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    Hydra

    Neoclassical elegance, aristocratic charm, and total tranquility without cars.

    Hydra is a distinctive island in the Saronic Gulf, located close to Athens yet worlds apart in atmosphere. Famous for its ban on cars, Hydra preserves a timeless character shaped by stone mansions, a historic harbor, and strong maritime heritage. Its elegant architecture, artistic spirit, and tranquil pace define an identity rooted in authenticity, culture, and refined simplicity, making Hydra a unique destination for slow travel and cultural escapes.

    Highlights

    Monastery of Prophet Elias

    Built in the 19th century. Located on the northern slopes of Mount Eros at an altitude of 500 meters, it offers a magnificent view over the town and the sea. the Monastery of Prophet Elias is a good two hours hike from the port.

    Walk to the port

    One of the busiest parts of the island. Here you will see the Merchant Marine Academy, one of the most historic schools, the protection cannons of the island and one of the most beautiful buildings of Hydra, the Tombazi Mansion.

    Beaches

    Hydra has many beaches, with sand and pebbles or rocks, which are accessible on foot, by donkeys or by sea. Swim in Spilia, Hydroneta, Mandraki, Vlychos, Agios Nikolaos and Kaoumithi.

    In the alleys

    It's like walking into another era! All the streets are paved and there is no means of transport on the island. There are carriages and sea taxis. Nothing on this island is reminiscent of the 21st century.

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    IDEAL DESTINATION

    Sophistication, culture, and peace in a painting-like island setting.

    Hydra is a distinctive island in the Saronic Gulf, located close to Athens yet worlds apart in atmosphere. Famous for its ban on cars, Hydra preserves a timeless character shaped by stone mansions, a historic harbor, and strong maritime heritage. Its elegant architecture, artistic spirit, and tranquil pace define an identity rooted in authenticity, culture, and refined simplicity, making Hydra a unique destination for slow travel and cultural escapes.

    Enjoy the traditional cuisine of Hydra

    The gastronomy of Hydra reflects its maritime soul and refined simplicity. Fresh seafood, grilled fish, and octopus are central to local cuisine, served in traditional tavernas overlooking the harbor. Recipes are based on pure ingredients, olive oil, herbs, and seasonal produce, while sweets like almond-based desserts recall old seafaring traditions. Dining on Hydra is an authentic, relaxed experience that highlights quality, freshness, and timeless Greek flavors

    Best time to visit Hydra

    An island like Hydra remains beautiful all year round, however it depends on whether you are looking for a quiet holiday so it is best to avoid the crowds of July and August and prefer May, June and September as the weather is also good.

    How to use transportation in Hydra

    Port transfer options

    Piraeus – Hydra: The easiest way to get to Hydra from Athens. The ferry connection is served several times daily and the trip Piraeus – Hydra lasts from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the ferry.

    Ermioni – Hydra: The route runs at least 2 times a day in summer. The journey from Ermioni to Hydra is only 25 minutes.

    Porto Heli – Hydra: The ferry connection is served at least 2 times a day during the summer season. The journey Porto Heli – Hydra takes about 1 hour.

    Local transportation

    As it is known, in Hydra, cars and any kind of motor vehicle are prohibited and you can use your  foot or sea taxis.

    Questions/Answers

    Q&A

    By hydrofoil from Piraeus (around 2 hours). There is no road access for cars.

    No. Transport is by foot, donkeys, or sea taxis only.

    The Historical Archive Museum, Bouboulina’s Mansion, Zourvas Lighthouse, and Vlychos Beach.

    Absolutely! Romantic ambiance, peaceful walks, and seaside dinners make it ideal for couples.

    Hydra almond sweets, fresh seafood, local wine, and slow-cooked traditional dishes in tavernas around the island.

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    They said about us...

     Savita
    2025-07-21
    Αthens, Santorini and Corfu
    My Kids and I loved the trip except for our lost baggage from the Aegean airlines upon arrival at Athens at the start of the trip.Loved all the sightseeing. Tour guides and Pick up services were awesome!! Tour guides were very knowledgeable in their area and history of the city and my kids and I loved that. They answered all our questions. Pick up services were always on time.I just wish I had a little more time in Corfu to do the boat tour as I had planned. Wasn’t able to accomplish that. Loved the wine tasting, Oia and Fira in Santorini. Thank You so much for helping me plan this trip. Great memories made on this trip!!Savita
    2025-05-09
    Group from India
    Thank you so much for your flexibility and support throughout the past weeks – the group ended successfully and we truly appreciate your efforts.
    During the trip, we also received very positive feedback from the tour leader regarding the hotels, restaurants, and the quality of your transportation service. We’re very happy with the overall arrangement and sincerely hope to continue working with you on upcoming groups.
    2024-03-27
    BDA - Scientific meeting
    Mata/ChristineThe feedback from all delegates was very positive about all the arrangements provided by the hotel and your good selves. Accommodation, meals and overall satisfaction from the hotel was very good. The renovated rooms help to bring the best of the hotel – the gala dinner room location was fantastic. Please give this feedback to the hotel too. All the transfers, excursions, the drivers, guide etc were performed professionally and all delegates again had something good to say about your services and the way you have handled the management of these activities. Overall well done. This is a genuine feedback and hope that makes you feel satisfied for a job well done
    Fabiola Cano
    2023-11-29
    Fabiola Cano from Viajes Lerma
    It was a real pleasure to meet you. The passengers were happy with all your details and the beautiful country of Greece. Regarding food, I must thank you for the care you took to choose the places and the dishes. They were all a great success. The menus, even in Spanish, were totally appreciated. Regarding accommodation, I found the hotel nice, comfortable and well located. The breakfast room is a bit busy in the mornings, but the food tastes great. And the view of the Parthenon from the top roof is impressive. Transportation good. The tours seemed good to me. Tour guides have a good command of the Spanish language and were quite friendly.  Regarding contact and respond from the company. I must emphasize that there is only praise for you, Anna. You really are a great person. The joy of your soul is transmitted around everything you do. Always with a smile no matter how tiring the tourist activity is. The details and care with which you do your job are extremely applaudable. I only have one word but for you THANKFULNESS.October 2023
    RAK
    2023-05-05
    One more Thank You
    Dear Mata and Desi,I mean it when I say I have never been exposed to such level of loving care in the world of travel.  We were not just your clients. We felt like your family. You cared for us, and all of our many (many! Many!) different needs. You showed Stuart such respect. You were patient with some in our group who would not always ask things with proper respect. You kept showing up in places we did not expect. You made visits to the pharmacy, and extra trips with your car, all to make us feel comfortable and at home.Truly—you are at the top of your business, and it shows. I do not even remember how we initially found you. But however it was, I am so grateful for this friendship and partnership. And I do mean it when I hope that we do many trips together in the future, and that I can send many of my colleagues to you for trips.It is hard for this trip to be over and to say goodbye. Know that we mean it when we say we have not only appreciation for you. But love for you.Αντίο και σας ευχαριστούμε και σας αγαπάμε και είμαστε ενθουσιασμένοι που θα σας δούμε σύντομα.With a heart that is full because we know one another, and heavy because we have to say goodbye!
    Kleopatra M
    2021-09-15
    Very helpful office…
    Very helpful office… special thanks to Ms. Lina who was very kind, very fast (although she had a large workload due to the tourist season) and met our needs perfectly !!! I highly recommend it !!!Kleopatra M
    Aris Konstantinidis
    2021-09-07
    The only travel agency that has served me perfectly
    The only travel agency that has served me perfectly as a voucher holder for \"tourism for all\". Perfect organization of the whole trip. Definitely first in my choices for future travel!Aris Konstantinidis