A day cruise from Athens to Hydra island is an ideal way to visit this beautiful Greek island. Being just a couple of hours away from Athens, Hydra is one of the best options for a day cruise close to Athens.
Romantic Hydra 1 day irresistible and sophisticated cruise; Among the most scenic and atmospheric islands of Argosaronic, Hydra is ideal for romantic getaways.
The architectural style of the evergreen and historic naval state of the early 19th century has been preserved intact, and a sophisticated tourist resort has been set up with beautiful guesthouses and timeless meeting points. The multi-story mansions, some of which are visited, impress the visitors.
The harbor is the heart of the island and, in fact, the only settlement. Around it and in the back alleys you will find fine cafes and restaurants as well as arty boutiques. In the town of Hydra (Chora) you can enjoy many nice walks: the two most classic choices are either to the Historical Archive and the Port Authority, or to Kiafa with the mansions of Kountouriotis and from there to the Spilia (Cave), the Mills and the Kamini. If you do not do well with walking and stairs, better choose another island as cars do not run and the routes are made either by foot, donkeys or by sea taxi.
In addition to visiting mansions and museums, Hydra has a strong artistic movement and every summer here is a series of contemporary art exhibitions.
Cruise Schedule
- 08:00 Hotel pick-up and transfer to Piraeus port
- The ferry ride to Hydra
- Hydra horse ride (optional)
- Transfer to Plakes beach with free time for lunch (optional)
- Stroll around Hydra town
- The ferry ride back to Piraeus
- Transfer to your hotel
Highlights of the Romantic Hydra 1 day irresistible and sophisticated cruise
- The beautiful port of Hydra, rich in history and cosmopolitan fame
- Donkey ride in the cobbled streets of the town
- Experience a sea-taxi ride, or swim in the crystal clear waters of the island
- Go sightseeing in this historic location, an important center during the 1821 Greek War of Independence
- Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
- Travel by a high-speed vessel and enjoy the sea breeze
Cruise Description
The driver will pick you up from your hotel and bring you to the Port of Piraeus, where you will board the flying dolphin, a fast hydrofoil that will take you to Hydra within just a couple of hours.
Almost all points of interest can be found on the waterfront or on the small streets behind the harbor. In the small town of Hydra, you can wander through the cobbled streets and admire the houses that climb up the hills.
Hydra is ideal for hikers, climbers, sailors, and riders. And when we say riders, we mean naturally horsemen, since the island is a destination without motorbikes and cars but with many mules and horses for your transportation.
Try one of the horseriding trips and enjoy the view of the monasteries, the beaches of Hydra, and the Saronic Gulf. After your ride you will return to the main town, where you can either hire a water taxi and travel between Hydra’s villages without walking or just take a water taxi and enjoy swimming at the Plakes Beach, or taste some of the local flavors at the seafront taverns in Hydra town, offering you magnificent views to the Saronic Gulf.
Time For Lunch
After lunch, you should definitely opt for a walk down the cobblestone paths of the island, where you will find numerous little shops, workshops, stylish boutiques, and cafes. The town of Hydra, one of the most beautiful you will encounter and the uniqueness of this particular island has been declared preserved. It is spread over two rocky hills and busts from traditional houses with tiled roofs, dark blue doors, and windows.
You will meet the old town following the road that is next to the Holy Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. At this point dominates the mansion of Lazaros Kountouriotis and the temple of Ypapanti. Another point that deserves your attention is the oldest pharmacy on the island (Pharmacy of Raphaelia) dating back to the 19th century.
The main road will take you to Kala Pigadia and the nostalgic district of Kiafa. The smell of wood from the neighboring carpentry welcomes you here, while the beautiful pictures of stunning houses and picturesque churches will take you to the highest point of the area, Agios Konstantinos.
As the day finishes, you can enjoy a café or a cocktail at the famous bars of the town; the Flying dolphin will bring you back to the port of Piraeus, where your day cruise to Hydra will end, with your driver expecting you to bring you back to your hotel.
Where to eat in Hydra
The Greek island of Hydra has an amazing food scene. From traditional seaside tavernas to posh restaurants and Italian bistros. So just choose one and just enjoy your lunch!
** The day cruise to Hydra is not escorted, therefore you have the chance to spend the day in hydra the way you choose; however, you are most welcome to ask for advice or information on the island.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Athens hotel pick up/drop off service
- Round-trip ferry tickets
Excluded
- Food and drinks
- Personal expenses
- All that is not mentioned in the Included
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100% cancellation fee. If you cancel at least 4 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
Note: if you are booking within 24 hours of the tour/activity departure time, we cannot guarantee hotel pick-up. Once your purchase is complete, we will send you complete contact information (phone number, email address, etc.) for our local operator to organize pick-up arrangements.