Apart from its enduring natural attractions, the beaches, the blue sea, the romantic walks, the tranquility and cosmopolitan nightlife, Hydra offers the visitor a wide variety of unforgettable activities.
Naturally, it's worth taking a short walk to the port of Hydra to visit, browse or simply "gaze" at the quaint little shops along the beach.
Stroll along the cobblestone streets, between the picturesque taverns and small shops with colorful folk art, and admire the Hydra houses with their unique architecture.
Visit the Historical Archive-Museum of Hydra, the Ecclesiastical-Byzantine Museum and the historic mansions of the Fighters of the Greek Revolution of 1821, which have also been turned into museums.
Various exhibitions, events, speeches, cultural nights and concerts are held on the island in the Melina Merkouri Art and Concert Hall, at various galleries and art places all over the island.
Also in Hydra island, especially during the summer months, are held many established events from the Municipality, such as "Miaoulia, a big celebration for Andrea Miaouli at the end of June. Also another big celebration that lasts six days is "Kountouriotia", in the memory of Pavlo Kountourioti the first President of the Greek Democracy.
Many visitors of the island are actively participating in many of the events taking place on the island, such as the famous Hydra Carnival, as well as the two Sailing races held in Hydra on 28 October and 25 March respectively or the mountain races which are held every year in the month of April.
Hydra is famous for its diverse natural environment, which is a paradise of the walker and nature lover. There are eleven tracks which you can follow on foot or by donkey. The view of the island from the hills above is fascinating.
Following the route of these paths amongst wild flowers, the rare “spentzes”, cyclamen, poppies and thyme, you can visit the old monasteries where, in addition to the architecture, you can admire the unique artifacts and exhibits.
By boat or by water taxi from the port of Hydra, you can circumnavigate the island of Hydra, admiring the entire coastline and discovering unique bays, where you can swim in peace away from ‘the madding crowd’.
On some beaches you can enjoy many water sports, including canoeing and kayaking or go fishing from the rocks and snorkeling in the rich fishing grounds.
For those who love watching movies, there is the cinema "Gardenia", which shows most of the successful winter movies.
Visitors wishing to discover the unique coastline of the island, G & G Cruises offers all-day cruises, in which you make the tour of the island and swim in crystal clear green-blue waters, in secluded coves.
For the island's guests, local tourist guide Maria Voulgari, Arcaeologist and Historial, guides you to known monuments and buildings and Museums in Hydra island and talks about the island through history.
The Hydra Diving Center is a must for anyone to experience the rich and colorful images of the beautiful underwater world around the island, a unique, unforgettable diving experience.
