A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Hydra vs. Thessaloniki for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Hydra or Thessaloniki?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Thessaloniki? 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hydra and Thessaloniki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Thessaloniki?

Both Thessaloniki and Hydra have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Thessaloniki attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and big city activities. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Thessaloniki is famous for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections.

How is Hydra different from Thessaloniki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Hydra and Thessaloniki have high quality 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 Thessaloniki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

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

Thessaloniki 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, Thessaloniki makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

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 Thessaloniki Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Thessaloniki know how to have a good time. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

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 Thessaloniki Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

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.

Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Thessaloniki Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hydra has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Thessaloniki Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a popular place for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Hydra is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

The beach in Thessaloniki is worth checking out. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Is Hydra or Thessaloniki Better for its Old Town?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is Hydra or Thessaloniki Better for Hiking?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Thessaloniki?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Is Hydra or Thessaloniki Better for Families?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

Is Hydra or Thessaloniki Better for Couples?

Hydra is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Thessaloniki is a good island for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

Is Hydra or Thessaloniki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Thessaloniki Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

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

Is Hydra or Thessaloniki a more walkable city?

Hydra is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable island. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Thessaloniki or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Thessaloniki?

It's fun to spend time in either Hydra or Thessaloniki. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Thessaloniki due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 2-4 days is enough time in Thessaloniki.

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

One day in Hydra or Thessaloniki?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

In Thessaloniki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. 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 Thessaloniki?

Hydra is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Thessaloniki?

Hydra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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

A week in Hydra or Thessaloniki?

Hydra is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Thessaloniki. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Thessaloniki, 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 Thessaloniki?

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 Thessaloniki in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Thessaloniki. The summer months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year.

In the summer, Hydra is around the same temperature as Thessaloniki. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Thessaloniki averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Thessaloniki. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 327 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Thessaloniki. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Thessaloniki in the Autumn?

Both Thessaloniki and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Thessaloniki. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Thessaloniki during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives more rain than Thessaloniki. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Thessaloniki in the Winter?

Both Thessaloniki and Hydra during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hydra is much warmer than Thessaloniki in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Thessaloniki. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 101 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets more rain in January than Thessaloniki. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Thessaloniki in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Thessaloniki. Many visitors come to Hydra in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Hydra is a little warmer than Thessaloniki. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Thessaloniki averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Thessaloniki during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 196 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Thessaloniki. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Thessaloniki and Hydra