Hydra is a place deserted by cars and vehicles. For many, that’s a major plus point, as it allows them to explore the artists’ workshops, stone houses and many of the other delights on the Saronic Islands to the backdrop of calm and tranquillity. And there really is so much to discover in Hydra, which is why we’ve put this guide together with five things you need to do during your holiday.
But first… how do you get to Hydra?
With no vehicles allowed on the island, you may wonder how you can reach it. Fortunately, there are ferry services that go to Hydra, with Athens around two hours away via boat. You can book your Hydra holiday via ferry using Ferryscanner and spend a few days here or visit as part of an island-hopping excursion.
5 fun things to do in Hydra
1) Visit the house museums
Many of the houses that once belonged to ships’ captains have transformed into museums in Hydra. Visit the Lazaros Koundouriotis mansion with its marble carved-relief wellhead, massive ovens in the basement and coffered wood ceilings. The upstairs area has an ethnographic section filled with costumes, jewellery, belts, buckles and pottery. There are also plenty of paintings from Periklis Byzantios (the first director of the nearby Fine Arts School), and you can purchase postcodes and prints of his work at the gift shop.
2) Explore the port
Hydra is a laid-back island, and a stroll around it offers the perfect chance to take in local surroundings, especially by the port. Other than the pleasant scenery of the Aegean waters on offer, you can pop into boutiques and shop local designers before wandering the traditional blue and white painted streets. In the evening, head to one of the restaurants and enjoy Greek food while watching the sunset.
3) Go hiking
It shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that an island with no cars is a great place to go for a hike. It’s ideal for walkers, and you can head to the main quay for a map-placard with details about four recognised long-distance routes. Or you can explore Vlyhos without a map and walk along the coast to enjoy the beauty of Hydra up close and personal.
4) Spend some time at Mandraki Bay
Mandraki Bay once served as a major shipbuilding centre and Hydra’s primary port. Today, it has beautiful beaches where you can spend hours lazing the day away under the hot sun. There’s also plenty of spots to satisfy your taste buds while enjoying traditional Greek food at one of the local taverns.
5) Horseback riding
There might not be any cars, but you can easily get around on a horse in Hydra. Professional horse-riding classes at places like Harriet’s Horses let you experience the island from a different perspective, with horses and donkeys the primary transport method in Hydra. Explore the towns, villages and mountains on horseback.
Things to do in Hydra
With beautiful scenery, an arty vibe, excellent food and friendly locals, a trip to Hydra is a chance to escape the noise and enjoy a relaxed way of life – even if it’s only for a day. Hydra offers an alternative from other Greek islands and is a must-see for those who want to enjoy another side of Greece.