15 Best Things to Do in Hydra, Greece

Experience Hydra’s creative soul with this curated guide to the best things to do in Hydra, Greece, including the best art spots, hidden swims, design stays, and slow moments.

Hydra is one of those rare places that manages to feel both effortlessly stylish and refreshingly underdone. Just a short ferry from Athens, it has long attracted artists, writers, and more recently, the design crowd—drawn by its laid-back pace, car-free streets, and the kind of understated elegance that doesn’t need much fuss.

Hydra is chic. But it’s also profoundly soulful, a refuge for aesthetes and dreamers—from Leonard Cohen to today’s low-key art elite—who come not for the scene but for the stillness.

As a former art historian, I’ve always been curious about places where art and daily life blur—and Hydra is exactly that. From its neoclassical mansions and working artists’ studios to thoughtful boutiques and small galleries tucked behind unmarked doors, the island has a quiet creative energy that feels authentic rather than curated for effect.

This guide isn’t comprehensive by design. It’s a carefully selected look at the Hydra I discovered over three delightful days—ideal for design lovers, aesthetically minded travelers, and anyone who’d rather spend an afternoon at a local ceramicist’s workshop than rushing between landmarks.

There are no cars here, and no rush either—just time to explore, pause, and notice the details. This is your guide to the island and all the best things to do in Hydra, Greece.

*This best things to do in Hydra Greece guide may contain affiliate links, meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free. 

Best Things to Do in Hydra, Greece

1. Stroll Along the Harbor

One of the best things to do in Hydra, to get your bearings, is to start with a slow walk around the harbor. Begin at the statue of Admiral Miaoulis, a local hero whose stern bronze gaze watches over the horseshoe-shaped port, and follow the curve of the waterfront as it unfolds in a mix of cafés, fishing boats, and polished superyachts.

It’s where everything happens and nothing happens at the same time: locals catching up over frappes, linen-clad visitors browsing books at the kiosk, and the occasional donkey ambling through.

If you’re up for a longer walk, from here, keep going west along the coast path toward Kamini—a smaller, sleepier harbor about 20 minutes away on foot. The path hugs the sea, passing stone mansions, swimming coves, and the kind of casual, artful vistas that feel sublime, especially in the early morning light.

It’s an easy, scenic extension that turns a casual stroll into one of the most rewarding ways to ease into Hydra’s rhythm.

2. Explore Hydra Town’s Back Streets

While the harbor gets most of the attention, Hydra Town’s real charm reveals itself as soon as you head uphill and get a little lost. Slip into the back streets—narrow, sun-bleached lanes where bougainvillea spills over stone walls and cats nap in doorways—and you’ll find a quieter, more local side of the island.

This is where everyday life unfolds: linen flapping on clotheslines, hidden chapels, the occasional home turned artist’s studio.

There’s no real map for this part of town; in fact, most of the pathways don’t even come up on Google Maps, and that’s the point. Wander without a plan, stop when something catches your eye, and let the island’s lived-in win you over.

If you prefer to explore with a local guide, get in touch with Maria Voulgari a Hydra-born historian and archaeologist who runs Hydra Walking Tours, offering insightful, story-rich walks that dive into the island’s layered past.

3. Visit Rafalias Pharmacy

Rafalias Pharmacy is one of Hydra’s most quietly iconic institutions. Operating since 1890 and still run by the same family, it’s housed in a beautifully preserved neoclassical building just a few steps from the harbor.

Inside, carved wood shelves, antique apothecary jars, and handwritten labels create a setting that feels more Wes Anderson than Walgreens.

However, this is a functioning pharmacy, and while the space has attracted plenty of attention from visitors over the years, popping in just to snap a few photos is generally frowned upon. Instead, come in to stock up on locally made olive oil soaps, Korres skincare, or whatever travel meds you might be running low on.

4. Relax on the Island’s Beaches

Hydra doesn’t have any sprawling sandy beaches, but what it lacks in soft shoreline, it more than makes up for in character. Most of the island’s swimming spots are rocky ledges or small pebble coves—ideal for diving straight into the clear, cobalt-blue sea.

The closest options to town are Spilia and Avlaki, both just a short walk from the harbor and perfect for a quick afternoon dip between gallery visits and iced coffees.

For something a bit more secluded, head to Vlychos or continue farther to Bisti Beach, which you can reach by water taxi or on foot if you’re up for a proper walk. These spots tend to be quieter, with fewer people and more space to stretch out.

If you’re planning to spend serious time beach-hopping, check out my full Hydra beach guide—but for a relaxed, low-effort swim, you’re never far from the sea here.

5. Dive into Hydra’s Art Scene and Spaces

Hydra has long had a magnetic pull for artists, and its contemporary art scene continues to evolve in thoughtful, unexpected ways. One of the best things to do in Hydra, Greece is to seek out the wonderful art spaces and galleries the island has.

The most talked-about space is the DESTE Foundation’s Hydra Slaughterhouse Project, a raw and atmospheric former abattoir turned summer exhibition space by collector Dakis Joannou. Past installations have included major names like Urs Fischer and Kiki Smith—though Jeff Koons’ Apollo Wind Spinner still looms large in the local lore.

Melisses Gallery is another highlight, a seasonal pop-up that blends fashion, design, and local art under one elegant roof. You’ll also find fresh ideas circulating at Hydrogoios Art & Culture, a temporary summer art space that makes smart use of Hydra’s vacant buildings, and Wilhelmina’s Art Gallery at Mandraki Beach Resort, where rotating exhibitions often include emerging Greek talent.

Meanwhile, local artist Angelika Lialios leads immersive creative retreats through Artemis Retreats—ideal for those wanting to go deeper than a gallery visit. Keep an eye out too for Tom Powell’s evocative paintings of island life and the low-key, high-minded curation behind Josh Hickey’s Hydra Book Club, which has become a kind of cultural touchpoint in its own right.

Of course, no mention of art on Hydra would be complete without Leonard Cohen, the Canadian poet and singer who famously bought a house on the island in the 1960s. He lived simply, wrote prolifically, and fell in love here—both with Hydra and with Norwegian muse Marianne Ihlen.

Fans can easily trace his steps, from his modest home (still privately owned, so be respectful) to the benches where he once sat and wrote. Hydra doesn’t overly memorialize him, and that feels fitting. Like everything else on the island, the connection is quiet, personal, and best felt in your own time.

6. Go Shopping

Hydra might be small, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to shopping. Along the harbor, a string of boutiques blends classic resortwear with smartly curated Greek design—Koutsikou Hydra is a local go-to for relaxed linen staples and well-made accessories, while Sirens offers a more polished take, with pieces that toe the line between island ease and urban cool.

Beyond the harbor, a few local designers are worth seeking out. Vittoria Berardinone of Potteryinhydra creates beautifully organic ceramics from her studio in the hills above town—her pieces feel more like sculptures than tableware and I couldn’t help but picking up a few to take home. To visit, reach out via Instagram DM and arrange a studio visit.

Jewelry designer Elena Votsi, who famously redesigned the modern Olympic medals, also has a small, boutique on the island filled with bold, sculptural pieces that often draw on Greek symbolism.

7. Visit the Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion

Perched on the west side of Hydra’s harbor, the Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion is one of the island’s most striking examples of late‑18th‑century architecture—a grand, three‑story “pi”-shaped residence built in 1780 by Hydra’s wealthiest shipowner.

Today it operates as a museum; donated by the Kountouriotis family and annexed to the National Historical Museum in 2001. It’s worth visiting to get a feel of Hydra’s history but also to admire the harbor views from the house’s terrace.

Inside, the ground floor displays family heirlooms—portraits, furniture and personal items that bring the domestic life of a revolutionary dynasty vividly to life. Upstairs, traditional folk art and historic costumes, reflect the island‑wide connection between art and identity.

8. Visit Tetsis Home & Studio

Just a short climb from the harbor, the former home and studio of Panayiotis Tetsis offers a quiet window into the life of one of Greece’s most beloved contemporary painters. Tetsis was born in Hydra and spent much of his life capturing the island’s shifting light and sea-worn textures in luminous color.

His house has been left largely intact—easel, brushes, and all—giving visitors a rare, unpolished glimpse into his process, but also the living space which also housed a neighbourhood shop which functioned up until the 80s.

Now managed by the National Gallery, the space is open seasonally. It’s small, personal, and best visited when you’re already exploring the upper town, namely Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion as tickets to the latter include both spaces.

9. Take a Swim

Hydra’s all about rugged beauty and spontaneous dips off rocky ledges. From the harbor, you can easily slip into the sea at Spilia or Hydronetta, a built-in platform that feels by turns dramatic and serene. Another local favorite is Avlaki, just a short stroll from town, where a pebble cove and clear water make for effortless lounging between swims.

If you’re up for a mild adventure, head out to Vlychos or continue along to Bisti Beach. These spots are quieter and feel like your own private plunge pool, accessible either on foot or by water taxi. Just grab your towel, sunscreen, and maybe a book.

10. Enjoy the Sunset

Sunset is a bit of a sacred ritual on Hydra. It’s a time when the island’s residents and visitors quietly congregate along the coast—not in a frantic, camera-snapping way, but more like a communal exhale. The light softens, the stone glows gold, and the sea seems to still for a moment – broken only by ferrying water taxis. It’s understated magic.

The go-to spot for many is Hydronetta Bar, built into the rocks just below the cannons near the harbor. Order something cold, find a spot on the ledge, and settle in for the show.

For a higher, more panoramic view which I personally prefered, head up to the newly opened Windmill Bar—the same old windmill that once appeared in the Sophia Loren film Boy on a Dolphin. The views are even better from up here, and the cocktails are fantastic (especially if you’re into herbaceous G&Ts or just creative cocktails in general).

It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay until the stars come out, and there’s no reason you can’t.

11. Visit the Historical Archive Museum of Hydra

Just past the harbor, the Historical Archive Museum of Hydra offers a thoughtful pause amid the island’s artistic whirlwind. Housed in a 1996-built facility funded by shipowner Gikas Koulouras, the museum is more than a collection of old sails and naval relics—it’s a window into Hydra’s role in national history and its enduring ties to art.

Inside, you’ll encounter manuscripts, portraits, admiral Miaoulis’s heart in a silver urn, and a rich assortment of maritime artifacts.

Make sure you head up to the top floor, where the staircase is graced by a striking painting from local artist Tom Powell—one of several works he’s contributed to the museum, cementing his place within Hydra’s contemporary art narrative. Powell’s pieces, often inspired by Greek light and island life, feel especially resonant in this historic setting.

The museum also hosts rotating summer exhibitions and cultural events, from concerts to academic talks—so it’s worth pausing at reception to see what’s on during your visit.

12. Spend the Afternoon in Mandraki Bay

If you’re after a different side of Hydra—one where history meets soft sands—then Mandraki Bay is your go-to. Just a scenic 10-minute water taxi ride or coastal-walk from Hydra Town, this is the island’s only sandy beach and a gentle retreat from the harbor’s bustle.

Home to the elegant Mandraki Beach Resort, which sits on a former 19th‑century naval fort and blends rustic stone remnants with minimalist luxury, the bay offers sunbeds and chaise longues spread across a soft, golden crescent.

Morning or mid‑afternoon, it’s a serene place to swim, read, and soak in that quiet Aegean calm. If you’re planning a longer stay, dipping into resort life—even just for lunch or a drink—brings the added charm of private beach access and beautifully designed surroundings.

After unwinding on the sand, consider a late-afternoon stroll back along the coastal path toward Hydra Town. You’ll pass the old slaughterhouse (now the DESTE Slaughterhouse Project) and framed vignettes of sea and stone that sum up why Hydra’s understated elegance remains quietly magnetic.

For lunch, dine on sushi at Mandraki Beach Resort, or head to Lefteraki’s Taverna just a few minutes away for stellar fish and seafood with sublime ocean views.

13. Hike to Prophet Elias Monastery

For the more active, exploring the island’s hiking trails is one of the best things to do in Hydra, Greece. The hike to Prophet Elias Monastery is one of Hydra’s most rewarding walks.

Start from the port, follow the blue-and-white blazes up winding stone paths and staircases—most of which feel antique but well-kept—and after about an hour or so of moderate uphill, you’ll reach the site, first founded in 1813 by monks from Mount Athos.

Perched roughly 487 meters above sea level, the monastery offers fresh spring water, quiet prayer spaces, and panoramic vistas stretching over Hydra town, the Peloponnese, and beyond. Bring plenty of water, go early before the midday heat (and siesta) set in, and take your time soaking it all in.

If you’re in good shape (and feeling adventurous), continue past Prophet Elias up to Mount Eros—the island’s highest point—for even broader views.

14. Take a Boat Trip

For a more indulgent experience, book a private boat charter (many include a skipper, snacks, snorkeling gear, even paddle‑boards), and roam freely between secluded coves and nearby islets like Dokos—it’s the kind of day‑long escape that feels curated just for you.

15. Go Horseriding

With no cars or scooters on Hydra, horses and donkeys remain more than just postcard material—they’re still a part of daily life. But beyond their practical use, horseback riding is also one of the more memorable ways to see the island.

The terrain is rugged but rewarding, with winding trails that take you through pine-covered hills, hidden monasteries, and coastal paths with sweeping views over the Aegean.

For those interested in saddling up, Harriet’s Hydra Horses is the name to know. Harriet Jarman, a long-time resident of the island, offers guided rides that range from short, scenic loops to more adventurous treks into Hydra’s quieter interior. Her horses are well-trained and well-cared for, and she tailors each outing to suit both beginners and experienced riders.

Best Time to Visit Hydra

While it is possible to visit year-round, Hydra really is a summer destination shining brightest from late spring to early autumn. May and June are ideal—warm enough for swims, but before the summer rush. The island is in full bloom, galleries and pop-ups start to open (generally in June), and the vibe is effortlessly relaxed.

July and August bring the crowds (and the heat), along with the social season: think art openings, fashion pop-ups, and more yachts than fishing boats. I’d also avoid visiting on the weekends if you can as this brings many Athenians from the capital.

September might be the sweet spot. The sea is at its warmest, the weather still golden, and things start to slow down just enough. October can be lovely too, especially for hiking and quieter cultural visits, though some seasonal spots begin to close.

Off-season, Hydra turns into a different island—sleepier, local, and best for those craving solitude over scene.

How to Get to Hydra

Getting to Hydra is easy—and part of the charm is that it’s just far enough from Athens to feel like a proper escape, yet close enough to reach without much hassle.

The most direct route is by ferry from Piraeus Port (Gate E8), with several daily high-speed boats operated by Hellenic Seaways, Magic Sea, and Alpha Lines. The journey takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes (on the fastest service), and it’s best to book tickets in advance, especially during summer weekends and holidays.

There’s no airport on Hydra (mercifully), and cars are banned on the island.

For a more private (and pricey) option, you can charter a water taxi from nearby islands like Spetses or the Peloponnese coast, which is especially useful if you’re tacking Hydra onto a broader itinerary through the Saronic Gulf.

Getting Around the Island

As there are no cars on Hydra, once you arrive at the harbor, everything is either walked, wheeled by donkey, or transported via handcart. During your stay, you’ll mostly be walking or using boat taxis to get to further beaches and spots on the island.

I highly suggest not coming with too much luggage, but if it’s not possible, porters are usually available to help you get to your hotel. I recommend packing a weekender and not a rolling suitcase, as well as wearing good shoes due to the cobbled streets – they are quite slippery on sandals with no grip.

Due to Hydra’s hilly infrastructure and no car rules, I’d say this isn’t the best Greek island to visit for those with mobility issues.

Where to Stay in Hydra

Hydra’s hotel scene is refreshingly understated—think heritage homes, neoclassical mansions, and low-key boutique stays that favor character over flash.

Mandraki Beach Resort – For a beachside escape with serious design credentials, Mandraki blends soft minimalism with sandy toes and sea views. This is where I stayed.

Orloff Boutique Hotel – offers a quieter, historic stay just a short walk from the harbor, with elegant, art-filled interiors and hidden courtyards.

Four Seasons Hydra – (no relation to the global chain) sits tucked away in the pine-covered Plakes beach, offering total serenity by the sea a little further from the action.

For more recommendations—whether you want to stay central or totally off-grid—check out our full guide to where to stay in Hydra.

Where to Eat

Hydra keeps it unfussy when it comes to food, but that doesn’t mean it’s not delicious. The island’s best restaurants tend to lean into the setting—sea views, historic buildings, and dishes that let the ingredients speak for themselves.

Techne is the standout for a modern Greek menu with a creative edge, served in a converted boatyard with views that stretch into forever. For something more traditional, Douskos is a lively taverna under the trees, known for its grilled meats, local crowd, and nightly live music (yes, this is where Leonard Cohen once dined).

And if you’re looking for old-school glam with a splash of cinematic history, Omilos delivers—set in the former Lagoudera Club, this waterfront spot is all about polished service, seafood, and a slightly nostalgic vibe.

---

So, which one of these best things to do in Hydra, Greece, will you be heading to? Let me know in the comments below.

FOUND THIS POST HELPFUL? PIN IT AND SHARE