Hydra
Country: Greece · Region: Greek Isles
Hydra is a scenic, car-free Saronic Gulf island port with whitewashed houses cascading down hillsides to an azure harbor, popular as a day-trip destination from Athens with a peaceful atmosphere away from the touristy waterfront.
Top sights
Cathedral of Hydra, Hydra Museum, restored Hydriote mansions, Spilia rocky swimming area, Vlihos pebble beach, Kamini village
Things to do
- Cathedral of Hydra
- Orthodox cathedral with hundreds of gold and silver icons and an ecclesiastical museum displaying religious objects and treasures, entry €4.
- Hydra Museum
- Small museum next to ferry dock showcasing the seafaring heritage and historical contributions of Hydriots, entry €4.
- Restored Hydriote mansions
- Historic mansions converted into museums illustrating traditional life from Hydra's past, usually listed on local island maps.
Beaches
- Spilia
- Rocky swimming area in the Kamini district with stairs and level rocks for sunbathing, primitive sea ladders for water entry, and beautiful views.
- Vlihos
- Pebble beach 20 minutes west of Spilia featuring €3 chair rentals and nearby tavernas, accessible by €3 water taxi or 45-minute scenic walk.
Where to eat
- Psaropoula
- Harbourside eatery at center of port offering fresh seafood and home-style Greek dishes with excellent moussaka, €10 and up.
- Xeri Elia Douskos Taverna
- Traditional taverna in a large central square with reasonable prices and a shaded outdoor courtyard, featuring live Greek music many evenings in season.
Bars and nightlife
- Spilia Cafe
- Cliff-perched cafe on the west side of harbor with coffees and cocktails, breezes, great port views, and easy access to the rocky bay.
Getting around
Walk the town center on foot, or use donkey transport or boat taxis (congregating at the port center) for destinations elsewhere on the island.
What to eat
Most restaurants feature imported frozen seafood, though a few offer local fish; head to Kamini for more authentic, local taverna experiences.
Tips
Book Hellenic Seaways catamaran tickets in advance during peak season as boats are small and sell out quickly.
Best for
car-free island charm, scenic harbor walks
More ports in Greek Isles
Athens (Piraeus) · Corfu · Heraklion · Katakolon · Milos · Mykonos · Nafplio · Patmos · Rhodes · Santorini