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

Should you visit Hydra or Pamplona?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Pamplona? 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 charming, accessible, and quaint island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. 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.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a laid-back, historic, and elegant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Pamplona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pamplona. Although Hydra and Pamplona are popular destinations, Pamplona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pamplona is very popular for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Hydra attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Pamplona is famous for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. It is also well known for The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Hydra different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Pamplona 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, Pamplona makes for a great culinary experience. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

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 Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Pamplona know how to have a good time. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

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 Pamplona Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a popular place for its resorts. However, Pamplona 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.

Pamplona is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Pamplona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pamplona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hydra has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Pamplona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Pamplona Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a popular place for the beache. However, Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Hydra is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Hydra is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Hydra or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Hydra and Pamplona both have high quality 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 Pamplona for the hiking trails. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Pamplona?

Hydra is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Hydra or Pamplona Better for Families?

Hydra is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hydra is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Pamplona is a family-friendly island. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Hydra or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Hydra is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Hydra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

Pamplona is a good island for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Hydra or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

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 Pamplona Better for Students?

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

Pamplona is popular with students. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Pamplona 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 Pamplona, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

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

Is Hydra or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Hydra is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Hydra on foot. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hydra or Pamplona to fill your time. In our opinion, Hydra has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hydra than Pamplona. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Hydra or Pamplona?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Pamplona, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this elegant destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Pamplona?

Hydra is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hydra, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamplona. 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 Pamplona?

Hydra is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pamplona is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Pamplona. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Pamplona?

Hydra is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Pamplona. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Pamplona?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Pamplona, 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 Pamplona?

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Pamplona. The summer months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Pamplona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Pamplona averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamplona this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Pamplona. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Pamplona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona and Hydra during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hydra in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pamplona for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Hydra is a little warmer than Pamplona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Pamplona averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Hydra