A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Hydra for Attractions, Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Hydra. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a historic, spiritual, and dramatic destination. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and museums.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Hydra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hydra. Although Kalampaka (Meteora) and Hydra are popular destinations, Hydra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Kalampaka (Meteora) attracts visitors for its museums & sights. Kalampaka (Meteora) is famous for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also well known for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Hydra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hydra and Kalampaka (Meteora). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) that are not to be missed. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Hydra.

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Hydra area. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra Better for Nightlife?

Hydra is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Hydra. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a good destination for the beache. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Hydra offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra Better for its Old Town?

Hydra is a very popular place for its old town. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

Hydra is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra Better for Families?

Hydra is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra Better for Couples?

Hydra is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Hydra is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good destination for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Hydra.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

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

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra a more walkable city?

Hydra is terrific for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Hydra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hydra or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kalampaka (Meteora) than Hydra because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kalampaka (Meteora), and 1-2 days is enough time in Hydra.

Families should spend more time in Hydra than Kalampaka (Meteora). 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hydra that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hydra than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Hydra.

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

In Kalampaka (Meteora), many people enjoy the food and museums that this dramatic destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This destination 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.

Hydra is a small town with plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kalampaka (Meteora). 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.

Many people visit Hydra for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Because Hydra is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

You'll find museums and food around the spiritual destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Since Hydra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This island offers something for everyone. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Greece, The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece.

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

Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) and Hydra, 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra in the Summer?

Both Hydra and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally around the same temperature as Hydra. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 26°C (78°F), and Hydra fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kalampaka (Meteora). In the summer, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets less sunshine than Hydra. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hydra receives 357 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets more rain in July than Hydra. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Hydra receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Hydra. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is cooler than Hydra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Hydra fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less sunshine than Hydra during autumn. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Hydra receives 206 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hydra. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hydra receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Kalampaka (Meteora) is much colder than Hydra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Hydra averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets less sunshine than Hydra. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hydra receives 143 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in January than Hydra. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Hydra receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Hydra in the Spring?

Both Hydra and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally cooler than Hydra. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 14°C (56°F), and Hydra fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less sunshine than Hydra during spring. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Hydra receives 226 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more rain than Hydra. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Hydra receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hydra and Kalampaka (Meteora)