Hydra

About Hydra

Hydra's harbour is crescent-shaped, lined with stone mansions and waterfront tavernas, and there are no cars on the island. Donkeys carry goods up the steep cobbled streets, and the sound of their hooves replaces traffic noise entirely. The island has long attracted artists and writers, and the mix of elegant old houses, small galleries, and blue water gives it a particular character that's hard to replicate elsewhere in Greece. You arrive by tender into the heart of it all. Walk the harbour first, then visit the Hydra Cathedral and the Monastery of the Dormition for the frescoes. The hike up to Prophet Elias Monastery takes effort but gives you views across the Saronic Gulf. Water taxis run to swimming coves like Spilia and Mandraki where the water is clear over pebble beaches. For food, harbour-side tavernas do fresh seafood, fava (yellow split pea purée), and simple grilled fish. Dress modestly for churches. The pace here is slow by design.

Port Location