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

Should you visit Hydra or Dijon?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Dijon? 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.

Dijon

Dijon is a relaxing, historical, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hydra and Dijon: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Hydra or Dijon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Dijon are both popular with visitors, Hydra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hydra is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Dijon is known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities. 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. Dijon is popular for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards.

How is Hydra different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra
Dijon

Both Hydra and Dijon have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hydra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Dijon specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.


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

Hydra
Dijon

Dijon 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, Dijon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

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 Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Hydra
Dijon

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

Dijon has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

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 Dijon Better for Resorts?

Hydra
Dijon

Hydra is a popular place for its resorts. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon is not a resort destination.


Is Hydra or Dijon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra
Dijon

Hydra is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Dijon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Dijon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Dijon Better for Beaches?

Hydra
Dijon

Hydra is a popular place for its beaches. However, Dijon is not a beach destination.

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.

Dijon is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Dijon Better for its Old Town?

Hydra
Dijon

Hydra is notable for its historic old town. However, Dijon does not have a historic old town.

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.

Dijon does not have a historic old town.


Is Hydra or Dijon Better for Hiking?

Hydra
Dijon

Hydra is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Dijon?

Hydra
Dijon

Hydra is notable for shopping. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Hydra or Dijon Better for Families?

Hydra
Dijon

Hydra is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Dijon is a family-friendly island. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.


Is Hydra or Dijon Better for Couples?

Hydra
Dijon

Hydra is terrific for romance. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Dijon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

Is Hydra or Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hydra
Dijon

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dijon. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

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 Dijon Better for Students?

Hydra
Dijon

Dijon is a popular place for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

Dijon is popular with students. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

Hydra is not popular with students.


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

Hydra
Dijon

Dijon 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 Dijon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

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

Is Hydra or Dijon a more walkable city?

Hydra
Dijon

Hydra is terrific for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Hydra or Dijon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dijon 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 Dijon.

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


  • How many days in Hydra or Dijon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hydra 1-2 
    Dijon 2-4

One day in Hydra or Dijon?

Even though Hydra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Dijon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxing destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city 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 Dijon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dijon. 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 Dijon?

Hydra is a fun place to experience. Hydra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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

A week in Hydra or Dijon?

Hydra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Dijon. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Dijon 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 Dijon is €153. 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 Dijon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hydra 51
    Dijon 80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hydra 102
    Dijon 160
Compare Hotels in Hydra and Dijon

Looking for a hotel in Hydra or Dijon? 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 Dijon


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: Dijon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hydra 26
    Dijon 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dijon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dijon:

  • 2 Hour Private Tour of Dijon - with Hotel Transfer: $427

Is it cheaper to fly into Hydra or Dijon?

Prices for flights to both Dijon 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
    Dijon 48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hydra 11
    Dijon 25

Tours and Activities in Dijon

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dijon are as follows:

  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour through the City: $5.99
  • More than just Mustard: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Dijon: $5.99
  • Dijon : City Walking Tour with Audio Guide (Office Tourisme): $7.49
  • City Tour with a French-speaking Guide: $13
  • Dijon City Tour : Highlights Tour with Gourmet Break: $60
  • Bike tour and Tastings in the Vineyards of Burgundy: $71
  • Half Day Tour of the Cote de Nuits Vineyards from Dijon: $97
  • Small-Group Full-Day Tour of Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune Vineyards and Beaune Historical District: $146
  • DIJON : Private Walking Tour: $176
  • Private city tour - Dijon the essential - 2h: $235
  • E-bike Burgundy day tour, tastings & lunch from Beaune or Dijon: $240
  • Private guided tour - Dijon - 2h: $240

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hydra 11
    Dijon 29

Sample the Local Flavors in Dijon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dijon:

  • ✨ Masterclass Chardonnay - Wine tasting in Dijon : $37
  • Chardonnay Masterclass - Wine tasting in Dijon: $38
  • Pinot Noir Masterclass - Wine tasting in Dijon: $38
  • Cheese and Burgundy Wine Tasting Workshop: $48
  • Wine Tasting Workshop with Tastings: $48
  • La Cave du Palais Burgundy Wine Tasting Experience: $59
  • Bike Tour with Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting: $66
  • Small-Group Burgundy Tour with Wine Tastings from Dijon: $74
  • Small group Burgundy tour of Beaune with Wine Tasting from Dijon: $95


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


Which is Bigger, Hydra or Dijon?

Dijon has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Dijon, 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 Dijon?

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 Dijon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Dijon. The summer months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dijon this time of year.

Hydra is a little warmer than Dijon in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Dijon fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dijon this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Dijon. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hydra 27°C (81°F) 
    Dijon 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Dijon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Dijon. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dijon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hydra is much warmer than Dijon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Dijon averages at about 13°C (55°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 Dijon. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Dijon. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hydra 19°C (67°F) 
    Dijon 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Dijon in the Winter?

Both Dijon and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dijon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Dijon can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Hydra is generally much warmer than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Dijon. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hydra 10°C (51°F) 
    Dijon 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Dijon in the Spring?

Both Dijon and Hydra during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hydra in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dijon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Hydra is a little warmer than Dijon in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Dijon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Dijon. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hydra 16°C (60°F) 
    Dijon 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Dijon and Hydra

Hydra Dijon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 11°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)