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

Should you visit Hydra or Korcula?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Korcula? 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 quaint, picturesque, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Korcula

Korcula is a historic, scenic, and laid back island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hydra and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Hydra or Korcula?

Both Korcula and Hydra have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its museums, resorts, shopping, and small town charm, while Korcula attracts visitors for its food and beaches. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Korcula is famous for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting.

How is Hydra different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra
Korcula

Hydra is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hydra. 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 Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.


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

Hydra
Korcula

Korcula 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, Korcula makes for a great culinary experience. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

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 Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Hydra
Korcula

It's hard to distinguish whether Hydra or Korcula has a better nightlife scene.

Hydra is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Hydra or Korcula Better for Resorts?

Hydra
Korcula

Hydra is a island with good options for its resorts. However, Korcula 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.

Korcula is not a resort destination.


Is Hydra or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra
Korcula

There's nice scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Hydra and Korcula.

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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Is Hydra or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Hydra
Korcula

Korcula is a great destination for its beaches. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Korcula is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Many people head to Hydra to enjoy the beach. 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.

Is Hydra or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Hydra
Korcula

It's fun to wander around the excellent old towns in both Hydra and Korcula.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.


Is Hydra or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Hydra
Korcula

If you're looking to go hiking, Hydra and Korcula both have excellent 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 Korcula for the hiking trails. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Korcula?

Hydra
Korcula

Hydra is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Hydra is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Korcula has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Hydra or Korcula Better for Families?

Hydra
Korcula

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Korcula.

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, Korcula is very family-friendly. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.


Is Hydra or Korcula Better for Couples?

Hydra
Korcula

Hydra is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Hydra is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Korcula is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.

Is Hydra or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hydra
Korcula

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

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 Korcula Better for Students?

Hydra
Korcula

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

Korcula is popular with students. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

Hydra is not popular with students.


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

Hydra
Korcula

Korcula 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 Korcula, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

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

Is Hydra or Korcula a more walkable city?

Hydra
Korcula

Hydra is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable island. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

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

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Korcula?

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

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


  • How many days in Hydra or Korcula? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hydra 1-2 
    Korcula 2-3

One day in Hydra or Korcula?

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 Korcula, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula. 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 Korcula?

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.

Korcula is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Korcula. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Korcula?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the scenic destination of Korcula. Most people come for the beaches. 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Korcula 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 Korcula is €90. 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 Korcula in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hydra 51
    Korcula 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hydra 102
    Korcula 116
Compare Hotels in Hydra and Korcula

Looking for a hotel in Hydra or Korcula? 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 Korcula


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: Korcula Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hydra 26
    Korcula 1.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Korcula

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Korcula:

  • Island Stupe / Moro Beach Transfer: $26
  • Private One Way Transfer from Orebić to Dubrovnik: $205

Is it cheaper to fly into Hydra or Korcula?

Prices for flights to both Korcula 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
    Korcula 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Korcula

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Korcula.

  • Private Half-Day Cooking Workshop Gastronomy in Korcula: $87
  • Korcula walking tour and dinner for Food Lovers: $227
  • Korčula: Island Yacht Cruise with Wine Tasting and Dinner: $321

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hydra 11
    Korcula 11

Tours and Activities in Korcula

Here are a few actual costs in Korcula for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Semi-Submarine Tour: $21
  • Private Korcula Eco Tour with Guide: $27
  • Korčula: 3 Island Hop-on Hop-off Tour Daily Ticket: $32
  • 3 Islands Tour - HopOnHopOff - Daily Ticket : $33
  • Half day Lago di Korcula Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour: $64
  • Bits of History - Half day kayak Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Lumbarda Sunset and Evening Kayaking Experience: $65
  • Lumbarda: Half-Day Kayaking and History Tour: $66
  • Lumbarda: Sunset Kayak Tour: $66
  • Korčula for Early Risers and Coffee Lovers Private Walking Tour: $70
  • 1 Hour Private Walking Tour in Korcula : $75
  • Korčula & Pelješac: Wine & Culture Experience from Dubrovnik: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hydra 11
    Korcula 9.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Korcula

Also in Korcula, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting at Black Island Winery: $30
  • Slurp of Grk Wine Tour: $91
  • Day Tour from Dubrovnik - Korčula and Pelješac Wine Tasting: $92
  • Wine Tour Korcula: $98
  • Half-Day Bike Tour in Lumbarda with Wine Tasting: $104
  • Korcula Buggy Safari With Wine Tasting: $107
  • Korcula Bike & Wine Tour: $110
  • Private Korcula wine tour and tasting : $130
  • Wine tour Korčula - private tour: $145
  • Enchanted Forest Hike and Wine Tasting Private Tour: $158
  • Korcula Island Sightseeing Tour Including Wine Tasting: $229


When comparing the travel costs between Hydra and Korcula, 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 Korcula Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hydra or Korcula?

Korcula has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Korcula, 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula in the Summer?

Both Korcula and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hydra in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Korcula for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Hydra is around the same temperature as Korcula. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Korcula averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Korcula. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hydra 27°C (81°F) 
    Korcula 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Korcula in the Autumn?

Both Korcula and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Korcula because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hydra is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Korcula. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hydra 19°C (67°F) 
    Korcula 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Korcula in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Korcula. The winter months attract visitors to Hydra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

Hydra is a little warmer than Korcula in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Korcula during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Korcula. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hydra 10°C (51°F) 
    Korcula 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Korcula in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Korcula. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Korcula for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hydra is around the same temperature as Korcula. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Korcula averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Korcula. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Korcula. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hydra 16°C (60°F) 
    Korcula 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Korcula and Hydra

Hydra Korcula
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)