Athens Tours

The most cosmopolitan of the Saronic islands, Hydra is not the typical Greek island with the large beaches and the whitewashed houses. Less than 2 hours ferry ride from Athens, Hydra has surpassed the geographical obstacles of its rocky landscape and has developed into a popular and charming tourist destination.

Most activities on Hydra concentrate around the port, which is lined by yachts and fishing boats.
Elegant stone mansions surround the small bay that distinguish for their austere style and earth colours. The highest mansion right at the port hosts the Historical Archives of Hydra, a lovely museum that organizes art exhibitions, festivals and seminars in summer. Other such mansions survive all over the town and have turned into boutique hotels or public buildings, such as the Koundouriotis Mansion that hosts an ethnological collection or the Tsamadou Mansion that houses the School of Merchant Marine.

Walking around Hydra Town is a tour through stone houses with flowered gardens, lovely gift shops and picturesque paved streets. Riding a donkey is the most traditional means of transport in the uphill and downhill paths of the town. Moreover, hiking all around the island is a popular activity. Hiking trails lead to monasteries on the slopes of hills and lovely coves to swim.

Although Hydra has a lovely countryside, the coastline can be rather uncomfortable. But for a few exceptions, beaches on Hydra are generally rocky, however most of them are organized and the water is always crystal. Small boats and water-taxis leave the port of Hydra and make the tour of the island, stopping at several beaches.
Well developed in tourism and with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, Hydra is also famous for its nightlife. Lounge cafeterias, portside bars and loud clubs are found all over the town and options can satisfy all tastes.