HYDRA TODAY

Approaching the port, the town of Hydra looks like a painting in shades of grey, white, and blue above the azure sea—a masterpiece of architecture and aesthetics.

Located in the center of the island at the head of a sheltered bay, the town is built amphitheatrically on a rocky slope around the harbor, creating a unique harmony between architecture and the natural environment.

From the very first moment, visitors are captivated. Approaching the harbor, you feel transported back in time, impressed by the sight of the tall and imposing mansions that dominate the waterfront. It might be the island's unique architecture and picturesqueness, its long cultural heritage, or perhaps a combination of everything.

To the right and left of the harbor entrance stand the Bastions, with the cannons that once protected the city, alongside the Bust of Admiral Andreas Miaoulis.

Today, the port of Hydra is filled daily with boats of all sizes, yachts, and cruise ships arriving from every corner of the world.

You can walk along the quay, where the heart of the city beats, browse the small tourist shops along the waterfront, admire the old mansions, and visit the museums of Hydra.

You can also climb the narrow, picturesque cobblestone streets to reach the oldest district of the town, the medieval settlement of Kiafa, and from there enjoy a view that stretches all the way to the Peloponnese.

A key characteristic of the island is that there are no cars or other wheeled vehicles; all transport is done by donkeys, a fact that makes Hydra even more picturesque.

For swimming within the town, the rocks of Spilia and Hydronetta are popular choices, while Avlaki, Kamini, and Mandraki are within walking distance from the harbor.

Access to the island's other beautiful beaches, such as Vlychos, Agios Nikolaos, and Bisti, is only possible by sea via traditional boats (kaikia) or sea taxis.

Hydra is the seat of the Metropolis for the islands of Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Aegina, and Agistri, located within the Town Hall complex alongside the Ecclesiastical Museum. Today, the permanent residents of Hydra number fewer than 3,000, and nearly everyone is involved in tourism, as the island welcomes a large number of Greek and international visitors every year.

The island is famous for its natural beauty and the peaceful life it offers visitors by day, but also for its vibrant cosmopolitan life by night.

With its unique architecture and its continuous contribution to tourism and the cultural life of our country, Hydra remains the jewel of the Argo-Saronic Gulf and one of the most important resorts.