Less than two hours from Athens, Hydra island is ideal for a day-trip. Completely traffic-free, the pretty port town, lined with magnificent 18th-century mansions is full of history and cultural charm. Hydra's beaches are stunning and tranquil, and the laid-back atmosphere of Greek island living will win your heart!
At the port of Piraeus, in Athens, you’ll board the Flying Dolphin for a quick and comfortable hydrofoil ride to the harbour town of Hydra. Once you reach the island you’ll be amazed by the local landscape that has made it a favoured retreat of jet-setters and rock stars such as Maria Callas, Leonard Cohen, Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones, Picasso and many more.
Then it’s time to saddle up for a ride through the town’s different neighbourhoods, because the best way to explore Hydra is on the back of a horse, the island’s traditional means of transportation (no cars allowed!).
After your ride through town, you’ll return to the harbour to board one of the island’s famed water taxis, the easiest and the most exciting way to reach the island’s best beaches. Foremost among these is Plakes Beach, equipped with sun-loungers and umbrellas, where you’ll have chance to relax for a couple of hours and to bathe in the crystal-blue water and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at a seafront taverna, right on the waters edge.
Following lunch, it’s back to Hydra Town and you’ll take a leisurely stroll down the maze-like side streets and by-ways where you’ll spot artists’ workshops, stylish boutiques. There are a number of well-preserved historic residences, some of which are now museums. In recent years Hydra has evolved to a cultural hub, where innovative exhibitions, hip happenings and events with international appeal attract famous visitors from all over the world each summer.
Your stroll will end at a family-run pastry shop that’s famous for the local sweet called ”amygdalota”made from almonds, and for its rich and delicious homemade ice cream. As you finish your treat on the shaded veranda of the pastry shop, you’ll be ready to leave the island with more than just a sweet taste on your lips; you’ll have the long-lasting memory of a special day spent on this little gem of an island.
