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

Should you visit Hydra or Venice?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Venice? 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Venice

Venice is a romantic, cultural, and magical city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Venice?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Venice than Hydra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Venice is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hydra is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Venice is more touristy than Hydra and is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. Also, Venice is famous for St. Mark's Basilica. Hydra is well known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town.

How is Hydra different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Venice that are not to be missed. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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.

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

Foodies will find both Hydra and Venice both to be notable 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.

Venice has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Hydra or Venice Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Hydra or Venice has a better nightlife scene.

Hydra is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

Venice doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Hydra or Venice Better for Resorts?

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

Hydra has a few great resort options. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Venice is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Venice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Venice Better for Beaches?

Hydra is very good for the beach. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Venice Better for its Old Town?

Venice 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 Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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 Venice Better for Hiking?

Hydra is great for hiking. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Venice?

Venice is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Venice is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Hydra is well-known for its shopping. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Is Hydra or Venice Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Venice.

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, Venice is very family-friendly. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Is Hydra or Venice Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Venice make for a world-class place to visit.

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.

For those traveling as a couple, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Is Hydra or Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Venice 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 Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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 Venice Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Venice is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Venice can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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

Is Hydra or Venice a more walkable city?

Hydra and Venice both are world-class when exploring on foot.

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.

Venice is a very easy island to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Venice or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Venice?

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

Families should spend more time in Hydra than Venice. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Venice 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 Venice.

One day in Hydra or Venice?

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 Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful 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 Venice?

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 Venice. 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 Venice?

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.

Venice is a fun place to experience. In Venice, many people enjoy the museums and food that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hydra or Venice?

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.

In Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this magical destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Venice?

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

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 Venice in the Summer?

Both Venice 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Venice. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Venice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Venice, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Venice. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Venice. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Venice in the Autumn?

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

Hydra is a little warmer than Venice in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Venice during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Venice. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Venice in the Winter?

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

Venice can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Hydra is much warmer than Venice. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hydra in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Venice averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Venice. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Venice. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice 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 Venice because of the natural beauty.

In April, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Venice. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Venice fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Venice during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Venice. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Venice and Hydra