might consider is another viewpoint: this one from atop a rocky outcrop behind Hydra Town.
Hiking to the Greek Flag
Beck made it to the top – and what a view!
One of the highlights of our visit to Hydra was when Beck climbed to the top of the rocky outcrop on the western slopes of Hydra harbor (Mike chose to stay at the bottom and take photos). It’s here that a huge Greek flag waves in the wind against a backdrop of pine forests: you can see this hill and the flag from anywhere in the harbor!
To get to the flag, follow the main coastal path southwest of the harbor, toward Kaminia (it’s well sign-posted … for the most part). Just after the Spilia Beach Bar – and before you get to the Sunset Restaurant – you’ll come across a fork in the path. Take the fork to your left – the path that leads uphill to the old Sophia Loren windmill. From there, you’ll weave your way along cobblestone paths, in between traditional white-washed houses, until you reach a dirt (and quite rocky) path, which will lead you to the back side of the hill – and ultimately to its very top.
It’s definitely a steep – albeit quick – hike, and oh! the 360-degree views of Hydra Town and beyond from the top are simply breathtaking!
The Sophia Loren Windmill (Hydra, Greece)
Insider tip. Another option for spectacular views over Hydra Town, Hydra harbor and the Aegean Sea, is to hike to one of the various monasteries nestled amongst the hills. The most popular of these is Prophet Elias Monastery – perched at the highest point of Hydra Island – though note it is a solid one-and-a-half hours by foot one way.
The Leonard Cohen House
Once you’re back down near sea level, consider visiting Leonard Cohen’s house, about 15 minutes from the Sunset Restaurant. The home of this legendary Canadian singer-songwriter and poet is where he was inspired (by Hydra’s bohemian atmosphere in general, and by Hydra Town more specifically) to write many of his most well-known songs during the 1960s – so for all you music fans out there, this is a must-do pilgrimage!
Cohen’s presence, together with that of other famous artists who have called Hydra Town home over the years, has left a lasting impact on the island’s cultural landscape to this day.
Insider tip. For those of you who are huge Leonard Cohen fans – or simply music fans in general! – there’s also a memorial plaque dedicated to Cohen just west of the harbor (about a 5-6-minute walk past the Sunset Restaurant). The Cohen memorial includes a wooden bench overlooking the Aegean Sea, with an inscribed plaque. We think this is a pretty neat place to watch a sunset or two!
Hydra’s Town Hall
Centrally located in the harbor, Hydra’s elegant Town Hall serves as both a civic center (it’s the seat of local government) and a reminder of the island’s proud past. A superb example of neoclassical architecture and, like most places in town, affords visitors a wonderful view of the harbor.
Rafalias Pharmacy
Easily missed by most day-trippers to Hydra Island – but absolutely worth a visit – is one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe: Rafalias Pharmacy. Located an easy 7-minute walk through Hydra Town from the ferry dock, on Rafalia (Street) at the end of Votsi (Street), Rafalias is housed within the historic, neoclassical Rafalias Mansion, and showcases some of Hydra’s traditions in the field of medicine.
Traditional pharmaceutical recipes passed down through the generations
Founded in 1890 by Evangelos Rafalias (1869-1936), this iconic pharmacy remains family-owned to this day, with little changing over the years. Today, Rafalias continues to reproduce its original lotions, creams, soaps, and perfumes – all made from unique, traditional recipes using natural ingredients – and the well-preserved wooden interior and furniture is incredible.
Insider tip. If you’re looking for a truly unique accommodation option during your time in Hydra Town, the Rafalias Mansion is not just a pharmacy, but also a guesthouse!
Fun fact. The pharmacist at Rafalias today is the grandson of the founder, Evangelos Rafalias.
Museums
Hydra Town is home to numerous museums, offering visitors an opportunity to learn more about the island’s rich history and culture. Consider visiting at least one of them – especially as these small, intimate museums provide visitors a window into Hydra’s soul.
The Historical Archives: Museum of Hydra
History-lovers should consider starting their museum tour at the Historical Archives (Museum of Hydra), which offers insights into Hydra’s contributions during the Greek War of Independence (1821-1829), its political dominance over the past few centuries, and its contributions to the development of modern day Greece.
Inside this two-storey stone building (which has a lift and ramps for those with mobility needs) you’ll find artifacts, manuscripts, and numerous exhibits: many of the items housed here (from swords to clothing to replica ships and portraits) were donated by the descendants of families who sat at the top of Hydra’s social hierarchy in the 1800s.
Insider tip. Regularly throughout the Summer the exhibition halls within this museum host art shows with well-established and highly-regarded artists, complete with opening parties. Stop by for one of the grand openings – no invitation required!
Insider tip. During the Summer, the huge rooftop terrace of the Archives hosts open-air concerts.
Fun fact. The Historical Archives also houses the decorated, silver urn that contains the embalmed heart (yes, the actual heart!) of one of Hydra’s most notable heroes: Admiral Miaoulis.
Fun fact. The material of the archives of the community of Hydra were originally organized and catalogued by Dr Antonios D. Lignos, who served as Hydra’s Mayor for 40 consecutive years.
There is a gift shop on the ground level of the Archives, offering an excellent array of quality gifts and souvenirs, including books. The Archives are open daily from 9am through 4pm (and also in the evenings during the Summer). Entrance is 5 Euros per person (3 Euros for concessions).
National Historical Museum (Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion)
Wayfinding to the National Historical Museum (Hydra Town, Greece)
The elegant – and somewhat imposing! – three-story mansion that once belonged to Greek naval leader Lazaros Koundouriotis (1769-1852) today houses Hydra’s National Historical Museum. Koundouriotis supported the Greek Revolution by sacrificing most of his family’s fortune and ships to help finance the cause, and used the family home as a meeting point for Greek servicemen and other important dignitaries during the time.
A descendant of Lazaros – Pantelis Koundouriotis – donated the family mansion to the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece in 1979, and in 2001 it was opened as the National Historical Museum. Today, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s history, through preserved artifacts and exhibits that include Koundouriotis family heirlooms, traditional works of folk art and other famous paintings, furniture, pottery, jewelry, and traditional clothing. Make sure you take some time to stop and pause as you wander through the exhibits, quietly reflecting on how it must have been to live here over two centuries ago.
You’ll find the Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion less than a half kilometer (.31 miles) down the hill from the Leonard Cohen House, on the western side of the Hydra harbor. It has a gift shop on site and is open Tuesday through Friday from 9am to 4pm, and from 10am to 4pm on weekends (closed on major holidays). The museum also offers extended opening hours (5.30pm-8.30pm) during the Summer months. Entrance fees range from 5 Euros to 20 Euros, depending on the size of your group and what exhibits you’d like to see, with discounted admission for seniors, students and large groups.
Insider tip. The friendly and welcoming Mrs Annemarie Rabias is the curator of the National Historical Museum. Make sure to ask her for a private tour during your visit.
Fun fact. Various busts, paintings, plaques and statues pay tribute to Lazaros Koundouriotis throughout Hydra Town. He’s easily recognized, as he lost an eye and is therefore always depicted wearing an eye patch!
Ecclesiastical Byzantine Museum of Hydra
Hydra Town’s central clock tower (Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Hydra)
Located right in the center of Hydra Town – just a short 5-minute walk north of the Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion – the small (but mighty!) Byzantine Museum (also known as the Agios Makarios Notaras) is another must-visit for history buffs during your time on the island.
Nestled inside the old church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (also sometimes known as the Church of the Dormition) – the Cathedral of Hydra, built in 1648, and reconstructed in 1774 following an earthquake – this museum is home to a treasure trove of religious artifacts, rare Byzantine icons, holy gospels, musical manuscripts, clerk relics, and other historical treasures. Make sure to check out the incredible frescoes once inside!
Another stand-out feature of the Cathedral are its two impressive marble bell towers, one of which adorns a large clock face. You’ll also find numerous statues of Greek greats within the main church courtyard, as well as the tomb of Lazaros Koundouriotis and a war memorial paying homage to the Balkan War, both within the grounds of the Cathedral.
The Ecclesiastical Byzantine Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from April 1 through November 15, from 10am to 5pm. The museum is open at no cost to visitors.
Insider tip. You can climb to the top of the Cathedral’s bell towers, which afford visitors an incredible panoramic view over the Hydra harbor, port, and out to the Aegean Sea.
Fun fact. The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary was once the center of religious life on the island of Hydra. For a short period of time, the Cathedral also operated as a monastery.
Other Activities and Excursions on Hydra Island
View toward Avlaki Beach (Hydra, Greece)
Hydra is a popular stop on many cruise ship itineraries in the Mediterranean, and as such offers a wide range of shore excursions and activities outside of Hydra Town.
Beaches and boat tours. Do you prefer water-based activities to land-based? Check out our detailed insight into the main beaches on Hydra, where you can learn more about hiking or taking a water taxi out to Kaminia Beach, Plakes Beach, or Agios Nikolaos! With crystal-clear waters surrounding the island, as well as incredible uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea, you have to visit at least one beach during your visit! You may also wish to consider a boat tour around Hydra.
Consider taking a boat tour to see more of the island!
Hiking. With Hydra’s natural beauty preserved in its rocky terrain, pine trees, and stunning crystal-clear waters, hiking is another popular activity on the island. Our main article – A Day on Hydra Island, Greece – provides visitors some excellent information on hiking opportunities on Hydra, including its fantastic coastal paths that extend west and east from Hydra Town. These coastal paths will take you through small settlements tucked into the hills, radiating with local Greek life and whispering of simpler days. The lack of vehicles on Hydra helps to keep the natural beauty of the island pristine: make sure to listen for the call of chirping birds, and look out for a shy wild goat or two on your hike.
Other Saronic Gulf islands. You may also be interested in visiting other Saronic Gulf islands during your time in the region, using Hydra as a jumping-off point. Check out our in-depth review on things to do on Hydra Island for more information on how to explore the likes of Spetses, Poros or Aegina from Hydra.
Donkey or horse rides. Another unique option is to take a tour with famed Harriet’s Hydra Horses – experience the tranquility and beauty of this incredible island on horseback!
Island festivals. For those of you interested in diving a little deeper into the culture of Hydra, why not time your visit with one of the island’s annual festivals? Our in-depth review of things to do on Hydra Island provides more information on these, highlighting Hydra’s rich history and vibrant local culture.
Food and Drink: A Taste of Hydra
Piato Restaurant (Hydra Town, Greece)
Hydra is most famous for its fresh seafood, as well as numerous traditional Greek dishes available at the island’s many restaurants. Consider trying one (or more!) of the following during your visit.
seafood souvlaki (an Hydra take on the more well-known lamb or chicken souvlaki)
moussaka (a classic Greek layered casserole featuring eggplant, potatoes, a rich tomato-based meat sauce (usually lamb or beef), and a creamy béchamel sauce)
baklava (a classic Greek delicacy: a rich, sticky, flaky pastry dessert made with layers of filo dough and filled with chopped nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios) and then soaked in a sweet syrup – oh my!)
galaktoboureko (try saying that three times fast!) (another traditional Greek dessert, more like a custard pie)
We chose to dine at Piato Restaurant in Hydra Town during our visit, and can’t highly recommend it enough!
Hydra’s fresh, locally-baked dessert treats are a must-try!
Insider tip. If you’re craving something unique from Hydra, don’t miss out on trying amygdalota (not to be confused with the amygdala – part of our brain’s limbic system!). These traditional Greek almond cookies – also known as almond macaroons, and often shaped like pears or balls – are made with ground almonds and sugar, and then flavored with rosewater or other fragrant spices.
Shopping in Hydra Town
You’ll find numerous artisan galleries spread throughout the back streets of Hydra Town
With no purpose-built shopping centres or giant air-conditioned malls, Hydra instead boasts quaint boutique shops and traditional stores on the ground floors of the historical buildings that line Hydra harbor and the narrow, back alleyways of Hydra Town.
In Hydra you’ll find shops selling everything from souvenirs to jewelry, to local handicrafts, pottery and baked goods, to traditional costumes and embroidered cloth. There are also opportunities to shop in small art galleries. And if you need some more batteries, bug repellant, beach toys, or simply a bottle of water, you’ll find those too! We bought some of our favorite t-shirts from our visit to the Greek islands here in Hydra, and the prices were very tourist-friendly!
Hydra’s Nightlife and Entertainment
A traditional Greek dinner (Piato Restaurant, Hydra Town)
When the sun sets in Hydra Town, the harbor lights up with a soft, golden glow. And yes, okay, so maybe it’s not quite the party-like atmosphere you’ll find in Mykonos – or even close to it – but Hydra’s nightlife still affords visitors plenty to do after dark … simply with a more relaxed, intimate vibe.
Yes indeed, things continue to move a little more slowly here on the island once the sun sets, and we loved it this way! Enjoy live music at a local bar tucked away in the back streets of Hydra Town, or sip wine under the stars as you sit on Hydronetta Beach and watch the sun go down over the Aegean Sea. Solitude aside, you’ll still find plenty of bars and clubs along the port, known for their chill music and night-long parties.
Travelling with a young family or simply not really into the whole bar or clubbing scene (don’t worry, neither are we!)? There are still plenty of opportunities for you to also enjoy life after the sun goes down: for example, dine at one of the numerous atmospheric restaurants within Hydra harbor and feast not only on the incredible food served to you, but also on the incredible views afforded during your island dining experience.
Hydra Island: Where to Stay
“Hello? Is anyone home?”
If you plan to stay more than a few hours in Hydra, you’ll be afforded the opportunity to truly experience its serene and charming ambience. Indeed, when the cruise crowds and day-tripping tourists from Athens leave the harbor, Hydra Town’s peace returns.
Hydra Town offers accommodation options for all types of traveler, from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels and luxury suites – and they’ll come with either stunning views of the sea and countryside, or be resorts and hotels right on the beachfront themselves.
Consider laying your head in a comfortable place like the Hydra Hotel (located in an historical building overlooking Hydra Town and harbor) or the luxury suites of the Four Seasons, right on the beach. Or maybe a stay in a traditional Greek stone villa for a truly authentic experience is more your scene – something that combines modern comforts within the walls of the island’s history.
Staying a night or two in Hydra Town will help you truly experience the magic of this incredible place.
Final Thoughts
Enjoy Hydra Town one step at a time.
The Greek, car-free island of Hydra — small, yet mighty in character — is one of the true jewels of the Saronic Gulf islands. Hydra punches well above its weight when it comes to charm, history, and an abundance of things to do. And Hydra Town itself cascades down the pine-laden slopes surrounding it, creating an incredibly picturesque amphitheater, with narrow cobblestone streets that whisper welcoming invitations to all visitors, from near and far.
Whether you’re sailing in from Athens, docking your yacht in the harbor, or are visiting on foot after disembarking your cruise ship’s tender, Hydra Town is more than simply a stop on any Greek island itinerary — it’s a portal to the past, with a vibrant arts scene, and encapsulates a sanctuary of serenity. From its stone-built houses and traditional mansions, to its breathtaking harbor and plethora of historical and cultural sites, and from its rich history to its modern vibe and timeless traditions, Hydra Town is truly a perfect island getaway.
So grab your ferry ticket, jump atop a donkey (if you please), lace up your walking shoes, and let the spirit of the main village of Hydra – and indeed its surrounding harbor – enchant you. Whether it’s your first time here, or your twentieth, one thing is for sure: this beautiful island will tug at your heart strings and leave you begging for more.
Let’s start planning your trip, so you too can enjoy Hydra Town’s stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and watch the magic of the world all around you go by at a delightfully leisurely pace.
