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

Should you visit Hydra or Dubrovnik?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Dubrovnik? 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.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a charming, famous, and cultural coastal town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Hydra and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Dubrovnik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik than Hydra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dubrovnik is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hydra is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and small town charm. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Hydra and is popular for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. Also, Dubrovnik is famous for The Old Town Walls. Hydra is well known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town.

How is Hydra different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Hydra and Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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

Dubrovnik 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, Dubrovnik is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta 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 Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

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

Dubrovnik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Dubrovnik is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

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.

Is Hydra or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dubrovnik is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Snorkeling is an option in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Is Hydra or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Hydra and Dubrovnik are notable choices.

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.

Many people head to Dubrovnik to enjoy the beach. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Is Hydra or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik is revered around the world. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Hydra and Dubrovnik both have high quality 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 Dubrovnik for the hiking trails. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Dubrovnik?

Hydra is a great island for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.

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

Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Hydra or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Dubrovnik.

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, Dubrovnik is very family-friendly. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

Is Hydra or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Dubrovnik make for a first-rate 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, Dubrovnik has plenty to offer. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

Is Hydra or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dubrovnik is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

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

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

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

Is Hydra or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Hydra and Dubrovnik both are first-rate 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.

Dubrovnik is a very easy island to get around on foot. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Dubrovnik?

In either Hydra or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Hydra because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Hydra. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dubrovnik, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Hydra or Dubrovnik?

Even though Hydra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hydra has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This coastal 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 Dubrovnik?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Hydra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dubrovnik is a fun place to experience. In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hydra or Dubrovnik?

Hydra is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Dubrovnik. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Hydra and Dubrovnik, we can see that Hydra 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 Dubrovnik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik in the Summer?

Both Dubrovnik and Hydra during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In July, Hydra is generally around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Dubrovnik. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Dubrovnik. 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. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hydra is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Dubrovnik. Many travelers come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Hydra is a little warmer than Dubrovnik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hydra in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

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

In April, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Hydra