Hydra, Greece

Hydra is one of the Saronic Islands of Greece, located in the Aegean Sea between the Saronic Gulf and the Argolic Gulf. It is separated from the Peloponnese by the narrow Hydra Gulf. An island dependent upon tourism, well-to-do Athenians comprise a sizeable segment of Hydra's visitors.

There is one main town, known simply as "Hydra port." It consists of a crescent-shaped harbor, with restaurants, shops, markets, and galleries catering to tourists and locals. Attractive Italian-style villas overlook the harbor and a donkey ride up the rocky hills offers magnificent views from the Monastery of St. Constantine.

There are beautiful places for swimming, fishing, snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, water skiing, as well as walking and climbing. Places to visit include old monasteries and mansions, the Historical Archives Museum, the local branch of the School of Fine Arts, and the Merchant Marine Academy.

Things to See & Do

* Hydra Waterfront area
* Historical Archives Museum
* School of Fine Arts
* Merchant Marine Academy
* Monastery of St. Constantine.

General information

Cruise Season – Feb to Dec
Currency - Euro (€)
Language – Greek
Land Area – 64.54 km’s²
Population – 4,000
Electricity – 2 round pins European style
Time - GMT/UTC plus two hours
International Country Telephone Code – 0030

Port Location – The port is located within easy walking distance of the town centre.

Transport Links – Ferries arrive regularly from Piraeus (the port city adjacent to Athens), as well as from the port in Nafplion, which is on the nearby Peloponnese coast.
Motor vehicles are not permitted on the island; which leaves the bulk of public transportation up to donkeys and water taxis. The inhabited area, however, is so compact that most people walk everywhere.