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

Should you visit Hydra or Pompeii?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Pompeii? 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.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a iconic, one-of-a-kind, and ancient archeological site. It's also known for museums.

Hydra and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Pompeii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hydra than Pompeii, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hydra is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is more popular for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Hydra and is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. 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.

How is Hydra different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Pompeii that are not to be missed. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Many visitors head to Hydra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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

Hydra is very good for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Hydra is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Hydra or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Hydra is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Hydra. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Hydra or Pompeii Better for Resorts?

Hydra is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Pompeii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Hydra is very good for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is Hydra or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Pompeii?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Hydra. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Hydra or Pompeii Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Pompeii.

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, Pompeii is very family-friendly. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Hydra or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Hydra is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Hydra 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Hydra or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

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 Pompeii Better for Students?

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

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Pompeii 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 Pompeii, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

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

Is Hydra or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Hydra and Pompeii both are world-class when exploring on foot.

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.

Pompeii is a very easy island to get around on foot. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hydra or Pompeii 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 Pompeii. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Hydra or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii, many people enjoy the museums that this famous destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This archeological site 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. 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 Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Pompeii. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Pompeii?

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 museums around the iconic destination of Pompeii. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

When is the best time to visit Hydra or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Pompeii. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Pompeii for the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Pompeii. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Pompeii in the Winter?

Both Pompeii and Hydra during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hydra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Pompeii for the museums during these months.

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

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Pompeii. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Hydra