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

Should you visit Hydra or Marseille?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Marseille? 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Hydra and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Marseille?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hydra than Marseille, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hydra is better known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and small town charm, while Marseille is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Hydra is well known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Also, Hydra is famous for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Marseille is well known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Hydra different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hydra can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marseille 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, Marseille is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

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 Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Marseille is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

People head to Marseille just to party. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

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 Marseille Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Marseille is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a few great resort options. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Marseille is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Marseille Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Marseille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hydra has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Marseille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Marseille Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Hydra and Marseille 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 Marseille to enjoy the beach. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Is Hydra or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Marseille 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 Marseille is revered around the world. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

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 Marseille Better for Hiking?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Marseille?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Marseille 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.

Marseille is well-known for its shopping. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Is Hydra or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Hydra does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Marseille. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Hydra does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Hydra or Marseille Better for Families?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hydra. 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.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Hydra or Marseille Better for Couples?

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

Hydra has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Marseille frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Is Hydra or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Marseille. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

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 Marseille Better for Students?

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

Marseille is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Marseille 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 Marseille, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

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

Is Hydra or Marseille a more walkable city?

Hydra is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Marseille is very walkable. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Marseille?

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

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

One day in Hydra or Marseille?

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 Marseille, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant 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 Marseille?

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 Marseille. 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 Marseille?

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.

Marseille is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Marseille. 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 Marseille?

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 nightlife and food around the vibrant destination of Marseille. 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 Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Marseille, 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 Marseille?

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 Marseille in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Marseille. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Marseille in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. 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 Marseille. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Marseille. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Marseille in the Autumn?

Both Marseille and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hydra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Hydra is a little warmer than Marseille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marseille during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Marseille. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Marseille in the Winter?

Both Marseille and Hydra during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Marseille because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Hydra is much warmer than Marseille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hydra in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Marseille averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marseille. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Marseille. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Marseille in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Marseille. The spring months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

In April, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Marseille. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marseille and Hydra