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

Should you visit Hydra or Rome?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Rome? 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.

Rome

Rome is a bustling, fun-filled, and popular city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Rome?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rome than Hydra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rome is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hydra is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Hydra and is known for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum. Hydra is well known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town.

The Colosseum

How is Hydra different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome 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 Rome that are not to be missed. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rome 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, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

People head to Rome just to party. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

Rome is a world-class destination for live music. However, Hydra is not a live music destination.

Rome is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Hydra is not a live music destination.

Is Hydra or Rome Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a island with good options for its resorts. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Rome Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Rome Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a island with good options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hydra. 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Hydra is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Hydra is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is Hydra or Rome Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Rome?

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

Rome is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Rome.

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, Rome is very family-friendly. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Is Hydra or Rome Better for Couples?

Hydra is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Hydra is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Rome is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Hydra or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rome is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

Rome is a world-class destination for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Rome is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Rome can get you around easily. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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

Is Hydra or Rome a more walkable city?

Hydra and Rome both are terrific 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.

Rome is a very easy island to get around on foot. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Rome?

Both Hydra and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Hydra. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

One day in Hydra or Rome?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city 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 Rome?

Hydra is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Hydra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rome is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hydra or Rome?

Because Hydra is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 1120 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hydra in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hydra is generally around the same temperature as Rome. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Rome. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rome because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rome. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Rome in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Rome. The winter months attract visitors to Hydra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

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

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Rome during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Rome. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Rome in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Rome. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Rome. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Rome. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Rome. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and Hydra