Hydra Tourism

Hydra is the jewel of the Saronic! Characterized by its unique cosmopolitan character and long nautical tradition, the island has been a meeting point for many famous Athenians and international celebrities for the last decades.

The beautifully preserved capital, Hydra Town, sightseeing itself thanks to its exceptional architecture, featuring imposing buildings and quaint cobbled alleys. Many impressive stone mansions now serve as hosts for cultural, historical, and educational purposes. Tourism in Hydra is intertwined with strolling around the town and paying a visit to Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion (a branch of the National Historical Museum), Tsamados Mansion which now hosts the Merchant Marine Academy, as well as Tombazis Mansion, and the Historical Archives Museum.
The town is built amphitheatrically around the port. So, before even stepping on the island, travelers can admire another top attraction - the bastions surrounding the port, used for the protection of the islanders against invaders in yesteryear!

The beautiful surroundings of Hydra, including enchanting beaches and lovely seaside settlements, are also worthy to explore. Hydronetta and Spilia are located in proximity to the port, while Vlichos, one of the most famous beaches on the island, lies only 2 km away from Hydra Town.
To explore remote places, like Molos Beach or Dokos Island, you can get a water taxi from the port (just be sure to set a specific hour for your return with the captain). The crystal-clear waters are one of the main reasons why people visit the island, so no beach will disappoint you!

Tourist infrastructure is developed in Hydra Town, but all facilities and establishments have been constructed with respect to the quaint setting and unique architecture. Guests can book their stay in a hotel, apartment, or room and enjoy views of the town and the blue waters of the Aegean. Many accommodations keep a neat and vintage decoration, allowing visitors to experience a one-of-a-kind stay. Regarding where to eat and drink, most restaurants are concentrated in the capital and the settlements and beaches around it. Traditional and modern establishments alike are open during the high season, offering different but successful approaches in terms of food and drinks. Besides, Hydra is known for its lively nightlife, with the local bars welcoming hundreds of people every night during summer and turning the promenade into a single party.

Another advantage of Hydra is its proximity to both Attica and the Peloponnese. The island is located less than 40 nautical miles away from Athens and opposite the area of Metochi in the Peloponnese. The only way to reach it is via ferry. Ferries depart from the port of Piraeus in Athens and the regions of Ermioni and Porto Heli in the Peloponnese. During the high season (June-September) at least 10 ferries to Hydra depart from Piraeus. There is also a vessel connecting Hydra and Metochi daily.

Note that a ban on wheeled vehicles is in effect on the island, so taking your vehicle with you or renting one there is impossible. The three options guests have regarding how to move around are walking, taking a water taxi, or riding a donkey.
This restriction is the main reason why Hydra has wonderful paths for people to explore. Trekking is one of the top things to do on the island as it allows marveling at the beautiful scenery and visit a plethora of places.

All in all, Hydra tourism is ideal for young people looking for nightlife, people who enjoy relaxation, couples seeking a romantic setting, families with children, hiking enthusiasts, and almost every other possible category of travelers.