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

Should you visit Hydra or Strasbourg?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Strasbourg? 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a picturesque, impressive, and quaint city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hydra and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Strasbourg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Strasbourg are both popular with visitors, Hydra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hydra is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and small town charm, while Strasbourg is known for its food, nightlife, and historical sights. Hydra is popular for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also home to The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Strasbourg is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

How is Hydra different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Hydra and Strasbourg have great 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 Strasbourg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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

Strasbourg 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, Strasbourg makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

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 Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

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

Strasbourg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

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 Strasbourg Better for Resorts?

Hydra is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Strasbourg is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Strasbourg is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Strasbourg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Strasbourg Better for Beaches?

Hydra is very good for its beaches. However, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg is revered around the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

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 Strasbourg Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a great island for hiking. However, Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

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.

Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Strasbourg?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is well-known for its shopping. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Hydra or Strasbourg Better for Families?

Hydra is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Hydra is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Hydra or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Hydra is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Hydra or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring 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 Strasbourg Better for Students?

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

Strasbourg is popular with students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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

Is Hydra or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Hydra is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Hydra is a very easy island to get around on foot. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

Strasbourg is a very walkable island. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Strasbourg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hydra and Strasbourg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Strasbourg than in Hydra. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 2-3 days is enough time in Strasbourg.

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

One day in Hydra or Strasbourg?

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hydra, one day is sufficent for most.

In Strasbourg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint 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 Strasbourg?

Even though Hydra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Strasbourg?

Hydra, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Strasbourg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Strasbourg?

Hydra is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Strasbourg. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Strasbourg?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg in the Summer?

Both Strasbourg and Hydra during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the family-friendly experiences.

Hydra is a little warmer than Strasbourg in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Strasbourg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Strasbourg. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Strasbourg. Many travelers come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Strasbourg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hydra is much warmer than Strasbourg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Strasbourg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Strasbourg. Many visitors come to Hydra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Strasbourg can be very cold during winter. In January, Hydra is generally much warmer than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets more rain in January than Strasbourg. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Strasbourg in the Spring?

Both Strasbourg and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the natural beauty.

Hydra is a little warmer than Strasbourg in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Strasbourg. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Hydra