[Video & photos during tours of summer 2019]

Firstly a little bit about Hydra. Hydra Island does not allow any cars or bicycles to spoil the island’s tranquility; only donkeys, mules and … boats plus great walks and socializing! Its charms are obvious and have not gone unnoticed by the world’s famous artists, writers, and musicians. It is by far a more authentic island than the well-known Santorini & Mykonos since the people who run most of the businesses are locals and there are also many Greek tourists. This is not the case in Mykonos & Santorini.

There is one main town, known simply as “Hydra port”. It consists of a crescent-shaped harbor, around which is centered a strand of restaurants, shops, markets, and galleries that cater to tourists and locals (Hydriots). Steep stone streets lead up and outward from the harbor area. Most of the local residences, as well as the hostelries on the island, are located on these streets. Other small villages or hamlets on the island include Mandraki, Kamini, Vlychos, Palamidas, Episkopi, and Molos.

Below you’ll see alternative ways of visiting the island.

There are two tours of ours for visiting this cosmopolitan island from Athens:

(i) A day tour from Athens: Hydra Island from Athens by Boat

It’s a great alternative to the 3-island (Hydra/Poros/Aegina) boat tour if you want to avoid the crowds and not spend all your time on a boat. Hydra is the island you need to spend all your time on!

(ii) The popular 3-Day Tour to Mycenae, Nafplio, Epidaurus, Cosmopolitan Hydra & Spetses Islands

It combines probably the most popular tour from Athens (Mycenae/Nafplio/Epidaurus) with Hydra & Spetses islands but can also be customized to skip Spetses island and include another site.

If you are already based & holidaying in Hydra

This tour will allow you to spend a day exploring the famous UNESCO sites of Epidaurus, Nafplio, Mycenae, and optionally make your way back to Athens via the Corinth Canal or return to your base at Hydra.

From HYDRA ISLAND to Epidaurus, Nafplio & Mycenae including Great Lunch & Drinks (Option: Athens drop off)

If you would like more off-the-beaten-path island suggestions check our FAQ (Which island/s should I visit?).