Just 37 nautical miles from Athens’ Piraeus port, the island of Hydra is a hugely popular destination for relaxed holidaymakers and keen sailors. Named ‘hydra’ — meaning ‘water’ — as a nod to its natural hot springs, the island rises dramatically out of the Aegean Sea, and was once a prosperous trading centre with links across the Mediterranean. Most of the best places to stay in Hydra are clustered around the island’s picturesque port, perfect for making the most of time on both land and sea.

With historic connections to Venice and later the Ottoman Empire, Hydra was also a 19th-century boatbuilding hub. The old town is now home to a number of ship captains’ mansions, some of which have been transformed into charming heritage hotels. The Maritime Academy is a local landmark, as are the Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion and the Tetsis House & Atelier. Hydra has been popular with artists since the 1950s, and you’ll find galleries, markets and studios aplenty, as well as a glamorous summer crowd in the trendy port-side bars and tavernas.

Venture beyond the old town to follow walking and cycling trails to whitewashed churches and monasteries, or to travel between little hamlets by horse or donkey. Out on the water, there are ample opportunities to swim, sail and kayak. Amble along to the harbour for sundowners, or kick back on the pretty terraces at one of the best places to stay in Hydra before tucking in to a delicious seafood dinner.

The Best Places to Stay in Hydra

For Romance

• Bratsera Hotel is one of the very few hotels on the island with its own pool. Whitewashed bedrooms are housed in a historic builting, with beamed ceilings, stone walls and handwoven textiles. Cosy beds are topped with white linens, delicious breakfasts are served, and the flower-filled courtyard is ideal for unwinding. A couples' favourite.
• Hotel Orloff, built by an emissary of Catherine the Great in 1796, has beautiful period features and antique furnishings in whitewashed guest rooms with blue-painted woodwork. Rooms are set around a lemon-scented garden courtyard, where you can tuck into superb breakfast buffets. A real refuge for romantics.
• Cotommatae 1810 is another intimate boutique hotel, with five suites and two double bedrooms. Expect high beamed ceilings, exposed stone walls, four-poster beds with gauzy white drapes, and lovely shaded terraces. A heritage gem with a long history and a tranquil, romantic atmosphere.

For Families

• Hotel Leto, a grand dame of a hotel with classic bedrooms, offers interconnecting options for families. Days begin with big buffet breakfasts, and there's a cosy lounge with fireplace for cooler evenings. Well-situated for making the most of a holiday in Hydra.
• Hydra Hotel lays claim to the best view in the village, from its perch high above the harbour. The two-bedroom suite is ideal for families, who will also appreciate the kitchenette. Simple interiors are decorated in cool whites, light blues and greys. Friendly and relaxing.

For Affordable Charm

• Hotel Miranda, originally built for a sea captain in 1810, has attracted arty types since the 1960s and has the guestbook evidence to prove it! A charming historic hotel offering very reasonable rates, it's brilliant for heritage buffs and art aficionados. Lovely and laid-back.
• Phaedra Hotel, housed in a restored tapestry factory, promises pretty rooftop views from the shaded breakfast terrace with basking cats and leafy plants. Rooms feel classic and airy, with wrought-iron beds and blue-grey painted windowframes. A very reasonably priced choice for keen explorers.
• Hotel Hydroussa, set just 100 metres from the quay in a square lined with lemon trees, has unfussy guest rooms with en-suite bathrooms and rooftop views. Simple breakfasts of local produce are served in the courtyard each morning. A budget-friendly spot.
• Hotel Sophia, run by two sisters, is reputedly the first hotel to have opened on Hydra. All six guest rooms have sea-facing balconies, perfect for watching the bustle of Hydra port just outside. Homemade breakfasts of island ingredients are wonderful. Charming, historic and fairly priced.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Athens International Airport, and hop aboard a ferry from Athens' Piraeus port to Hydra in around 90 minutes.
• There's a ban on motor vehicles in Hydra, so you'll find it easiest to get around the island by bicycle, horseback or boat.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 25 - 30°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in nearby Kea.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Greece.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Hydra