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

Should you visit Hydra or Graz?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Graz? 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.

Graz

Graz is a beautiful, medieval, and cultural city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hydra and Graz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Graz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Graz are popular destinations, Hydra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Graz attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and historical sights. 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. Graz is famous for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture.

How is Hydra different from Graz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Hydra and Graz 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 Graz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

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

Graz is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Graz makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

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 Graz Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Graz know how to have a good time. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

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 Graz Better for Resorts?

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

Graz is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Graz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Graz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Graz Better for Beaches?

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

Graz is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Graz Better for its Old Town?

Graz 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 Graz is revered around the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

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 Graz Better for Hiking?

Hydra is great for hiking. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Graz?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Graz and Hydra.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Graz is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Is Hydra or Graz Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Graz.

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, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

Is Hydra or Graz Better for Couples?

Hydra is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Graz is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Is Hydra or Graz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Graz. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

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 Graz Better for Students?

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

Graz is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Graz is a great destination for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Graz. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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

Is Hydra or Graz a more walkable city?

Hydra and Graz 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.

Graz is a very easy island to get around on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Graz or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Graz?

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

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

One day in Hydra or Graz?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

Hydra is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Graz. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Graz?

Hydra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Graz is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Graz. 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 Graz?

Because Hydra is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the medieval destination of Graz. 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Graz?

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

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 Graz in the Summer?

Both Graz 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. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Graz this time of year.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Graz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Graz averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Graz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Graz. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 236 hours of full sun.

Graz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Graz. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Graz receives 126 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Graz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Graz. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Graz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Graz. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Graz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Graz during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 139 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Graz. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Graz receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Graz in the Winter?

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

Graz can get quite cold in the winter. Hydra is much warmer than Graz in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Graz fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Graz. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 95 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets more rain in January than Graz. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Graz receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Graz in the Spring?

Both Graz 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 Graz for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Hydra is a little warmer than Graz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Graz averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Graz during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Graz. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Graz receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Graz and Hydra