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

Should you visit Hydra or Bamberg?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Bamberg? 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 charming, accessible, and quaint island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a scenic, storybook, and historic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Bamberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Bamberg are both popular with visitors, Hydra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hydra is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Bamberg is known for its historical sights. Hydra is popular for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also home to The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Bamberg is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

How is Hydra different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hydra can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.

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

Foodies will find both Hydra and Bamberg both to be good destinations.

Hydra offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Hydra or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Hydra or Bamberg has a better nightlife scene.

Hydra is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

Bamberg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Hydra or Bamberg Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Bamberg is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Bamberg is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Bamberg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bamberg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hydra has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Bamberg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Bamberg Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Bamberg is not a beach destination.

Hydra has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Bamberg is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Bamberg 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 Bamberg is revered around the world. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

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 Bamberg Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Hydra is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Bamberg?

Hydra is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Hydra or Bamberg Better for Families?

Hydra is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Bamberg is a family-friendly island. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Hydra or Bamberg Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Bamberg make for a fantastic 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, Bamberg has plenty to offer. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

Is Hydra or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

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 Bamberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bamberg 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 Bamberg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

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

Is Hydra or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Hydra and Bamberg both are fantastic 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.

Bamberg is a very easy island to get around on foot. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hydra and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bamberg than in Hydra. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

Families should spend more time in Hydra than Bamberg. 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 Bamberg. 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 Bamberg 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 Bamberg.

One day in Hydra or Bamberg?

Hydra is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bamberg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hydra or Bamberg?

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hydra has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Bamberg?

Hydra is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bamberg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Bamberg. 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 Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Since Hydra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Bamberg?

Bamberg has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Bamberg, 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 Bamberg?

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 Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Bamberg. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Hydra is a little warmer than Bamberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Bamberg. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Bamberg. Many visitors come to Hydra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Hydra is much warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Bamberg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bamberg. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bamberg can be very cold. In January, Hydra is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Hydra during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

Hydra is much warmer than Bamberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Bamberg. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Hydra