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

Should you visit Hydra or Naples?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Naples? 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.

Naples

Naples is a gritty, colorful, and fascinating city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hydra and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Naples?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Naples than Hydra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Naples is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Hydra is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hydra is more touristy than Naples and is known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Naples is well known for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. Also, Naples is famous for Piazza del Plebiscito.

How is Hydra different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Hydra and Naples 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 Naples specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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

Naples 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, Naples is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

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 Naples Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Naples know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

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 Naples Better for Resorts?

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

Naples is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Naples Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Naples Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Naples Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Hydra and Naples.

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 Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Is Hydra or Naples Better for Hiking?

Hydra is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Naples?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Naples 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.

Naples is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Is Hydra or Naples Better for Families?

Hydra is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hydra is known to be 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.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Hydra or Naples Better for Couples?

Hydra is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Naples 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.

Naples is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Is Hydra or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples 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 Naples. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

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 Naples Better for Students?

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

Naples is popular with students. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Naples 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 Naples. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

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

Is Hydra or Naples a more walkable city?

Hydra is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples 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.

Naples is very walkable. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Naples or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Naples?

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

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

One day in Hydra or Naples?

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 Naples has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hydra or Naples?

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 Naples. 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 Naples?

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.

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

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 food and shopping around the colorful big city of Naples. 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 food. 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 in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Naples?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 430 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Naples, 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 Naples?

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 Naples in the Summer?

Both Naples 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 Naples in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Naples. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Naples fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Naples. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Naples during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Naples. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Naples receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Naples in the Autumn?

Both Naples 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 Naples for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Hydra is a little warmer than Naples in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Naples fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Naples. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

Naples gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Naples. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Naples in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Hydra is a little warmer than Naples. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hydra in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Naples averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Naples during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Naples receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Naples. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Naples in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Naples. 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 Naples this time of year.

In April, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Naples. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Naples fluctuates around 13°C (55°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 Naples. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Naples. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Naples receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Naples and Hydra