Its distinctive character, the amphitheatrically built harbor, the imposing stone mansions, the cobblestone alleys, its timeless cosmopolitan atmosphere, the trails that crisscross the arid landscape, and the water taxis that shuttle locals and visitors from one cove to another—all these elements come together to form Hydra’s unique identity. An island that, in many ways, resembles a small Greek version of Venice.
Hydra may not be known for endless sandy shores and exotic beaches, but its stately charm and unpretentious elegance win over visitors from the very first moment they lay eyes on its historic harbor.
How do we get there?
Hellenic Seaways’ high-speed ferries offer up to 6 daily departures from Piraeus to Hydra, allowing you to travel quickly and comfortably to this elegant island in the Saronic Gulf.
Book now with Hellenic Seaways and take advantage of deals of up to 50% off for Hydra! Check them all out here and choose the one that’s right for you.
Don’t forget to download your personal travel guide, the new Seamore mobile app, here. You’ll find it here for Android and here for iOS.
The walks start at the harbor and never end
The island’s only settlement stretches out amphitheatrically around the harbor and is the ideal spot to begin your first exploration of Hydra. The seaside promenade, paved with stone like most of the island’s narrow streets, has the sea on one side and, on the other, the tables spilling out from cafes and taverns, creating a scene you’ll never tire of.
Your gaze will inevitably be drawn to the impressive mansions that bear witness to the island’s maritime heyday. Notable among them is the Tsamadou Mansion, which housed the Merchant Marine Academy in the early years following the Revolution, as well as the Tombazis Mansion, which has housed a branch of the School of Fine Arts since 1936. A little further into the town, it’s also worth visiting the Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion, which today serves as a branch of the National Historical Museum.
As you move away from the harbor and lose yourself in the town’s narrow streets, the stroll becomes even more interesting. Flower-filled courtyards, snow-white houses with colorful shutters, small shops selling local products and souvenirs, as well as traditional bakeries that fill the air with the scent of freshly baked bread—all come together to create a picture of authentic island Greece.
If you love history, be sure to include a visit to the Hydra Historical Archive–Museum in your itinerary, where precious relics from the Greek Revolution, as well as important artifacts from both World Wars, are preserved. Equally interesting is the Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum, housed in the old cells of the Monastery of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, in the center of the harbor.
A Little More Romance
For one of the most romantic moments of your trip, head up to the bastions and the old cannons that tower to the right and left of the harbor. From here, you’ll enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Saronic Gulf and take photos that are sure to rack up the likes. And if you’re a music lover, stop by the street named after Leonard Cohen to see the house where the great Canadian singer-songwriter—who loved the island like few others—lived for six years in the 1960s.
If you find yourself in Hydra at the end of June, you simply must experience the spectacular “Miaoulia” festival firsthand. It is a series of artistic and historical events lasting about two weeks and dedicated to the memory of Admiral Andreas Miaoulis.
The events culminate in a spectacular historical reenactment: the reenactment of the Battle of Hydra and the dramatic burning of a replica Turkish frigate, while the evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the harbor.
If you’ve chosen one of the ferry routes to the island, be sure to climb the hill of Agios Athanasios, the highest point on Hydra. From there, you’ll see the seven ruined windmills and a panoramic view stretching all the way to the endless blue of the Aegean Sea.
Be sure to also stop by the legendary Red House (1786) in the picturesque fishing harbor of Kaminia. This is the former residence of Admiral Miaoulis, which has now been converted into an art gallery and continues to keep its connection to the island’s history alive.
Be sure to also visit the historic Monastery of Prophet Elias, at the summit of Mount Eros (588 m). There, in its old cells, Theodoros Kolokotronis was imprisoned in 1825 along with other leaders of the Revolution. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy one of the most impressive and unobstructed views of the entire Argosaronic Gulf.
Beaches
Hydra may not be the island you’d choose solely for its beaches, but its coastline hides little gems with crystal-clear waters, ideal for refreshing summer swims.
Among the best options is Agios Nikolaos, a fully equipped beach with fine pebbles, calm waters, and pine trees that generously provide shade during the hottest hours of the day. Equally popular is Mandraki, the island’s only sandy beach, which stretches along a sheltered cove near the harbor and is ideal for both relaxation and water sports.
If you’re looking for a more natural and rugged setting, Bisti will delight you. This pebble beach is nestled in the embrace of a lush pine forest, with emerald waters and striking cliffs that are well worth capturing in your photos.
For families and those traveling with children, Kaminia is one of the best choices. The peaceful pebble beach is located in the island’s picturesque fishing village, next to a beautiful natural cove that completes the idyllic setting.
As for Vlychos, it is rightly considered one of Hydra’s most beautiful beaches. Its crystal-clear waters, the white houses that seem to cling to the hillsides, and the little church of Agios Charalambos come together to create a scene that’s hard to forget.
It’s also good to know that most beaches are easily accessible by water taxi, with round-trip fares typically starting at 10 euros. If, however, you want to keep costs down and get to know the island better on foot, Kaminia is just a quarter of an hour from the city via the coastal trail, while Vlychos is about a half-hour’s leisurely walk away.
We continue our island hopping without stopping
Beloved Poros with its lemon trees and endless beaches, the wonderful Ermioni with its crystal-clear waters, and the charming Spetses with its mansions and unique atmosphere are waiting for you to explore them and experience the ultimate Greek summer just a stone’s throw from Hydra, thanks to thedaily sailings by Hellenic Seaways.
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