A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hydra vs. Annecy for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Hydra or Annecy?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Annecy? 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 picturesque, charming, and accessible island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Annecy

Annecy is a quaint, storybook, and charming alpine town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Annecy?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Annecy are popular destinations, Hydra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Annecy attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Hydra and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also well known for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary.

How is Hydra different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Annecy 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 Annecy?

Hydra is a great island for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Hydra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

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

Annecy 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, Annecy is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

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 Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Annecy is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Annecy has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

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 Annecy Better for Resorts?

Hydra is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Annecy 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.

Annecy is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Annecy Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Annecy Better for Beaches?

Hydra is very good for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Hydra to enjoy the beach. 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.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The historic old town of Annecy is revered around the world. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Is Hydra or Annecy Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Hydra and Annecy both have great 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 Annecy for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Annecy?

Hydra is a great island for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Hydra is well-known for its shopping. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Many visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Hydra or Annecy Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Annecy.

Hydra is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Is Hydra or Annecy Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Annecy make for a world-class 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, Annecy has plenty to offer. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Is Hydra or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

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

Annecy 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 Annecy, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

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

Is Hydra or Annecy a more walkable city?

Hydra is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its ease of walking around.

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

Annecy is a very walkable destination. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Hydra or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Annecy due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

Families should spend more time in Hydra than Annecy. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Hydra than Annecy. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hydra that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy 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 Annecy.

One day in Hydra or Annecy?

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 Annecy, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this storybook small town offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This alpine 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 Annecy?

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 Annecy. 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 Annecy?

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.

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the small town destination of Annecy. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Annecy?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the storybook small town of Annecy. 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 plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hydra and Annecy, we can see that Annecy 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 Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy 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 Annecy Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Annecy?

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Annecy, 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 Annecy?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hydra or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Hydra during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Annecy. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Annecy. Many travelers come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Annecy in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Annecy. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Annecy. Many visitors come to Hydra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Annecy for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Annecy can be very cold during winter. Hydra is much warmer than Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Annecy. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Annecy in the Spring?

Both Annecy and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Annecy because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hydra is a little warmer than Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Annecy. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Hydra