Best places to visit in Hydra

Hydra's Unmissable Gems

Hydra is defined by its preserved 18th and 19th-century stone mansions, built by wealthy shipowners who played a pivotal role in the Greek War of Independence. This car-free island relies on donkeys and water taxis for transport, centered around a crescent-shaped harbor. The landscape features rugged coastal paths leading to historic fortifications, remote monasteries like Prophetis Ilias, and the eastern Zourvas lighthouse, offering a glimpse into the island's maritime power and artistic heritage.

Hydra's Unmissable Gems — Map

A

Port of Hydra

The island's primary entry point for ferries and catamarans. This car-free harbor serves as the central hub for donkey transport and water taxis.

B

Museum of Hydra

Housed in a stone mansion, this archive displays naval artifacts, historical documents, and traditional costumes detailing Hydra’s contribution to the 1821 Greek Revolution.

C

Pavlos Kountouriotis Mansion

A restored 18th-century residence of the prominent naval commander and Greek President. The museum displays family heirlooms, period furniture, and historical paintings.

D

Oikia Lazarou Kountouriote

A branch of the National Historical Museum housed in an 18th-century mansion. It showcases traditional island interiors, folk art, and historical memorabilia.

E

Mone Prophetou Eliou

An 18th-century monastery situated 500 meters above sea level. It historically served as a prison for revolutionary leaders during the Greek War of Independence.

F

Saint Konstantinos

A vantage point near the town center providing panoramic views over the red-tiled roofs of Hydra and the Saronic Gulf.

Brett / CC BY-SA 4.0

G

Avlaki

A small, rocky cove with a concrete sunbathing platform and clear water, accessible via a short walk and stone steps from the main port.

H

Ochyra Mandrakiou Ydras

Historic coastal fortifications featuring stone walls and cannons that once protected the island's merchant fleet from naval attacks.

I

Ochyra Mandrakiou Ydras

Stone-built defensive bastions and artillery positions located along the coastal path, overlooking the entrance to the bay.

J

Kamínia

A small fishing harbor and village featuring a shallow pebble beach and traditional waterfront tavernas, located about a 15-minute walk from Hydra port.

K

Pharos Zourbas

A stone lighthouse built in 1883 on the eastern tip of the island. It is accessible via a challenging hiking trail or by boat.