Hydra is the most elegant island in Greece — a car-free haven of stone mansions, donkey taxis, and a harbour that has attracted artists, writers, and celebrities since the 1950s. It is an island of extraordinary beauty and deliberate simplicity: no cars, no motorbikes, no high-rise buildings, just cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and a harbour that fills with fishing boats and yachts at sunset. Hydra was the first island to be “discovered” by the international jet set — Sophia Loren, Leonard Cohen, and Picasso all spent time here — and it remains one of the most exclusive and romantic destinations in the Mediterranean. The only transport is on foot, by donkey, or by water taxi. Hiring a car is not possible on the island itself, but you can hire a car on the mainland to explore the Peloponnese before or after your visit.

We compare operators in Ermioni and Porto Heli on the mainland, a 20-minute ferry ride away. Compact cars start around €22/day. The ferry from Piraeus takes 2 hours.

Why Visit Hydra

• The Harbour: One of the most beautiful in Greece — a crescent of Venetian-style mansions, tavernas, and galleries, with fishing boats, yachts, and the occasional cruise ship. The sunset from the harbour-front cafes is legendary.
• The Mansions: Hydra has over 300 restored stone mansions from the 18th and 19th centuries, when the island was the wealthiest in Greece thanks to shipping. Many are now museums, galleries, and boutique hotels.
• The Museums: The Historical Archives Museum, the National Merchant Marine Academy Museum, and the Ecclesiastical Museum are all housed in historic mansions. The Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion is the finest example of Hydra’s neoclassical architecture.
• The Hiking: With no cars, Hydra is ideal for walking. The path from the town to the monasteries of Prophet Elias and Agia Efpraxia offers stunning views. The coastal walk to Kamini and Vlychos passes through olive groves and coves.
• The Beaches: Hydra has no sandy beaches — the coastline is rocky. But the swimming is excellent — the clear, deep water around the island is perfect for diving from rocks. The best spots are at Spilia, Hydronetta, and the coves near Kamini.
• Leonard Cohen: The singer-songwriter bought a house on Hydra in 1960 and wrote many of his early songs here. Fans visit his former home in the upper town.
• Ermioni and Porto Heli: On the mainland, 20 minutes by ferry. These towns have car hire, beaches, and access to the Epidaurus theatre and the ancient ruins of the Argolid.

Getting to Hydra

There are no cars on Hydra. The only way to get around is on foot, by donkey, or by water taxi. You can bring a bicycle, but the cobbled streets make it difficult.

Booking Tips for Hydra

• Book ferry tickets in advance in summer — the high-speed boats fill up.
• If you want a car for the mainland, hire in Ermioni or Porto Heli before taking the ferry.
• Accommodation in Hydra is expensive — book months ahead for summer.
• Bring comfortable shoes — the cobbled streets and hills are hard on feet.
• If combining with Epidaurus, the theatre is 1 hour from Ermioni by car.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hydra

Is Hydra worth visiting? Yes — it is one of the most beautiful and romantic islands in Greece. But it is not for those who want sandy beaches or nightlife.

Can I bring a car to Hydra? No — cars are banned on the island. You can hire a car on the mainland (Ermioni or Porto Heli) and take the ferry as a foot passenger.

Is Hydra expensive? Yes — it is one of the most upscale islands in Greece. Accommodation, dining, and shopping are priced accordingly.