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

Should you visit Hydra or Bellagio?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Bellagio? 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.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a beautiful, impressive, and glamorous town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and shopping.

Hydra and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Hydra or Bellagio?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Bellagio are popular destinations, Hydra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Bellagio attracts visitors for its food. Bellagio is more touristy than Hydra and is known for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. 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 Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options 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.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.


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

Hydra
Bellagio

Bellagio is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bellagio makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

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 Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Hydra
Bellagio

It's hard to distinguish whether Hydra or Bellagio 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.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is Hydra or Bellagio Better for Resorts?

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra is a island with good options for its resorts. However, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio is not a resort destination.


Is Hydra or Bellagio Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra is a island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bellagio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Bellagio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Bellagio Better for Beaches?

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra is a island with good options for the beache. However, Bellagio is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hydra. 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.

Bellagio is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Bellagio Better for its Old Town?

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra is a great destination for its old town. However, Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

Hydra is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Bellagio does not have a historic old town.


Is Hydra or Bellagio Better for Hiking?

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bellagio is not a hiking destination.

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.

Bellagio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Bellagio?

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Hydra or Bellagio Better for Families?

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio offers lots of family activities. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.


Is Hydra or Bellagio Better for Couples?

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Hydra is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Bellagio is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.

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

Hydra
Bellagio

Bellagio 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 Bellagio, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.

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

Is Hydra or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Hydra
Bellagio

Hydra and Bellagio 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.

Bellagio is a very easy island to get around on foot. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are best explored on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hydra or Bellagio to fill your time. In our opinion, Hydra has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hydra than Bellagio. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


  • How many days in Hydra or Bellagio? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hydra 1-2 
    Bellagio 1-2

One day in Hydra or Bellagio?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Bellagio, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this opulent small town offers. 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 Bellagio?

Hydra is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hydra, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bellagio. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Bellagio?

Hydra is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bellagio is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the small town destination of Bellagio. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Hydra or Bellagio?

Hydra is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

You'll find shopping and food around the opulent small town of Bellagio. 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 G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Bellagio or Hydra?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hydra is €97, while the average daily cost in Bellagio is €222. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hydra and Bellagio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hydra 51
    Bellagio 166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hydra 102
    Bellagio 332
Compare Hotels in Hydra and Bellagio

Looking for a hotel in Hydra or Bellagio? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hydra


Hotels in Bellagio


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bellagio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hydra 26
    Bellagio 9.02

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bellagio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bellagio:

  • From Bellagio : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $382
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Bellagio: $351

Is it cheaper to fly into Hydra or Bellagio?

Prices for flights to both Bellagio and Hydra change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hydra 30
    Bellagio 46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bellagio

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bellagio.

  • Como Lake: cooking class Italian style in Bellagio: $191
  • Bellagio Food Tour + Villa Melzi: $209
  • Cooking Class with Lunch with the chef: $534

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hydra 11
    Bellagio -

Tours and Activities in Bellagio

Here are a few actual costs in Bellagio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Shared Boat Tour from Bellagio: $43
  • Lake Como: Villa Melzi Garden Entry Ticket with Ferries: $71
  • Lake Como: Villa Carlotta Entry Tickets with Ferries: $78
  • Lake Como: Small-Group Kayak Tour: $93
  • From Milan: Como & Bellagio Guided Tour & Lake Como Cruise: $106
  • Lake Como Sunset Boat Tour with Prosecco: $118
  • Lake Como: Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour: $123
  • From Milan: Bellagio & Lake Como Small Group Tour: $127
  • Vintage Wooden Boat Rowing Experience on Lake Como: $187
  • Bellagio Walking Tour + Lunch + Villa Balbianello: $315
  • Exclusive Lake Como Boat Tour From Bellagio: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hydra 11
    Bellagio 19


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


Which is Bigger, Hydra or Bellagio?

Bellagio has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Bellagio, 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 Bellagio?

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 Bellagio in the Summer?

Both Bellagio 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 Bellagio for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Bellagio. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Bellagio averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Bellagio. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bellagio. In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hydra 27°C (81°F) 
    Bellagio 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Bellagio in the Autumn?

Both Bellagio 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bellagio because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun.

Bellagio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Bellagio. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hydra 19°C (67°F) 
    Bellagio 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Bellagio in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Bellagio in the winter. Hydra is much warmer than Bellagio in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Bellagio fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hydra 10°C (51°F) 
    Bellagio 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Bellagio in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Hydra is a little warmer than Bellagio. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bellagio 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 Bellagio. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bellagio. Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Bellagio. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hydra 16°C (60°F) 
    Bellagio 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bellagio and Hydra

Hydra Bellagio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)