Our Favorite Hydra Hotels
• Luxury: Hydroussa
• For a unique boutique experience, consider the Orloff on the Greek island of Hydra • Budget: Nereids Guesthouse
• Families: Leto
• The accommodations include: Bratsera • Honeymoon: Four Seasons
• star: The Met
• Beach: Mandraki
Hydra is a charming Greek island located in the Saronic Gulf, characterized by its beautifully maintained architecture, cozy harbor, and lack of motor vehicles. (All transportation here is on foot, by donkey, or water taxi.) The island’s layout revolves around its main town, Hydra Town, which serves as the primary center for dining, shopping, and socializing. Hydra Town’s focal point is the curved harbor, bordered with elegant stone mansions, colorful fishing boats, and lively waterside cafes. As you move away from the harbor, the town expands up the hilly areas through a network of narrow, cobblestone streets and alleys, dotted with picturesque homes, historic churches, and small squares boasting breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
Beyond the town of Hydra, smaller towns like Kamini, Vlychos, and Mandraki are scattered along the island`s naturally rugged coastline. These tranquil villages hold pebbled beaches (the exception being sandy Mandraki beach) with crystal clear waters permitting good swimming, reachable on foot or by water taxi. The remote Bisti Beach on Hydra`s western shore offers a peaceful setting surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery, only accessible by boat. Several monasteries are found across the island however many necessitate hiking up Hydra`s hills to reach. Notably, Profitis Ilias Monastery, located at the summit of Mount Eros which is Hydra`s highest peak, delivers breathtaking views and is a popular trail destination.
Hydra Attractions
The island has a rich nautical past, and its sheltered harbor and rugged coastline have long attracted artists, musicians, and other creative individuals. Renowned songwriter Leonard Cohen famously made his home on Hydra and wrote some of his most beloved tunes here – his devoted fans still make pilgrimages to his hilltop residence (left unmarked, and somewhat difficult to locate) and to the Pirate Bar, his favorite waterside haunt. Small but worthwhile museums on Hydra include the harbor-facing Hydra History Museum, the hillside Lazaros Koundouriotis Historical Mansion (National Historical Museum) (which also includes entrance to the delightful home and studio of artist Panagiotis Tetsis nearby), DESTE Foundation for Contemporary Art, and the Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum of Hydra inside the harbor’s cathedral.
Staying on Hydra
Most hotels on Hydra are thoughtfully converted former mansions and cozy guesthouses, generally on the expensive side. There are also a couple excellent beach hotels, easiest to access from the port by water taxi. Typically, the island welcomes visitors at Easter and closes in November – but a few smaller guesthouses may offer winter lodging. While possible to visit Hydra on a day trip from Athens (it`s under 2 hours from Piraeus by ferry), we suggest spending no less than one night on the island if schedules allow; its beautiful harbor and charming stone pathways are potentially even more engaging after nightfall.
Best Hydra Tours
- Harriet’s Hydra Horses
Fantastic horseback rides along the coast and into the hills that range from 30 minutes to 8 hours – including one that takes you swimming with the horses in the sea. Suitable for all experience levels. Horses are gentle, surefooted, and lovingly cared for; safety helmets are provided and required.
- An analysis of guided walking experiences organized by Hydra Walking Tours.
These 90-minute excursions provide an excellent way to become familiarized with the island and learn about its storied history; personable guide Maria is a native Hydriot with advanced degrees in History and Anthropogeography. Art-centered tours, private VIP itineraries, and kids’ scavenger hunts are also proposed.
Table of Contents
Best Places To Stay On Hydra
- Best Luxury and Boutique Hotels on Hydra
Hydroussa Hotel • Hotel Leto • Orloff Boutique Hotel • Hydrea • Rafalias Mansion - Best Hotels on Hydra for Families
- On Abbott Street, one block up from the lodging, is a major Woolworths supermarket. Roughly 300m along the Esplanade are the Cairns Night Markets. Open daily, with souvenir stalls (from 5pm) and eateries (from 10am), they are somewhat of a tourist trap. More lively is the Asian-style Rusty’s Markets (open from early, Friday to Sunday), 500m up Spence Street. Mainly fresh produce, but also souvenirs, live music, and a food court. The massive Cairns Central shopping center is 1km along Spence Street.
- Best Hotels on Hydra for Couples
Hydroussa HotelHydreaOrloff Boutique HotelCotommatae Hydra 1810Four Seasons Hydra Luxury SuitesMandraki Beach ResortRafalias Mansion - Best Hydra Beach Hotels
Four Seasons Luxury Suites • Mandraki Beach Resort • Villa Mandraki - Best Budget/Midrange Hotels on Hydra
Nereids Guesthouse • Athina Guesthouse - Best Hotels at Hydra Port
Hydrea • Hotel Sophia • Douskos Port House
18 Best Hotels on Hydra
1. Hydroussa Hotel Hydra
Hotel phone: +30 22980 52400
The hotel is located in a two-century-old mansion that formerly belonged to a maritime captain. Its antiquated world charm is now complemented with opulent modern features. Notably recognizable for its lovely garden courtyard, it`s also renowned as a setting in the Sophia Loren film, Boy on a Dolphin. Fantastic central site less than a five-minute walk from the ferry port. Ideal for couples wanting to stay near eateries and nightlife.
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- An emphasized link toThe Sounds of the Gods (I Suoni degli Dei) – This event brings chamber music and folk concerts around Praiano every Wednesday throughout May, along the scenic “Path of the Gods” hiking trail.
2. Hotel Leto
Hotel phone: +30 2298 053385
Tranquil and traditionally designed lodgings on a small, quiet lane that feels removed from the busy port area but is still an easy walk to shops, bars, restaurants, and the ferry. Locals say it’s the only hotel on Hydra that was originally constructed for hotel use. Several rooms here are perfect for families.
• Accommodation website • Check prices for Hotel Leto
3. Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites
Hotel phone: +30 2298 053698
Romantic getaway located a 10-minute boat ride or 50-minute walk west of the port at one of the island’s best swimming spots. There are only 7 suites here, plus a waterfront villa with its own secluded beach. Complimentary beach towels, sun beds and umbrellas are offered. The onsite restaurant is exceptional. (This hotel is not part of the Four Seasons chain.)
• Accommodation website • Confirm costs for Four Seasons Hydra
4. Orloff Boutique Hotel
Hotel phone: +30 2298 052564
Impeccable boutique hotel built on the site of an ancient convent. Guest rooms here are tastefully furnished in historic style, complemented by chic, modern bathrooms. The spacious premium suite is split over 2 levels. Relax in its beautiful garden courtyards or venture out to the shops and cafés at the port, just an easy 5-minute walk away.
• ⦁ Hotel website ⦁ Check prices details for Orloff Boutique Hotel
5. Cotommatae Hydra 1810
Hotel phone: +30 2298 053873
This historic mansion that has been converted into a boutique hotel is located a short walk from the harbor and near many shops, clubs, and restaurants. In addition to the 7 lovely guest rooms (one suite comes with a private outdoor hot tub), the property features shared lovely garden areas and view terraces. The friendly staff are excellent.
• Hotel website – Check prices for Cotommatae 1810
6. Hydrea
Hotel phone: +30 2298 052920
In an excellent harborfront spot, the all-suite Hydrea offers magnificent perspectives over and simple access to the port. The building`s historically significant guest rooms are elegantly although basicly furnished in contemporary, refined design. All suites are spacious and feature Coco-Mat beds; some include private view terraces, sitting areas, or jacuzzi baths. Fantastic breakfasts too.
• Lodging website • Inquire about costs for Hydrea
7. Angelica Traditional Boutique Hotel
Hotel phone: +30 2298 053202
This hotel seems to have a charming and amicable atmosphere together with lovely garden terraces. Elegant traditional decor appropriately complements rustic stone architecture within its two restored mansions. Two different family suites can sleep groups of four and five people. Set in a quiet location involving an approximately eight-minute uphill walk from the port (somewhat farther than the other hotels noted here).
• Hotel website • Check prices for Angelica
8. Bratsera Hotel
Hotel phone: +30 2298 053971
A previous sponge manufacturing facility with a wonderful outside pool and onsite fitness center. Its 25 unique spaces and suites have “ancient meets industrial stylish” vibe; suites sleep 4-5 and are perfect for families. Fantastic breakfasts too. Hotel is an effortless 5-minute stroll from the ferry port.
• Hotel website • Check prices for Bratsera Hotel
9. Hotel Mistral
Hotel phone: +30 2298 052509
Refined but refurbished guesthouse with convenient rooms and excellent morning meals. Attached rooms are obtainable for families, or choose the cozy attic studio that sleeps 4 and has a limited kitchen. Tucked away from the crowds, but an easy walk to the port.
• Hotel site • Check offered rates for Hotel Mistral
10. Mandraki Beach Resort
Hotel phone: +30 2298 052110
5-star inn located a 20-minute walk or 10-minute watercraft ride east of the port, directly on Hydra’s solitary sandy shoreline. The bistro and shoreline club are extraordinary, and shoreline front suites include private pools. All lodgings sleep 2 visitors, however interfacing pool suites are accessible for families.
• Resort website • Compare prices for Mandraki Beach Resort
11. Hotel Sophia
Hotel phone: +30 2298 052313
Historically family-operated hotel situated right at the port. All rooms are cozy and decorated with charm, several with balconies overlooking the harbor. Most sleep two guests, but their single room is perfect for solo travelers. Charming hosts and exceptional breakfasts.
• Accommodation details • View pricing for Hotel Sophia
12. Rafalias Mansion
Hotel phone: +30 6946 479448
Stunning historic mansion with a gorgeous and serene garden courtyard. Guests are welcomed into this 5th-generation family home with extraordinary hospitality, and its 7 beautiful guest rooms are exceptionally clean, charming, and comfortable – all with well-equipped kitchenettes. On-site fitness and laundry facilities, too.
• Hotel website • Check prices available for Best Western Chiswick
13. Villa Mandraki
Hotel phone: +30 2298 053072
Situated only 10 meters from the coastal shoreline in the scenic Mandraki Bay area, the villa complex contains two fully-equipped cottages that can accommodate five and four guests respectively. Both feature spacious outdoor spaces ideal for meals and relaxation while taking in stunning panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf. The location is a 25-minute walk or 5-minute boat ride from the port in Hydra.
• Hotel website • Inquire about rates for Villa Mandraki
14. Pheadra Hotel
Hotel phone: +30 2298 053330
A carefully renovated 19th-century former carpet manufacturing plant, now an elegant traditionally styled hotel. Suites and studios on the first floor boast views of the city or mountains from balconies or terraces, while ground floor accommodations offer access to the garden courtyard area.
• ・ Property website ・ Check Mercure rates
15. Nereids Guesthouse
Hotel phone: +30 2298 052875
Comfortable, rustic stone getaway set an easy 10-minute walk from the busy bustle of the port. There’s a lovely shared terrace, and the Superior Suites have great views over the town to the sea. Open year-round.
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- Bellissimo Pizza e Pasta: Delightful, inexpensive, Italian cafe for outstanding pizza and pasta with many vegetarian, kid-friendly, and gluten free ooptions. Classic dishes together with a few surprising combinations.
16. Douskos Port House
Hotel phone: +30 2298 053500
Suites and well-appointed rooms situated immediately above the port (accessed by many staircases). The rooms` decor employs a crisp and modern style; numerous rooms offer magnificent perspectives over the harbor. Breakfast is served on their wonderful rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
• Hotel website • Inquire about prices for Douskos Port House
17. Athina Guesthouse
Hotel phone: +30 6980 063262
Homely, budget-friendly lodging with wonderful views over Hydra village. Showers are small, but rooms are well-furnished and include kitchen areas. The triple bunk room is ideal for a little family of 3. Peaceful location set back from – but within walking distance of – the busy port. Open only in summer.
• Hotel website • Check prices for Athina Guesthouse
18. Hydra Hotel
Hotel phone: +30 2298 053420
While maintaining the splendid perspective over Hydra town and harbor from this renovated schoolhouse hotel at the top of the village. Rooms are simplistically yet stylishly furnished, and feature an excellent breakfast. The two-bedroom family suite is ideal. However, this scenic view does come at a cost – be prepared for many staircases, and arrange prior donkey transport for your luggage before departing. Open only during summer months.
• Hotel website • Inspect pricing for Hydra Hotel
