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

Should you visit Hydra or Positano?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Positano? 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 picturesque, charming, and accessible island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Positano

Positano is a stunning, luxurious, and charming Mediterranean village. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

Hydra and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Positano?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hydra than Positano, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hydra is better known for its museums and scuba diving & snorkeling, while Positano is more popular for its food, resorts, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Positano is more touristy than Hydra and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi 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.

How is Hydra different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hydra. 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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano 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, Positano is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Hydra or Positano has a better nightlife scene.

Hydra is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

Positano doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Hydra or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Positano is a great choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

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.

Is Hydra or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Positano is not a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Snorkeling is an option in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Is Hydra or Positano Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Hydra and Positano 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 Positano to enjoy the beach. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Hydra or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano 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 Positano is revered around the world. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

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 Positano Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Hydra and Positano both have superb 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 Positano for the hiking trails. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Positano?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Positano 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.

Positano is well-known for its shopping. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Hydra or Positano Better for Families?

Hydra is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Hydra or Positano Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Positano make for a amazing place to visit.

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.

For those traveling as a couple, Positano has plenty to offer. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

Is Hydra or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

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 Positano Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Positano 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 Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

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

Is Hydra or Positano a more walkable city?

Hydra and Positano both are amazing 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.

Positano is a very easy island to get around on foot. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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

Should I spend more time in Positano or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Positano?

Both Hydra and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Hydra. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

Families should spend more time in Hydra than Positano. 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 Positano than Hydra. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Positano that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Positano 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 Positano.

One day in Hydra or Positano?

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 Positano, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this colorful small town offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This Mediterranean village 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 Positano?

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 Positano. 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 Positano?

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.

Positano is a fun place to experience. In Positano, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this quaint small town offers. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hydra or Positano?

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.

In Positano, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this charming small town offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Positano?

Positano has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Hydra during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Positano because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Positano, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Positano. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Hydra or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Positano. The autumn months attract visitors to Hydra because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

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

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Positano during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Hydra or Positano in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Positano. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Positano for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

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

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

It's quite rainy in Positano. Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Positano. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Positano during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Positano and Hydra