Travel Budget for Hydra Visit Hydra on a Budget or Travel in Style

Hydra, Attica, Greece

Hydra is a charming island known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums, hiking in nature, or taking in the beauty, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Hydra, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Hydra?

You should plan to spend around $135 (€119) per day on your vacation in Hydra. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $59 (€52) on meals
  • $29 (€26) on local transportation
  • $117 (€103) on hotels

A one week trip to Hydra for two people costs, on average, $1,893 (€1,666). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $135
    119
  • One Week Per person
    $946
    833
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,893
    1,666
  • One Month Per person
    $4,056
    3,570
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,893
    1,666
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $3,785
    3,332
  • One Month For a couple
    $8,112
    7,140
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Hydra cost?

A one week trip to Hydra usually costs around $946 (€833) for one person and $1,893 (€1,666) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Hydra on average costs around $1,893 (€1,666) for one person and $3,785 (€3,332) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Hydra will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Hydra on average costs around $4,056 (€3,570) for one person and $8,112 (€7,140) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Hydra expensive to visit?

Hydra is a terrific island that brings in many travelers, showcasing a range of travel styles and spending choices. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

Hydra can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.

On average, budget travelers spend $59 (€52) per day, mid-range travelers spend $134 (€119) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $256 (€227) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Hydra.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Hydra is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Novi Sad, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Avignon.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Hydra Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Hydra?

The average Hydra trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Hydra travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Hydra cost?

Hydra on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$26
(23)
$58
(51)
$112
(98)
Local Transportation1 $13
(11)
$29
(26)
$56
(49)
Food2 $26
(23)
$59
(52)
$113
(99)
Entertainment1 $6
(5.00)
$13
(11)
$25
(22)
Alcohol2 $3-9
(3-8)
$6-19
(6-17)
$12-37
(11-33)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to be realistic about your travel budget when visiting Hydra. Although some travelers believe they can get by on a shoestring budget, most people aren't comfortable with that type of travel. Consider what you enjoy on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you like staying in resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are dining out and visiting attractions a priority? Your preferences will affect your overall budget and itinerary.

The Truth on Budget Travel

Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $59 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.

For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.

Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most guests in Hydra will want to take in the essential attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $134 per person, per day.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $256 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the island, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices.

Accommodation Budget in Hydra

The hotel prices in Hydra might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $, but during peak summer season, expect to pay around $. Prices vary from $ to $, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Hydra for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $117 (€103). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $58 (€51) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $58
    51
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $117
    103

Hotels in Hydra

Looking for a hotel in Hydra? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Hydra

When visiting Hydra with your family, look for an apartment or accommodation that offers more space to keep everyone comfortable.

Traveling in the low or shoulder season (and not in summer) means you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists around.

Even though Hydra is a big tourist draw, its smaller size means that accommodations can be in high demand. Make sure to book early if you plan to visit during summer.

Walking is a popular way to explore Hydra, so staying in a prime area is recommended. Just be prepared for potentially higher prices.

The island's famous old town is a major attraction for travelers. While hotels in this area can be more expensive, they usually offer a lot of charm and easy access to all the main sights.



Transportation Budget in Hydra

Hydra does not have a good public transit system. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Visitors who prefer to get around on toof will have a delightful experience in Hydra. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (moderate)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (excellent)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $29 (€26) per person, per day, on local transportation in Hydra. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Hydra is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $29
    26

Greek Island Ferry Tickets

As mentioned earlier, with the exception of rubbish trucks, no motorized vehicles are permitted on the island. The main methods of travel once you get to the island are by donkey, water taxi, or on foot.

The best way to get to Hydra from Athens is to take a high-speed ferry from Piraeus (check Flying Dolphin or Flying Cat by Hellenic Seaways for ferry schedule). The boat will usually stop first at Poros then continue on to Hydra followed by Spetses. The journey to Hydra should take about an hour and 15 minutes.

Transportation Tips

If you're taking a car, verify that your hotel offers convenient parking.



Flights to Hydra
How much does it cost to go to Hydra? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Hydra
The price of renting a car in Hydra will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Hydra

While the cuisine in Hydra is enjoyable, there are other things that usually bring in visitors. Still, you can discover some wonderful spots around the island. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Hydra can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Hydra is $59 (€52) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $59
    52

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Hydra is around $58 (€52) per person, with previous travelers spending from $26 to $111. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Hydra are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $6 to $17
  • Lunch: $9 to $23
  • Dinner: $17 to $41
  • Coffee: $5
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $9

The main port of Hydra is the place to eat. At peak dining hours every restaurant will be bustling and full of lively conversation. Being an island and a town on the port, you can never go wrong with the seafood, though anything you get will likely be just as good. Whether you choose you eat on the water, or explore the food culture of the enchanting alleyways, Hydra dining will not disappoint. If you are looking to save your pennies, your best bet is to go to one of the restaurants on the back streets and do your eating and drinking there. Waterfront dining sometimes comes at an expense. A great place to sit back with a drink after dinner is located just off port down Tompazi Street. The place is called Amalour, and the little corner it sits on is the place to be once the nightlife gets started.

Food & Dining Tips

When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.

Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.

Make a picnic to save some cash and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Just find a nearby grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and choose a nice park or scenic area for your meal.

Bring a water bottle instead of buying beverages everywhere. It helps the environment, too.

Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Hydra

It's understandable that travelers choose Hydra, as it is famous for romance, museums and attractions, historical sights, and hiking.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Hydra typically cost an average of $13 (€11) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $13
    11

If you are up for a day of walking, the endless alleyways of the main port are a sight in themselves. Lined with little shops, bakeries, guest houses, and old world decor, the main town at the port of Hydra has enough to occupy a day-long exploration. Tucked into the town, there are also a few quaint churches worth a peek.

If you really feel up to walking, you might want to take the hike up to the Profitis Ilias Monastery. The journey is about a two-hour climb each way along a partially paved path with cobblestone ramps and a lot of stairs, but is well worth the effort for the views of the surrounding area. If you catch the monastery during open hours, you might even get to sample a Turkish delight. Great photo opportunities either way!

If you follow the cobbled road along the sea, it will lead you out of port to other smaller villages and beaches on Hydra. The views along this route are spectacular as well. If you plan on a long day of walking, do not forget to bring water.



In addition to the endless adventure of shops and alleyways, Hydra also has a few museums worth a visit. The Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion (branch of the National Historical Museum) overlooks the port with striking views of the harbor from above. Once the home of shipowner Lazaros Koundouriotis, who played an important role in the Greek War of Independence, the mansion now houses a permanent exhibition that follows the historical evolution of the Greek nation from the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans up until World War II. Another museum located just on the eastern edge of Hydra port is the Historical Archives Museum of Hydra. This collection provides more of a nautical history of the port, showcasing model ship replicas, period clothing, maps, and other artifacts significant to Hydra's culture.

If you prefer to spend your time on Hydra relaxing on the island's beaches, there are a few around the coastline that can be most easily reached by boat taxi. Just walk along the port whenever you wish to leave for your beach excursion and you will find many boats waiting to take visitors back and forth for a good price. If you prefer walking, the closest beach is Avlaki Bay just west of Hydra town. It is very small down a steep path and is quite rocky, but it is usually less crowded than the other beaches. If you're looking for a beach with more amenities, take a boat taxi to Cape Bisti or (Four Seasons) Vlichos Beach, where you can rent chairs and umbrellas and have access to food and refreshments as well.

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
Attractions in HydraThe museums and landmarks in Hydra are some of the most famous in the world. 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.

Historical Sights:
Old Town in HydraVisitors love to explore 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.

Hiking:
Hiking in and around Hydra is absolutely fantastic. 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.

Shopping:
Shopping in HydraYou won't want to miss out on the shopping here. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.



Nightlife Budget in Hydra

The nightlife in Hydra is fairly quiet and relaxed. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $13 (€11) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Hydra per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $13
    11
Nightlife Tips

Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.



Travel cost data last updated: Apr 26, 2025

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Hydra

  • When it's peak season in summer, expect to pay more and see more people in the island. Save some cash and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere by visiting during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Slowing down your travel pace can be a great way to save money while still enjoying the beautiful sights around you. If you fill your days with too many activities, the costs can quickly add up. However, by taking your time and appreciating the moment, you'll typically find yourself spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Scuba diving around Hydra attracts many visitors, but it can be pricey, limiting your options for saving money. Expect dive trips, equipment rentals, and boat excursions to consume a big chunk of your budget. Remember to check your travel insurance to confirm it covers all aspects, including accidents and cancellations due to weather.
  • There aren't many public transportation options in Hydra. Renting a car or organizing a form of transport, like a tour, might be necessary. Just know that this could stretch your budget in other places.
  • Hydra isn't particularly known for its hostels, so if you're expecting a budget dorm, you may need to reconsider. Look into affordable hotels or consider renting an apartment instead.
Traveling in Hydra
Hydra Hydra, Greece

The island of Hydra is located in the Aegean Sea between the Saronic and Argolic Gulfs. Named for its natural springs, the island now has most of its freshwater imported from the mainland. The real gem of the place is the absence of motorized vehicles. Car and scooters are nowhere to be seen by the narrow marble-cobbled lanes, rocks, and sea. Such vehicles have been outlawed and so the way to navigate the island is by donkey, water taxi, or on foot.

In 2007, National Geographic Traveler rated Hydra the best of any Greek island, naming it a unique destination preserving its integrity of place. With no vehicles, charming alleyways, romantic nightlife, and the sea always at your back, the island does embody a rustic allure unlike any other. Hydra is its own place, a wonderful escape from the busyness of everywhere else.



Neighborhoods & Around

The main port of Hydra is the hub of activity on the island. The place depends on tourism, and so the area closest to the water is lined with shops, restaurants and tavernas, bars, coffee shops, bakeries, ATMs, and ice cream shops-just about anything a tourist could want. Hotels and guest houses are located just behind the commercial area, tucked into charming alleyways in a maze of cobblestone walkways, but the further inland from port, the more residential it gets. It is a great place to explore on foot. If you follow the cobbled path east of town, you can get a wonderful view of the town as a whole, lit beautifully at night, little boats still bobbing on their tethers.

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.