What to do in Hydra
"Won't I get bored on such a small island?" is a question a lot of people ask before coming, and the honest answer is that it depends on the traveller. If what you want is a beach bar by day and a club by night, Hydra will feel quiet to you. If you are interested in art, architecture, naval history, coastal walks and eating well with a view over the harbour, two days are not enough. The island is a living stage set of eighteenth-century mansions, monasteries perched on the summits and paths that run the length of the coast, and the absence of traffic turns a simple walk into something quite different.
Activities and tours
Private boat trip around Hydra's southern coves
A full day on a traditional caique or speedboat visiting Bisti, Agios Nikolaos and Limnioniza, the inaccessible coves of the south coast. Departure from the main port, snorkelling, lunch on board.
Private yacht day trip from Hydra with swimming stops
Private boat departure from Hydra port towards Poros and untouched coves, with scheduled swimming stops, snorkelling and lunch on board. Ideal for small groups and couples.
Hike to the Profitis Ilias monastery and Mount Eros
Walking route from the port to the 18th-century monastery high on Mount Eros (590 m). Two hours up, views over the whole of Hydra, the Peloponnese and neighbouring islands. Free.
Guided walking tour of Hydra and the captains' mansions
One-hour walking tour of Hydra town with a local guide: 18th-century mansions, cobbled alleys, courtyards full of jasmine and context on the war of independence.