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

Should you visit Hydra or Toulon?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Toulon? 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Toulon

Toulon is a real world, industrial, and authentic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Toulon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Toulon are both popular with visitors, Hydra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hydra is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Toulon is known for its nightlife. Hydra is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also home to The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Toulon is popular for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Hydra different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hydra is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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

Foodies will find both Hydra and Toulon 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Hydra or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

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

Toulon has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

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 Toulon Better for Resorts?

Hydra is very good for its resorts. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Is Hydra or Toulon Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Hydra and Toulon are good choices.

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.

Many people head to Toulon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Hydra or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Hydra is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is Hydra or Toulon Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Toulon?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Toulon 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.

Toulon is well-known for its shopping. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

Is Hydra or Toulon Better for Families?

Hydra is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Toulon is a family-friendly island. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Hydra or Toulon Better for Couples?

Hydra is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Hydra or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

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

Toulon 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 Toulon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

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

Is Hydra or Toulon a more walkable city?

Hydra is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its high level of 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.

Toulon is a very walkable island. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Toulon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hydra or Toulon to fill your time. In our opinion, Hydra has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hydra than Toulon. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Hydra or Toulon?

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Toulon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this industrial destination offers. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hydra or Toulon?

Hydra is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Hydra or Toulon?

Hydra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the off-the-beaten-path destination of Toulon. 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Toulon. 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 Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hydra is a little warmer than Toulon in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives more rain than Toulon. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Toulon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Toulon. 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 Toulon in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hydra is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Toulon averages at about 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the autumn, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Toulon. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Toulon in the Winter?

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

In January, Hydra is generally much warmer than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Toulon. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Toulon in the Spring?

Both Toulon and Hydra during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Toulon because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Hydra is a little warmer than Toulon in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the spring, Hydra often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Toulon. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Hydra