First Timer’s Guide For How to Spend One Day in Hydra, Greece + Map

The Greek Island of Hydra is one of the closest islands to Athens, which makes it a perfect place to spend a day!

While I advocate you spend a couple of days in Hydra or Poros, sometimes you just have a day. The question is, what should you do!? Having visited a few times while living in Athens, I’ve got all the insider scoop on all the restaurants, beaches, and things you want to do on this special little island!

Getting to Hydra From Athens

Whether you are planning a day trip or an overnight trip to Hydra, aim to arrive early! The earliest ferry to Hydra from Athens leaves Pireaus port at 8:30 and arrives on the island at 10:10.

In the busy summer, the ferry port gets very crowded, and the traffic from Athens can be slow.

It’s a good idea to leave 30 minutes earlier than you think you need to. This way, you won’t have to hurry.

The ferry will take you to Hyrda in about two hours. Once you arrive, you can either leave your bag at your hotel or hit the ground running!

READ MORE: Ferry Travel Guide From Athens to Hydra

• Search Ferry Rates & Availability

What to Do On the Island of Hydra

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Breakfast at Papagalos

If you’ve arrived in Hydra hungry for a late breakfast, get yourself to Papagalos! Located right in the marina, this place serves up the best coffee and eggs I found on the island.

Relax at Spilia Beach Bar

Epar.Od. Mandrakiou-Molou, Idra 180 40

A convenient spot to go for a quick dip in the Aegean Sea head to Spilia Beach Bar, just a quick 10-minute walk from when you dock at the ferry.

If swimming isn’t on your agenda, it is also the ideal place to get some drinks and sunbathe by the port if you have limited time.

Historical Archive of Hydra

I’ve personally never been much of a museum person. But, one of the most popular attractions in Hydra is the Historical Archive of Hydra.

Located in port, you can visit this museum and check out exhibits of incredible paintings from the 19th century and objects & relics from the 1821 Hydra War.

Visitor Info: Open daily from 9:00 to 16:00

Go To The Boutique Shops of Hydra

Hydra has some fantastic shopping, better than in Athens I’ve found! I spent more money than I should have on my short trip to Hydra.

If you are looking for some stylish and unique finds I recommend my three favorite shops!

Eclectia Boutique

Ikonomou Street, A, Idra 180 40

This boutique shop has high-end Greek designer goods. There are lovely dresses, hats, and jewelry.

The prices match the quality. The average dress is around 250 euros.

Sirens

Located on the port’s main drag is Sirens. Sirens is another great boutique shop in Hydra that I have considered taking the ferry from Athens just to visit again.

It is a Spanish designer boutique that has clothing, shoes, hats, bags, etc.

I found the best and most comfortable sandals here. The prices are on the higher side, but the quality is high.

Jasmine

For a more moderately priced boutique in Hydra, check out Jasmine!

The average dress price is around 100 euros. You can definitely find items cheaper if they are last season’s colors.

I will definitely be back to buy more dresses at the end of the season!

Visit Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion

Lazaros Kountouriotis is famous for being the largest financier of the Greek War of Independence in 1821. He was born in 1769 and died in 1852.

This mansion, now converted into a museum is a step back in time to what life was like in Hydra in the 1800s. You can get a look at the painting, clothing, and artifacts from everyday life.

Visitor Info: The cost of visiting the museum is €4, CASH ONLY.

The opening hours are March to October: daily except Monday, 10.00 – 14.00 and 17.30 – 20.30.

Take a Half-Day Boat Trip to Explore Hydra

A small water taxi will take you to the many beaches of Hydra that are only accessible by boat! The cost was 40 euros, subject to change, and departed at 11:00 and 15:00.

This is a great activity for catching the sunset if you planning to stay the night in Hydra!

Eat & Drink By the Coast

Hydra has some fantastic restaurants by the sea. If you are coming to eat your way through Hydra, below are a few of my favorite restaurants.

Omilos Restaurant Bar

If you are looking for the most dreamy place to experience a meal in Hydra, check out Omilos Restaurant Bar.

I highly recommend you call ahead and get a reservation if you are visiting in the summer months. If you are visiting in the shoulder season like I did you might be able to get away with just showing up.

Téchnē Restaurant & Social

I dined for lunch and dinner at Téchnē Restaurant & Social and it was easily the best meal I’ve had in years.

I will absolutely eat here again when I return to Hydra. If you are going to visit Hydra in the peak season be sure and get a reservation. You do not want to miss out!

Where to Stay in Hydra

If you are like me and want not only the day in Hydra but the night as well, you gotta check out these incredible hotels. , you can stay in Hydra town.

These little boutique hotels and guest houses are simply the best in the Saronic Gulf. I was able to check out a few of the best places on the island, in addition to the place I stayed.

Best Value for the Money: Piteoussa

This pet-friendly hotel makes for a comfortable night’s stay on the island of Hydra.

Located just a 10-minute walk from the ferry port and away from all the noise! Check Rates & Availability

Most Adorable Boutique Hotel Stay: Orloff

Orloff Boutique Hotel in Hydra offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, just 800 meters from Avlaki Beach.

Guests enjoy amenities like a bar, garden, free WiFi, and services including room service, a concierge, and tour organization.

If you are looking for an adorable boutique hotel in Hydra town, then check out Orloff!

The Ultimate Splurge Hotel with a Pool: Bratsera Hotel

Bratsera Boutique Hotel, nestled close to Hydra’s Avlaki Beach, provides guests with comfortable, allergy-free rooms and a suite of amenities like a restaurant, bar, free WiFi, and a fitness center.

The hotel also features a serene garden, a relaxing terrace, and offers services including express check-in and check-out, room service, concierge, and assistance with tour arrangements.

A trick to affording to stay at this incredible place is to book yourself a room in the off-season of late September and early May! Check Rates & Availability

Day Trip From Athens to Poros, Hydra, and Aegina

Are you thinking a day trip to Hydra is more your style? Lucky for you, there is a one day cruise to Hydra, Poros, Aegina that leaves Athens!

This full day 12-hour tour takes you to all 3 islands in the Saronic Gulf. This tour is perfect for anyone who is a little anxious to navigate a day trip alone or just wants to see as many islands as possible in one day!

⛴️ Day Trip to Hydra from Athens: Check Rates & Availability

Final Thoughts on One Day in Hydra

Hydra is a gorgeous Saronic island you can either make a quick day trip or a few days stay. It is a great place to lose yourself just strolling the narrow streets smiling at all the friendly kitties.

No matter how long you stay, I can promise it will leave a lasting impression! Have fun!