A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hydra vs. Amalfi for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Hydra or Amalfi?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Hydra or Amalfi? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hydra

Hydra is a quaint, picturesque, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a charming, picturesque, and stunning town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hydra and Amalfi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Amalfi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amalfi. Although Hydra and Amalfi are popular destinations, Amalfi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amalfi is very popular for its food, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while Hydra attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, shopping, and small town charm. Amalfi is more touristy than Hydra and is known for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. It is also well known for the dramatic coastline. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town.

How is Hydra different from Amalfi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Amalfi and Hydra. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hydra or Amalfi?

Hydra is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hydra. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Amalfi. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is the Food Better in Hydra or Amalfi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Amalfi is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Amalfi is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around town.

Hydra has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Is Hydra or Amalfi Better for Nightlife?

Amalfi is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Amalfi know how to have a good time. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Amalfi Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a island with good options for its resorts. However, Amalfi is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Hydra makes a nice vacation spot. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Amalfi is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Amalfi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's nice scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Hydra and Amalfi.

Hydra has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Amalfi. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

Is Hydra or Amalfi Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Hydra and Amalfi are nice choices.

Hydra is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Many people head to Amalfi to enjoy the beach. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Is Hydra or Amalfi Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the excellent old towns in both Hydra and Amalfi.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Amalfi. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

Is Hydra or Amalfi Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Hydra and Amalfi both have excellent trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Many visitors go to Amalfi for the hiking trails. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Amalfi?

Hydra is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Hydra is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Amalfi has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

Is Hydra or Amalfi Better for Families?

Hydra is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hydra is a very kid-friendly island. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

Amalfi offers lots of family activities. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is Hydra or Amalfi Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Amalfi make for a terrific place to visit.

Hydra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

For those traveling as a couple, Amalfi has plenty to offer. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

Is Hydra or Amalfi Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amalfi is a popular place for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Amalfi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Amalfi a more walkable city?

Hydra and Amalfi both are terrific when exploring on foot.

Getting around Hydra on foot is easy. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

Amalfi is a very easy island to get around on foot. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Hydra Worth Visiting? and Is Amalfi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amalfi or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Amalfi?

Both Hydra and Amalfi have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amalfi than in Hydra. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amalfi.

Families should spend more time in Hydra than Amalfi. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hydra, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amalfi than Hydra if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Amalfi.

One day in Hydra or Amalfi?

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Amalfi, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this stunning destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Hydra or Amalfi?

Hydra is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amalfi. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hydra or Amalfi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Amalfi is a fun place to experience. In Amalfi, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hydra or Amalfi?

Hydra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Amalfi, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this stunning destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hydra and Amalfi, we can see that Amalfi is more expensive. And not only is Hydra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hydra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hydra and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Amalfi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amalfi than you might in Hydra.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hydra Expensive? and Is Amalfi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Amalfi?

Amalfi has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Amalfi, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Hydra or Amalfi?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hydra or Amalfi in the Summer?

Both Amalfi and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hydra in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Amalfi for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Amalfi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Amalfi averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Amalfi. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Amalfi during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Amalfi. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Amalfi in the Autumn?

Both Amalfi and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Amalfi because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Amalfi. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Amalfi. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

Amalfi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Amalfi. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Amalfi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Amalfi. The winter months attract visitors to Hydra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amalfi this time of year.

Hydra is a little warmer than Amalfi in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Amalfi fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Amalfi during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Amalfi receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Amalfi. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Amalfi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Amalfi. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Amalfi for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hydra is a little warmer than Amalfi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Amalfi averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Amalfi. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Amalfi. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amalfi and Hydra