A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Hydra vs. Rhodes for Attractions, Food, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Hydra or Rhodes?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Rhodes? 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. 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.

Rhodes

Rhodes is a diverse, active, and world famous island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hydra and Rhodes: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Hydra or Rhodes?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rhodes. Although Hydra and Rhodes are popular destinations, Rhodes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rhodes is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hydra attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Rhodes is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also well known for Rhodes Old Town.

How is Hydra different from Rhodes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra
Rhodes

Rhodes 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 Rhodes that are not to be missed. Many of the villages feel like outdoor museums, with churches and archaeological sites throughout. Some of the most well known sites include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Hospital of the Knights, Süleyman Mosque, and Roloi Clock Tower.

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 Rhodes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hydra
Rhodes

Rhodes 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, Rhodes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The island offers Greek classics with a local flair. Common ingredients include wheat, olives, legumes, wine, and cheese. Many dishes are flavored with cumin, which is more heavily used here than elsewhere in Greece. Popular local dishes include matsi (a pasta cooked in meat broth and prepared with cheese, butter, and legumes), tsouka (a veal and pasta casserole), and lakani (veal, goat, or lamb meat that is slow-cooked in tomato sauce).

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 Rhodes Better for Nightlife?

Hydra
Rhodes

Rhodes is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Rhodes has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's not the most party-oriented island, but you'll find plenty to do at night. Most of the clubs are found in Rhodes Town near Hippocrates Square, along Menekleous Street, or near Orfanidou Street. Faliraki has long been a popular nightlife area that brings in the British crowd, but it's not as lively as it once was. Some resorts offer more of a nightlife scene than others so if that's a priority, do your research before you book.

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 Rhodes Better for Resorts?

Hydra
Rhodes

Rhodes 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, Rhodes is a great choice. It is a large and diverse island with a variety of resorts and towns to choose from. There are quiet areas like those around Kallithea Beach, Kolymbia, and Kalathos, as well as more lively areas like Faliraki. There are a number of all-inclusive resorts around the island but there are also boutique hotels and apartments if that's more your style.

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 Rhodes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra
Rhodes

Rhodes is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Rhodes. The island has many snorkeling and dive spots where you can enjoy the underwater world. There are plenty of snorkeling or scuba diving trips that you can organize in advance as well. Because of the island's large size, there's a diversity of vendors and areas to pick between.

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.

Is Hydra or Rhodes Better for Beaches?

Hydra
Rhodes

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Rhodes. The island has spectacular beaches with crystal blue waters. Many of the beaches are sandy with swimming or snorkeling opportunities. The island is also known for its watersports and several beaches are great windsurfing or kite surfing locations. There are countless beaches to choose from but some of the favorites are Tsambika, Saint Paul's Bay, Ladiko, and Kallithea.

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.

Is Hydra or Rhodes Better for its Old Town?

Hydra
Rhodes

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

There are many historical things to see 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.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.


Is Hydra or Rhodes Better for Hiking?

Hydra
Rhodes

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Rhodes specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The breathtaking landscapes, sweeping views, and beautiful waters make this an amazing hiking island. There are a wide range of trails to choose from with easy, moderate, and challenging options available. The many quaint villages and unique archaeological sites all make this a fantastic place to hike.

Many visitors go to Hydra for the hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Rhodes?

Hydra
Rhodes

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

Rhodes is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For a unique shopping experience head to Nea Agora (The New Market), which has a mix of shops and restaurants. You can also pick up fresh produce or pastries there. Sprinkled around the island you'll find many local artisan shops where you can buy ceramics, jewelry, soaps, leather goods, and more.

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 Rhodes Better for Families?

Hydra
Rhodes

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Rhodes.

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, Rhodes is very family-friendly. It's large size, varied activities, and wonderful outdoor setting makes this one of the most kid-friendly islands in Greece. There are many local villages that everyone will enjoy as well as beautiful walks and stunning beaches. Kids will appreciate the diversity of water activities that are available and the family-friendly restaurants ensure everyone can eat out comfortably.


Is Hydra or Rhodes Better for Couples?

Hydra
Rhodes

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Rhodes 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, Rhodes has plenty to offer. The larger size and diversity of activities make this island a great option for a honeymoon. The beaches are breathtaking, but there are also a number of water sports that couples will enjoy. The hiking, archaeological sites, and amazing restaurants will make for an unforgettable honeymoon.

Is Hydra or Rhodes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hydra
Rhodes

Rhodes 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 Rhodes. The island has something for everyone, and because it's one of the larger islands, there are more hostels and budget restaurants to choose from. You'll find all kinds of travelers on the island and there really is something that everyone can enjoy.

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

Hydra
Rhodes

Rhodes 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 Rhodes. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

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


Is Hydra or Rhodes a more walkable city?

Hydra
Rhodes

Hydra is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Rhodes is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Rhodes is generally not a very walkable island. The island is large so unless you're interested in hiking, most places are best reached with a vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Rhodes or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Rhodes?

In either Hydra or Rhodes, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Rhodes than Hydra because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 3-5 days is enough time in Rhodes.

Families should spend more time in Rhodes than Hydra. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Rhodes, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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


  • How many days in Hydra or Rhodes? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hydra 1-2 
    Rhodes 3-5

One day in Hydra or Rhodes?

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.

In Rhodes, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this diverse destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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 Rhodes?

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 Rhodes. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Hydra or Rhodes?

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.

Rhodes is a fun place to experience. In Rhodes, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. 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 Rhodes?

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 active destination of Rhodes. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, and The Best 3-Day Tours in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Rhodes 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 Rhodes is €135. 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 Rhodes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hydra 51
    Rhodes 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hydra 102
    Rhodes 116
Compare Hotels in Hydra and Rhodes

Looking for a hotel in Hydra or Rhodes? 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 Rhodes


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: Rhodes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hydra 26
    Rhodes 48

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rhodes

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Rhodes:


  • Taxi Ride
    7.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rhodes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rhodes:

  • Rhodes Airport Transfer to Rhodes Town city or Faliraki (ONE WAY: $55
  • Airport Transfer - From/To Airport - From/To Rhodes: $53
  • Diagoras Airport: Private One-Way Transfer to/from Rhodes: $39
  • East Coast Bay to Bay Full-Day Boat Trip with Transfers: $61
  • From Rhodes To Lindos ! Private one way transfer : $188
  • From Lindos Round-Trip Bus Transfer with Free Time: $29
  • Lindos Roundtrip Transfer in Small Group aprx 4hrs Free Time: $24
  • Lindos comfortable Transfer with aprx 5hrs Free Time: $22
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Faliraki: $36
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Ialyssos - Ixia: $24
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Rhodes town: $29
  • One Way Shuttle Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Ialyssos-Ixia: $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Hydra or Rhodes?

Prices for flights to both Rhodes 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
    Rhodes 47

Typical Food Prices in Rhodes

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


  • Coffee
    1.95
  • Dinner for Two
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rhodes

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

  • Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner: $54
  • Sunset Cruise w/ Gourmet Dinner, Drinks & Live Music: $65
  • Rhodes Exclusive Sunset Cruise incl. Gourmet Dinner, Drinks, Sax!: $66
  • Guided Rhodes City By Night with Live Music & Dinner: $71
  • Rhodes by Night With Dinner - Laterna: $73
  • Vine & Dine Tale: 11-Plate Lunch, Wine Discovery, Cooking Mastery: $76
  • Food & Wine Tour: 11- Course Lunch, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting: $76
  • 3-Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner all Inclusive: $77
  • 11 Course Lunch with Cooking Mastery and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $85
  • Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class : $86
  • Winery Tour, Tasting and cooking with the Winemaker in Rhodes: $87
  • Traditional Greek COOKING class and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hydra 11
    Rhodes 19

Tours and Activities in Rhodes

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

  • Palace of the Grand Master E-Ticket & Optional Audio: $5.55
  • Palace of the Grand Master Admission Ticket: $5.86
  • Escape Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Rhodes Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Tour: $7.06
  • Entrance Ticket for Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes: $7.18
  • Ancient Lindos Acropolis Regular Admission Ticket: $9.94
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Outdoor Scavenger Hunt and Tour of Rhodes Old Town: $11
  • Medieval City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Rhodes Medieval City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Rhodes Town: 45’ Semi-Submarine Cruise with Drinks Included: $13
  • The Palace of the Grand Master. Self-guided Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hydra 11
    Rhodes 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Rhodes

Also in Rhodes, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Beginners: $38
  • Private Wine Tasting Under the Guidance of a Sommelier in Rhodes: $39
  • 1 Day Rhodes Island Tour with Olive Oil, Honey and Wine Tasting : $55
  • Rhodes Shore Excursion Including Olive Oil, Honey & Wine Tasting: $59
  • Wine tasting in Rhodes, inside the vineyards with the Producer: $61
  • Full-Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $61
  • Rhodes Island Tour: Lindos, Old Town, Pottery Workshop, Wine Tasting : $61
  • Rhodes Deluxe Tour including Lindos, Old Town, Wine Tasting : $65
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Wine Lovers: $65
  • Gourmet Journey: 11-Course Lunch, Wine Tasting & Culinary Session: $87
  • Private Lavish Wine Tour visiting Emponas, Kritinia and Pataludes Wine Producers: $97
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience: $98


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


Which is Bigger, Hydra or Rhodes?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 250 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Rhodes, 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.