A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hydra vs. Tenerife for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hydra or Tenerife?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Tenerife? 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 accessible, quaint, and picturesque island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a scenic, vibrant, and adventure-filled island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hydra and Tenerife: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Tenerife?

Both Tenerife and Hydra have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Hydra is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm, while Tenerife is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Tenerife is more touristy than Hydra and is popular for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. Hydra is popular for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town.

How is Hydra different from Tenerife?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hydra can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

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

Foodies will find both Hydra and Tenerife both to be good destinations.

Hydra offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Tenerife has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Hydra or Tenerife Better for Nightlife?

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

People head to Tenerife just to party. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

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 Tenerife Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Tenerife is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

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 Tenerife Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife 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 Tenerife. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

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 Tenerife Better for Beaches?

Tenerife is a great destination for its beaches. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Tenerife is considered a top beach destination. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

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 Tenerife Better for its Old Town?

Hydra is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Hydra to see the historical old town. 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.

Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Is Hydra or Tenerife Better for Hiking?

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

People visit Tenerife specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

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 Tenerife?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is well-known for its shopping. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

Is Hydra or Tenerife Better for Families?

Tenerife is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tenerife is a very family-friendly destination. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hydra is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Hydra or Tenerife Better for Couples?

Hydra is very popular for romance. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Hydra has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Tenerife frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Is Hydra or Tenerife Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tenerife. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

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

Tenerife 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 Tenerife, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

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

Is Hydra or Tenerife a more walkable city?

Hydra is very popular for its walkability. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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

Should I spend more time in Tenerife or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Tenerife?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Hydra than Tenerife. 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 Tenerife 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 Tenerife.

One day in Hydra or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful 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 Tenerife?

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 Tenerife. 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 Tenerife?

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.

Tenerife is a fun place to experience. In Tenerife, many people enjoy the nightlife and food 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 Tenerife?

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 Tenerife, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this scenic destination 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. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain.

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

When is the best time to visit Hydra or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Tenerife. 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 Tenerife in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hydra is a little warmer than Tenerife in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Tenerife fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tenerife. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Tenerife. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 268 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets more rain in July than Tenerife. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Tenerife in the Autumn?

Both Tenerife and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Tenerife for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Hydra is cooler than Tenerife. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Tenerife averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Tenerife. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tenerife during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Tenerife in the Winter?

Both Tenerife and Hydra during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Tenerife because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Hydra is generally much colder than Tenerife. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Tenerife fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets less sunshine than Tenerife. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 191 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Tenerife. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Tenerife in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Tenerife. The spring months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year.

Hydra is cooler than Tenerife in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Tenerife fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tenerife this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Tenerife during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tenerife and Hydra