Travel Guide: Discover the picturesque island of Hydra

Hydra holds a special place in our hearts. Maybe it’s the complete absence of motorized vehicles and bikes, the island’s rich artistic influence, or that wonderful feeling of stepping back in time in the best possible way. Only an hour and a half away from Athens, it's a wonderful weekend getaway or even a month long stay if you can work from anywhere. 

Two fun facts about Hydra...

1. Musician Leonard Cohen lived there, as well as many other famous artists. You can get a glimpse of Hydra's vibrant artistic scene in the 60s through two of our favorite books, featured in our book guide. 
2. Sophia Loren's 1957 film, Boy on a Dolphin, was filmed here.

Where to eat in Hydra

• Giasemi - Our favorite taverna on the island, offering the most authentic flavors at reasonable prices. Specializing in daily-prepared meat dishes, it’s our go-to spot for a casual dinner.
• Sunset - One of the island’s most iconic dining spots with breathtaking views. You can’t miss it, as you’ll pass through on your way to Hydronetta. The food is elevated Greek cuisine, but it’s the stunning sunset views that make it a must-visit.
• Omilos - Probably the best location on the island as it is situated right above the sea rocks. This used to be the legendary club "Lagoudera", opened in 1959, where you would find all the stars of that time dancing the night away. The food is very contemporary Mediterranean and it is on pricier side but the setting is unforgettable. 
• Taverna Marina at Vlychos - Perfect for those willing to take a longer 45-minute walk to enjoy a traditional seaside meal. This taverna, one of the oldest on the island, has been operating since 1963 under Marina Lembesi.
• Il Casta - While you might not come to Greece for Italian food, this place has become a Hydra classic. Beloved by artists and long-time visitors, it offers an intimate dining experience in a secluded garden with high-quality food. We’ve been coming here since the beginning and are pleasantly surprised every time.
• Pefkaki -  Ideal for lunch in the quintessential “Greek summer” setting. Note that the kitchen closes at 4:30 PM.
• Karamela - We love Karamela for an afternoon ice cream (they have amazing sorbets) and their apricot pasta flora (it's a jam tart, also known as crostata!).

Coffee and drinks in Hydra

• The Pirate Bar - Founded in 1976, this iconic spot is great any time of day, but it really comes alive in the evenings. Enjoy a morning coffee or an evening cocktail.
• Hydronetta - Visit in the late afternoon to secure a good spot for the sunset. The views are spectacular as the sun dips below the horizon.
• Windmill Bar - Head here just before sunset to enjoy drinks with a stunning view. It’s a perfect way to end the day.
• 1821 - This place is ideal for evening drinks and people-watching. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively as the night progresses.

Art and culture in Hydra

You know how much we love art and have dedicated a whole blog post to the amazing exhibitions that took place all over Greece this summer. Hydra has long been as an art destination with its bustling community of artists (check out our book guide to read all about it!) and landmark art institutions like the DESTE Foundation.

• DESTE Foundation - The DESTE Foundation has turned the island's old slaughterhouse into a vibrantProject Space, bringing amazing art from all over the world to this little island in the Saronic Gulf. This year's exhibition "The Mad and the Lonely" by artist George Condo run until October 31st. 
• Hydra School Project - The Hydra School Project by artist and curator Dimitris Antonitsis celebrated its 25th edition this year. It is traditionally set in Hydra's High School. 
• Hydra Book Club - Founded and run by American literary curator Josh Hickey, the Hydra Book Club celebrates literature connected to Hydra. Set in the Historic Archives Museum of Hydra from September to October, it offers a wide selection of classic books and rare editions. 
• Lazaros Kountouriotis Historical Mansion - Formerly owned one of Hydra's most important political figures, the residence now operates as a museum. 
• Artist Tetsis Home and Studio - The house and atelier of Hydriot painter Panayotis Tetsis is a must. It's a "typical hydriot home of the 19th- early 20th c. and was also used for the family’s professional activities: one aisle of the ground floor was devoted to a traditional candle manufactory and grocery shop-tavern".