A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hydra vs. Munich for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Hydra or Munich?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Munich? 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Munich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Hydra or Munich?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Munich than Hydra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Munich is better known for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Hydra is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hydra is well known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Munich is well known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. Also, Munich is famous for The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Hydra different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra
Munich

Both Hydra and Munich have very good 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 Munich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.


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

Hydra
Munich

Munich 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, Munich makes for a great culinary experience. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich Better for Nightlife?

Hydra
Munich

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

People head to Munich just to party. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich Better for Music?

Hydra
Munich

Munich is a world-class destination for live music. However, Hydra is not a live music destination.

Munich is a world class music destination. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Hydra is not a live music destination.


Is Hydra or Munich Better for Resorts?

Hydra
Munich

Hydra is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Munich 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.

Munich is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Munich Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra
Munich

Hydra is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Munich 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.

Munich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Munich Better for Beaches?

Hydra
Munich

Hydra is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Munich is not a beach destination.

Hydra has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Munich is not a beach destination.


Is Hydra or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Hydra
Munich

Hydra is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Hydra to see the historical old town. 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is Hydra or Munich Better for Hiking?

Hydra
Munich

Hydra is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Munich is not a hiking destination.

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.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Munich?

Hydra
Munich

Munich is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Munich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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


Is Hydra or Munich Better for Families?

Hydra
Munich

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Munich.

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, Munich is very family-friendly. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Hydra or Munich Better for Couples?

Hydra
Munich

Hydra is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Munich is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Hydra or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hydra
Munich

Munich is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Munich is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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 Munich Better for Students?

Hydra
Munich

Munich is a world-class destination for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Hydra
Munich

Munich is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Munich can get you around easily. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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

Is Hydra or Munich a more walkable city?

Hydra
Munich

Hydra is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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.

Munich is very walkable. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.


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

Should I spend more time in Munich or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Munich?

In either Hydra or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than Hydra because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

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


  • How many days in Hydra or Munich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hydra 1-2 
    Munich 2-5

One day in Hydra or Munich?

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.

Each neighborhood in Munich has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Munich?

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 Munich. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Munich?

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.

Munich is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Munich has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Hydra or Munich?

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 nightlife around the high energy big city of Munich. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Munich 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 Munich is €148. 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 Munich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hydra 51
    Munich 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hydra 102
    Munich 178
Compare Hotels in Hydra and Munich

Looking for a hotel in Hydra or Munich? 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 Munich


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: Munich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hydra 26
    Munich 19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Munich Airport MUC to Munich in Luxury Car: $249
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Car: $74
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Van: $65
  • Arrival Transfer from Munich Train Station to Munich by Sedan: $60
  • Departure Private Transfer: Munich City to Munich Airport MUC in Luxury Car: $250
  • From Munich Airport to Nuremberg - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $193
  • From Munich Airport to Salzburg - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $208
  • Guided Nymphenburg Palace Tour with Transfers & skip the line.: $235
  • Mercedes Benz V-Class Airport Transfers: $158
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Arber Resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Arrival Transfer: $71
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Munich - Arrival Private Transfer: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Hydra or Munich?

Prices for flights to both Munich 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
    Munich 27

Typical Food Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Munich:


  • Bratwurst
    5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Food Tour Beer- 3 small beers & "Brotzeit" in GERMAN: $79
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265
  • Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner : $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hydra 11
    Munich 29

Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    24

Tours and Activities in Munich

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Munich Old Town": $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Victuals Market Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.74
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.28
  • Guided tour through the Sudeten German Museum: $5.35
  • Escape Game and Tour: $5.35
  • From Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $5.35
  • Munich through the Centuries: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-guided Walking Tour to River Isar Landmarks: $6.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Interactive City Tour on Your Smartphone: $7.48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hydra 11
    Munich 37

Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Munich:

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Max & Moritz: Interactive Wine Tasting Experience: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $288
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


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


Which is Bigger, Hydra or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 550 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

Both Munich and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Munich in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Munich. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Munich during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Munich. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hydra 27°C (81°F) 
    Munich 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Hydra is much warmer than Munich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Munich. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Munich. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hydra 19°C (67°F) 
    Munich 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Munich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Munich. Most visitors come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Munich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Munich can be very cold. In the winter, Hydra is much warmer than Munich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hydra in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Munich averages at about -1°C (31°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives around the same amount of rain as Munich. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hydra 10°C (51°F) 
    Munich -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Hydra or Munich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Munich. The spring months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

In April, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Munich. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Munich. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hydra 16°C (60°F) 
    Munich 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Munich and Hydra

Hydra Munich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)