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

Should you visit Hydra or Granada?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Granada? 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 accessible, quaint, and picturesque island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Granada

Granada is a charming, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Granada?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Granada 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, shopping, and small town charm, while Granada is known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. 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. Granada is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Hydra different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada 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 Granada that are not to be missed. Many visitors head to Granada specifically to visit the famed Alhambra. The palace and fortress complex will not disappoint. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the palace is filled with intricate details. It's easy to spend hours wandering around. In addition to The Alhambra, the Granada Cathedral is also impressive to visit. If you have kids or extra time to fill, head to Parque de las Ciencias, which is the city's Science Park.

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 Granada? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Hydra and Granada both to be good 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.

Granada has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. It's a very touristy city so restaurants can be hit or miss. There are some amazing local eateries, but you'll also find a number of places with lower quality, overpriced food. Classic local dishes include Churros, Plato Alpujarreño, and Habas con Jamón. Tapas are very popular and many restaurants provide free tapas with drink orders. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants around town.

Is Hydra or Granada Better for Nightlife?

Granada is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Granada know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene kicks off around 11 pm, when most people have finished up a late dinner. There's a laid-back atmosphere with pubs, live music, and dance clubs that stay open late into the night. There are several popular streets at night including Calle Elvira, Calle Reyes Católicos, and the Realejo District.

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 Granada Better for Resorts?

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

Granada is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Granada Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Granada 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.

Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Granada Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a popular place for its beaches. However, Granada 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.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Granada 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 Granada is revered around the world. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

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 Granada Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Hydra and Granada 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 Granada for the hiking trails. Ruta de Los Cahorros is a great hike about 25 minutes outside of Granada that begins in the town of Monochil. It crosses many bridges and weaves through dramatic canyons. There are places where you can wade in the water or check out a hidden waterfall. It's well worth the time and can be reached by taxi or public bus.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Granada?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hydra. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Granada offers some nice shopping areas. The town is filled with souvenir shops and places to buy local items. It's fun to wander through the old town and pop into the many different shops.

Is Hydra or Granada Better for Families?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hydra is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Granada. While the highlight of the city is the Alhambra, kids will likely enjoy exploring the shops or seeing a Flamenco show a bit more. Just outside of town is a wonderful hike, Ruta de Los Cahorros. It begins near the town of Monachil which is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The hike goes through canyons and across bridges and its a wonderful activity for the whole family.

Is Hydra or Granada Better for Couples?

Hydra is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Granada frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It is a beautiful city that is filled with charm and history. Couples will enjoy exploring the Alhambra, taking in a Flamenco show, or sipping Sangria with tapas. The city is incredibly beautiful with stunning views and many great restaurants.

Is Hydra or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Granada. It's a touristy city and it's a popular destination for backpackers as well. There are plenty of hostels around town and the city has social atmosphere with many opportunities to meet other 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 Granada Better for Students?

Granada is a great destination for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

Granada is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a popular study abroad destination. Accommodation for students is usually affordable and this is also a great city for integrating into the local culture. You may even end up with a Spanish roommate.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Granada 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 Granada, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town that many tourists take advantage of. Taxis are also very affordable, so for many visitors, that is an easy option.

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

Is Hydra or Granada a more walkable city?

Hydra is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Granada is a very walkable island. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Granada?

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

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

One day in Hydra or Granada?

Hydra is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Granada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Granada?

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hydra has to offer.

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

Hydra is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Granada is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Granada. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Since Hydra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Granada. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Granada?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Granada, 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 Granada?

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 Granada in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Granada. The summer months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Granada this time of year.

Hydra is around the same temperature as Granada in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Granada fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the summer, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets more rain in July than Granada. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hydra is around the same temperature as Granada. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Granada averages at about 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Granada during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Granada. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Granada in the Winter?

Both Granada and Hydra during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Granada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Hydra is generally cooler than Granada. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Granada fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets less sunshine than Granada. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 171 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Granada. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Granada in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Granada. Many visitors come to Hydra in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Granada for the natural beauty during these months.

Hydra is around the same temperature as Granada in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Granada fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Granada during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Granada. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Granada and Hydra