A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Hydra vs. Delphi for Attractions, Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Hydra or Delphi?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Delphi? 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Delphi

Delphi is a historic, fascinating, and world-renowned archeological site. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and museums.

Hydra and Delphi: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Hydra or Delphi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hydra than Delphi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hydra is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Delphi is more popular for its museums. Delphi is more touristy than Hydra and is popular for its world renowned archeological ruins and its connection to Greek mythology. Hydra is well known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Also, Hydra is famous for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary.

How is Hydra different from Delphi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra
Delphi

Delphi is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Delphi that are not to be missed. This is one of the most popular archeological sites in Greece. You will find the Temple of Apollo and most of the monuments are dedicated to this God. There is an Ancient Theatre, an Ancient Stadium, as well as an Archaeological Museum. There's also the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea and the Treasury of the Athenians.

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.


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

Hydra
Delphi

Foodies will find both Hydra and Delphi both to be notable 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.

Delphi has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of restaurant options in the area, some of them offering spectacular views. There are traditional Greek restaurants as well as modern cafes with international cuisine. You'll find all of the standard Greek staples such as gyros, lamb chops, and seafood.

Is Hydra or Delphi Better for Nightlife?

Hydra
Delphi

Hydra is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Delphi is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Delphi for the nightlife. This is a quiet town that shuts down in the evening. If you're looking for more of a nightlife scene, head to nearby Arachova, which is just a 10 minute drive away.

Is Hydra or Delphi Better for Resorts?

Hydra
Delphi

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

Hydra has a few great resort options. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Delphi is not a resort destination.


Is Hydra or Delphi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra
Delphi

Hydra is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Delphi 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.

Delphi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Delphi Better for Beaches?

Hydra
Delphi

Hydra is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Delphi 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.

Delphi is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Delphi Better for its Old Town?

Hydra
Delphi

Hydra is great for its historic old town charm. However, Delphi does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Hydra to see the historical old town. 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.

Delphi does not have a historic old town.


Is Hydra or Delphi Better for Hiking?

Hydra
Delphi

Hydra is great for hiking. However, Delphi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Hydra for the hiking trails. 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.

Delphi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Delphi?

Hydra
Delphi

Hydra is great for its shopping areas. However, Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Hydra. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hydra or Delphi Better for Families?

Hydra
Delphi

Hydra is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hydra. 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.

Delphi is a family-friendly place to visit. The archeological ruins are world class, and kids who enjoy mythology and history will love this place. It's the perfect place for kids to let their imagination run wild.


Is Hydra or Delphi Better for Couples?

Hydra
Delphi

Hydra is renowned for couples. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for romance.

Hydra has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Delphi is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination that is a great addition to any couple's itinerary to Greece.

Is Hydra or Delphi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hydra
Delphi

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Delphi. There's a hostel or two in the area, and the prices are reasonable for backpackers and budget 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 Delphi Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hydra
Delphi

Delphi 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 Delphi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel to Delphi from Greece.

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


Is Hydra or Delphi a more walkable city?

Hydra
Delphi

Hydra is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its walkability.

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.

Delphi is very walkable. Both the museum are archeological site are within walking distance of the town. The town is also small enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Delphi or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Delphi?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hydra or Delphi 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 Delphi. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Hydra than Delphi. 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 Delphi. 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 Delphi 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 Delphi? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hydra 1-2 
    Delphi 1-2

One day in Hydra or Delphi?

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 Delphi, many people enjoy the food and museums that this historic destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This archeological site 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 Delphi?

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 Delphi. 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 Delphi?

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.

Delphi is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Delphi. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Delphi?

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 museums and food around the fascinating destination of Delphi. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


Which place is cheaper, Delphi 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 Delphi is €102. 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 Delphi in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hydra 51
    Delphi 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hydra 102
    Delphi 118
Compare Hotels in Hydra and Delphi

Looking for a hotel in Hydra or Delphi? 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 Delphi


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hydra 26
    Delphi 8.57

Is it cheaper to fly into Hydra or Delphi?

Prices for flights to both Delphi 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
    Delphi 36

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hydra 11
    Delphi 11

Tours and Activities in Delphi

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Delphi.

  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in Earth's Navel: $4.68
  • Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.61
  • Audiovisual Self-guided Tour with AR and 3D in Delphi: $7.80
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Guide: $9.80
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Entry Ticket with Audio Tour: $10
  • Delphi Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • Ticket & Audio Tour for Delphi's Oracle. Listen to Ancient Echoes: $13
  • Delphi Archaeological Site and Museum Ticket with AR Audiovisual: $17
  • Self-Guided Virtual Tour Experience from your Home: $17
  • Self-guided Virtual Tour of The Google of the Ancient world: $18
  • Self-guided audio tour in French or English: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hydra 11
    Delphi 13


When comparing the travel costs between Hydra and Delphi, we can see that Delphi is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Hydra or Delphi?

Delphi has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Delphi, 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.