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

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Hydra can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a historic, authentic, 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

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.

Thiva (Thebes) and Hydra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hydra. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Hydra are popular destinations, Hydra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Thiva (Thebes) attracts visitors for its nightlife and big city activities. Hydra is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known 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. Thiva (Thebes) is famous for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Hydra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Thiva (Thebes) and Hydra.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hydra. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Hydra offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Thiva (Thebes). It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Hydra is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes) is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Thiva (Thebes) has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a island with good options for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a island with good options for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hydra. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra Better for its Old Town?

Hydra is a great destination for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Hydra is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

Hydra is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Hydra is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra Better for Families?

Hydra is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hydra is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra Better for Couples?

Hydra is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Hydra is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

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

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

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

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra a more walkable city?

Hydra is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Hydra or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

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

Families should spend more time in Hydra than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

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

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). 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.

Hydra is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Thiva (Thebes). Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hydra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece.

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

Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

Thiva (Thebes) has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra?

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra in the Summer?

Both Hydra and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hydra in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Hydra. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hydra during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Hydra receives 357 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hydra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Hydra receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra in the Autumn?

Both Hydra and Thiva (Thebes) during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Hydra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Hydra fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hydra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hydra receives 206 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hydra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hydra receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Hydra. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hydra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Hydra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Hydra averages at about 10°C (51°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hydra during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Hydra receives 143 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hydra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hydra receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Hydra in the Spring?

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

In April, Thiva (Thebes) is generally around the same temperature as Hydra. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 16°C (60°F), and Hydra fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

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

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hydra. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Hydra receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hydra and Thiva (Thebes)