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

Should you visit Hydra or Valencia?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Valencia? 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 quaint, picturesque, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Valencia

Valencia is a historic, architectural, and friendly coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Hydra and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Valencia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia. Although Hydra and Valencia are popular destinations, Valencia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Valencia is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hydra attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and small town charm. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Valencia is famous for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). It is also well known for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències.

How is Hydra different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Hydra and Valencia 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 Valencia specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

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

Valencia is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Valencia is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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 Valencia Better for Nightlife?

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

People head to Valencia just to party. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

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 Valencia Better for Resorts?

Hydra and Valencia offer a relatively similar set of nice luxury resort options.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Valencia makes a nice vacation spot. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Is Hydra or Valencia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Valencia 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.

Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Valencia Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Hydra and Valencia are nice 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 Valencia to enjoy the beach. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Is Hydra or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

Valencia 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 Valencia is revered around the world. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (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.

Is Hydra or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Hydra is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Valencia. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Valencia?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Valencia 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.

Valencia is well-known for its shopping. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

Is Hydra or Valencia Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Valencia.

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, Valencia is very family-friendly. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

Is Hydra or Valencia Better for Couples?

Hydra is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Valencia is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

Is Hydra or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia 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 Valencia. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

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 Valencia Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Valencia. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Valencia 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 Valencia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

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

Is Hydra or Valencia a more walkable city?

Hydra is an amazing island to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Valencia is a very walkable destination. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Valencia?

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

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

One day in Hydra or Valencia?

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.

Each neighborhood in Valencia has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal 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 Valencia?

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 Valencia. 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 Valencia?

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.

Valencia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Valencia. 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 Valencia?

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 food and shopping around the historic big city of Valencia. 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 G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Valencia?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Valencia, 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 Valencia?

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 Valencia in the Summer?

Both Valencia and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Valencia in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Valencia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Valencia averages at about 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Valencia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Valencia during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Valencia. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Valencia in the Autumn?

Both Valencia and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Valencia for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Hydra is generally around the same temperature as Valencia. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valencia. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Valencia. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Valencia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Valencia. Most visitors come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Valencia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hydra is cooler than Valencia in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Valencia fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Hydra usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives more rain than Valencia. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Valencia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Valencia. The spring months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Valencia this time of year.

In the spring, Hydra is around the same temperature as Valencia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Valencia averages at about 15°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valencia. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 213 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Valencia. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Hydra