Car-Free Hydra is This Summer’s Chic Greek Island Escape

|
Hydrineta Beach Bar Hydra Greece

Ever dreamed of stepping into a postcard? This brilliant Greek island just an hour from Athens is the idyllic summer escape you need in your life.

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a postcard, Hydra is the Greek island you need in your life this summer.

Stepping off the ferry, you’ll notice something unique about Hydra right away: no cars. 

With no cars, no motorbikes, and no rush, this little gem in the Saronic Gulf is the perfect escape from modern chaos. Instead of traffic, you’ll find cobblestone streets lined with elegant mansions, charming donkeys carrying supplies, and a harbor that feels straight out of a storybook.

But Hydra is more than just a pretty face.

It’s an island with a fascinating past, from its role in the Greek War of Independence to its status as a haven for artists and creatives. Combine that with stunning architecture, cloudless skies, and clear blue waters and you’ve got an unforgettable destination.

I’ve visited dozens of Greek islands, but none capture the essence of authentic island life quite like Hydra (pronounced with emphasis is on the first syllable: EE-thra).

Hydra Town Greece
Hydra Town, Greece

When my husband and I visited last summer, it was love at first sight. Of the 6 islands we visited on that trip, Hydra and Koufonisia were our hands-down favorites.

Read More: Stunning Koufonisia Island is Where Greeks Vacation (& You’ve Never Heard of It)

An Inspired Escape

Hydra’s history as an artist’s enclave is as captivating as its scenic beauty. Starting in the mid-20th century, the island began attracting a wave of artists, writers, and musicians drawn by its picturesque setting and tranquil atmosphere. In the 1950s and 60s, Hydra became a bohemian haven, fostering creativity and serving as an inspiration for many. 

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle).  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

Hydra Island Greece
Hydra Island, Greece

Its proximity to Athens made it accessible, but its car-free charm kept it remote enough to feel like a true escape.

One of Hydra’s most famous artistic connections is Leonard Cohen. The Canadian singer-songwriter purchased a modest house on the island in 1960, where he wrote some of his early work. Cohen often credited Hydra’s serene environment and its vibrant creative community for shaping his artistry.

But it was Sophia Loren who played the biggest role in Hydra’s rise to international fame. The island was the backdrop for the 1957 film Boy on a Dolphin, which starred Loren. It was the first Hollywood movie shot in Greece, and Hydra’s stunning harbor was prominently featured. Loren’s iconic presence in the film established the island as a glamorous destination for artists and travelers alike.

Today, Hydra continues to celebrate its artistic legacy. The island hosts galleries, workshops, and events like the Hydra School Projects, which showcase contemporary art while honoring the island’s rich creative past. 

The Saronic Islands

Located in the Saronic Gulf near Athens, Hydra is part of the Saronic Islands, a group of idyllic Greek islands that also includes Aegina, Poros, Spetses, Salamina, and Agistri. Known for their charm, history, and accessibility, each island has its own unique vibe.

The close proximity of the Saronic Islands to Athens makes them perfect for day trips or a laid-back island-hopping adventure. 

They’re less touristy than some of Greece’s more famous islands, like Mykonos, Crete, and Santorini, so they’re ideal for escaping the summer crowds.

Ultimate Greek Islands Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Greece in 2025?

From the most spectacular beaches to the tastiest treats to try, here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to the Greek Islands!

Getting to Hydra

Getting to Hydra is a breeze. In fact, it’s one of the easiest islands to visit from the Greek capital (that’s why it’s a popular weekend escape for Athens residents). There’s no airport (or roads for that matter) so you’ll need a boat or ferry to get there.

Hellenic Seaways Ferry Hydra Greece
The Hellenic Seaways ferry arriving in Hydra

But don’t worry, high-speed hydrofoils and catamarans make the crossing multiple times daily.

The ferry ride takes between 1-2 hours from the Piraeus port outside of Athens depending on whether it makes other stops along the way. 

But before you depart Athens…

If this is your first trip to Greece, you absolutely must spend at least a few days exploring the city’s incredible historic sights. I know, I know, the Greek Islands are enticing. But Athens is literally the birthplace of Western civilization. And that’s pretty darn impressive. If time is short, here’s a foolproof one-day itinerary:

How to Spend 24 Hours in Athens

The round trip ferry ride costs between 75-80€ depending on which boat you choose. Both Hellenic Seaways and Alpha Lines travel this route.

We did them both on our trip and they were both good but I slightly preferred the more updated cabins on the Alpha Lines ferry and the free glass of sparkling rose in business class! 

Tip: The absolute best site for booking ferries in Greece is FerryHopper.com.

Tip: Book a few weeks in advance during the peak season. Seats sell fast in peak summer months of July and August! 

Hydra’s main harbor is where all ferries and water taxis dock. As you step off the boat, you’ll be greeted by a charming crescent-shaped waterfront lined with cafes, shops, and donkeys ready to carry your bags.

Donkeys in the Port Hydra Island Greece
Donkeys greet the ferries

Since there are no cars on the island, you’ll be walking or using donkeys to get around, so pack light or choose a hotel close to the port!

Day Trips from Athens to Hydra

If you’re visiting Athens, it’s totally possible to visit Hydra on a day trip. Ferries leave as early as 8:30am and return as late at 8:00pm so you’ll have plenty of time to explore Hydra Town in between. 

Cliffside Beaches Hydra Greece
Cliffside Beaches in Hydra

Of course, I think Hydra is well worth a 2-night stay (minimum). But if you’re short on time, I would definitely recommend a day trip. It’s easy enough to book the ferries yourself via FerryHopper but if you want your trip to include transportation to the Pireaus port and a local guide, it’s a great idea to book an organized day trip.

Many companies offer a 3-island tour that also includes Poros and Aegina. This is a popular day trip from Athens, but just keep in mind that there’s a lot of time on the ferry and very little time on each island. You can also hire a private guide for a day trip to just Hydra so you’ll have more time there. 

Here are the top-rated Hydra day trips from Athens:

Where to Stay

Most of Hydra’s hotels are former mansions that have been converted into small boutique hotels and apartments. I love staying in Hydra Town close to restaurants, shops, and seaside bars but there are also a couple of fantastic beach resorts. 

Here are the best hotels on Hydra:

Mandraki Beach Resort – If you can’t image going to a Greek island without staying right on a lovely beach, this resort is a great choice. The resort is a 20-minute walk from town along a coastal path. Or their lovely boat will bring you back and forth to town every hour from 10:00am – 10:00pm. Rooms are modern yet elegant and beachfront suites even feature a private pool 

Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites – For luxury on Hydra, this beachfront hotel is hard to top. The hotel is too far from town to walk (about 2.5 miles) but, like the Mandraki Beach Resort, they also have complimentary boat service to and from town. 

PortaDelMare Deluxe Suites – Since we prefer to be in town, this is where we stayed and we loved it! Just few steps from the ferry port, this charming hotel is a great place to stay right in the heart of Hydra Town.

Sunset Views Hydra Island Greece
Sunset Views from the terrace at PortadelMare Suites

We had the loft apartment, which did not have a view, but the terrace and hot tub (up just a few stairs from our room) had amazing views, especially at sunset. And there was an adorable hotel cat at the entrance to greet us every time we returned to the hotel. 

NESEA Boutique Apartments – For a budget-friendly stay in town that still feels luxurious, these modern apartments are a terrific option. Like the PortaDelMare, they’re just a short walk from the port so no dragging luggage up a hill!

Beaches & Swimming Spots

Hydra may not be famous for sprawling sandy beaches like other Greek islands (Naxos, Koufonisia, and Milos come to mind), but it has a handful of unique swimming spots right in town. 

Hydronetta Beach Hydra Island Greece
Hydronetta “Beach” on Hydra

Many of the seaside cafes and bars in Hydra Town have sun decks with stairs right into the crystal clear cobalt sea.

There’s no better way to spend a day on Hydra than sipping a cocktail by the sea and watching the yachts come and go between refreshing swims. We spent most of our days on Hydra doing exactly that at places like Hydrineta and Spilia Beach Bar.

Spilia Beach Bar Hydra Greek Islands
Spilia Beach Bar Hydra

But if you’re craving an actual beach versus a ladder into the sea, there are several great beaches a short hike or easy taxi boat ride away:

  • Vlychos Beach – A peaceful pebbled beach about a 30-minute walk or short water taxi ride from Hydra Town. It’s surrounded by traditional stone houses and offers crystal-clear waters. There’s also a taverna nearby for lunch.
  • Kamini Beach – Just a 10-minute walk from Hydra Town, this small, family-friendly spot is great for a quick dip. 
  • Agios Nikolaos Beach – Often considered the best beach on Hydra, Agios Nikolaos is accessible only by water taxi. It’s more secluded, with a mix of pebbles and sand, and offers turquoise waters perfect for swimming. There are basic facilities here, including umbrellas and chairs.
  • Bisti Beach – Popular for snorkeling and diving, this organized beach is surrounded by pine trees and dramatic cliffs. Accessible by water taxi, it’s a favorite for visitors looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Other Things to Do on Hydra

But there’s more to Hydra than just diving into that stunning turquoise sea. Here are a few more fun things to do:

Explore Hydra Town – Hydra Town’s picturesque harbor is the island’s main hub. Wander its narrow, cobblestone streets, lined with 18th-century mansions, boutique shops, and art galleries.

Hydra Island Greek Islands
The elegant mansions of Hydra

Stop for coffee or a meal at one of the harbor-front cafes and watch the comings and goings of ferries and water taxis. The harbor front comes alive at night with restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. 

Visit the Historical Archives Museum of Hydra – Dive into the island’s maritime history and its pivotal role in the Greek War of Independence. The museum displays documents, artifacts, and portraits of Hydra’s naval heroes. 

Hike the Island’s Trails – Thanks to a lack of motor vehicles, Hydra is a hiker’s paradise, with scenic trails offering breathtaking views of the Saronic Gulf. Popular routes include the hike to Profitis Ilias Monastery, perched high above the town, and the coastal path to Vlychos and Plakes.

Watch the Sunset – Hydra’s sunsets are magical. Head to Castello, a chic beach bar in Kamini, or simply find a quiet spot along the harbor to soak in the golden hour.

Sunset Cat Hyrda Island Greece
The cats of Hydra

So add Hydra to your summer Bucket List! 

Hydra’s car-free serenity creates a special kind of magic that’s increasingly rare in our fast-paced world. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, an authentic Greek island experience, or simply a break from the modern world’s constant hum, Hydra delivers in spades. 

And if you’re looking for more terrific Greek Islands to visit…start here:

Sparkling Symi is the Best Greek Island You’ve Never Heard Of

Greece’s #1 Spiritual Destination is Also the Perfect Off-the-Radar Island for Your Next Vacation

Stunning Koufonisia Island is Where Greeks Vacation (& You’ve Never Heard of It)

5 Reasons to Fall in Love with Paros Greece in 2025

Greek Island Showdown: Naxos or Paros – Which one is BEST for You?

3 Things to Know About a Crete to Santorini Day Trip

Image of mega yacht arriving in hydra island greece past a seaside cafe
Pin it for later!