Hydra is undoubtedly one of our favorite Greek islands. Very picturesque, it has an enchanting charm and the added advantage of being very close to Athens. It’s easy to get to Hydra and back in a day from Athens. To find out more, read our article A day in Hydra. Nevertheless, if you have the opportunity, we strongly recommend to stay a night there. Sleeping in Hydra allows you to enjoy the island’s tranquillity in the evening, when the day-trippers have left. The atmosphere becomes peaceful. And what a pleasure it is to see the harbour in the early hours of the morning before the cruise ships disembark!
In this article, we tell you:
- Where to sleep in Hydra: our geographical tips
- Our favorite places to stay in Hydra
- Our favorite Airbnb in Hydra
Where to sleep in Hydra?
Whichever option you choose (hotel, apartment, house rental, bed and breakfast), we recommend that you choose accommodation on or near the port, in the narrow streets of Hydra. You’ll be right in the heart of the island. You’ll be able to enjoy the nightlife (restaurants, bars) and wake up the next morning with a cup of coffee on the harbor.
What’s more, choosing accommodation around Hydra harbor is very convenient. As soon as you step off the boat, you can set down your bags at the hotel in just a few minutes’ walk. As Hydra is a pedestrian island, there are no motor vehicles, so it’s best not to be too far away.
The island’s other villages (such as Mandraki or Vlychos) are certainly full of charm, but they are further from the port, which presents a few disadvantages:
- These villages are more isolated and less central, so you won’t be able to get around the island as easily.
- The restaurant offer is more limited in the evening
- Being far from the port means you don’t get to enjoy the island’s ambience as much at nightfall and/or in the early hours of the morning. It’s a shame.
- Finally, when you arrive on the island, you’ll have to walk with your suitcases for a while or borrow a donkey to get to your hotel.
Hydra’s tourist infrastructure is of a high standard. You’ll easily find comfortable hotels. On the other hand, as far as prices are concerned, Hydra is not a cheap island, and rates will be higher than on other Greek islands.
Our favorite places to stay in Hydra
Hotels
- The Alkionides guesthouse is an excellent option for spending the night in Hydra without breaking the bank. Simple yet comfortable, it is quietly located in a small alley just 100 meters from the port. It also has a pleasant courtyard.
- The Porta Delmare hotel is a very pleasant place to stay, whether you’re a family, a couple or a group of friends. 50 meters from the port. It features a children’s pool, Jacuzzi and terrace with sun loungers.
- The Hotel Orloff is a classic on the island. It’s also very well located, in a quiet area not far from the port. An ideal place if you want to sleep in Hydra in a peaceful, refined atmosphere.
- More chic, the Hotel Bratsera is one of our favorites. This charming hotel, just a few minutes’ walk from the port, is magnificent and boasts a lovely swimming pool (a plus for Hydra). High rates
- We also recommend the Hotel Miranda, a 4-star establishment located 100 meters from the port. Originally the mansion of a wealthy naval captain, the building is a fine example of Hydriote architecture.
- Finally, let’s not forget the Leto Hotel, one of the island’s most luxurious (but not most expensive) hotels.
Houses and apartments
- The house at the center: a duplex apartment for 6 people, located right in the center of Hydra, one minute from the port. 2 lovely terraces, spacious living room, all recently refurbished. Welcoming owner.
- Little Yard – Hydra Dream Houses: a charming studio for 2 people with a pleasant terrace, conveniently located 700m from the port.
- Hydra Dream Houses Sunset Studio: A small apartment for 2-3 people, with a lovely terrace offering a splendid view of the harbor. The welcoming owner will pick you up when you get off the boat.
You’ll find a fine selection of hotels and guesthouses, as well as apartments and houses, in short, all kinds of accommodation to suit all budgets on the Booking website.
Our favorite Airbnb accommodations in Hydra
Airbnb website also offers a number of interesting accommodations. Here’s our selection:
- Hydra Blue: We stayed twice in this 9-person apartment and really liked it. Impeccable quality: the owner is an “Airbnb super-host” and the accommodation is part of the “Guest Favorite” category. Very convenient for families or groups of friends as there are 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The apartment is very well located, just a stone’s throw from the port. And it’s well equipped. We can’t recommend it highly enough!
- Antonia’s Guesthouse: a small house for two in an idyllic setting. With small terrace and direct, private access to the sea.
*****
To find out more about Hydra, read our article A day in Hydra.
We hope you enjoy your stay in Hydra!
Laure M.
Updated February 29, 2024
