There are some places of seaside or mountainous that win you at first glance. You don’t have to stay there for many days. It takes you two days to come back again and again and know new secrets. One of them is Hydra. One of the closest destinations in Athens that charms you all year round. If you have the chance, in fact, for a three-day trip (like Clean Monday) don’t think about it at all.
The cosmopolitan island for all seasons of the year
The small hydra of just 50 square kilometers is a small diamond in the Saronic Gulf with an area of 50 square kilometers. What you have to do if you’re a lover of food, art and architecture. And just on the idea that there are no cars on the island do you realize how much you will be free of the tension and stress of everyday life. Despite the fact that it is an island destination it is no coincidence that it has so much visitors. Hydra is small and walking is easy, pleasant and romantic. That’s why he has fans – not only of summer season – but all year long.
The main points of interest during the three-day excursion
Once you set foot in Hydra (in fact before you even set foot on land) you will see beautiful stone mansions, built amphitheatrical around the port. Most points of interest are around there. In the small town of Hydra, you will wander the cobbled streets and admire the houses that <climb> up to the hills. It’s no coincidence that these images fascinated artists like Chagall and Picasso. Nor is it by chance that they call her the “lady” of the Argosaronikos.
At every point of the port is diffused the long maritime history of Hydra. Cannons that still mark the Aegean Sea, admiral busts, captain’s houses. This is where rebels like Miaoulis and Kounturiotis lived. Next to this story is, that of cosmopolitanism. On this island of Argosaronikos, was filmed “The Child and the Dolphin” with Sophia Lauren. This is where Onassis, Callas, Rex Harrison, Peter Ustinov, Leonard Cohen, Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones went through… Including the greats of Arts: Picasso, Chagall, Miller.
Of course you must stop at Kaminia, a small port of art. In the beautiful little port of Kaminia you will see one of the most important sights of the island, the “Red House”. Built in 1786, it was inhabited by Admiral Miaoulis and today hosts exhibitions.
Another thing you won’t easily encounter elsewhere is a pharmacy… Museum. You’ll find it in the alleys of the city of Hydra. It retains the form it had, since 1890, when it opened!
Don’t forget:
- See the view of the Aegean from the windmills. Reach the oldest district of Hydra, Kiafa, high above the port. Narrow alleys, imposing mansions, old grocery shops, small hotels. Continue up to the 7 windmills at the highest point of the hill of Agios Athanasios. The view will leave you speechless.
- Of course try the famous marzipan and take some with you for the return trip. It goes without saying that in Hydra you will eat fresh fish no matter what time of the year you go.
Your stay in Hydra
The main thing is that wherever you stay on the island is so small that you won’t have any trouble commuting. You’ll also find everything you’re looking for, according to your needs. From luxury hotels, to rooms to let, and traditional guest houses. A price and the benefit comparison, will lead you to what you want.
Hydra is the island that invites you to stop time and relax. And it’s only an hour and a half away from Piraeus. Maybe it’s time to do it…
External photography source: Gpapwp – Project of the one who uploads it, CC BY-SA 3.0
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Frequently Asked Questions
Hydra is an ideal three-day destination because it's a small 50-square-kilometer island located just an hour and a half from Athens that offers year-round charm. Despite its compact size, it features diverse attractions including beautiful stone mansions, cobbled streets, rich maritime history, art galleries, and no cars on the island—allowing visitors to experience a stress-free, romantic atmosphere while exploring its main points of interest, all within easy walking distance.
The main attractions in Hydra include the amphitheatrical stone mansions around the port, the small art village of Kaminia with the historic Red House (built in 1786 by Admiral Miaoulis), the unique Museum Pharmacy operating since 1890, the seven windmills at Agios Athanasios hill offering breathtaking Aegean views, the historic Kiafa district with narrow alleys and imposing mansions, and various maritime history sites featuring cannons and captain's houses.
Yes, Hydra is a cosmopolitan island suitable for all seasons of the year. Despite being a seaside destination, it attracts visitors throughout the year, not just during summer. The island's combination of art, architecture, food, and car-free environment provides a relaxing experience regardless of the season, making it perfect for any time you want to escape daily stress and tension.
Hydra offers diverse accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences, including luxury hotels, rooms to let, and traditional guest houses. Since the island is very small, accommodations are conveniently located regardless of where you stay, and you won't have any trouble commuting between different areas. You can compare prices and benefits to find what best suits your needs.
You should definitely try Hydra's famous marzipan and purchase some to take home as souvenirs. Since Hydra is known for its fresh seafood, you'll find excellent fresh fish available year-round at local restaurants and tavernas, making it a culinary highlight of your three-day visit to the island.
