Hydra: The Aristocratic and Car-Free Muse of the Aegean
Hydra is unlike any other island in the world. There are no cars, no scooters, and no sirens—only the rhythmic clip-clop of donkey hooves on cobblestones and the sound of the sea. This preserved architectural marvel has served as a sanctuary for artists like Leonard Cohen and Henry Miller, and today it remains the most sophisticated and atmospheric destination in the Saronic Gulf.
Things to know about Hydra
Geographically, Hydra is a mountainous, rocky island situated between the Saronic and Argolic Gulfs. Historically, it was a maritime titan; during the Napoleonic Wars, Hydriot sailors amassed great wealth, which they used to build the massive stone mansions (archontika) that dominate the port today. They also provided the bulk of the Greek fleet during the 1821 War of Independence. An ideal trip length is 3-4 days to fully appreciate the slow pace of life and the extensive hiking trails. It is famous for its strict preservation laws, its vibrant art scene, and the total absence of motorized vehicles.
Top attractions in Hydra
Hydra Port
The port is a horseshoe-shaped amphitheater of grey stone mansions and white-washed houses. It is the social heart of the island, where locals and visitors gather at the waterfront cafes to watch the world go by. The harbor is also home to the island’s famous donkeys, the only form of heavy transport allowed.
Historical Archives Museum of Hydra
Located in a grand building at the edge of the port, this museum houses the maritime history of the island, including weapons from the revolution, maps, and the embalmed heart of Admiral Andreas Miaoulis, a national hero.
The Bastions and Cannons
Walking to the left or right of the harbor, you will find the massive stone bastions that once protected the island from Ottoman raids. The cannons still point out to sea, and these spots now serve as the perfect viewpoints for sunset.
The Monastery of Prophet Elias
For the best views of the island, hike up to this 19th-century monastery perched 500 meters above sea level. It was used as a prison for revolutionary leaders during the war of independence. The hike takes about an hour and passes through beautiful pine and cypress groves.
Leonard Cohen’s House
While you cannot enter the private residence, many visitors make the pilgrimage to the quiet backstreets to see the house where the legendary singer-songwriter lived in the 1960s. The island’s influence is clear in much of his early work.
Vlychos Beach
A picturesque pebble beach with crystal-clear water, located about a 30-minute walk or a 5-minute boat ride from the port. It features a charming 19th-century stone bridge and some of the best traditional taverns on the island.
The Merchant Marine Academy
The oldest maritime school in the world, housed in a magnificent mansion. While it is an active school, its presence underscores the deep nautical DNA of the island. It has produced captains that have sailed the world for centuries.
Spilia and Hydronetta
These are not typical beaches but rocky platforms located just outside the port. They are the most popular spots for diving directly into deep, turquoise water. The bars here are world-famous for their sunset cocktails and lounge music.
Mandraki Bay
Once the island’s main naval port, Mandraki is now a quiet bay with a sandy beach and a luxury resort. It is a more sheltered alternative for swimming on windy days and is easily accessible by water taxi.
Hiking to Mount Eros
The highest peak on the island offers a panoramic view of the entire Saronic Gulf, the Peloponnese, and even the distant Cyclades on a clear day. The trails are well-marked and provide a look at the rural, interior side of Hydra that most tourists never see.
Island-hopping from Hydra
Hydra is a major stop on the Saronic hydrofoil route. Frequent daily connections link it to Spetses (30 mins), Poros (30 mins), and Piraeus (1.5 – 2 hours). It is also well-connected to the Peloponnese mainland, with regular water taxis and ferries going to Ermioni and Porto Heli, making it a perfect base for exploring both the islands and the mainland’s archaeological sites.
