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

Should you visit Hydra or Salzburg?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Salzburg? 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a musical, cultural, and recognizable city. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Salzburg?

Both Salzburg and Hydra have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Hydra is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and small town charm, while Salzburg is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Hydra and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Hydra is well known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town.

How is Hydra different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Hydra and Salzburg have very good landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Many visitors head to Salzburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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

Salzburg 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, Salzburg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

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 Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

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

Salzburg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

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 Salzburg Better for Music?

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

Salzburg is a world class music destination. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Hydra is not a live music destination.

Is Hydra or Salzburg Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Salzburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Salzburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hydra has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Salzburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Salzburg Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Hydra has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg is revered around the world. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

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 Salzburg Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Hydra is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Salzburg?

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

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Salzburg.

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, Salzburg is very family-friendly. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Is Hydra or Salzburg Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Salzburg make for a fantastic 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, Salzburg has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Is Hydra or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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 Salzburg Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Hydra or Salzburg a more walkable city?

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

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.

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Salzburg?

In either Hydra or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg 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 Salzburg.

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

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

One day in Hydra or Salzburg?

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 Salzburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Salzburg?

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 Salzburg. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Salzburg?

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.

Salzburg is a fun place to experience. In Salzburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hydra or Salzburg?

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 museums and nightlife around the musical destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Salzburg?

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

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 Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Salzburg. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Salzburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Salzburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Salzburg. Many visitors come to Hydra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Hydra is much warmer than Salzburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°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 Salzburg. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Salzburg. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Salzburg can be very cold. In the winter, Hydra is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hydra in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Salzburg averages at about -0°C (31°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Salzburg in the Spring?

Both Salzburg and Hydra during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

In April, Hydra is generally much warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Salzburg. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Hydra