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

Should you visit Hydra or Fussen?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Fussen? 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Fussen

Fussen is a picturesque, quintesential, and storybook town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Hydra and Fussen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Fussen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Fussen are popular destinations, Hydra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Fussen attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. 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. Fussen is famous for its romantic atmosphere and its proximity to the Neuschwanstein Castle.

How is Hydra different from Fussen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra is great for its historical sights. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Fussen. Most people stopping in town are on their way to or from the Neuschwanstein Castle. It is one of the most famous castles in Germany as many people say it was the inspiration for the Disney Castle.

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

Foodies will find both Hydra and Fussen both to be nice 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.

Fussen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many restaurants embrace the fairytale setting and offer their own storybook atmosphere. This is a well worn tourist path, so you'll find a number of restaurants serving traditional dishes specifically for the tourists.

Is Hydra or Fussen Better for Nightlife?

Hydra is adequate for nightlife and partying. However, Fussen is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Fussen is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Hydra or Fussen Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Fussen 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.

Fussen is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Fussen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Fussen 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.

Fussen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Fussen Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a popular place for the beache. However, Fussen 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.

Fussen is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Fussen Better for its Old Town?

Fussen 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 Fussen is revered around the world. The small old town is filled with classic German charm.

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 Fussen Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Hydra and Fussen 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 Fussen for the hiking trails. The countryside offers a number of beautiful trails that pass through forests and meadows. You'll also find waterfalls and nice viewpoints. The hikes are very well marked with excellent signage.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Fussen?

Hydra is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Fussen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Hydra is well-known for its shopping. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Fussen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hydra or Fussen Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hydra is very family-friendly. 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.

Fussen is a family-friendly place to visit. Neuschwanstein Castle is not far away, and it's a big part of why some families may stay in this small town. Kids will also enjoy wandering around the old town and grabbing ice cream. Just outside of town is Lechfall, which is a manmade waterfall and a little further is the Treetop Walkway. The surrounding area also has a lot of natural beauty as well as giant alpine slides.

Is Hydra or Fussen Better for Couples?

Hydra is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

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.

Fussen is a very popular place to visit for couples. It sits at the end of Germany's Romantic Road and the small town does not disappoint. For many, it's a stopover while visiting the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, but the surrounding countryside is also beautiful and worth exploring.

Is Hydra or Fussen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Fussen. For its small size, the town has a number of hostels to choose from. Prices are reasonable, so this is a nice option for backpackers passing through the area.

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

Fussen 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 Fussen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through the region including buses to Neuschwanstein Castle.

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

Is Hydra or Fussen a more walkable city?

Hydra and Fussen 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.

Fussen is a very easy island to get around on foot. It's easy to walk from one side of the old town to the other in half an hour.

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

Should I spend more time in Fussen or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Fussen?

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

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

One day in Hydra or Fussen?

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 Fussen, many people enjoy the food and museums that this storybook small town offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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 Fussen?

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 Fussen. 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 Fussen?

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.

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

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 picturesque small town of Fussen. 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 Oktoberfest Tours in Germany, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Fussen?

Fussen has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Fussen, 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.